News
Waste company faces multiple environmental violations charges
A PEMBROKESHIRE firm, Griffiths Waste Solutions (GWS) Ltd, based at Withybush Industrial Estate, Haverfordwest, is facing several charges in relation to non-compliance with environmental permits and regulations. The first hearing was at the Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (Aug 10).
The charges detail the following:
On or before 14th February 2020 in Haverfordwest, the company did not meet the requirements of the environmental permit condition 2.1.1 of Permit Reference No. FB3390HM, which mandates the storage of segregated waste outside in designated bays on a hard-standing surface.
Between 30th September 2017 and 13th August 2021, the company allegedly violated environmental permit condition 1.1.4. They are accused of failing to ensure a Technically Competent Manager was present on-site.
From 30th April 2019 to 31st January 2020, the company is alleged to have not met condition 4.2.2 by not submitting essential information about waste acceptance and removal from their site. Specifically, GWS is accused of not submitting waste returns for the Withybush Industrial Estate within the designated period.
On or before 9th February 2022, Griffiths Waste Solutions Ltd is alleged to have disregarded a suspension notice issued on 19th March 2021. This is believed to have led to 10 deposits of construction and demolition waste, notably soil and stone, being improperly deposited at their site.
On 9th May 2021 at Westfield Cottage, the company is accused of depositing controlled waste, amounting to 120.40 tonnes of scrap metal, on land without following the conditions of a valid environmental permit.
On or before 11th February 2022 in Haverfordwest, GWS Ltd is facing charges of neglecting its duty of care regarding controlled waste. They are accused of not ensuring a written description of the waste was passed to the appropriate parties and of failing to prevent the escape of waste.
The attending solicitor for the defence is Aled Owen from HCR Solicitors. The plea is yet to be confirmed, and the case has been adjourned to September 21 at the same court.
Community
Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity
THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.
Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.
The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.
Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.
Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.
(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)
Business
Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure
PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.
The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.
The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.
A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”
Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.
Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.
From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.
Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.
(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)
Community
Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend
ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.
In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”
Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.
Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.
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