A £180,000 loan from the Development Bank of Wales has helped bring a new eco-friendly tourism development to life overlooking the River Teifi in Cardigan.

Fronteifi Nature Lodges, created by husband-and-wife team Tim and Julia Percival, opened this autumn and offers high-quality, accessible and environmentally responsible accommodation designed to support the local visitor economy.

Having moved to Cardigan in January 2022, Tim, a retired architect, and Julia, who continues to work in social housing, set out to transform their 2.5-acre site into a small-scale, nature-led destination inspired by the surrounding Teifi Marshes.

Following full planning consent in 2023, the couple developed two five-star timber-framed lodges, alongside a garage with loft apartment, landscaped grounds, guest pathways and new drainage infrastructure. While most of the construction was self-funded, the £180,000 loan from the Development Bank’s Wales Tourism Fund supported completion of the Seren loft apartment and the final phase of hard landscaping and guest facilities.

The project has been delivered with a strong emphasis on sustainability and social value. Local tradespeople and specialist contractors were used throughout, while independent businesses from the surrounding area supplied furnishings, artwork, tree planting, ecological consultancy and guest services.

A wide range of low-carbon technologies has been incorporated, including photovoltaic panels, EV charging points, air-source heat pumps, sheep’s wool insulation, ground-screw foundations, eco stoves and sedum (green) roofs. Materials from existing buildings on site were reused wherever possible, and more than 35 new trees have been planted to enhance biodiversity and carbon capture.

The development aligns with sustainable tourism priorities set by Ceredigion County Council and has also benefited from a £50,000 Cynnal y Cardi grant, supported through the Shared Prosperity Fund.

Accessibility has been central to the design. The Tir and Afon lodges offer level access throughout, step-free entrances, level-access showers, and clear orientation features for guests with mobility or visual needs. Wheelchair-friendly pathways lead to a riverside deck and a purpose-built bird hide, Bwthyn Adar, overlooking the Teifi and its wildlife.

Fronteifi Nature Lodges can accommodate up to 12 guests across the two lodges and the Seren loft apartment, targeting visitors seeking modern, luxurious and sustainable accommodation in west Wales.

Each lodge features open-plan living areas, adjustable beds, digital access, luxury bathrooms, outdoor kitchens, hot tubs and welcome hampers showcasing seasonal local produce. The business also holds fishing rights on the Teifi and is listed with Canopy and Stars, connecting the site to audiences seeking high-end, nature-focused stays.

Julia Percival, co-founder of Fronteifi Nature Lodges, said: “The support from the Development Bank has enabled us to complete the final phase of the project while staying true to our environmental and community principles. We’re proud to have worked with so many local businesses and to offer guests the chance to experience the natural beauty of the Teifi Valley.”

David Knight, investment executive at the Development Bank of Wales, added: “Fronteifi Nature Lodges is a great example of a locally driven tourism project that combines sustainability, accessibility and community benefit. It aligns closely with the aims of the Wales Tourism Fund in supporting distinctive, high-quality destinations across Wales.”

The Wales Tourism Investment Fund is a £50 million fund, financed by the Welsh Government, offering loans between £100,000 and £5 million to support standout tourism projects that demonstrate innovation, sustainability and a commitment to the Economic Contract.

THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN says it has successfully welcomed three inbound LNG vessels within a 12-hour period, highlighting the operational efficiency and close collaboration across the Milford Haven Waterway.

During December 2025, the Vivirt City LNG, Asklipios and Orion Spirit berthed at South Hook LNG and Dragon LNG terminals in a complex operation requiring precise coordination between multiple partners.

The achievement was made possible through close working between tug and mooring gang provider Svitzer, shipping agents, terminal operators and the Port of Milford Haven’s marine team.

Each vessel carried around 170,000 cubic metres of liquefied natural gas and weighed approximately 90,000 deadweight tonnes, underlining the scale and logistical complexity of the operation.

The Harbourmaster at the Port of Milford Haven, Mike Ryan said: “Handling three LNG vessels in the space of 12 hours is a testament to the strong working relationships we have built with our customers and service providers.

“Accommodating ships of this size requires meticulous planning and teamwork, and it was fantastic to see all parties collaborating to deliver such a positive outcome.

“Safety remained our top priority throughout the operation, ensuring every stage was carried out with the highest standards of precision and vigilance.”

The family behind Salty’s Beach Bar and Restaurant in Tenby has announced that they will be closing the popular seaside venue.

Perched on South Beach, Salty’s has long been a favourite with both locals and visitors, particularly during the summer months when the sand stretches right up to its front door. Its combination of sea views and relaxed atmosphere has made it a key part of Tenby’s vibrant coastal scene.

The family, who took over the restaurant in 2021, confirmed that it will close on Sunday, 4 January, marking the end of a five-year chapter.

In a message shared on social media, the family said:

“After an incredible journey, Salty’s Beach Bar and Restaurant will be closing our doors for the final time on Sunday after service.

“Tom, Sian and family took on Salty’s in 2021, just as the world was finding its feet again after lockdown. What started as a leap of faith quickly became something truly special.

“We are unbelievably grateful to every single customer who has walked through our doors. Whether you joined us for a coffee, a family meal, a celebration, a sunny afternoon drink or a stormy winter warmer, your support has meant everything to us.

“You have helped us build not just a business, but a community, and we will always treasure the friendships, laughter and moments shared here.

“As we close this chapter, we do so with full hearts and immense pride. We would like to wish the future proprietors every success and happiness in the years ahead.

“Thank you for being part of our journey and for supporting us over the years.”

In addition to Salty’s, the family also operate The Salted Shack, located nearby, and Twelve, a canteen and wine bar in Tenby town centre.