SAMUEL KURTZ, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, is calling on residents to champion local businesses as Small Business Saturday approaches on 7 December.

The annual event, now in its twelfth year, celebrates the vital role of small and independent businesses in communities. Since its UK launch in 2012, Small Business Saturday has become a highlight of the retail calendar, encouraging shoppers to explore and support their local high streets, particularly during the festive season.

Speaking ahead of the event, Mr. Kurtz emphasized the importance of shopping locally, not just at Christmas but year-round.

A call to shop local
“Small Business Saturday is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the incredible independent shops and businesses that make our towns and villages so special,” he said. “In West Wales, we’re fortunate to have an abundance of unique, high-quality local businesses that deserve our support, especially as they face challenges such as Labour’s budget pressures and rising National Insurance.

“Shopping locally keeps money within our communities, helping small businesses survive and thrive. This benefits us all and ensures that our hard-earned money supports local livelihoods instead of enriching distant shareholders.”

The backbone of the local economy
Mr. Kurtz also highlighted the wider benefits of backing small businesses.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy. They create jobs, foster entrepreneurship, and bring character to our high streets. By supporting them, we’re investing in the future of our communities. Let’s ensure their success not just for a day, but all year round.”

The Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire MS is encouraging everyone to take part in Small Business Saturday by visiting local shops, cafes, and service providers. He stressed that collective support can help sustain the vibrant and diverse economy that defines the region.

The UK housing industry has seen some turbulence in recent years, with events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, and wavering interest rates massively impacting the market. So, where is the UK housing market at now and what’s the outcome for those looking to buy or sell? 

Current UK market 

House prices 

House prices have fluctuated throughout the year and by September 2024, the average house price in the UK was £292,000, a 2.9% annual price change. Across Wales, house prices in September 2024 were £217,000 which was in line with the previous year’s average of £216,000. In Pembrokeshire specifically, house prices were, on average, £238,000. 

Mortgage rates

The average mortgage rate in November 2024 was 5.09% for a 2-year fixed term and 4.85% for a 5-year fixed term. This is a fair drop compared to last November which saw mortgage rates hit 6.29% and 5.86% for 2-year and 5-year fixed terms respectively. 

House sales 

The number of house sales has seen an increase in 2024. It’s estimated that there are 306,00 homes with a sale agreed, which is a 26% increase from last year. House sales are the highest they’ve been in four years and are now reaching pre-pandemic levels. 

Future Forecast 

The increase in momentum in the housing market is promising and with The Bank of England looking to drop the base rate of interest to 3.5% by 2030, mortgages will be more available to buyers. Labour has also pledged to build 1.5m homes in its first five years of Government, which should increase property purchases.

It’s difficult to accurately predict what will happen in the housing market as things can change quickly, however it seems likely that 2025 will be a good year for homeowners. 

Top tips for selling your home

If you are thinking of selling your home, here are some top tips to help you in the process.  

Make your home look inviting 

Home staging is about making your home look as attractive as possible to potential buyers. Simple things like keeping your home clean, refreshing some of your paintwork, or replacing an old lightbulb can make a significant difference to the appearance of your home. If you have old furniture that takes up extra space or your garden has become excess storage for things you don’t need, consider a rubbish removal company such as Junk Bunk to help declutter your home. 

Strengthen your kerb appeal

‘Kerb appeal’ refers to the exterior of your home. The most important features include well-maintained windows, a roof in good condition, and a tidy garden with well-looked-after pathways and fences. With 68% of home buyers considering kerb appeal important, it’s not something to overlook. 

Choose a good estate agent 

Having an organised and reliable estate agent can help you to sell your home faster and for a better price. Compare estate agents carefully and take the time to choose one you trust to sell your home efficiently. 

So, should you move? 

If you’re wondering whether now is a good time to move, it’s really down to your personal circumstances. If you want or need to move and can afford to do so, don’t let current market predictions stop you as they are changing constantly. If you’re not ready to move or don’t have the financial means to, then holding off could be a better option. 

IN a time when healthcare services are stretched thin across the UK, Pembrokeshire stands out as a beacon of hope and innovation with the upcoming opening of Wales’ largest Specsavers store in Haverfordwest. Thanks to a transformative £1.2 million investment, the county is poised to benefit from world-class eye and hearing care when the new store opens its doors on Monday, December 16, 2024.

This state-of-the-art facility, situated at 21 Riverside Quay in the Riverside Shopping Centre, is set to revolutionize local healthcare with 14 test rooms, including two dedicated audiology suites. Not only does this make it the largest Specsavers in Wales, but it also places it among the most advanced in the UK. At a time when accessing NHS services can be challenging, the store’s cutting-edge technology and expanded clinical services offer a lifeline to residents, relieving pressure on GPs, hospitals, and A&E departments.

Andy Britton, ophthalmic director at Specsavers Haverfordwest, highlighted the importance of this development: “Our investment reflects our commitment to delivering exceptional eye and hearing care in Pembrokeshire. This isn’t just about a bigger store – it’s about meeting the needs of our growing community, introducing advanced clinical services, and training the next generation of optometrists.”

The new store is also a hub for education, supporting optometrists pursuing higher qualifications in areas like Glaucoma and Independent Prescribing. This ensures Pembrokeshire residents have access to top-tier care while nurturing a future generation of specialists.

A recent YouGov survey commissioned by Specsavers reveals a critical gap in awareness about eye health. Nearly 70% of Welsh adults don’t think to visit an optician first for eye-related issues, often turning to overstretched NHS services instead. By encouraging patients to make opticians their first point of contact for issues like sudden vision loss or painful eyes, Specsavers aims to change this narrative.

Britton elaborated: “Optometrists are equipped to handle many urgent eye issues, often faster and more effectively than traditional NHS routes. By improving awareness, we’re not only providing faster care but also reducing unnecessary strain on the NHS.”

The grand reopening event promises to be a celebration of both innovation and community spirit, featuring live music from the Haverfordwest Male Voice Choir and appearances by local dignitaries, including Pembrokeshire mayors. Specsavers has also committed to a year of community-focused initiatives in 2025, cementing its role as more than just a business – but a vital part of Pembrokeshire life.

Cllr Paul Miller, Deputy Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, praised the investment: “At a time when many towns are struggling, Specsavers’ decision to invest in Haverfordwest demonstrates confidence in our community’s future. This new store is not just a healthcare milestone – it’s a cornerstone of our town’s regeneration.”

With flexible seven-day-a-week hours and a commitment to both innovation and accessibility, Specsavers Haverfordwest is a shining example of how Pembrokeshire continues to defy national trends in healthcare decline. For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/haverfordwest.

Pembrokeshire is truly fortunate to have such a forward-thinking service at its heart, proving that even in challenging times, innovation and care can thrive.