News
Welsh Government pledges £25m to fix potholes and resurface roads

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has announced an additional £25 million to repair roads and prevent around 30,000 potholes and other defects across the country.
The funding, revealed by Transport Secretary Ken Skates, will allow for an extra 100km of Welsh roads to be resurfaced in the next financial year, addressing thousands of existing potholes.
The Welsh Government says it has spent more than £81 million on road resurfacing since 2021, with total investment expected to rise to £118 million by 2026.
Transport Secretary Ken Skates said: “The people of Wales have told us again and again that they want us to fix our roads, and so I’m delighted to announce today more funding to prevent 30,000 potholes and fix thousands more of existing ones.
“This is only possible because of the substantial funding settlement from the UK Government, and because of the refocusing by Eluned Morgan towards the priorities of the people of Wales.”
The announcement follows First Minister Eluned Morgan’s summer listening tour, during which improving road conditions was identified as a key priority.
The Welsh Government has criticised opposition parties for failing to support the additional investment. Skates added: “The Conservatives pretend to be on the side of motorists. Plaid Cymru are mysteriously quiet on the issue, hoping you won’t notice. If they believe in connecting communities, like this Welsh Labour Government does, they’ll vote for £25 million for potholes in the Budget.”
The funding boost comes as road conditions remain a significant concern for motorists, with local authorities facing increasing pressure to repair deteriorating infrastructure.
Entertainment
Welsh crime thriller filmed in Pembroke Dock set for BBC debut

A NEW Welsh crime thriller, The One That Got Away—previously shown on S4C as Cleddau—is set to premiere on BBC One Wales and BBC Four later this month.
The gripping six-part series, featuring an all-Welsh cast, will debut on BBC One Wales at 9:10pm on Tuesday, February 25. A double-bill of the first two episodes will air on BBC Four on St David’s Day, March 1, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer.
The series stars Elen Rhys (The Mallorca Files, Craith/Hidden) as DI Ffion Lloyd, who is forced to team up with her former lover, DS Rick Sheldon, played by Richard Harrington (Y Gwyll/Hinterland), to investigate the murder of a nurse in a Welsh seaside town.
Written by Catherine Tregenna (Law & Order UK, Lewis, DCI Banks) and directed by Sion Ifan (Y Goleudy), the drama explores the unresolved past between the two detectives while a disturbing murder case unfolds. The killing shakes the small community, raising doubts about a historic conviction and suggesting the terrifying possibility of a copycat at large.
Actor Elen Rhys, who returned to Wales to film the series, said: “Coming home to Wales to film was a joy—immersing myself in everything Welsh. The talented, close-knit crew worked together so well, making it a truly lovely and extraordinary experience. I felt so lucky.”
The series promises a gripping mix of psychological depth, crime investigation, and the emotional entanglements of its lead characters, set against the atmospheric backdrop of Pembrokeshire.
Community
Plans submitted for disability-friendly bridge at Tenby train station

TENBY railway station could soon see a new accessible footbridge, with Network Rail submitting plans to the National Park for the installation of an ‘Access for All’ bridge at the Grade-II-listed Victorian station.
The proposal aims to improve accessibility, providing an unobstructed route from at least one station entrance to all platforms via the new footbridge. A supporting statement from Network Rail explains that the scheme is designed to ensure step-free access between platforms, replacing the current barrow crossing, which is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
A Network Rail spokesperson said: “At Tenby Station, there is currently no obstacle-free accessible route between platforms 1 and 2. The existing barrow crossing does not provide suitable step-free access, and the proposed footbridge will address this issue.”
The plans, which include associated works to integrate the bridge with the historic station infrastructure, are now under consideration by the National Park authority. If approved, the scheme will mark a significant improvement in accessibility for passengers at the popular seaside station.
Crime
Shoplifting concerns spread to Narberth as High Street pharmacy issues warning

BUSINESSES in Narberth are facing mounting challenges as concerns over shoplifting spread beyond Tenby. Narberth High Street Pharmacy has issued a stark warning to local traders after a suspected theft incident, urging vigilance among businesses and the public.
In a statement posted online, the pharmacy said: “Warning to Narberth High Street. Another case of suspected theft. Please watch the video carefully. Items were not left behind after inspecting the shelves. It is extremely difficult for businesses to remain viable when this sort of thing happens.”
The pharmacy, which remains open seven days a week, highlighted the growing difficulties in maintaining a presence in the town due to ongoing retail crime.
Rising shoplifting across Pembrokeshire
The incident in Narberth follows widespread national coverage of shoplifting issues in Tenby, where local businesses have reported thousands of pounds in losses due to theft. The situation has drawn attention to a concerning trend across Pembrokeshire, where independent shops and pharmacies—already struggling with rising costs—are finding it increasingly difficult to operate.
According to the latest crime data, shoplifting offences have been rising in Wales, mirroring a nationwide trend. The Office for National Statistics reported a 23% increase in retail thefts across England and Wales in the past year. In Dyfed-Powys, shoplifting cases have surged by 12%, with many small businesses feeling the pressure.
Call for action
Narberth traders are now calling for more proactive policing and stronger deterrents to tackle the issue. While CCTV and security measures have been introduced by some businesses, many feel they are left to handle the problem themselves, with limited police resources available.
The pharmacy urged the community to assist in identifying the individual involved in the latest suspected theft, stating:
“If anyone has any info on this individual, please share so we can follow up with the police.”
With the problem now affecting multiple towns in Pembrokeshire, there is growing pressure for authorities to implement stronger measures to support businesses and protect livelihoods.
-
Business3 days ago
Digital marketing challenges for rural Welsh businesses
-
Business7 days ago
Oyster comeback: Milford Haven project aims to restore native species
-
Education7 days ago
Excluding pupils for knives ‘too simple’, says Estyn chief
-
News3 days ago
Police report filed over Neyland Town Council email controversy
-
Health3 days ago
Emergency care failing in Wales, warns damming report
-
Education7 days ago
Exciting apprenticeship opportunities at Port of Milford Haven
-
News7 days ago
New housing plans spark sewage fears in Broad Haven
-
Politics3 days ago
Pembrokeshire council tax rise of 9.85 per cent backed