Community

Withyhedge Landfill awaits final approval amid ongoing odour concerns

Published

9 months ago

September 4, 2024

THE Withyhedge Landfill in Pembrokeshire remains a focal point of public and regulatory scrutiny as the site operator, Resources Management UK Ltd (RML), awaits final approval from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) to begin using a newly constructed waste cell. This development comes amidst ongoing concerns from local residents regarding the persistent and unpleasant odours that have plagued the surrounding communities for years.

NRW is currently reviewing a critical Construction Quality Assurance (CQA) validation report submitted by RML. This report is essential for confirming that Cell 9A, a newly engineered sub-cell within the larger Cell 9, has been constructed to the necessary standards to prevent environmental contamination. According to NRW, no waste can be deposited in Cell 9A until the review is complete, and they are satisfied that the cell’s construction adheres to the approved specifications.

The landfill site has been under increased regulatory oversight due to widespread complaints about odours that many residents say have significantly impacted their quality of life. In December 2023, NRW issued an enforcement notice requiring the operator to cover all exposed waste to mitigate odour emissions. Despite these efforts, the problem persists, with NRW confirming that the primary source of the odours is likely landfill gas escaping from decomposing waste in older cells.

In response to public outcry, NRW has not only intensified its onsite presence but has also demanded updated operational procedures from RML. These procedures are aimed at better managing landfill gas and preventing further odour issues as the landfill continues its operations.

Caroline Drayton, Operations Manager for South West NRW, acknowledged the community’s concerns, stating, “We understand the unease about Withyhedge Landfill potentially accepting waste again. We want to assure the public that we are rigorously assessing the construction quality of the new cell and ensuring that the operator implements necessary improvements to minimise future emissions and off-site odours.”

The review process for the CQA report is expected to take several weeks. During this time, NRW will maintain a heightened regulatory presence at the site, ensuring that RML follows through on its commitments to improve gas management systems. The outcome of these assessments will determine when, or if, the new cell can begin accepting waste.

Residents continue to press for more stringent enforcement, arguing that past measures have been insufficient to protect their health and the environment. As investigations into the site continue, it remains to be seen whether further regulatory actions will be necessary to address the ongoing issues at Withyhedge Landfill.

Community

Shire horses to visit Canolfan Bethlehem for heritage talk

Published

9 hours ago

May 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Special event explores Dyfed Shires’ journey from Pembrokeshire to Horseguards Parade

A PAIR of magnificent Shire horses will be the star attraction at Canolfan Bethlehem in Trefdraeth (Newport, Pembrokeshire) on Wednesday evening, 28 May 2025, as part of a special heritage talk titled The Dyfed Shires Story – From Pembrokeshire to Horseguards Parade.

The popular community talk series at Canolfan Bethlehem continues with a unique opportunity to meet two of the Dyfed Shire horses in person. The horses will be on display on the lawn in front of the chapel from 6:00pm, with the talk itself beginning inside the chapel at 7:00pm.

The evening’s speaker, Mark Cole of Dyfed Shire Horse Farm, will share the story behind the farm’s founding and the remarkable journey that saw its horses selected to appear in ceremonial duties at Horseguards Parade in London.

Canolfan Bethlehem is a thriving community-run centre based in the former Bethlehem Chapel, which was saved at auction in August 2024 thanks to an ambitious local fundraising effort. Supporters raised £146,000 to secure the building for £145,000, transforming it into a Welsh heritage, arts, and culture hub.

The project received vital support from PLANED, the Narberth-based community development organisation. PLANED’s Community Assets Coordinator, Cris Tomos, praised the initiative: “The Canolfan Bethlehem community enterprise shows what can be done when people come together to preserve key assets for future generations. It’s fantastic to see the growing support for these regular talks.”

***Important project:*** *Cris re-opening the doors of the chapel once purchased by local investors.*

Community

Tenby Coaster returns for summer season

Published

9 hours ago

May 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Open-top double-decker back on scenic Pembrokeshire route from Sunday

PEMBROKESHIRE’S popular open-top bus service is set to return to the roads this weekend, offering stunning views of the county’s coastline throughout the summer.

The Tenby Coaster, now in its fourth year of service, resumes its route between Tenby and Saundersfoot on Sunday (May 25), following a brief appearance over Easter.

The eye-catching blue and yellow double-decker, operated by First Bus, was the first of its kind to run in Pembrokeshire since the 1990s and has since become a firm favourite with both visitors and locals.

Each day, the bus travels from its Haverfordwest depot to the route’s starting point in Tenby, passing key attractions such as Carew Castle and Manor Wildlife Park—making it possible to enjoy an extended journey for those catching it early or late in the day.

Passengers can hop aboard the Tenby Coaster from the stop by the town walls in Tenby, with First Bus promising “breathtaking views and a scenic descent into Saundersfoot”.

The service will operate daily until September 6, with hop-on, hop-off tickets available for those wanting to explore along the way. Fares match those of other local services, with singles starting at £1.60, returns from £3.04, and group day passes for up to five people available for £17.50.

Contactless payment is accepted via the Tap On Tap Off system, and both Welsh Concessionary Travel Cards and mytravelpass cards are valid on the route.

More information is available at the First Cymru website.

Community

Public invited to explore Pembroke Port at Open Day and Stakeholder Meeting

Published

1 day ago

May 23, 2025

Tom Sinclair

MEMBERS of the public are being invited to go behind the scenes at Pembroke Port as part of a special Open Day and Annual Stakeholder Meeting hosted by the Port of Milford Haven.

The event will take place on Wednesday, 18 June, at Catalina House, Pembroke Dock (SA72 6JD), offering a unique opportunity to discover the inner workings of one of Wales’ busiest ports.

Running from 2:00pm to 6:00pm, the Open Day will include guided bus tours around the site, giving visitors a rare, close-up look at port operations and activities across the facility. Port staff, local business representatives, and partners from across the supply chain will also be on hand to discuss their work and answer questions.

From 6:00pm to 7:30pm, the Port’s Annual Stakeholder Meeting will be held, where attendees will hear updates from the Chair and Chief Executive, meet members of the Board and senior management, and take part in a Q&A session. Questions can be submitted in advance via email to [email protected].

Throughout the day, visitors can explore the wide-ranging roles of the Port of Milford Haven – from commercial marine services and energy sector support to community initiatives and leisure activities. A number of external organisations will also be present, including emergency services, marine experts, and conservation groups highlighting Pembrokeshire’s diverse wildlife.