A VISIT by a senior UK Government figure last week saw industry leaders highlight the crucial role of the Milford Haven Waterway in delivering energy, supporting jobs, and driving economic growth across the UK.

The representative met with members of the Milford Haven Energy Cluster – a partnership of key local and national stakeholders – to discuss the region’s contribution to both current energy security and future net zero ambitions.

Milford Haven is the UK’s largest energy port and handles around 20% of the country’s energy needs. It is home to major infrastructure including LNG terminals, a refinery, and a gas-fired power station, and is at the forefront of developing new clean energy projects such as floating offshore wind, hydrogen, and carbon capture.

Industry leaders stressed the need for long-term investment in port infrastructure, grid connectivity, and workforce skills to ensure the region can meet its full potential in supporting the UK’s green energy transition.

A spokesperson for the Milford Haven Energy Cluster said: “We were pleased to showcase how Pembrokeshire is positioned to lead the UK’s clean energy future. The commitment and collaboration here is real – but we need the right policy frameworks and investment to unlock our potential.”

The Herald understands the visit was part of a broader series of stakeholder engagements by national policymakers and officials to assess the UK’s evolving energy landscape.

DYFED-POWYS POLICE received a report of a two-vehicle collision on the westbound A40 between Arnold’s Hill and Slebech at around 8:30am on Monday (Apr 7).

The road was partially closed while the vehicles were recovered and fully reopened by approximately 10:30am.

No injuries were reported.

Natural Resources Wales opens applications for sustainable retrofit schemes

NATURAL RESOURCES WALES (NRW) has today (April 7) opened applications for the latest round of grant funding to support small-scale, retro-fit sustainable drainage projects across Wales.

Building on the success of the previous funding round in June 2023, where grants of between £25,000 and £40,000 were awarded to five recipients to develop feasibility studies, this latest phase offers a total of up to £300,000. The new funding will enable successful applicants to undertake concept design studies for sustainable drainage solutions at existing sites. A further competitive round of funding is expected to support the implementation of the most promising schemes.

Sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) offer a natural approach to managing surface water. By incorporating features such as permeable pavements, wetlands, soakaways, and rain gardens, SuDS help reduce flooding in built-up areas, limit runoff into rivers and streams, and improve water quality in rural settings.

Storm overflows, which release diluted sewage into watercourses when the sewer network becomes overwhelmed by rainwater, are a growing concern. SuDS help reduce the pressure on these systems by intercepting and managing surface water more effectively.

Helen Haider, Lead Specialist Advisor for the Water Capital Programme at NRW, said: “Sustainable urban drainage solutions have a key role to play in how we respond to the climate and nature emergencies.

“With intense rainfall events becoming more common, our towns and cities—where natural drainage is often limited—are increasingly at risk of flooding. Combined with an aging sewerage network and a growing population, there is an urgent need for innovative ways to reduce surface water entering our drainage systems.

“These schemes not only tackle urban drainage challenges but can also help reduce flooding, improve water quality, and create valuable aquatic habitats in rural communities.”

Applicants will be expected to demonstrate how their proposals use innovation to improve existing practices. Projects should also aim to reduce carbon emissions, enhance biodiversity, and deliver health and wellbeing benefits for local communities.

The grant programme is funded by the Welsh Government. The deadline for applications is midnight on 30 June 2025.

Full details on the scheme and how to apply can be found on the Natural Resources Wales website. NRW will also host two webinars for prospective applicants. Those interested can register their interest via the grant programme web page.