News

Covid-19 cases highest in Tenby; lots of new cases in Neyland and Pembroke Dock

Published

3 years ago

November 30, 2021

THE NUMBER of Covid-19 infections still taking place in Pembrokeshire is still significant, with the latest figues broken down per town now released.

Tenby has the highest prevalence in the general population at the present time.

The figures show that Pembroke Dock and Neyland have reported the most new cases with 59 and 60 new cases each.

This is the coronavirus rate and number of new cases for every area across Pembrokeshire are as follows:

St Davids & Letterston: 30 new cases; a rate of 394.6 per 100,000 people.
Johnston, Broad Haven & St Ishmaels: 39 new cases; a rate of 466.6 cases per 100,000 people.
Milford Haven West: 49 new cases; a rate of 641.4 per 100,000 people.
Milford Haven East: 37 new cases; a rate of 495.4 cases per 100,000 people.
Pembroke West & Castlemartin: 34 new cases; 459.8 cases per 100,000 people.
Pembroke East & Manorbier: 25 new cases; a rate of 324.8 cases per 100,000 people.
Pembroke Dock: 59 new cases; a rate of 610.5 cases per 100,000 people.
Neyland: 60 new cases; a rate of 690.4 cases per 100,000 people.
Haverfordwest South: 52 new cases; a rate of 727.2 cases per 100,000 people.
Haverfordwest North: 47 new cases; a rate of 661.0 cases per 100,000 people.
Crundale, Clynderwen & Maenclochog: 64 new cases; a rate of 888.3 cases per 100,000 people.
Fishguard: 39 new cases; a rate of 393.6 cases per 100,000 people.
Cilgerran & Crymych: 30 new cases; a rate of 353.2 cases per 100,000 people.
Narberth: 29 new cases; a rate of 422.0 cases per 100,000 people.
Saundersfoot: 29 new cases; a rate of 341.4 cases per 100,000 people.
Tenby & Caldey: 40 new cases; a rate of 658.4 cases per 100,000 people.

Cllr Simpson, Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council said on Friday: “I must repeat that Covid-19 has not gone away and the wave of positive cases sweeping across Europe is a concern.
“People continue to catch this awful virus every day. Unfortunately, people are still dying from Covid-19.
“It is human nature to want to forget about Covid as the festive season approaches, I totally understand that.
“Like everyone, I was so disappointed when the tighter restrictions had to be brought in just before Christmas last year.
“And like everyone I’m thinking about buying gifts, planning festive events and looking forward to the celebrations.
“But I would please ask that you also keep in mind the simple things we can all do to give ourselves the best protection against Covid-19 and slow down the spread.”

Council Covid-19 team in Tenby earlier this year (Pic PCC)

Cllr Simpson said that People in Pembrokeshire should continue to work from home where you can, take up vaccination including the booster when offered, keep your distance where possible, use face coverings where required, maintain hand hygiene, meet outdoors when the weather allows and let fresh air in if you are meeting indoors.

He said that Christmas parties is one particular area where I would ask people to take extra care.

Cllr Simpson said: “Please consider smaller group numbers than you might ordinarily and try to avoid mixing with too many other people.”

“Remember that Covid-19 loves busy indoor spaces.

“Please do what you can to protect yourself and others.

Business

Milford Haven: Wales’ energy hub embraces green transformation

Published

54 mins ago

January 12, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ONCE synonymous with oil and gas, Milford Haven is now poised to lead Wales into a cleaner, greener future—powered by hydrogen.

Green energy pioneer Haush Ltd has chosen Milford Haven as the location for its new UK headquarters, marking a significant step towards establishing the area as a hub for hydrogen innovation. The company’s ambitious plans aim to decarbonise land, sea, and air transport, while also exporting green hydrogen to Europe.

Backed by the Welsh Government through the HYBRID SBRI Hydrogen Port Re-Fuelling Project (HyPR), Haush’s initiative will kick off immediately. The HyPR project supports trials to accelerate hydrogen production and create refuelling solutions for both onshore and offshore vessels. A key part of this effort is designing a permanent hydrogen refuelling infrastructure at the Port of Milford Haven, unlocking its potential as a green energy leader.

For over 65 years, Milford Haven has been a cornerstone of the UK’s oil and gas sector, processing 20% of the nation’s oil and gas. Now, this latest investment signals the beginning of a transformative shift toward renewable energy.

Welsh Government Economy, Energy, and Planning Cabinet Secretary, Rebecca Evans, welcomed the move, saying:
“Jobs and green growth are a priority for this Welsh Government, so I am delighted that Haush has chosen Milford Haven as the base for its new UK headquarters. The company’s ambitious growth plans align perfectly with our aspirations to see Wales become a global leader in renewable energy generation.”

Milford Haven’s journey from oil and gas to hydrogen innovation could set a blueprint for green energy transformation in the UK and beyond.

News

Council Tax Premium set to increase for long-term empty properties

Published

58 mins ago

January 12, 2025

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has approved a significant change to the council tax premium on long-term empty properties, aiming to address housing shortages and community impacts.

Starting April 1, 2025, a single premium rate of 300 per cent will be applied to all properties that have been empty for two years or more. This replaces the previous system of incremental increases.

Councillor Joshua Beynon, cabinet member for corporate finance and efficiencies, said:
“The premium is in place to encourage the return of properties into use as much-needed homes in Pembrokeshire and to reduce the impact of empty homes on the communities around them.”

Details of the premium

The premium is an addition to the standard council tax charge and applies across all three elements:

Pembrokeshire County Council
Police and Crime Commissioner
Town and Community Councils

Exemptions and discounts

Property owners undergoing renovations can apply for a council tax exemption if their property requires major repair works or structural alterations. This exemption allows the property to be tax-free for up to 12 months.

If the exemption has already been granted, owners may apply for a discretionary discount, which can be awarded up to the value of the long-term empty property premium. However, the standard council tax charge remains payable in these cases.

Applicants must provide written details of the required works, supported by photographic evidence. Each application is assessed on its individual merits, and the discretionary discount is typically limited to a maximum of 12 months.

National Empty Homes Grant Scheme

Pembrokeshire County Council is also taking part in the National Empty Homes Grant Scheme, which offers grants of up to £25,000 to owners of eligible empty properties. This funding aims to bring more properties back into use and alleviate housing pressures in the county.

For more information about the grant, visit the National Empty Homes Grant website.
To apply for a council tax discount, contact Revenue Services via:

Email: [email protected]
Post: Revenue Services, County Hall, Haverfordwest, SA61 1TP

News

Heavenly Host of Angels Event at St Katharine and St Peter’s Church

Published

1 day ago

January 11, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE HEAVENLY HOST OF ANGELS will be open at St Katharine and St Peter’s Church, Milford Haven, this weekend, offering a warm and welcoming space for all.

When:

Saturday, January 11: 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Sunday, January 12: 4:00pm – 7:00pm
Monday, January 13: 4:00pm – 7:00pm

Entry is free, and children will receive glow sticks to add to the magical atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to hunt for your angel or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, all are welcome to drop in.

Donations in aid of Wales Air Ambulance are optional and much appreciated.