Business

Ferry traffic surges at Pembroke Dock due to Holyhead closure

Published

1 month ago

December 14, 2024

FERRY traffic at Pembroke Dock Ferry Terminal has surged following the temporary closure of Holyhead Port due to severe damage caused by Storm Darragh. The Port of Milford Haven, which owns and operates the terminal, has implemented measures to manage the increased volume of vehicles and minimise disruption in the area.

Holyhead Port, a key hub for ferry services between Wales and Ireland, has been closed since December 7. Repairs to storm-damaged infrastructure are ongoing, with reopening not expected until at least Thursday, December 19. The closure means more lorries in Pembroke Dock.

Irish Ferries has temporarily replaced the Isle of Innisfree ferry with the larger James Joyce on its Rosslare route..

**The James Joyce has been diverted whilst repairs are carried out at Hollyhead, she will be operating from Pembroke Dock for a few months (Pic: Martin Cavaney)**

***Drivers in their lorries waiting to board ferry at Pembroke Port (Image: Martin Cavaney)***

Traffic management plans in place

Tom Sawyer, Chief Executive at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “We are expecting to see ongoing increased traffic to Pembroke Dock Ferry Terminal. To manage traffic in the area, we have opened up different areas of the Port to reduce the number of vehicles queueing at the Port entrance. We have also been liaising with Pembrokeshire County Council’s Emergency Planning team to identify other areas for longer-term parking, if needed, so that traffic around Pembroke Dock is managed as effectively as possible.”

Sawyer acknowledged the inconvenience to local residents and businesses and expressed gratitude for their understanding: “Our priority is to ensure the safe and effective operation of all traffic on the Milford Haven Waterway. We’d like to thank everyone, particularly those living in and around the Pembroke Dock area, for their understanding and support. We will endeavour to take all actions possible to keep the area as uncongested as possible.”

Concerns over Christmas delays

The closure of Holyhead Port has raised concerns about delayed Christmas deliveries, as the route is a critical link for goods between Ireland and the UK. An Post, the Irish postal service, has reassured customers that alternative routes are being utilised, and the backlog of parcel trucks at Holyhead is decreasing.

A spokesperson for Holyhead Port stated: “Safety is of paramount importance to Holyhead Port, and a thorough investigation into the extent of the damage and repairs required is ongoing. At this point, it is estimated that the berths will reopen for ferry traffic on Thursday, December 19, at the earliest.”

Local impact and advice

Residents near Pembroke Dock have reported increased congestion due to the diversion of ferry traffic. The Port of Milford Haven continues to monitor the situation closely, working with local authorities to alleviate the impact on the community.

Photo Caption: Increased ferry traffic at Pembroke Dock Ferry Terminal due to Holyhead Port closure (Pic: Martin Cavaney/Herald).

Business

How to plan financially without sacrificing your usual activities

Published

5 hours ago

January 15, 2025

Staff Writer

Getting on top of your finances can feel daunting, particularly if you have hobbies that you don’t want to sacrifice. The good news is that there are plenty of ways you can save money without having to compromise on your favourite activities.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at a few suggestions that could help you better manage your finances whilst continuing to do the things you enjoy most.

Track your spending

Before making any changes, it’s a good idea to evaluate your current spending. In the age of online banking, regularly checking your bank account couldn’t be easier and doing so can offer you more control over your finances.

Consider going through your current outgoings and finding areas for improvement, such as overspending on groceries or identifying subscriptions you no longer need and cancelling them. You can use tools like budget planners to help track and manage your spending more efficiently.

Use second hand equipment

If your hobbies and interests require equipment, think about purchasing second hand instead of buying brand new. You can use sites such as eBay or Gumtree to find used equipment in good condition. Not only is buying second hand a great way to save money without missing out on the things you need, but it’s also less wasteful and better for the environment!

Make money from your hobby

Plenty of hobbies can be turned into an additional income. If you enjoy creating content online, consider monetising YouTube videos or joining the TikTok creator fund. If your interests involve creating things such as clothes or art, opening a shop on Etsy and selling your pieces is an excellent way to continue pursuing your hobby whilst earning a little extra.

Downsize your hobby

Finally, downsizing your existing hobbies and interests is a great way to reduce the expenses that come with them. If you enjoy exercise, consider working out from home to save money on gym memberships. If you’re learning a new language, utilise free tools and courses.

Alternatively, if gambling is more your scene, think about switching to online gambling. Online gambling sites typically offer more in terms of rewards than traditional brick-and-mortar bookies do. You can utilise sites like AskGamblers who make it easy to find free spin bonuses and sign up offers. Free spins bonuses are a great place to start as a beginner. You can typically use free spins on slot games and still land wins to later withdraw, given you’ve surpassed the wagering requirements.

Saving doesn’t have to be limiting

Cutting back on your spending and saving money doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the things you enjoy. By keeping track of your spending, reducing unnecessary costs, saving on purchases, and even finding ways to make money from the things you enjoy, you can continue to live life to the full whilst improving your finances.

Business

Two Welsh companies feature in the Startups 100 Index 2025

Published

2 days ago

January 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

RETURNING for its 17th year, Startups.co.uk has unveiled the Startups 100 Index 2025, spotlighting the most promising UK startups. Two Welsh companies, Deploy Tech and PlantSea, have been ranked 47th and 60th, respectively, in the prestigious list.

The Startups 100 Index is the UK’s longest-running showcase of innovative young businesses. It highlights startups demonstrating groundbreaking ideas, strong financials, market opportunity, and a loyal customer base. Previous alumni include household names such as Monzo and Deliveroo.

Recognising Welsh innovation

Both Welsh startups achieved additional recognition in this year’s awards. Deploy Tech won the Startups 100 Social Impact Award, while PlantSea was shortlisted for the Sustainability Award, solidifying Wales’ reputation for entrepreneurial ingenuity.

To mark the launch of the 2025 Index, Startups.co.uk surveyed 531 business leaders, revealing a surge in Welsh business optimism. Seventy-five percent of Welsh businesses expressed confidence in the year ahead—a significant rise from the 58% reported in 2024.

Championing ideas with impact

47. Deploy Tech
“The IKEA of concrete infrastructure for water storage”

Founders: Paul Mendieta and Beren Kayali
Founded: 2020
Award: Winner of the Startups 100 Social Impact Award 2025

Deploy Tech revolutionises water infrastructure with its flat-packed, concrete-filled fabric solutions. These innovative systems are lightweight, easy to transport, and ideal for disaster relief, construction projects, and emergency responses. Collaborations with UNICEF and Oxfam highlight the global impact of Deploy Tech’s work, including earthquake relief efforts in Turkey.

60. PlantSea
“Tackling the UK’s plastic waste problem with seaweed-based packaging”

Founders: Rhiannon Rees, Alex Newnes, and Gianmarco Sanfratello
Founded: 2020
Award: Shortlisted for the Startups 100 Sustainability Award 2025

Inspired by Bali’s pollution crisis, PlantSea develops biodegradable and compostable packaging made from seaweed and plant-based materials. Backed by the Development Bank of Wales, the company is scaling up its efforts to combat plastic waste globally, driving sustainable packaging innovation.

A message from Startups.co.uk

Zohra Huda, Editor of Startups.co.uk, commented: “Who says you need to be born in the capital to succeed? This year’s Startups 100 Index proves that inspiration, innovation, and ingenuity abound in Wales. Deploy Tech and PlantSea are leading the charge, thriving despite the challenges of the post-COVID era and current economic landscape. Watch out, London.”

About the Startups 100 Index

The Startups 100 Index is based on five key criteria: financial health, external validation, market opportunity, innovativeness, and strength of concept. Businesses featured must have launched in the last five years, be privately owned, and be UK-based. A panel of expert judges selects the winners.

For the full list, visit: Startups 100 Index 2025.

Business

£1.4 million now available for Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme

Published

2 days ago

January 13, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MORE than £1 million in funding from the Welsh Government is now open to support the marine, fisheries, and aquaculture industry in Wales. The funding aims to drive sustainable growth in the sector while benefiting coastal communities.

***Deputy First Minister for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies***

The £1.4 million funding package includes £700,000 for revenue and £700,000 for capital projects. The application window is open for 10 weeks, closing on 24th March, and encompasses a wide range of eligible activities across 11 categories.

What can the funding be used for?
The scheme supports various initiatives, including:

Expanding aquaculture site potential and upgrading vessel equipment to reduce emissions and boost energy efficiency.
Providing professional advice on marine environment sustainability, business development, and marketing strategies.
Funding optional health and safety equipment for onboard and land-based operations.

In the previous funding round, grants were awarded for projects such as ice machines, ice flakers, weighing scales, cool boxes for fishers, vessel modifications to enhance energy efficiency, and marine evidence gathering initiatives.

Encouragement from Deputy First Minister
Deputy First Minister for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “The Welsh Marine and Fisheries Scheme is designed to create opportunities within the marine environment, coastal communities, and sustainable seafood across the entire supply chain, from production to processing and marketing.

“Our aquaculture, marine, and fisheries sector brings many important benefits. It provides a low-carbon, high-quality protein food source, supports future food security, and creates high-skilled jobs.

“I’d encourage those with an interest to take advantage of the funding to explore opportunities for growth, diversification, and innovation. Let’s use this scheme to build a more prosperous, fairer, and greener Wales.”*

Grant details

Maximum grant per application: £100,000
Minimum grant per application: £500

Support for applicants
Free, independent support is available through the Welsh Fisheries Animateur Pilot project, funded by the Welsh Government in collaboration with the Welsh Fishermen’s Association. For assistance, contact The Fisheries Animateur:

Phone: 01736 362782
Text: 07864 087119
Email: [email protected]

Applicants must be registered with Rural Payments Wales (RPW) Online, where the application and claims process can be accessed.

For more details, including guidance, visit the Welsh Government’s website.