Business

Avian flu concerns rise as fresh housing rules hit West Wales farms

Published

2 weeks ago

November 30, 2025

Producers warned to tighten biosecurity as winter migration increases risk

POULTRY farmers across West Wales are tightening biosecurity and preparing for months of disruption as the latest wave of avian influenza brings new housing requirements and restrictions across the country.

An all-Wales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) remains in force, with keepers required to follow strict disease-control measures. Mandatory housing orders are now active, meaning all poultry and captive birds must be kept indoors or under cover to reduce contact with wild birds during the peak winter migration period.

The Welsh Government said the risk of spread from wild bird populations has risen sharply in recent weeks, with cases confirmed across the UK and further outbreaks expected as colder weather pushes migratory birds into estuaries and coastal wetlands.

Local concerns in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire

While no major outbreaks have been reported in West Wales so far this season, farmers say the constant tightening of rules has become part of their winter routine.

Producers in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire told The Herald that rising feed costs, indoor-housing requirements and continued uncertainty around “free-range” status are putting pressure on small and medium-sized units.

One local keeper said: “When birds go inside for long periods, everything becomes more expensive — bedding, lighting, feed, labour. You also worry about the stress on the flock. It all adds up.”

Although the public health risk remains low, farmers say the economic risk to the rural sector is significant, particularly if repeated outbreaks trigger long-term culls or movement restrictions.

Background: The Capestone outbreak

West Wales has already seen how severe the consequences can be.

In September 2022, Capestone Organic Poultry Ltd, near Milford Haven, lost 130,000 organic chickens after a small outbreak of bird flu was detected in one shed. The entire flock was culled, affecting one of Pembrokeshire’s largest agricultural employers.

At the time, the business urged the Welsh Government to introduce a mandatory housing order to match measures already in place in England. Wales initially resisted housing rules, instead relying on an AIPZ and saying the scientific evidence did not yet justify compulsory containment.

The episode highlighted a long-running debate within the industry: whether early housing orders are essential to prevent spread, or whether they impose unnecessary financial strain, especially on free-range units that could lose their premium status once birds are indoors for extended periods.

That same debate has returned this winter, with ministers under pressure to balance scientific advice with the practical realities on farms.

Biosecurity rules tightened

Under current measures, all bird keepers — from major commercial producers to backyard owners — must now:

house or net birds to avoid contact with wild birds
clean and disinfect housing, yards, vehicles and equipment regularly
restrict visitors and maintain movement records
report any signs of unexplained illness, sudden deaths or drops in egg production to APHA

Failure to follow the rules can result in enforcement action, including prosecution.

The Welsh Government said the AIPZ and housing order will remain in place “until further notice”, with the situation assessed on a daily basis.

‘A difficult few months ahead’

Farmers say that, as in previous years, the biggest challenge will be uncertainty. If Wales avoids major outbreaks, restrictions may lift early. But with the UK reporting rising case numbers and Europe warning of sustained seasonal pressure, most producers are preparing for a long winter.

NFU Cymru has again urged the Welsh Government to ensure clear communication and rapid support for producers affected by culls or extended housing, warning that some family-run businesses are operating “on a knife-edge”.

For now, farmers in West Wales say they can only focus on biosecurity and hope that this year’s strain does not bring the kind of losses seen elsewhere in the UK.

Business

Tenby Museum and Art Gallery works approved by planners

Published

8 hours ago

December 11, 2025

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A CALL for works at what is said to be one of the oldest independent museums in Wales has been approved by Pembrokeshire’s national park.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Rob Davies sought permission for the replacement of existing single-glazed timber sash to windows to south and east elevations with replica double glazed units at Grade-II-listed Tenby Museum & Art Gallery, Castle Hill, Tenby.

A supporting statement said: “The museum building is in the former National School, built into a medieval domestic building, possibly the hall, depicted as roofless and gable ended in early views. The school was founded in 1832 and enlarged in 1842. The girl’s schoolroom was above, the boys below. It remained in use until the Parochial School was opened in 1874, and the building became the museum in 1878.

“A mural mosaic depicting the history of Tenby was located on the east elevation in 1991. The 1977 listing refers to two round chimneys to the rear, however, only one was located in 2001. Two ranges exist, the original museum adapted from a medieval building used as the National School until 1874 and the former Museum Cottage to the west, now also part of the museum.”

Heritage service Cadw, in its response, lists the museum as “among the early museums in Wales,” while a Wikipedia entry says it is “the oldest independent museum in Wales”.

The application was supported by Tenby Town Council and Tenby Civic Society.

An officer report recommending approval said: “No adverse comments have been received from consultees towards the current proposal, and no third-party representations raising issues relating to listed building matters have been received.

“The proposed scheme is in keeping with the character of the listed building, and its setting in terms of design and form. As such, the application can be supported subject to conditions.”

Business

How ecommerce businesses are adapting to modern day shopping habits

Published

1 day ago

December 10, 2025

Staff Writer

What was once a time-consuming task that involved hours of walking around different shops is now an effortless pastime that can be done in the comfort of your own home.

In the last decade or so, online shopping has evolved significantly. From personalised experiences to an abundance of choice, making a purchase has never been so quick and easy. Of course, businesses have had to adapt to these growing expectations from consumers, who are no longer willing to spend more than a few minutes at checkout or wait more than a few days for their delivery.

So, how are businesses adapting to these modern day shopping habits? Let’s take a look.

Focusing on customer-centric marketing

In a day and age where people are being constantly bombarded with adverts, it’s not enough to stick a product in someone’s face and tell them how great it is. Instead, businesses need a more strategic approach. They must show the customer that they care about their needs and are there to solve a problem, not make a sale.

Offering flexible payment options

The speed of modern day shopping is undeniable. People don’t want to spend ages inputting their personal information and filling out card details. From PayPal to Apple Pay, more and more businesses are providing alternative payment methods to ensure a seamless checkout experience.

One notable trend at the moment is cryptocurrency, thanks to its quick, secure, and efficient transactions. As this has become a popular option, many businesses are now adopting a corporate crypto wallet to facilitate faster payments, giving them an edge over their competitors.

Providing 24/7 customer service (with the help of AI)

Websites don’t close like a traditional shop, meaning anyone can shop day or night. Because of this, people expect help with their orders or an answer to their question straight away, no matter what time of day it is. Of course, many online retailers can’t afford, or don’t have the manpower, to ensure staff are available 24/7, so instead they’re using AI-powered chatbots, which can answer common questions in an instant.

What does the future of online shopping look like?

Retailers are having to adapt constantly to changes in demand and expectations, and it’s unlikely that this will slow down anytime soon. With technology constantly advancing, it’s hard to say what the future of online shopping will look like, but it’s fair to say that it will only get faster, more efficient, and more competitive.

Business

RM Training and Security recognised for work creating opportunities for local people

Published

3 days ago

December 8, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Certificate from PeoplePlus highlights growing role of Milford Haven firm

RM TRAINING and Security has been recognised for its contribution to helping people into work, after receiving a Certificate of Achievement from PeoplePlus Cymru.

The award was presented on Wednesday (Dec 3). It acknowledges RM’s “valuable support and commitment to creating local opportunities for local people” and its role in helping individuals build brighter futures through meaningful employment.

PeoplePlus is a national organisation working with jobseekers, employers and training providers. Its recognition is typically reserved for businesses that consistently demonstrate community impact and a strong commitment to employability.

A spokesperson for RM Training and Security said the team was proud to be acknowledged for the work it does with learners across Pembrokeshire and Wales.

“We are passionate about giving people the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the workplace. To be recognised for that work means a great deal to the whole team,” the spokesperson said.

RM delivers a range of accredited courses including door supervision, security training, conflict management and emergency first aid. The company has expanded significantly in recent years, supporting both new entrants to the sector and those looking to progress in their careers.

The award was presented on site, where representatives from PeoplePlus met the RM team and congratulated them on their contribution to the local skills agenda.

The company said it will continue to work with partners to strengthen opportunities for those seeking employment in the security industry and beyond.

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