News

Pyrolysis plant refused

Published

10 years ago

December 30, 2015

PLANS to build a Pyrolysis plant at the Waterloo Industrial Estate in Pembroke Dock were unanimously refused by Pembrokeshire County Council. On Tuesday (Dec 15), the Planning and Rights of Way Committee met to discuss the application from Barcud Energy Ltd, a firm based in Cardiff. The unit would be used to generate syngas by thermally treating feedstock comprised of oily sludge and filter cake that is generated by oil refineries.

However, concerns were raised about the size of the plant and the possible emissions from it. Pembroke Dock Llanion Councillor Sue Perkins said: “Because of the strong feeling the whole town of Pembroke Dock, I feel I must put forward the views of my constituents. “I’m delighted that the application before you is for refusal and I ask you to support the officer’s recommendation. “The fuel oily sludge is a very dirty fuel containing high concentrations of hazardous constituents including heavy metals and naturally occurring radioactive material that may be resilient to combustion. “How could anyone think it’s a particularly good idea to build a pyrolysis incinerator producing oily sludge in an area that floods, in an entry to a town, close to people’s homes, a large council estate along the side of the Cleddau?

“We’ve been told by the applicant there will be no pollution and no odour but we were told this before. Pembroke Dock has had its fair share of both over the years. We all know that we cannot control the weather nor human error and in the high winds experienced on the site of the height of the Cleddau, no one can guarantee that the smog, smoke and pollution will not come to the town nor further up the river in areas like Cosheston and in fact Carew.

“If there is a need for such a facility, as our officers have said, in Pembrokeshire, which I personally doubt, there are already designated areas where there is already a power station and a refinery. If this plant is built close to both of these facilities it would stop the need for transporting this oily sludge in lorries, around Pembroke, on the A477 which is an already busy road. “The application in my mind makes no sense at all and I just want to say that we have an obligation to our towns who speak long and hard about making our towns more important and more accessible to the visitors and Pembroke Dock always seems like a poor relation but Pembroke Dock has a huge amount to offer; it has the Cleddau, it has historical buildings, it has a huge amount of facilities and once again I think as a town we feel that having something like this on our doorstep would absolutely destroy everything that we would like to see in our future.”

Speaking on behalf of Pembroke Dock Town Council, Councillor Alison Lee said: “If you grant this application, this will become the first thing people will see when they drive into Pembroke Dock. They will see two large massive buildings with a 40 metre stack instead of the waterway, boats and the countryside. “This structure will be visible for a much larger area than suggested by the applicant. It is stated by the landscape officer that the visual impact for some people such as the water sports centre is significant.

“The applicant points out that the mass of the building actually screens other areas in the industrial estate, which in my opinion, just highlights how large and obtrusive this structure will be. “The applicant states that there is a need for a pyrolysis unit in Pembroke Dock and refineries in Pembrokeshire and it has been suggested that the unit would secure jobs at the refinery. This is untrue, there is one refinery in Pembrokeshire and it’s been confirmed that refusal of this application would have no impact on the refinery or any jobs there. “Pembroke Dock already has unresolved issues with a waste management site in the town; it really doesn’t need another one.”

John Hubbard, a long term resident in the area, said: “The Waterloo site is inappropriate for a plant of this nature for a number of reasons which include; it’s within the town limits, numerous people live nearby, the wastes are defined as hazardous, emissions from the chimney are at a low level, it’s alongside scenic waterway and the building is so large it will be seen from numerous locations around it. “We are very concerned at the nature and scale of this operation processing hazardous wastes and the emissions it will create on our very doorstep. The visual impact of the proposal is very intrusive on the landscape and is out of keeping with other buildings in the location.”

Cllr Brian Hall moved the recommendation for refusal and added: “If you look at the gate they are proposing and the entrance that is proposed, that will not take a petrol tanker type lorry. “The vehicle movements around the Waterloo roundabout at the end of the trunk road is approximately on a busy day 22,000 vehicle movements and in the last meeting we had the approval for Aldi and the traffic going into the industrial estate is going to be unbelievable when the Aldi opens, on top of the new bus station that has been approved for Silcox. “That will not generate enough work to make that business, in my opinion, viable. Cllr Tony Wilcox added: “It’s all about location, this is the wrong one, it’s not viable and I will gladly second the recommendation.” When it was put to a vote the plans were refused unanimously.

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

4 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

5 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

5 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.