Business
Plans unveiled for new fitness hub in Charles Street
A PLANNING application has been submitted for the transformation of The Original Factory Shop building on Charles Street, Milford Haven, into a state-of-the-art fitness and well-being centre.
The proposal, put forward by Inner Tiger Fitness, aims to offer a range of facilities, including areas for yoga and fitness classes, a protein bar, sunbeds, and a fitness-focused retail space.
Samantha and Darren Winn, co-founders of Inner Tiger Fitness and lifelong residents of Pembrokeshire, see this project as a chance to breathe new life into the town centre while addressing the growing demand for health and fitness services in the community.
Focus on community and well-being
In a public statement, the applicants emphasised their vision of creating more than just a gym. Samantha Winn explained: “We don’t class ourselves as a gym, but as a centre for health, fitness, and care. We aim to build a friendly, non-judgmental space where people of all ages and abilities can improve their physical and mental well-being.”
The facility will provide a range of offerings designed to appeal to both seasoned fitness enthusiasts and beginners, including modern gym equipment, group training areas, and classes such as Pilates and yoga. There will also be a dedicated space for those nervous or hesitant to use the main gym floor. Samantha and Darren Winn hope to foster a welcoming environment where individuals can connect, socialise, and embark on their fitness journeys with confidence.
The protein bar, a key feature of the new facility, will serve pre- and post-workout drinks and snacks, such as healthy smoothies and protein shakes. The owners were keen to clarify that this would not be a café in the traditional sense. “We will not be serving teas, coffees, cakes, or sandwiches,” they stated, countering concerns about competition with other local establishments.
Addressing high street challenges
The building on Charles Street has been on the market for a year, with no other substantial interest shown in its lease. The applicants argued that their proposal offers a solution to the decline of retail in town centres, a trend seen across the country. “Retail is dying on the high street. Town centres must adapt and evolve, or they risk becoming derelict,” they said. “We believe a busy, thriving facility like ours will attract more people to Milford Haven and benefit surrounding businesses.”
They also noted that no exterior changes to the property are planned, apart from essential maintenance and improvements. With peak hours expected to fall outside traditional retail times, they reassured residents that parking would remain adequate, with spaces available in nearby authority-run car parks.
Creating opportunities for Pembrokeshire
Inner Tiger Fitness plans to operate as a family-run business initially, with Samantha and Darren at the helm. As the facility grows, they aim to create both full- and part-time jobs, including roles for coaches, retail assistants, and receptionists. They also hope to establish career paths for young adults in the fitness industry by supporting apprentice trainers and helping them gain the qualifications needed to succeed in their careers.
“Our goal is to make a meaningful investment in Pembrokeshire, not just financially but also socially,” said the couple. “We care deeply about creating opportunities for local people and providing a space that helps everyone feel healthier and happier.”
Responding to public feedback
The proposal has generated mixed reactions on social media, but Inner Tiger Fitness has welcomed the discussion, encouraging residents to share their opinions via the planning consultation process. In a Facebook post, they addressed concerns raised by some members of the community, particularly regarding the future of the current tenant, The Original Factory Shop.
“We are not responsible for any decisions made by the Factory Shop or its internal communications with staff,” the post read. “The building has been on the market for over a year. If retail businesses were thriving, the property would not have been available. Our vision is to bring this space back to life and offer something unique that meets the needs of the community.”
Inner Tiger Fitness also clarified that their facility would not compete directly with existing gyms or leisure centres, such as the Meads. “The Meads offers a range of facilities that we do not, such as swimming, tennis, and squash. Our focus is entirely different. We are building something new and innovative,” they said.
Looking ahead
If the planning application is approved, the facility could open as early as 2025. Samantha and Darren Winn remain optimistic about the project’s potential to make a positive impact on Milford Haven. “We would rather try and fail than never try at all,” they said. “We want to create a space where people can improve their fitness, build friendships, and feel part of a supportive community.”
Residents are invited to view the plans and submit their feedback online. Samantha and Darren concluded: “For those who support us, we are truly grateful. For those with reservations, we hope to change your mind. Our vision is about more than just financial gain—it’s about building something meaningful for Pembrokeshire.”
The Original Factory Shop recently announced it was closing its Haverfordwest Branch, but it was widely assumed that the Milford Haven shop was going to remain open, despite speculation earlier this year that it was to shut down.
It has been reported that The Original Factory Shop is struggling financially, with several restructures having recently taken place in an attempt to keep the firm solvent.
Business
£1 billion boost to Welsh Economy as ultrafast broadband reaches 1 million
A REPORT from the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr) and Stantec reveals that Openreach’s ongoing rollout of Ultrafast Full Fibre broadband could inject £1 billion into the Welsh economy by 2029.
This prediction coincides with a major milestone: over one million homes and businesses in Wales now have access to ultrafast Full Fibre broadband via Openreach’s network.
The research, commissioned by Openreach, highlights the transformative potential of Full Fibre broadband, including economic growth, job creation, and enhanced social connectivity.
Lion Hotel: A digital transformation success story
Treorchy’s award-winning Lion Hotel is among the properties celebrating the broadband milestone. Known as a community hub and a venue for study groups, meetings, and co-working, the Lion Hotel has embraced digital transformation with the installation of ultrafast broadband.
Adrian Emmett, the hotel’s owner, explained: “Since coming out of lockdown, we’ve digitised our business systems, including music, tills, CCTV, and bookings. But our Wi-Fi often struggled, letting down customers who use the Lion Hotel as a shared working space. With ultrafast broadband, we can now provide a seamless experience. It’s a game changer for our business and the community.”
The Lion Hotel has also installed interactive dart systems and plans to expand its TikTok presence, which already boasts 127,000 followers and 260 million views. Emmett added:
“With ultrafast broadband, the sky’s the limit. We can now explore live streaming and other opportunities that weren’t possible before.”
Economic and social benefits
The Cebr report outlines the extensive benefits of Full Fibre broadband:
- Economic Growth: Contributing £66 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) to the UK economy by 2029.
- Job Creation: Enabling 620,000 people, including parents and older workers, to re-enter the workforce through flexible opportunities.
- Healthcare Advancements: Supporting five million online appointments annually by 2029—double the current figure.
- Educational Gains: Improving pass rates for 21,700 students in key subjects.
- Property Value Increases: Boosting the average home value by £1,900.
- Environmental Impact: Reducing car journeys and carbon emissions by allowing 1.4 million more people to work from home.
Government support and future plans
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens praised the milestone, stating:
“Reaching one million properties in Wales with ultrafast broadband is a significant achievement. Full Fibre broadband is essential for boosting growth and productivity in communities across Wales.”
Rebecca Evans, Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, added: “The Welsh Government is committed to delivering the connectivity services that businesses, the public sector, and homes in Wales need to thrive. This milestone is a testament to that commitment.”
Openreach aims to expand its Fibre network to 25 million UK premises by 2026, with plans to reach 30 million by the decade’s end. Suzanne Rutherford, from Openreach’s Complex Engineering Wales, said:
“With Full Fibre now available to one million Welsh homes and businesses, we’re laying the groundwork for economic growth, job creation, and increased opportunities for remote work and digital innovation.”
To check Full Fibre availability, residents can use the Openreach postcode checker and contact their broadband provider to upgrade. More details can be found in the Cebr report at openreach.com/about/policy-hub.
Business
Tourist attractions to close in protest over tourism tax
WELSH tourist attractions will shut their doors for a day this week in protest against the Welsh Government’s proposed tourism tax. The Welsh Association of Visitor Attractions (WAVA), which represents over 100 major sites across the country, has announced a coordinated closure on Tuesday, December 10, following an emergency meeting.
Protest against tourism tax plans
The protest targets a proposed visitor levy that could be introduced in 2027. Under the plan, hotel, B&B, and self-catering guests would face a nightly charge of £1.25, with hostels and campsites paying a reduced rate of 75p. Local councils would have the option to implement the tax in their areas.
WAVA has warned the tax could severely damage the tourism sector. The group cited government-commissioned research suggesting the levy could lead to a £40 million loss in revenue and cost over 700 jobs in the industry, even with an estimated 1.6% drop in visitor numbers. Many industry leaders fear the actual impact could be far worse.
Industry leaders voice concerns
Anglesey Sea Zoo described the proposed tax as “one more blow” to an already struggling sector. “Welsh tourism hasn’t recovered since Covid,” she said. “People will go to England rather than pay a tax to holiday in Wales. This tax risks killing tourism.”
The Zoo’s management criticized rising operational costs such as minimum wage increases and VAT rates, which she compared unfavorably to European tourism markets. “Tourism tax works in Europe because they pay 8% VAT, not 20% like us,” she added.
Other WAVA members expressed similar concerns. One attraction owner estimated they would need an additional £25,000 annually to cover wage and national insurance increases. The sector has also reported a 23% drop in overnight visitors last year, with 60% of attractions experiencing fewer visitors than in 2023.
Calls for government action
In a statement, WAVA said: “Welsh tourism is the slowest to recover from Covid compared to other UK regions. All leading experts in Welsh tourism had advised the Welsh Government not to go ahead with a tourism tax.”
Tourism operators hope the closures will send a powerful message to policymakers, highlighting the challenges facing the industry and the potential consequences of the proposed levy.
Highlighting industry struggles
Tuesday’s closures aim to draw attention to the financial and operational pressures facing Welsh attractions. Rising costs, declining visitor numbers, and post-pandemic struggles have left the industry vulnerable, with leaders urging the Welsh Government to rethink the tourism tax and engage more closely with stakeholders.
Experts support the levy
Linda Osti, Senior Lecturer in Tourism Management at Bangor University, said: “The introduction of a visitor levy is a significant step forward for Wales. Drawing on our research, it’s clear that when implemented thoughtfully, such levies can not only enhance the visitor experience but also address some of the environmental and social challenges posed by tourism. Hypothecating the funds for tourism-related projects is particularly important, ensuring that both locals and tourists see tangible benefits.”
Rhys ap Gwilym, Senior Lecturer in Economics at Bangor University, added: “Opponents often argue that a levy could discourage visitors, but our findings suggest otherwise. In many destinations worldwide, tourism taxes have actually contributed to a more sustainable and attractive tourism offering. By carefully considering local nuances, such as including day visitors or tailoring rates seasonally, Wales has a chance to lead the way in innovative tourism management.”
Both experts emphasized the importance of collaboration and flexibility in the levy’s design. They noted that empowering local authorities to manage revenues effectively could ensure the funds are used strategically. “A well-monitored and adaptable levy could act as a model for other regions,” said Dr. Osti. “Regular evaluations will be essential to refine the system and maintain its effectiveness over time.”
Dr. ap Gwilym concluded: “This levy is not just a tax; it’s an investment in Wales’s future as a sustainable and competitive destination. By learning from global best practices and addressing local challenges, we can ensure long-term benefits for communities and the economy alike.”
Business
People in Wales ‘most honest’ on financial applications
JUST 7% of people in Wales would consider providing false information to secure a preferential rate on financial products, according to new data from global information and insights company TransUnion. This is significantly below the UK average of 19%.
Despite ongoing cost-of-living pressures, which see almost half of UK households (43%) struggling to keep up with inflation, Wales emerges as the most trustworthy part of the UK in this area. Northern Ireland (41%) and London (36%) top the list of regions where residents are most likely to consider providing inaccurate information for better financial deals.
Welsh honesty stands out
James Robinson, Managing Director of Consumer Interactive at TransUnion in the UK, praised the findings:
“It is heartening to see that most people stay honest when applying for financial products, despite experiencing continued strain on their finances – and that should be commended. It’s also worth noting that not everyone who says they would provide false information actually follows through. However, even a small minority of consumers doing so can cause significant challenges for financial providers and risks for the individuals involved.”
Legal ways to secure better deals
While Wales leads in financial honesty, the research highlights that some misrepresentation persists. For instance, 10% of respondents in Wales find it acceptable to use a different email address to access new customer deals, while 9% see no issue with being named as a driver on a vehicle they don’t use.
Robinson emphasized that even seemingly minor falsifications can be considered fraud, carrying severe legal and financial consequences. Instead of resorting to dishonesty, consumers are encouraged to explore legal alternatives. TransUnion suggests practical steps such as shopping around for deals, accessing pre-approved offers, or using credit monitoring tools to improve financial standing.
Credit monitoring proves effective
The research revealed that 87% of people in Wales who used a credit monitoring service found it helpful. Benefits included identifying steps to improve credit scores (38%), gaining a better understanding of credit mechanics (34%), and recognizing eligibility for specific loans or rates (16%). These measures reduce the temptation to falsify information.
Top tips for better financial deals
TransUnion offers the following advice for securing better financial terms without resorting to dishonesty:
- Check your credit score regularly
Monitoring your credit score can help you identify simple ways to improve it, such as registering to vote or setting up Direct Debits for minimum repayments. - Look for pre-approved offers
These deals are tailored to your credit profile, increasing the likelihood of approval and saving time. - Consider credit unions
Credit unions often provide competitive rates and ethical alternatives for borrowing. - Refinance or negotiate existing deals
Use credit monitoring tools to identify opportunities to lower rates on loans or credit cards. - Stay vigilant against fraud
Regularly check your credit profile to catch suspicious activity and protect your financial health.
Wales sets the standard
While challenges remain, the honesty displayed by most Welsh residents serves as a benchmark for the rest of the UK. By adopting legal strategies to secure better deals, consumers can safeguard their financial well-being while maintaining integrity.
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