Major works planned in Pembroke, Milford Haven and Aberystwyth as 16km of ageing pipes set to be replaced

WALES & West Utilities is investing more than £3.6 million over the next year to upgrade the gas network across mid and west Wales, including major works in Pembroke Town and Milford Haven.

The company says the programme will help ensure a safe and reliable gas supply for customers while strengthening energy infrastructure across the region for decades to come.

As part of the scheme, more than 16 kilometres of gas mains will be replaced, with work also taking place in Aberystwyth and Welshpool.

Wales & West Utilities said it will work closely with local authorities to carefully plan each project and manage any necessary traffic measures.

Adam Smith, who is managing the programme, said the investment was essential to keep the network safe and fit for the future.

“We’re investing in our gas network to ensure it remains safe, reliable and fit for the future for the customers we serve across the area,” he said.

“We’ll continue to work closely with local authorities, and keep communities informed as projects are planned and delivered.

“We understand our work can cause disruption, but it is essential to maintain a resilient network that people rely on every day.”

Mr Smith added that although the gas network is mostly out of sight, it plays a vital role in everyday life.

“From heating homes to cooking meals, we know how important it is that gas is there when people need it,” he said.

“This investment will not only maintain today’s supply but also prepare the network to transport greener gases in the future.”

Residents can find more information about works in their area by visiting the Wales & West Utilities website.

The company is responsible for transporting gas to more than 7.5 million people across Wales and the south west of England through an underground network of more than 35,000 kilometres of pipes. It does not sell gas directly.

Anyone who smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide is advised to call the National Gas Emergency number on 0800 111 999 immediately. Trained engineers are available 24 hours a day.

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a collision involving a car and a pedestrian in Pembroke Dock.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the incident happened on Pembroke Road at around 3:20pm on Wednesday (Apr 29).

Officers attended the scene alongside ambulance crews and the road was closed while emergency services dealt with the incident.

The pedestrian was taken to hospital, but police said their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.

The road reopened at approximately 5:35pm.

Anyone who witnessed the collision, or who has dash-cam footage which could assist the investigation, is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

Police can be contacted online at dyfed-powys.police.uk/contact, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

Quote reference: 26000338887.

PUBLIC URGED TO ACT RESPONSIBLY AS DRY WEATHER INCREASES FIRE RISK

PEOPLE planning to enjoy Wales’ countryside this Bank Holiday weekend are being urged to act responsibly as warm, dry weather increases the risk of wildfires.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) said officers have been working closely with fire and rescue services and other partners to help manage and tackle grass and wildfires across the country.

On Wednesday (Apr 29), NRW deployed a fire-fighting helicopter to carry out targeted water drops on the Elan Valley wildfire at Cwmystwyth because of the high risk to nature, difficult ground access, forecast winds and a lack of significant rainfall.

Since last night, teams have also been assisting South Wales Fire and Rescue Service at a large wildfire at Waun Wen, near Merthyr Tydfil.

With conditions forecast to remain dry over the coming days, Wales is now entering an elevated-risk period for wildfires.

NRW said teams would continue working around the clock to protect people, nature and property, but warned that lighting fires and using disposable barbecues in the countryside can have devastating consequences.

Richard Preece, Duty Tactical Manager for Natural Resources Wales, said: “Wales’ landscapes are incredibly special, but they are also vulnerable.

“It only takes one careless act for a fire to start and quickly get out of control.

“We’re asking everyone visiting the outdoors this Bank Holiday to think about the consequences of their actions and help us protect our wildlife, our water and our communities.”

Visitors are being urged to be #WildfireWise by following simple safety advice: never light fires in the countryside, only use disposable barbecues where signs say they are allowed, never leave them unattended and make sure they are fully out before leaving.

People are also being asked to take all litter home, especially glass bottles, avoid discarding cigarettes or matches, and report any signs of fire or suspicious activity immediately by calling 999.

Carl Williams, Arson Reduction Manager for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said wildfires place huge pressure on crews and can divert firefighters away from other emergencies.

He said: “Wildfires not only divert crews from responding to other emergencies but also expose firefighters to significant risk.

“These incidents often demand large numbers of personnel, including on-call staff who must leave their primary employment to attend incidents and remain deployed for extended periods, placing considerable strain on personnel and resources.

“Unlike building fires, wildfires can burn across vast rural landscapes, threatening nearby homes, farms, livestock, power supplies and key transport routes.

“Smoke from these fires can also cause road hazards and serious health impacts, particularly for vulnerable people.

“By making responsible choices, the public can help protect firefighters, safeguard communities, and preserve Wales’s countryside for future generations.”

Rhydian Slade-Jones, Landowner Engagement Officer for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, added: “We work closely with Natural Resources Wales, local farmers and landowners throughout the year to identify high-risk areas and put preventative measures in place, but we can’t do it alone.

“Most wildfires in Wales are caused by human activity, so we’re asking everyone to act responsibly.

“If you see any deliberate fire setting or anti-social behaviour on our hillsides, it is important you report it straight away. Your actions can make a big difference in keeping our communities and crews safe.”

NRW said most wildfires in Wales are started deliberately and classed as arson. Others are caused by carelessness, often through the inappropriate use of barbecues or open flames in the countryside. Very few are the result of accidents or natural causes.

Wildfires can destroy trees, plants and wildlife in hours, with habitats taking years or even decades to recover. Ash and disturbed soil can also be washed into rivers, lakes and reservoirs, reducing water quality and harming fish and other aquatic life.

The loss of vegetation can increase the risk of soil erosion and flooding, while damaged landscapes leave lasting scars on Wales’ countryside.

As well as long-term damage to nature and forestry, wildfires put lives at risk. Firefighters, land managers and nearby communities can all be threatened by fast-spreading flames and smoke.