News
Minister reviews Port’s growth plans
KEN SKATES, Wales’ Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure, visited the Port of Milford Haven on Monday (Dec 12) for a briefing from the Port’s Chairman and Chief Executive on future development plans in the Milford Haven Waterway.
Peter Jones and Alec Don updated the Economy Secretary on the Milford Waterfront project – the proposed £70m investment around Milford Marina and Milford Fish Docks – as well as plans that would see Pembroke Port developed as a world-class marine energy base.
The minister was shown the latest concepts for Milford Waterfront that will include retail units, a hotel and restaurants. He also heard how the Port was working with partners on an exciting bid for £28m investment in the Pembroke Dock Marine Project under the UK’s City Deal programme. The project would transform Pembroke Port into a thriving marine energy centre where firms will be able to draw up, develop and service renewable energy projects to exploit abundant tide and wave resources off the Pembrokeshire coast.
“The Port of Milford Haven is one of Wales’ key economic powerhouses,” said Chief Executive Alec Don. “It is the nation’s busiest trade gateway, connected by efficient sea routes to countries across the world. It is also home to an outstanding supply chain, great businesses staffed by skilled men and women who have serviced world class maritime and energy industries for more than 50 years,” he continued. “We welcome the current Minister’s focus on the development of a 21st century infrastructure with new investments into the road and rail network. These networks need to connect dynamic industrial zones where businesses are empowered to develop the Welsh economy.”
Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy and Infrastructure, said: “The development plans for Milford Haven Port are very exciting and present an opportunity to attract more visitors to the area as well as benefit the local community and economy. The Welsh Government is keen to play a role in supporting projects that that will enable Welsh ports to flourish, and I look forward to working with Milford Haven with a view to making it a world-class destination for leisure and industry.”
Alec added: “We look forward to working in close partnership with the Welsh Government on this agenda.
Community
Mid and West Wales Fire Service launches recruitment drive
THE MID AND WEST WALES FIRE AND RESCUE SERVICE has announced it is halfway through its recruitment window for Wholetime Firefighters. The service is actively seeking individuals from diverse backgrounds to join their ranks and contribute to the safety and well-being of communities across Mid and West Wales.
Chief Fire Officer Roger Thomas KFSM emphasised the evolving nature of the firefighter’s role, stating, “The role of a Wholetime Firefighter goes far beyond tackling fires, road traffic collisions and water rescues. Modern-day firefighters play a crucial part in educating the public and working to prevent risks to life and the environment.”
The MAWWFRS is keen to attract applicants with a wide range of skills and experiences, recognising the diverse challenges faced by today’s fire service. “We encourage people from a variety of backgrounds to apply, emphasising the diverse skill set needed for this challenging yet rewarding career,” added Thomas.
This recruitment initiative is seen as a vital step in ensuring the service has the necessary personnel to respond effectively to emergencies and maintain safety standards across the region. The MAWWFRS covers a vast area, encompassing nearly two-thirds of Wales, making it the third largest Fire and Rescue Service in the United Kingdom.
Prospective candidates are encouraged to visit the MAWWFRS website for detailed information on fitness requirements, the application process, and how to apply. The online registration window closes at 12pm on Monday, 27th January 2025.
As the service continues its mission to create safer communities, this recruitment drive offers an opportunity for individuals to become part of a team that makes a real difference in people’s lives.
Citations:
[1] http://eastwoodacademy.co.uk/docs/How%20to%20write%20a%20newspaper%20article.pdf
[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid_and_West_Wales_Fire_and_Rescue_Service
[3] https://midwestwalesfire.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s5689/HR%20People%20and%20Well-Being%20Update%20Report.pdf
[4] https://nickdale.me/2023/05/31/how-to-write-a-newspaper-article/
[5] https://www.gov.wales/find-your-local-fire-and-rescue-service
[6] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/join-us/current-vacancies/
[7] https://www.superprof.co.uk/resources/questions/english/broadsheet-articles.html
[8] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk
[9] https://www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/join-us/
[10] https://www.whatdotheyknow.com/body/mid_and_west_wales_fire_and_rescue_service
News
Residents urged to check eligibility for Warm Homes scheme
PEOPLE living in Mid and West Wales are being urged to check if they are eligible to join the 11,550 homes across the region which have already been adapted to make them warmer, greener and fit for the future under a Welsh Labour Government scheme.
Between 2011 and 2024, 82,000 households benefitted from measures in their homes through the Welsh Labour Government’s Warm Homes Nest Scheme.
Joyce Watson MS, Labour Senedd Member for Mid and West Wales, said:
“I know that many of my constituents in Mid and West Wales are worried about their energy bills. The Welsh Labour Government recognises this and is spending £30 million this year to help cut bills.”
First Minister Eluned Morgan MS, Labour Senedd Member for Mid and West Wales, added:
“Thousands of eligible homes in Mid and West Wales have already benefitted from the Warm Homes Scheme, and yours could be next.
“In 2022-2023, the original scheme saved families on average £422 a year on their energy bills – real money that can make a real difference to people’s lives.”
The Warm Homes Scheme works by offering free, impartial advice to anyone and practical upgrades to eligible homes. These upgrades could include heat pumps, solar panels and better insulation, while appliances such as boilers can be repaired and replaced.
The Welsh Government also offers interest-free loans through the Green Homes Wales scheme, for homeowners who want to save energy but can’t afford the initial costs. 2,500 people in Wales have already engaged in the scheme.
Upgrading home energy efficiency is not just about saving money, but also helps save our environment. Reducing the energy that we use in our homes is one practical way to help the Welsh Government reach its commitment to net-zero by 2050.
Find out what support you may be eligible for by visiting the Welsh Government Nest Cymru website and the Green Homes Wales website.
Crime
Police investigate as spate of burglaries hits West Wales communities
DYFED-POWYS POLICE have said they are investigating a series of burglaries that occurred in the St Clears, Narberth, and Haverfordwest areas on 22 January 2025. The incidents, which police believe are linked, have resulted in property damage and the theft of valuable items including cash, jewellery, and power tools.
Detective Inspector Owen Lock has reassured the public that enquiries are ongoing and the force is committed to apprehending those responsible. He urged residents to report any suspicious activities, emphasising the importance of community vigilance.
“No matter how insignificant it may seem, please report all suspicious activity to police immediately, and don’t assume someone else would have notified us,” DI Lock stated.
In light of these events, police are advising residents and second-home owners to check their properties, ensure they are secure, and safeguard valuables by using protective marking and secure storage.
This recent spate of burglaries follows an attempted break-in at a flat above the Welsh Bakery in Robert Street, Milford Haven, between 18 and 20 January 2025.
The proximity in time and location suggests a possible surge in criminal activity in the region.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any concerns to Dyfed-Powys Police via their website, email, social media, or by calling 101. For those wishing to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555111 or through their website.
As investigations continue, local authorities are working to enhance community safety and prevent further incidents. Residents are advised to review their home security measures and stay informed about crime prevention strategies available on the Dyfed-Powys Police website.
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