News

Most developers in Wales believe Government targets can unlock planning issues

Published

1 year ago

October 17, 2024

NEW research from Shawbrook has revealed that nearly four out of five developers in Wales believe that setting government targets for councils could help resolve planning issues. This insight comes as the UK government is ramping up efforts to address the ongoing housebuilding crisis by implementing new targets.

The study highlights a significant disparity in the time it takes for developers to obtain planning permission. While the average waiting time for Welsh developers stands between 7 and 12 months, nearly 60% of developers in Wales reported these extended delays. In contrast, only 39% of developers across the UK experience similar waits, with many receiving approvals within four to six months.

The delay in planning permission is one of several challenges Welsh developers face. Almost one in ten developers across the UK have had planning permission denied, exacerbating delays and escalating costs. Terry Woodley, Managing Director of Development Finance at Shawbrook, commented on the broader impact of these delays on the construction sector.

“The sector has had a tough time of late, with delays in planning permission leading to sluggish construction output and stretched timelines,” said Woodley. “However, the Chancellor’s recent speech provides some optimism, with plans for clearer housebuilding targets, a review of green belt boundaries, and an increase in planning officers.”

Developers are also contending with rising property prices, making it difficult to source affordable land. While 59% of developers in Wales cited property costs as a key hurdle, over two-thirds (67%) of developers across the UK echoed similar concerns.

The government’s proposed overhaul of the planning system, which includes transferring decision-making for major infrastructure projects from local to national authorities, is expected to address some of these challenges. Developers hope this will streamline the process and avoid the bureaucratic red tape that often hampers progress.

In light of the ongoing difficulties, Woodley encourages developers to consider specialist advice: “Those looking to move projects forward should consider speaking to a broker, especially one in a specialist space, as they can help navigate more complex cases.”

The research was conducted by Censuswide and surveyed 567 property developers across England, Wales, and Scotland between 16 April and 3 May 2024.

Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

5 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

5 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

5 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.