News
West Wales haulage firm warns poor roads are hurting growth
Politicians visiting Frenni say rising fuel costs, weak transport links and a lack of investment are placing increasing pressure on businesses across the region
CONSERVATIVE politicians have warned that poor transport links and rising operating costs are putting increasing pressure on the haulage sector in west Wales, following a visit to leading local road haulier Frenni.
During the visit, Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar joined Ceredigion Penfro candidates Paul Davies and Samuel Kurtz to meet staff at the company and discuss the challenges facing the industry.
Among the main concerns raised were weak road infrastructure, rising fuel prices, growing business costs and the impact these pressures are having on firms that rely on efficient journey times to stay competitive.
Frenni told the politicians that poor connectivity is making it harder to move goods efficiently, reach key markets and compete with businesses elsewhere in the UK — a problem that is especially acute for haulage operators, whose profitability depends heavily on reliable journey times.
According to the Road Haulage Association, the sector moves around 89 per cent of all goods in the UK, underlining its importance to the wider economy. However, it also faces mounting pressures from fuel costs, wages, insurance, maintenance and regulatory compliance.
The visit also came amid renewed concern over fuel prices. The politicians said businesses in west Wales were already struggling with increased costs and warned that any further rise in fuel duty would place additional strain on hauliers and rural communities.
Darren Millar said: “It was incredibly valuable to hear directly from Frenni about the challenges they face day to day. Time and again, we hear the same message — our road networks are holding businesses back.
“Whether it is delays, poor road conditions or rising fuel costs, the current environment is making it harder than ever to operate. We support the road haulage sector in its calls for action on fuel duty.”
Paul Davies said haulage firms such as Frenni were vital to the economy and deserved stronger backing.
He said: “Hauliers like Frenni are absolutely essential to our economy. They keep goods moving across the country every single day, but they are being squeezed from all sides — from fuel costs to rising wages and wider business pressures. Without action, we risk placing that vital network under real strain.”
A key issue raised during the meeting was the long-standing call to dual the A40, which the politicians described as a crucial freight route linking west Wales with the rest of the country.
Samuel Kurtz said: “For a haulage firm, time is money. The A40 and M4 are a lifeline for us, and without proper investment, companies here are at a clear disadvantage. We need to see real progress and real investment.”
Road safety concerns were also discussed, particularly on the A477, where calls have previously been made for major improvements.
Mr Kurtz added: “Improving the A477 is not just about convenience, it is about safety. Hauliers are on these roads every day, and we need to ensure these routes are safe, resilient and fit for purpose.”
The politicians also said more needed to be done to improve driver welfare, with concerns raised over a shortage of secure parking, rest areas and basic facilities for HGV drivers in west Wales.
Paul Davies said: “Driver welfare is too often overlooked. If we want to support the haulage sector and tackle driver shortages, we need proper facilities, including safe parking, rest areas and access to basic amenities.”
Wider transport concerns were also discussed, including calls for progress on major infrastructure schemes such as the M4 relief road, which supporters say is needed to ease congestion and improve freight movement across south Wales.
The default 20mph speed limit was another issue raised during the visit, with criticism from the politicians that it is increasing journey times and adding to delivery costs.
Samuel Kurtz said: “Hauliers understand the importance of road safety, but a blanket 20mph approach is not working for logistics. It is slowing journeys, increasing costs and making it harder for businesses to operate efficiently.”
Setting out the party’s position, Paul Davies said the Welsh Conservatives would prioritise investment in roads and transport infrastructure.
He said: “We would get Wales moving again by delivering A40 dualling, upgrading the A477 for safety, progressing the M4 relief road, improving facilities for drivers and scrapping the blanket 20mph policy. At the same time, we must recognise the cost pressures facing the sector and back the businesses that keep our economy moving.”
He added: “Frenni is a great example of a hardworking west Wales haulage business playing a vital role in the wider UK economy. These are the businesses that ensure goods reach our shops, homes and industries. With the right support, they can continue to grow, create jobs and keep Wales moving.”
If you want this turned into a more balanced newspaper piece with Labour/Plaid reaction added, I can do that too.
Crime
Greenacres confirms seized dogs are safe as investigation continues
Owner says she has done nothing wrong, but RSPCA says it cannot comment on ongoing enquiries
GREENACRES Rescue has confirmed that two dogs removed from a Milford Haven property earlier this year remain safe in its care while an investigation continues.
The Herald first reported in April that police had attended a property in the Precelly Place area following welfare concerns raised by neighbours.
At the time, Greenacres confirmed that two dogs had been admitted into its care and said it would be working with the local authority, police and RSPCA while enquiries were carried out.
The rescue has now issued a further update after renewed speculation on social media prompted a number of enquiries from concerned members of the public.
Greenacres said it had deliberately remained largely silent since the dogs first arrived in order to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation and any potential legal proceedings.
With the permission of the RSPCA, the rescue said it was now able to provide a brief update to reassure those who had been worried about the animals’ welfare.
Greenacres confirmed that both dogs have remained safely in its care since the day after they were removed. During that time, they have received veterinary treatment, appropriate nutrition, rehabilitation and ongoing support from the rescue’s experienced team.
The charity said it understood public frustration that more information had not been shared sooner, but stressed that investigations involving alleged animal cruelty can be complex and may take considerable time to conclude.
Greenacres said: “As an independent, self-funded rescue, Greenacres Rescue has no greater legal powers than any other member of the public.
“Throughout every stage, the police and the RSPCA are required to act within the powers and procedures set out in the Animal Welfare Act.
“Whilst this can be frustrating for everyone involved, these legal processes are there for good reason and must be followed.”
The owner of the dogs has contacted The Herald and has asked us to report that she denies any wrongdoing. She says she has been told there will be no further action against her.
However, the RSPCA has said it is unable to discuss ongoing enquiries about specific individuals or what action may be taken.
A spokesperson said: “We’re grateful to people who report their concerns to us but we cannot comment any further as we are unable to discuss ongoing enquiries about specific individuals and what action may be taken.
“We understand how frustrating that is for animal lovers but releasing information could prejudice a future investigation or could lead to us being fined.”
Greenacres has confirmed that the Belgian Malinois has now been legally surrendered into its care. The rescue is currently assessing the most appropriate long-term plan for her future.
However, she is not available for direct rehoming and will continue to undergo further behavioural assessment and rehabilitation. Greenacres said it is working with experienced specialists to ensure the best possible outcome for the dog.
The smaller crossbreed dog remains under seizure by the RSPCA and police and continues to form part of the ongoing investigation. Ownership has not yet been transferred, and Greenacres said that position is likely to remain unchanged until the investigation and any related legal process has concluded.
The rescue has also clarified that it has not been involved in the rescue or care of any cats or kittens believed to be connected to the property. Questions about those animals should be directed to the RSPCA.
Greenacres added that a lack of public updates should not be mistaken for a lack of action.
The rescue said: “Much of this work happens behind the scenes and, by its very nature, cannot be shared publicly whilst investigations remain active.
“Our priority will always be the welfare of the animals and ensuring that ongoing legal proceedings are not compromised.
“Please be assured that both dogs are safe, are receiving the care they need, and remain a priority for everyone involved.”
Greenacres thanked the public for their support, patience and understanding while the relevant authorities complete their investigation.
Cymraeg
Young musicians to bring National Eisteddfod to a spectacular close
NEW Paul Mealor work, with words by Menna Elfyn, will be performed by 150 young people from Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire
A new composition by internationally acclaimed Welsh composer Paul Mealor will bring this year’s National Eisteddfod to a spectacular close, as 150 young musicians from across west Wales take to the Pafiliwn stage.
Côr a Cherddorfa’r Tair Sir, the Three Counties Choir and Orchestra, will perform Angerdd a gerdd, a new work specially commissioned from Professor Mealor, with words by celebrated poet Menna Elfyn.
The concert will close the Pafiliwn programme on the final Saturday evening of the festival, bringing together young performers from Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire for what organisers say will be one of the highlights of the week.
Côr y Tair Sir was originally formed following the creation of Dyfed in the 1974 local government reorganisation, becoming well known across the region and beyond. It has now been revived especially for this year’s National Eisteddfod, with support from the National Music Service of Wales and sponsorship from the Gwendoline and Margaret Davies Charity, Gregynog.
Rehearsals began in the spring, with pupils meeting regularly to prepare for the performance.
Professor Mealor said he had been delighted by the response from the young musicians.
“One hundred and fifty young people came together to rehearse my new work, to Menna Elfyn’s powerful words, and it sounded wonderful from the very first rehearsal,” he said.
“It’s a challenging piece for young voices, but I’ve been hugely impressed by their commitment, and I’m certain it will be a thrilling experience for the audience on the night.”
Mealor, who was born in St Asaph and raised in Connah’s Quay, has long-standing links with Wales’ musical tradition. He studied composition with Professor William Mathias at the University of York and has credited Mathias as the inspiration behind his musical career, particularly his passion for choral music.
The new work will also showcase the words of Menna Elfyn, one of Wales’ leading poets. Since the publication of her first poetry collection, Mwyara, 50 years ago, she has produced numerous volumes of poetry, children’s books and anthologies, while also writing for stage, radio and television. Her work has received widespread critical acclaim and many awards.
As well as marking the end of the festival week, the concert will celebrate the National Eisteddfod’s rich musical heritage and give a new generation of performers the chance to present a major choral work on one of Wales’ most prestigious stages.
Classical music will feature prominently across the Maes this year, with events taking place at Y Stiwdio and Encore.
Among the highlights is a performance of Atgof o’r Sêr, Memory of the Stars, composed by Robat Arwyn with words written especially for Bryn Terfel. First performed at the 2001 Denbigh National Eisteddfod, this year marks the 25th anniversary of its premiere.
The eight-song cycle will be performed by recent winners of the Osborne Roberts Memorial Prize, including Steffan Lloyd Owen, Meinir Wyn Roberts, John Ieuan Jones, Llinos Haf Jones, Dafydd Jones, Siriol Elin, Joshua Mills and Lisa Dafydd.
Another highlight will be a rare opportunity to hear two songs by composer Meirion Williams, marking the 50th anniversary of his death.
On behalf of the Eisteddfod, musician Sioned Webb and Steffan Prys explored the archive of the late soprano Ceinwen Rowlands, with the assistance of Maredudd ap Huw at the National Library of Wales.
Sioned spent time in London during the 1980s researching and completing an MA dissertation on the life and work of Meirion Williams, but she was unaware of the Ceinwen Rowlands collection at the time.
This year she discovered two previously unperformed pieces in strict Welsh metres, cywyddau by Siôn Cent and Huw Morys, also known as Eos Ceiriog. She edited them for performance with the assistance of Eurig Salisbury.
It will be the first time the two songs have been heard in more than 80 years. Nerys Williams, the composer’s daughter, has been invited to attend the Eisteddfod and present the scores to Tŷ Cerdd.
Betsan Moses, Chief Executive of the National Eisteddfod, said: “There’s a strong programme of classical music across the Maes this year. We’re delighted to welcome so many former competition winners back to perform, celebrating the connection between competing at the Eisteddfod and their career in music.
“We’re also using Rhosygilwen, near the Maes, as the venue for our music prelims during the week, and everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy the performances.
“The Pafiliwn event on the final Saturday evening promises to be one of the highlights of the festival. It is wonderful to give classical music such a prominent place at its heart, while offering talented young local musicians the chance to be part of a unique experience, working alongside one of Wales’ best-known composers and bringing the words of one of our leading poets to life through music.
“It will provide a memorable finale to a week of music and creativity.”
Eisteddfod Genedlaethol y Garreg Las will be held in Llantwd, north Pembrokeshire, from August 1 to 8. Further information and tickets are available at eisteddfod.cymru.
Crime
Tenby woman fined after permitting uninsured driver to use car in Pembroke Dock
A TENBY woman has been fined after magistrates found she permitted an uninsured driver to use a car in Pembroke Dock.
Christy May Brown, aged 38, of Bush Terrace, Jameston, Tenby, was not present when her case was dealt with at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (Jul 8).
The court heard that on November 1, 2025, Brown permitted Robert Christopher to use a Vauxhall Astra, registration KW08 KRD, on Ferry Lane, Pembroke Dock, when there was no insurance in force covering third-party risks.
The offence was proved in her absence.
Brown was fined £120 and ordered to pay a £48 victim services surcharge and £120 costs. Her driving record was endorsed with six penalty points.
Magistrates also dealt with a second matter, relating to Brown permitting Christopher to drive the same vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a driving licence. The court heard that he was a provisional licence holder, driving unaccompanied by a qualified passenger, and that no L-plates were displayed on the vehicle.
That offence was also proved in absence, but no separate penalty was imposed.
The court made a collection order and Brown was ordered to pay the £288 balance at £24 per month from August 5.
The case had earlier been reopened under section 142 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980, with a sentence imposed on May 20, 2026 set aside and a previous licence endorsement removed.
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