News

Natural Resources Wales criticised over incident response cuts, closures and tax blunder

Published

12 months ago

May 21, 2025

NRW accused of risking long-term damage to Welsh environment

A SENEDD committee has issued a scathing report on Natural Resources Wales (NRW), accusing the body of failing to uphold its environmental responsibilities and mishandling both public funds and public trust.

The report, published this week by the Senedd’s Climate Change, Environment and Infrastructure Committee, raises “grave concern” over NRW’s decision to stop responding to so-called low-category incidents—including fly-tipping, minor chemical spills, and low-level water pollution.

NRW claims these incidents, which form the bulk of reports to its front-line teams, usually result in no serious environmental harm. The agency says it wants to focus instead on major breaches and preventative work.

But the Committee warned that such an approach risks allowing cumulative damage to the Welsh environment.

“We are gravely concerned that Natural Resources Wales is adopting a higher tolerance of risk,” the report states. “Low-level pollution can still have a damaging impact, especially over time. This change in approach could result in real harm to our natural environment.”

Stretched resources, legal obligations

The report acknowledges that funding pressures have left NRW “stretched too thin” to meet its legal duties. However, it insists that consistent enforcement and visible presence across Wales are essential.

Visitor centre closures criticised

The Committee also condemned NRW’s decision to close three key visitor centres—at Bwlch Nant yr Arian, Ynyslas, and Coed y Brenin—without a clear plan to replace services.

Although NRW is now seeking commercial partners to take over food and beverage operations at the sites, the report states the closures were “premature” and have damaged public confidence.

“New proposals should have been developed before the centres were closed,” the report says. “We urge NRW to publish a clear timetable and communicate transparently with affected communities.”

£19 million tax blunder

A separate section of the report highlights a serious financial error. NRW’s failure to correctly follow IR35 tax rules for contractors led to the Welsh Government being forced to pay £19 million to HMRC.

“This is a serious governance failure,” the Committee said. “It is highly regrettable that taxpayers’ money is being diverted from vital services to pay for such errors.”

NRW said it has since overhauled its procedures and used external consultants to avoid a repeat. But the Committee is calling for a full independent review and further reassurances.

NRW defends changes

In a statement issued on Tuesday (May 20), interim chief executive Ceri Davies defended staff and emphasised ongoing reforms.

“We are not standing still,” she said. “We’re focused on building a more agile and future-ready organisation. Our goal is to make sure every pound we spend delivers maximum environmental value.”

NRW confirmed it will prioritise incidents that pose the greatest risk to public health or the environment, with an increasing focus on prevention and compliance.

While some visitor centres are now unstaffed, public access to trails, car parks and play areas remains open. NRW says it is working with local businesses and communities to provide replacement services.

With Wales facing intensifying threats from climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, the report concludes that robust and proactive environmental oversight is more vital than ever—and that NRW must urgently rebuild trust and capacity.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

14 seconds ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

Charity

Pembroke Dock charity shop expands to support hospice care

Published

5 minutes ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SHOP NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AFTER EXPANSION INTO ADJOINING UNIT

A CHARITY shop in Pembroke Dock has expanded into a neighbouring unit to help raise more money for local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home has completed a knock-through at its shop in Bierspool, London Road, creating a larger retail space and allowing the charity to offer a wider range of items, including furniture.

The expanded shop was officially opened on Friday (May 1) by the outgoing Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Cllr Michelle Wiggins.

The shop team, led by Kelly Elliot and supported by volunteers, worked for several weeks to prepare the new-look store for customers.

Head of Retail Julia Brady welcomed guests at the opening, while the charity also thanked staff, volunteers and supporters who helped decorate and prepare the premises.

Special thanks were given to Gill at Pembroke Dock Tesco for donating treats for customers and staff on the day.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home operates nine retail shops and an eBay department. Income from donations and sales helps fund the charity’s clinical teams, who provide free specialist palliative care to patients and families across Pembrokeshire.

The charity says it costs £3,600 every day to deliver its free clinical services. Around 30% of that cost is funded through Hywel Dda Health Board, with the remainder raised through retail income, fundraising and community support.

The Pembroke Dock shop is now open seven days a week, giving people more opportunities to shop, donate and support local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori, a much-loved local priest who recognised the need for hospice care before his death from cancer at the age of 39.

The charity provides care for people with any life-limiting condition, not only cancer, and supports patients of all faiths and none. It operates an open referral system, with referrals accepted from patients, families, friends and healthcare professionals.

Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd operates under the name Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. The charity was registered in 1982 and will celebrate its 45th anniversary during 2027/2028.

News

Ysgol Bro Teifi celebrates national championship rugby success

Published

14 minutes ago

May 6, 2026

Herald Sport

UNDER-18 SIDE LIFTS WRU PLATE AFTER HARD-FOUGHT FINAL AT RODNEY PARADE

YSGOL BRO TEIFI’S under-18 rugby team are celebrating national success after winning the WRU Schools and Colleges Plate Final at Rodney Parade.

The Ceredigion side travelled to Newport to face Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth in a fast, physical and closely contested final.

Bro Teifi made a strong start, with tries from Elis Evans, Llew Thomas and Jack Brown giving them an early advantage. Dafydd Nichols-Evans added the extras from the kicking tee as the team went into half-time 19-14 ahead.

The second half proved even tighter, with Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth applying sustained pressure and forcing Bro Teifi to defend with discipline and determination.

A late try gave Bro Teifi breathing space before Nichols-Evans held his nerve in the closing stages, landing a crucial penalty to seal a 27-19 victory.

The school said the win reflected the hard work, commitment and talent of the players, as well as the support of staff, parents and fans throughout the season.

Headteacher Gareth Evans said: “This game is the culmination of a tough season for the boys as they beat much bigger schools on the way to the final.

“It also builds on the school’s reputation in sport, with numerous successes this year across a range of sports and age groups.

“I would like to thank all the school staff for their tireless work in ensuring these experiences for our pupils, and the parents for their support.”

Photo caption: Plate winners: Ysgol Bro Teifi’s under-18 rugby team celebrate their national success at Rodney Parade.