Community
Jill Evans backs Community Centre
A NEW community centre for North Pembrokeshire was officially opened on Saturday (Nov 1) by Plaid Cymru MEP Jill Evans. The new £600,000 Canolfan Clydau provides a focal point for local communities, business and visitors alike. The innovative and vibrant new development for the ward of Clydau, includes a main hall, kitchen, office space, conference facilities, free Wi- Fi, an online booking system and a state of the art remote entry system – the centre can also be administered from the comfort of an armchair using an iPad or a computer, no need for the old lock or key! The project received funding through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013, which is funded by the Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.
The centre was commissioned to address the publication of ‘One Wales’ in 2007, the Welsh Government commissioned research into issues affecting ‘deep rural’ areas of Wales. The research explored how residents experience life in ‘deep rural’ parts of Wales focusing on service provision and featured the Clydau ward. Ultimately it aimed to bring long-term sustainability to rural communities. The site was chosen in response to a County Council study on the needs of the most isolated rural areas of the county. Jill Evans MEP said: “As a Member of the European Parliament for all Wales, it was an honour to open Canolfan Clydau, especially as European funding has played a crucial part in making the community centre a reality.
European funding is very important to Wales – to west Wales in particular, and I was pleased that a new £2 billion pound deal was finally agreed this week. It’s important to remember that Wales is a net beneficiary of European money – and this wonderful building is an excellent example of the money being put to good use. The One Wales Government, which included Plaid Cymru, ensured that the interests of so-called ‘deep rural’ areas were not forgotten. It’s important for people to work together in the best interests of their community. And that is why I was so pleased to hear about the community aspects of this project – like being leased to the community, and hosting the village Post Office twice a week.
I am pleased to see new technology being employed – whether that is solar power, using the roof of the centre, or the internet being used to make bookings. I have long believed that through working together we achieve more. The building is already a hive of activity which is proof of this.” County Councillor Rod Bowen, who represents the Clydau Ward, said: “The centre is truly a multipurpose space that can be used for almost any community activity, private event, business or party.” He continued: “This is a fantastic first class Hi-Tec facility the set in heart of Clydau – a wonderful community centre for everyone to enjoy with facilities that are second to none.
The centre is also committed to supporting business growth and offers space for people who wish to develop business ideas, an essential catalyst for the creation of new companies and job opportunities.” Cllr Bowen also thanked Jill Evans MEP for officially opening the centre, staff from the County Council and the trustees of the centre who he said had worked tirelessly in bringing the project to fruition.
Community
RWE launches hydrogen education programme to inspire future climate champions
RWE has launched its Hydrogen Education Programme, an initiative aimed at educating schoolchildren about hydrogen’s crucial role in achieving net zero and decarbonising industries.
Developed in partnership with Generation C, the programme offers interactive, curriculum-based activities that connect classroom learning to real-world applications. Students of all ages will explore hydrogen’s properties, its production, and its growing role in industries driving the clean energy transition.
Henry Tudor High School in Pembroke has already piloted the programme with secondary school students, while Golden Grove Primary School is set to begin this week. The initiative will demonstrate how hydrogen, as a clean energy source, is integral to reducing emissions in transport, manufacturing, and energy sectors.
Engaging young minds
The programme features real-world case studies highlighting RWE’s hydrogen projects and includes group challenges designed to encourage critical thinking about global climate issues.
Golden Grove Primary School headteacher, Mr A Williams, welcomed the initiative, stating: “As head of a large primary school in Pembrokeshire, which is at the forefront of green energy growth, it is imperative that we build meaningful relationships with companies like RWE. The initial lesson captivated our learners, who now fully understand the importance of green energy and the new hydrogen plant. The flexibility of the New Welsh Curriculum allows us to tailor learning to our community’s needs—building an electrolyser to produce hydrogen is just the beginning of a journey that could lead to future opportunities in collaboration with businesses.”
Williams also highlighted the programme’s potential to shape future career paths, saying: “This project could provide highly skilled jobs in our county, and we need our learners to be at the forefront of that development.”
Building a sustainable future
Louise McDonnell, RWE’s hydrogen development manager, attended the event and emphasised the programme’s impact: “Our Hydrogen Education Programme equips young people with the knowledge and inspiration to make a difference. Hydrogen is a game-changer in the fight against climate change, and through this initiative, we’re helping students see the opportunities in clean energy. Education is key to building the skills and passion needed to achieve net zero and safeguard our planet.”
RWE’s Hydrogen Education Programme is more than just an awareness initiative—it aims to inspire careers in clean energy. By sparking curiosity in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), the programme encourages students to explore future roles in the expanding hydrogen economy and renewable energy sector.
Hydrogen’s role in decarbonisation
RWE recently secured planning permission for the RWE Pembroke Green Hydrogen Project, a 100MWe electrolysis plant capable of producing approximately two metric tonnes of green hydrogen per hour. By replacing fossil fuels, the plant is expected to cut local CO2 emissions by about 93,000 tonnes annually, the equivalent of removing 18,600 cars from the road.
As the UK’s largest power producer and a leading renewable generator, RWE continues to develop hydrogen opportunities nationwide to support industrial decarbonisation and drive the transition to a cleaner energy future.
Community
New Men’s Shed opens at Milford Haven Station
TRANSPORT for Wales (TfW) has announced the opening of a new Men’s Shed at Milford Haven Station, transforming one of its stations into a valuable community hub.
Men’s Sheds are community spaces where people come together to make, repair, and repurpose items while supporting local projects. These grassroots initiatives play a crucial role in tackling social isolation and fostering a sense of community.
Research shows that Sheds offer significant health benefits, with 96% of members—known as Shedders—reporting a reduction in loneliness after joining. While traditionally associated with older men, Men’s Sheds are inclusive, welcoming people of all genders and backgrounds. Many involve women, and some operate exclusively for women.
The new Milford Haven Men’s Shed will provide a space for the community to connect, share skills, and form friendships. Shedders will have the freedom to decide how best to use the space to meet their needs.
Emma Collins, Station Manager for Milford Haven, said: “I am pleased that we are able to accommodate the Men’s Shed within the station and support this invaluable community group and the work they do.”
The Milford Haven Men’s Shed committee expressed gratitude to TfW for enabling the project, calling it a safe and welcoming space for older members of the community to build friendships and support well-being.
A spokesperson for the Shed said: “We hope to give back to the community some of the help we have received from TfW. We would also like to thank the National Lottery for the funding that made this project possible.”
They added: “Whether it’s crafting, working on projects, or simply dropping in for a cuppa and a chat, the Men’s Shed is here for the people of the town. We look forward to welcoming everyone.”
Community
Drop in sessions to help reshape Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service
MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is pleased to announce the launch of a series of community drop-in sessions designed to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders. This initiative aims to identify issues and challenges that may impact the delivery of the Community Risk Management Plan 2040 (CRMP 2040).
The CRMP 2040 outlines the Service’s commitment to addressing risks, threats, and challenges faced by communities. These drop-in sessions provide an opportunity for residents to help shape the future of fire and rescue services in Mid and West Wales, ensuring safety and well-being remain a priority.
Shaping the future together
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Iwan Cray said: “We believe the best way to serve our communities is by involving them in the planning process. These drop-in sessions are an opportunity for us to listen, learn, and collaborate with the people we serve.”
The drop-in sessions, details of which are available on the MAWWFRS website, offer a platform for open dialogue. Residents can share their insights, concerns, and suggestions, contributing to the development of a modern Fire and Rescue Service tailored to their needs.
A data-driven approach
The CRMP 2040 adopts a data-driven approach, focusing on prevention, protection, and response to reduce emergencies’ impact and enhance public safety. By tailoring services to community needs, MAWWFRS is committed to building safer and more resilient communities.
Get involved
Community members are encouraged to attend these sessions and provide their feedback. To thank participants, MAWWFRS is offering a chance to win a £100 Amazon voucher. To enter, simply attend a session and complete the survey.
For more information about the plan or the upcoming drop-in sessions, visit the MAWWFRS website or contact the team at [email protected].
About MAWWFRS
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is dedicated to protecting and serving the communities of Mid and West Wales. Through prevention, protection, and response, the Service works tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors.
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