News

£1.7bn boost for Welsh Government in UK Budget

Published

2 months ago

October 30, 2024

CHANCELLOR Rachel Reeves presented the UK Budget on Wednesday, unveiling an additional £1.7bn in funding for the Welsh Government next April. This increase, she described as “the largest real-terms funding boost since devolution,” will support key areas including schools, housing, health, social care, and transport.

In addition to the primary funding, the Chancellor announced a £25m allocation for coal tip maintenance and safety in Wales. This move comes after Welsh Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford highlighted the need for UK Treasury intervention, citing over 2,500 coal tips across Wales, with 360 categorized as high-risk.

The Budget also confirmed UK government backing for two electrolytic hydrogen projects in Milford Haven and Bridgend, aimed at advancing low-carbon hydrogen production in Wales. Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens remarked on the significance of collaborative efforts between UK and Welsh governments, noting the Budget’s potential to drive substantial regional development.

Reactions to the Budget varied widely. Welsh Conservatives labelled it a “smash and grab Budget,” warning of potential harm, while Plaid Cymru criticized it for lacking “transformative change.”

Analysis: Will £1.7bn meet Wales’ needs?

While the funding is substantial, Welsh ministers face challenges in addressing rising NHS waiting lists—a pressing priority given the record-high backlog. Last year, the Welsh Government redirected over £400m to the health sector, necessitating cuts elsewhere. Local councils are also bracing for a £559m shortfall in the coming financial year, adding pressure to the allocation of these funds.

Despite the Budget’s provisions, opposition parties are raising concerns. They argue that National Insurance increases could harm small businesses, and proposed inheritance tax reforms may pose challenges for family-run farms in Wales.

Additional measures

Minimum wage increase: Rising to £12.21 per hour next year, as announced earlier in the week.
Ongoing negotiations: The Welsh Government hopes to secure further coal tip safety funding.

This Budget marks a critical phase for Welsh governance, with both opportunities and challenges ahead.

Conservative MS, Samuel Kurtz said “This Budget brings devastating tax rises that will hit businesses and individuals across west Wales hard.

“With £25 billion in new taxes for businesses, economic growth will be stifled. The economy is now only forecast to grow by 1.5% by the end of the decade—lower than under the previous Conservative Government.

“Our farmers also find themselves under Labour’s axe as they slash Agricultural Property Relief, putting thousands of family farms at risk.

“Coupled with cuts to the Winter Fuel Allowance for thousands of pensioners, this Budget is deeply damaging and exposes Labour’s broken promises from the General Election.”

Responding to the publication of the UK Government budget, Welsh Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader David Chadwick MP said: “This budget fails to offer an ambitious vision for Wales that would mark a long-term investment in its future, it punishes small businesses and will be a disaster for family farms.

“Labour has failed to deliver the billions owed to Wales from HS2, yet constituents like mine are facing deep cuts in their rail services.

“Meanwhile, the Chancellor has chosen to increase taxation for the small businesses that are the lifeblood of the Welsh economy instead of taking aim at the enormous profits of the banks, oil and gas giants and big tech.

“The Chancellors Family Farm Tax risks being a death knell for local farmers who have already faced attacks on their livelihoods by the Welsh Labour Government, who have shown time and time again they have no understanding of the rural economy or the work that goes into making sure the public have food on their plates.”

We would like to apologise that an earlier version of this article, briefly published, contained a number of reporting inaccuracies. This was due to to incorrect text being displayed due to a server error

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

13 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

13 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

20 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”