News

Milford Haven: Blackbridge biomass plant plans rejected

Published

8 years ago

June 29, 2018

Tom Sinclair

CONTROVERSIAL plans for a biomass plant at Blackbridge, Milford Haven, have been turned down today (Jun 27).

Egnedol, the company behind the plans, claimed that the site would create 500 jobs in the area.

However, there were concerns about the environmental impact of the site, as well as the company’s questionable track record and ability to see the project through to a successful completion.

If approved, the site would have been the biggest of its kind in the world, Egnedol had said.

The application has been refused following an 18-month process, with Clive Nield, the Planning Inspector, recommending that both the original and amended application be refused.

This recommendation was supported by Lesley Griffiths, the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Planning and Rural Affairs.

Among his concerns, Mr Nield cited ‘important shortcomings’ in the environmental data and the negative impact this may have on wildlife. He also said that it would be ‘unacceptably harmful to the character and appearance’ to the waterway.

An Egnedol spokesperson told The Herald: “Egnedol regrets the recent Welsh Government’s decision to turn down the proposed Biomass to Energy Facility and Eco-park project in Milford Haven.

“Whilst we were pleased to note that the Inspector had no adverse comments upon the proposed technology or upon its impact, we are sorry to note that the DNS application was rejected primarily on the basis of potential impact of three ship movements per week upon the wider marine environment. Egnedol find this particularly confusing as the site lies within an area designated by the Welsh Government for increased port and shipping use.

“Egnedol feel that the overwhelming economic benefits that this international inward investment would provide both for the environment and the local and national economy has not been considered within the decision and believe that this decision is totally inconsistent with the UK aspirations to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and to reduce carbon emissions.

“The investment would create a truly sustainable bio-refinery that is fully in line with UK Government aspirations.

“Egnedol’s team is reviewing the Decision in order to define the next steps.”

Before the plans were refused, Bettina Becker from Pembrokeshire Friends of the Earth told The Herald: “We are shocked and dismayed that the Planning Inspectorate and the Health and Safety Executive continue to turn a blind eye to the safety of residents and workers in Milford Haven.”

Crime

Police probe ball bearing damage in Haverfordwest

Published

6 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

POLICE are investigating reports of criminal damage in Haverfordwest after suspected metal ball bearings were used to damage a vehicle and a property.

Dyfed-Powys Police said damage was caused to the wing mirror of a blue Range Rover Evoque on Glenfields Road sometime between 11:10am and 11:20am on Sunday, May 10.

Officers believe metal ball bearings may have been used.

A second incident was reported at around 2:30pm on Tuesday, May 12, when the window of a property on Glenfields Road was allegedly struck by a suspected metal ball bearing.

Police said local officers are continuing to speak with residents after receiving a number of calls about ball bearings being found in the Glenfields Road and Old Hakin Road areas.

Anyone who witnessed anything, or who has information that could help the investigation, is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

Quote reference: 26*375605.

Crime

Stolen vehicle investigation after late-night crash in Waterston

Published

8 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A VEHICLE involved in a late-night single-vehicle crash in Waterston, Milford Haven, is believed to have been stolen, police have confirmed.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers received a report of the collision at around 11:55pm on Sunday (May 17).

The vehicle was recovered at approximately 1:15am on Monday (May 18), but nobody was found at the scene.

Following enquiries, police established that the vehicle had reportedly been stolen at some point during Sunday evening.

Officers said enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

News

Labour names Senedd spokesperson team after election defeat

Published

8 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Ken Skates says group will focus on holding new Welsh Government to account

INTERIM Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates has unveiled the party’s Senedd spokesperson team following its defeat in the recent election.

Mr Skates will act as interim leader of Welsh Labour and spokesperson for health, care and national security.

He said the Labour group would draw on “extensive experience” while bringing “fresh energy and ideas” to its work in opposition.

The party said its Senedd group was committed to holding the new Welsh Government to account and pushing for practical results for the people of Wales.

Jayne Bryant MS has been appointed spokesperson for housing, communities, public and preventative health, with women’s health also included in her brief.

Mike Hedges MS will cover culture, sport, local government and legislation.

Vikki Howells MS becomes Chief Whip and spokesperson for environment, farming, energy and transport. Her portfolio also includes planning.

Lynne Neagle MS has been named Business Manager and spokesperson for children, education and lifelong learning.

Shav Taj MS will cover employment, equalities and economic transformation, including social partnership.

Huw Thomas MS has been appointed spokesperson for finance, democracy, citizenship and the Welsh language. Regional and city deals will also fall within his brief.

Welsh Labour said Sarah Murphy’s portfolio will be announced when she returns from maternity leave.

A photo call with the Welsh Labour Senedd Group is due to take place in Cardiff Bay on Tuesday (May 19), although no interviews will be available.