News
Welsh Water and Natural Resources Wales defend record on sewage discharge
CHAIR of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee Stephen Crabb MP invited representatives from Welsh Water, Natural Resources Wales and water regulator Ofwat back to Parliament (22 November) to give evidence to the committee following further reports of illegal sewage dumping in Wales.
During the session, Mr Crabb took the opportunity to ask about the pollution in the River Teifi that is threatening the blue flag status of the popular beach, Poppit Sands, in North Pembrokeshire – a situation widely reported on in Welsh media in recent weeks.
The Committee also heard from Professor Peter Hammond from the group, Windrush Against Sewage Pollution, who has been investigating illegal sewage dumping backed up by evidence and data regarding spills and overflows.
Mr Crabb challenged the Chief Executive of Natural Resources Wales – Claire Pillman on why levels of prosecutions and fines are so low in Wales. Defending her record, Ms Pillman denied that there was a culture of ‘complacency’ around sewage in Wales, and said that she was ‘appalled’ by the state of Welsh waters.
In Wales, Welsh Government are responsible for tackling sewage and pollution. There is stark difference in approach between UK and Welsh Government, with UK Government now focused on reducing the number of discharges, and Welsh Government more concerned about the extent of the heavily polluted incidents as opposed to the quantity.
Welsh MPs remain deeply concerned about the performance of water companies in Wales when it comes to sewage.
Following the session, Mr Crabb added: “It is not good enough just to blame the fact that Wales is rainier than other parts of the country or that we have older pipework – we need a stronger clearer action plan and that needs to start right at the very top with Welsh Government.”
“We have a beautiful coastline and beaches here in Pembrokeshire, but good water quality is needed to protect our natural environment and ensure that people can enjoy the water year round.”
Crime
Jailed for breaching domestic violence protection order
AMY Woolston, 20, of Vine Road, Johnston, Pembrokeshire, has been sentenced to six weeks in prison for breaching a domestic violence protection order.
On 15th May 2024, Woolston was found in the company of a man in a flat at The Farmers Arms, Market Street, Whitland, in violation of the order issued by Llanelli Magistrates Court on 10th May 2024.
The court deemed the offence serious due to the proximity to the original order and a previous breach involving the same victim. Woolston was not in custody and appeared unrepresented in court. Her total sentence length is 18 weeks.
The case was dealt with in Haverfordwest court on May 16.
News
Lease of former Newcastle Emlyn Courthouse approved
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet has this week approved the transfer of the former Newcastle Emlyn Courthouse to Newcastle Emlyn Town Council.
The Cabinet approved a 21-year lease which will facilitate the Town Council’s plan to bring the premises back into use.
The future of the former Courthouse has been considered in detail, with the Town Council carrying out a public consultation on the community’s requirements, and the sites potential contribution to those local needs. The outcome of the consultation suggested that the local community wanted the building to be retained, refurbished and transformed into a multi- use centre.
Newcastle Emlyn Town Council intend to submit an application for funding from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund [UKSPF] in order to pay for the necessary restoration work. The funding is conditional upon the Town Council having a lease of sufficient term on the premises.
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Alun Lenny commented: “The building as it currently stands is not needed for further use by the County Council and has been empty for some time. I welcome the Cabinet’s decision to approve the transfer of this asset to Newcastle Emlyn Town Council. The funding will ensure that the building is being used for the benefit of the town’s residents.
“This decision is in line with Carmarthenshire County Council’s Wellbeing Objectives: Enabling our communities and environment to be healthy, safe, and prosperous (Prosperous Communities).”
Crime
Teenagers fled from Pembroke RFC after setting spectators stand on fire
ON MONDAY (may 16) between the hours of 16:25 and 17:00, the spectators stand of Pembroke Rugby Football Club was deliberately set on fire, police have said.
Two males, aged between 17-19, fled from the club grounds immediately after the smoke plumes were noticed.
Both males were on dark framed push bikes and wearing dark coloured hooded jumpers.
Officers are asking if anyone who has any information or has witnessed anyone acting suspiciously in the area around these times, is asked to contact police either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908.
Quote reference: 24000446140
Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.
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