Concerns raised over public spending as £70m project faces uncertain future

A MAJOR rail testing project in south Wales must not be allowed to repeat the mistakes of the failed Circuit of Wales development, a senior Conservative politician has warned.

South Wales Central MS Andrew RT Davies raised concerns during Senedd proceedings on Tuesday (Feb 24) about the proposed Global Centre of Rail Excellence (GCRE), a multi-million-pound rail innovation and testing facility planned for the Dulais Valley.

Mr Davies said ministers needed to ensure the project delivered results after significant public funding had already been committed, warning taxpayers across Wales could ultimately bear the cost if it failed.

He pointed to the Circuit of Wales motorsport project near Ebbw Vale, which collapsed after consuming millions of pounds of investment, as a cautionary example.

Speaking in the chamber, Mr Davies said: “Senedd ministers have a poor track record wasting money.

“Under Plaid Cymru separatists and Labour, costs always soar out of control.

“The Global Centre of Rail Excellence is an exciting prospect – it must not go the same way as the failed Circuit of Wales.”

He told members that around £70 million of public funding had already been invested but that the site remained largely undeveloped when he visited in the autumn.

Mr Davies also warned that a future government could face a requirement to secure around £330 million to make the project viable, raising concerns about long-term affordability and delivery.

Responding, First Minister Eluned Morgan defended the Welsh Government’s investment in rail infrastructure, highlighting improvements to the South Wales Valleys lines and new rolling stock.

She said the Global Centre of Rail Excellence represented a “major strategic opportunity” for the Dulais Valley and confirmed both the Welsh and UK governments had committed funding, with private sector investment also being pursued.

The First Minister added that a final investment decision would ultimately be taken by the next government following the Senedd elections.

The project has been promoted as a flagship regeneration scheme aimed at creating jobs and boosting Wales’ rail sector, although questions remain about funding and delivery timelines.

THE STATE of the NHS in Wales came under renewed political pressure on Tuesday (Feb 24) after the Leader of the Welsh Conservatives accused the Welsh Government of allowing hospitals to fall into “managed decline” following nearly three decades of Labour rule.

During First Minister’s Questions in the Senedd, Darren Millar MS said the health service across Wales was “quite literally crumbling”, citing pressures on hospital infrastructure, long waiting times and concerns about service changes affecting patients in west Wales.

He warned that proposed changes to emergency surgery and stroke services at Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest and Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth could force patients to travel further for urgent treatment.

Millar also highlighted performance pressures elsewhere in Wales, including long waits in emergency departments in north Wales and reports of deteriorating conditions at major hospitals in Cardiff.

Commenting after the session, Mr Millar said: “After twenty-seven years of mismanagement and Labour budget deals with Plaid and the Lib Dems, the Welsh NHS estate is quite literally crumbling.

“From Withybush to Glan Clwyd and even the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff, patients are facing delays, understaffed wards, and hospitals in disrepair.

“The Welsh Government must step in now and intervene to stop these reckless cuts to emergency surgery and stroke services in west Wales before lives are jeopardised.”

The Welsh Conservatives say they would declare a health emergency and prioritise reducing waiting times if elected to government.

Concerns about the future of services at Withybush Hospital have been ongoing, with campaigners and local politicians previously warning about the impact of centralising specialist care away from rural areas.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said the NHS in Wales continues to face significant pressures but investment is being made to improve services, reduce waiting lists and modernise hospital facilities.

They added that decisions about local services are made by health boards based on clinical evidence and patient safety.

A GROUP of Pembrokeshire school-based youth workers recently took young people from four secondary schools on an unforgettable six-day visit to Iceland — a journey focused not only on education, but also on wellbeing, confidence and personal growth.

Funded through Taith, an international learning exchange programme for people in Wales, the trip brought together young people from across the county, many of whom had never travelled abroad before.

From the moment they arrived, the experience was designed to encourage participants to step outside their comfort zones, build resilience and develop friendships in a supportive environment.

One of the most powerful moments came as the group stood together at the Old Harbour in Reykjavik under the night sky, watching the Northern Lights shimmer above them. For many, it provided a rare pause from everyday pressures — a moment of calm, connection and awe that youth workers say will remain with them for years to come.

The group also attended Iceland’s Festival of Lights, experiencing the atmosphere of creativity, music and community spirit. Sharing the celebration helped young people appreciate the importance of culture, belonging and collective joy in supporting mental wellbeing.

A visit to the Secret Lagoon offered further opportunities to slow down. Immersed in warm geothermal waters surrounded by dramatic scenery, participants experienced the benefits of relaxation and mindfulness. Youth workers noted that these quieter moments allowed conversations to develop naturally, strengthening trust and deepening relationships.

The trip placed strong emphasis on teamwork and independence. Young people navigated travel arrangements, managed responsibilities, supported one another and adapted to unfamiliar surroundings — experiences which helped build confidence and social skills.

Meeting Icelandic peers at a local youth club was another highlight. Conversations about daily life, hopes and ambitions reinforced the idea that young people across the world share similar challenges and aspirations. These exchanges fostered empathy, broadened horizons and encouraged a stronger sense of global citizenship.

Senior Youth Worker Tristy McDermott said the impact of the visit was clear.

“We observed noticeable growth in many participants over the six days — quieter young people finding their voice, friendships forming across schools, and individuals showing resilience in new situations,” she said.

“Time away from routine, combined with positive adult support and inspiring surroundings, created space for reflection and self-discovery.

“For the young people of Pembrokeshire, this was far more than a visit abroad. It was an opportunity to build confidence, strengthen wellbeing, form lasting memories and return home with a renewed sense of possibility.”

The group extended thanks to Taith for making the experience possible.