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New 20mph speed limit sparks major controversy ahead of planned protests

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THE INTRODUCTION of the 20mph speed limit across Wales, while hailed by some for reducing traffic speeds, is now at the heart of an intensifying debate. Despite compliance data suggesting many are adhering to the new limit, a significant portion of the Welsh population seems to be vehemently opposing the change.

A recent Agilysis report underscores the tangible impact of the policy:

  • A significant 2.9mph decrease in median speeds.
  • Journey times in Cardiff and Wrexham have lengthened by 45 to 63 seconds on certain routes.

But it’s clear that for a vast number of Welsh residents, these statistics offer little consolation. A record-breaking online petition, demanding the removal of the new speed limit, has garnered a staggering 400,000 signatures, compelling the Senedd (Welsh Parliament) to consider the issue for debate.

This coming Saturday, a major demonstration is scheduled in Cardiff, where protesters, armed with banners and slogans such as “Don’t comply, don’t pay,” plan to voice their dissent. Their grievances range from accusing the government of being tone-deaf to the populace’s concerns to a Monmouthshire village that reportedly abandoned their trial due to ensuing problems.

Further accusations point to the policy being more the brainchild of the Welsh Government’s Climate Change department than a genuine health and safety initiative.

Lee Waters, the Welsh deputy climate minister, finds himself in a precarious position. While staunchly defending the speed limit as a means to “save lives” and promote community safety, he’s facing increasing political pressure. The Tories are gearing up to table a vote of no confidence against him.

Natasha Asghar, the Welsh Tory transport spokesperson, was candid in her criticism, asserting Waters’s “position is untenable” and accusing him of being unable to admit his mistake.

Despite evidence of road users complying, the overwhelming public sentiment appears to be one of frustration and opposition. As Wales finds itself at this crossroad, the upcoming protest and subsequent political manoeuvres promise to shape the future of the controversial 20mph speed limit.

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

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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)

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Business

Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure

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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)

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Community

Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend

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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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