News

Gateway station facelift finally secured

Published

11 years ago

December 19, 2013

PRESELI Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb has welcomed plans announced this week that will see a much needed improvement in the Welsh rail network to the benefit of local rail users.

As part of the investment, Welsh Transport Minister, Edwina Hart AM, announced that Port Talbot Parkway will receive over £11.3m of funding to carry out essential redevelopment. In addition to improved station access, customers will enjoy a modernised ticket office and car park expansion. Stephen has been contacted by key local business people in the county about the condition of station facilities, following feedback from investors about their experience of travelling to Pembrokeshire.

Commenting on the investment, Stephen said:

“I was extremely pleased to see the Welsh Government taking the long overdue action to improve part of Wales’ rail network. Port Talbot is an important gateway station to West Wales, which is used by business investors and tourists – who are often required to complete their journey from Port Talbot to Pembrokeshire by car, taxi or bus.

He added: “We are a forward-looking country and we want potential investors to be confident about doing business in Wales. Gateway stations such as Port Talbot are currently poor adverts for inward investment in Wales. Today’s announcement will mean these railway stations will finally get the facelift they need.”

This news is especially welcome at a time when rail operators have finally decided to get to grips with the problem of human waste being dumped from train carriages onto railway lines across Wales.

Stephen has also made representations to Arriva Trains Wales and Network Rail about hygiene levels at train stations across West Wales. He pressed David Higgins, Chief Executive of Network Rail for more action to tackle this problem. Following these representations, Network Rail has now taken the decision to include more intensive cleaning methods as part of their cleaning regime.

Stephen added: “This issue has been raised with me by a number of constituents. In 2013, it is unacceptable for passengers standing at platforms to see detritus being dumped along the track. This does nothing for instilling a positive impression of Wales as a modern, welcoming place to visit and do business.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

18 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.