A CALL for new industrial units on land near the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park offices has been given the go-ahead, but they can’t be occupied until the end of the year.

In an application submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council, Sean Lavelle, through agent Stewart Longhurst, sought permission for five industrial units on land north of Richmond Road, West Llanion Industrial Estate, Pembroke Dock.

A supporting statement said: “Planning permission was granted [in 2021] for the erection of two light industrial/business units (B1 use) in outline, with only landscaping being a reserved matter,” adding: “The outline application was approved on November 8, 2021 for two blocks of light industrial units (B1 uses).  Block 1 was a two-storey building with ground floor workshops, with offices etc on the first floor.  Block 2 was for a single storey building which housed two workshops.

“The current application seeks permission for a smaller scale development, still of two blocks, but of single storey construction throughout.

“It is considered that there is more market demand for the erection of single-storey units to support smaller enterprises than envisaged under the original scheme.  Similarly, it is contended that this proposal would have less impact on the conservation area and would enhance this part of the industrial estate.”

It added: “It is respectfully considered that the scheme reflects and enhances the existing industrial units close to the site and attempts to blend in with the red brick office buildings of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.”

It went on to say: “The proposed units will be built to high specifications to ensure that the development reflects the conservation area setting and to promote environmental sustainability.”

The application was supported by Pembroke Dock Town council, which said it welcomed new business opportunities in the town.

Welsh Water Dwr Cymru raised no objections, but proposed a condition on any approval be added.

“The proposed development would drain to Pembroke Dock Waste water Treatment Works which is currently failing to comply with the 95 per cent quartile for its flow passed forward (FPF) performance.

“However, a scheme is planned for completion by December 31, 2026. No buildings on the application site shall be brought into beneficial use earlier than December 31, 2026, unless the scheme at the Waste Water Treatment Works, into which the development shall drain, has been completed and written confirmation of this has been issued by the local planning authority.”

The application was conditionally approved, conditions including the December 31 timescale outlined above.

Major supplier says confidence lower despite signs of stability returning

FARMERS across Wales are facing another difficult year as input costs remain significantly higher than before the pandemic, according to new industry insight from agricultural supplier Wynnstay Group.

The company, which has deep roots in rural Wales and generates around sixty per cent of its retail revenue in the country, says confidence among farmers is lower than this time last year, with rising costs, policy uncertainty and tightening margins influencing spending decisions.

However, there are also signs of resilience, with many producers focusing on efficiency and forward planning to cope with ongoing pressures.

Wales at heart of business

Wynnstay, originally founded by tenant farmers in Mid Wales in 1918, has grown into a major UK agricultural supplier serving more than 20,000 farming customers through manufacturing sites, stores and on-farm services. The group employs hundreds of staff across the UK and operates a nationwide distribution network supporting livestock and arable producers.

The company says Welsh farming businesses continue to play a central role in its commercial performance and long-term growth strategy.

Cautious investment decisions

According to Wynnstay, farmers are delaying some investment decisions but are increasingly seeking value-driven solutions that improve productivity.

Feed volumes have increased across the company’s Welsh store network over the past year, reflecting demand for blended feeds that offer greater flexibility and cost control. Rather than reducing purchases outright, many farmers are matching spending more closely to performance and output.

Fertiliser demand has also been strong, with sales ahead of last year, although some farmers have delayed buying in the hope prices may fall. Global supply pressures and rising gas costs mean prices are expected to remain firm into the busy spring season.

Costs still far above pre-Covid levels

Industry data shows overall farm input costs remain significantly higher than before 2020, with feed, fertiliser, fuel, electricity and machinery all continuing to put pressure on farm margins.

While some costs have eased from their peaks, they have not returned to previous levels, influencing buying behaviour across the sector.

Margins for livestock and dairy farms were strong last year, but Wynnstay says they are now tightening, particularly in the dairy sector where milk prices have fallen and volatility remains high.

Pressure on family farms

Smaller family-run farms are under greater strain than larger commercial operations, with less financial resilience to absorb rapid market changes. Reports of rising closures among family farms, particularly in dairy, reinforce concerns about the sector’s long-term sustainability.

Government policy changes are also contributing to uncertainty. The transition away from the Basic Payment Scheme and wider tax reforms have led many farmers to postpone larger investments until there is clearer long-term stability.

Local reaction

Pembrokeshire farmer Chris James said the situation reflected what many farmers were experiencing locally.

“We’ve definitely noticed the squeeze over the past year or two,” he said. “Costs for feed, fertiliser and fuel are still much higher than they used to be, and that makes you think twice about every decision. Most farmers I know aren’t cutting back on production — they’re just trying to be more efficient and careful with spending.”

He added: “People want to invest and move forward, but it’s hard when you don’t know exactly what the long-term policy picture will look like.”

NFU Cymru has also warned that rising costs and policy uncertainty continue to weigh heavily on farm businesses across Wales, with confidence affected by concerns over future support schemes and wider economic challenges. The union has called for greater long-term certainty to allow farmers to invest with confidence and maintain domestic food production.

Weather shocks impact behaviour

Extreme weather during 2025 — including a very dry spring followed by periods of intense heat and a challenging wet autumn — also affected purchasing patterns, with farmers spacing orders and prioritising essential inputs as conditions changed.

Ordering behaviour is now returning to more normal patterns as conditions stabilise.

Outlook for 2026

Despite ongoing pressures, Wynnstay says it is cautiously optimistic about the year ahead.

Many farmers are making careful decisions around efficiency, nutrition and planning, and the company believes there are opportunities for businesses to strengthen their position through 2026 with good cost control and smart investment.

Summing up the sector, the company said Welsh agriculture remains resilient, with farmers showing determination and adaptability despite continuing challenges.

Welsh wild wine producer to represent West Wales at London celebration

A LLANDOVERY-based wild wine producer will bring a taste of the Welsh countryside to the heart of London as part of a major St David’s Day food showcase at the iconic Spitalfields Market.

Mydflower, known for its naturally crafted lightly sparkling wines, will take part in the consumer event over the St David’s Day weekend on Saturday (Feb 28) and Sunday (Mar 1). The showcase will feature more than a dozen Welsh food and drink producers and aims to highlight Wales’ growing reputation as a modern food nation producing world-class products.

The company’s distinctive wines are made using spring water from the Brecon Beacons alongside locally sourced botanicals and berries. The brand focuses on rediscovering centuries-old recipes inspired by the wild landscapes of Wales, producing natural raspberry and elderflower wines with a fresh, lightly sparkling finish.

David Ruttle, co-founder of Mydflower, said: “St David’s Day is a brilliant opportunity to celebrate Welsh culture in the heart of London, and we’re proud to be part of it with Mydflower. Our wild wines are made using pure Welsh spring water from the Brecon Beacons, traditionally foraged fruits and flowers, and Champagne yeast, creating something lighter, fresher, and naturally sparkling.

“Events like this are a chance to share our story, introduce more people to a new kind of premium Welsh drink, and bring a taste of the wild Welsh landscape to a wider audience.”

Spitalfields Market — one of London’s most historic trading destinations — has built a strong reputation for showcasing high-quality produce, making it an ideal venue to promote Welsh food and drink to new audiences. Visitors over the weekend will be invited to explore a range of products reflecting the quality, character and ambition of contemporary Wales, from heritage-inspired favourites to innovative modern brands.

Celebrating St David’s Day through food

The event forms part of a wider St David’s Day programme organised by Food & Drink Wales, the Welsh Government’s food division, which supports the sector while also using food and drink as a way to express national identity, creativity and pride.

Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, said: “St David’s Day is the perfect moment to celebrate the exceptional quality and creativity of Welsh food and drink producers. From award-winning charcuterie to innovative craft spirits, the businesses showcasing at Spitalfields represent the very best of what Wales has to offer.

“Our food and drink sector is built on strong foundations — protected geographical status, sustainable farming practices and generations of skilled production. But it is also a sector that continues to evolve, with producers combining their heritage with fresh ideas and ambitious growth plans.

“Events like this are vital for connecting Welsh businesses with new markets and demonstrating to buyers across the UK that Wales is a modern food nation with products that can compete at the highest level.”