Connect with us
Advertisement
Advertisement

Community

Community concerns grow after MOD’s ‘shambolic’ radar consultations

Published

on

PROTESTS erupted at the Ministry of Defence’s public engagement events in Solva and St Davids on September 13 and 14, with demonstrators criticising the proceedings as disorganised and insufficient.

The campaign group, PARC Against DARC, formed in May to oppose the installation of US military DARC radars at Brawdy, orchestrated significant turnout. Demonstrators maintained a consistent presence at the events, while PARC also hosted ‘The People’s Exhibition’ outside the venues, displaying objections to the proposed 27-dish radar array intended to enhance US military capabilities in space.

Attendees were equipped with ‘NO RADAR’ signs and many questioned the MOD representatives at the PR events. A PARC spokesperson reported widespread dissatisfaction among the public, describing the sessions as “utter shambles” where attendees received vague and conflicting responses from supposed experts. Concerns were amplified by an MOD official’s comment likening standing next to the radar to “putting my head in a microwave.”

Errors in local place names on invitation leaflets and non-committal responses regarding the construction’s impact, including potential increases in local traffic, further fuelled local unrest. Questions about the visual impact of the radars on the landscape were met with dismissive or uncertain answers.

The London PR firm Cascade, responsible for organising the events, was criticised for their handling of the consultations, with accusations of failing to adhere to the National Principles of Public Engagement in Wales. The firm was also unclear about their future public engagement strategy, asking for feedback on methods to employ, which raised questions about their preparedness and commitment to genuine engagement.

Amid the criticisms, the Ministry of Defence emphasised the strategic importance of the DARC project, known as the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability. The initiative aims to secure long-term employment and enhance protection of essential satellite communication and navigation networks. According to the MOD, DARC will significantly benefit the AUKUS nations’ capacity to detect, track, and identify objects in deep space, thus bolstering safety and security in the Indo-Pacific region and globally.

However, not all attendees shared the negative sentiment. Jonathan Yaw Porter, who spent extensive time at one of the events, found the experience to be informative and reassuring. “I went wanting facts, and got them,” he said, acknowledging that while some aspects remain undecided pending planning permission, the information provided was largely satisfactory. “From the data provided, there is no evidence of increased health risks at the perimeter of the base,” he added, highlighting the use of electromagnetic radiation similar to that emitted by mobile phones and regulated under WHO standards.

Porter also noted the potential benefits of DARC for the local economy and the UK’s burgeoning space sector. “There looks to be many more positive aspects from such a development in the growing Welsh Space sector from the site, and the visual impact from the data provided is pretty limited,” he observed. His positive takeaways extended to the educational potential of the project, hoping it would inspire young people to pursue careers in engineering and aerospace.

Many felt however, that serious safety concerns were highlighted by unanswered questions regarding the radar’s radiation outputs and potential health implications, with nearly 4,000 studies cited by campaigners pointing to risks associated with high levels of radiofrequency radiation. Despite these concerns, the MOD withheld specific operational details, citing security reasons, with no assurance of public disclosure in future planning phases.

Further inquiries about necessary infrastructure upgrades, such as additional electricity pylons and the impact on local wildlife, were also left unanswered. The potential necessity for a new bypass road to support the project’s logistics was another point of contention, with community members doubting the feasibility of using current roads without significant disruption.

The MOD’s evasive responses have left many attendees dissatisfied, describing the consultation as rushed and confusing, with MOD representatives appearing defensive and at times dishonest. Critics argue that the MOD should replace Cascade with a Welsh organisation more in tune with local sentiment and capable of conducting thorough and transparent public engagement.

As the campaign against DARC intensifies, community members are encouraged to continue expressing their concerns and seeking accountability, with the aim of ensuring a more informed and considerate decision-making process by the MOD.

Community

Proposed new route for Pembrokeshire triathlon announced after local complaints

Published

on

PEMBROKESHIRE’S annual Long Course Weekend triathlon event could see cyclists riding a radically different route from its south county base, taking them as far north as eight miles from Cardigan, bypassing contentious areas Wisemans Bridge and Saundersfoot.

Billed as ‘Europe’s largest multi-sport festival’, the event features swim, bike and run over a variety of distances, with the elite athletes completing all three disciplines at maximum distance to earn the coveted Long Course Weekend medal.

The Tenby-based multi-day triathlon events have been held in the summer since 2010 in the county, but concerns have been raised about loss of trade and inconvenience due to road closures associated with it, particularly the cycling events, the current longest 112-mile route taking in parts of the south of the county including Wisemans Bridge, Saundersfoot, Tenby and Pembroke.

Back in December, Pembrokeshire County Council’s full council heard that some south county communities were “at breaking point” from road closures.

Local members Cllr Chris Williams and Cllr Alec Cormack had asked in a notice of motion, at that meeting, the council withdraw support for the annual Long Course Weekend.

That support takes the form of ‘in-kind’ support such as road closures and car parking rather than a direct financial input.

In a supporting statement, the two councillors said: “Our community is at breaking point; residents and businesses in Saundersfoot, Amroth, Wisemans Bridge and Coppet Hall are effectively cut-off for the majority of a Saturday each June/July by the Long Course Weekend two-lap bike race. Many other areas of South Pembs are similarly affected, some on both Saturday and Sunday if they are also on the run course too.”

Since their notice of motion was publicised, an alternative arrangement was mooted by the Long Course organisers for one circular route on the eve of the council meeting.

It was agreed at that meeting the joint notice be put on hold pending a special meeting to consider the late proposals ahead of any decision by Cabinet; the extraordinary meeting of the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee now taking place on January 10.

A report for members asks them to consider the notice, along with responses from Long Course organisers Activity Wales, the proposed new route bypassing Saundersfoot, a bone of contention.

The proposed single loop would see cyclists on the 112-mile route leave Tenby for Pembroke, with a loop around Freshwater West before travelling to Neyland via Pembroke Dock, then on to Broad Haven, Newgale, Wolf’s Castle, Tufton, over the Preselis to Crosswell, Crymych, Llandissilio, Narberth, Templeton-Carew, before the final return to Tenby via Reberth.

The report highlights Activity Wales’ response: “After internal review and listening to some of the concerns we have proposed a new bike route.  We propose transitioning to an open-road format for the bike course in 2025 and introducing a new single-loop route.”

It says the open-road format “decreases the logistical challenges of full road closures, minimising disruption to non-event traffic,” and “also helps communities in areas where there are two days of closures,” and “by removing Wisemans Bridge and Saundersfoot from the route, we address concerns from residents and businesses in these areas, alleviating community tensions and logistical challenges”.

It also says the wider scope of the changes “highlights more of the county’s stunning landscapes, creating a unique experience for participants and boosting tourism appeal,” which it hopes will bring wider benefits to other parts of the county.

Continue Reading

Community

Welsh Water distribute free cold weather lagging kits

Published

on

AS the winter season is in full swing and the temperature drops, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water is offering free winter lagging kits to help households across Wales prepare for the colder months. With over 2,500 kits available, the initiative aims to assist residents in protecting their homes against frozen pipes and costly bursts.

Frozen pipes can lead to unwanted damage and unnecessary stress during the winter season, but with the right preparation the risks can be minimised.
The winter lagging kit includes pipe insulation and a tap jacket – with lagging designed to protect exposed pipes and a tap jacket to prevent outdoor taps from freezing and bursting.

“We understand how challenging winter can be for many people, which can be made worse should the unexpected happened – such as a experiencing a frozen or burst pipe,” said Euan Hampton, Water Demand – Delivery Manager at Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water. “To help ease the pressures winter can bring, we’re offering free pipe lagging kits and tap jackets as part of our ongoing commitment to helping communities stay safe, warm, and secure throughout the colder months.”

In addition to distributing free lagging kits and tap jackets. Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water recommends the following tips to help residents prepare their homes:

Locate your stop tap: Knowing the location of your stop tap is essential in the case of an emergency. If your pipes freeze or burst, you’ll want to shut the water off to minimise damage.
Clear your gutters: Blocked gutters can lead to excess water accessing your home, especially during a storm.
Insulate pipes: Not only outdoor pipes need preparing, think of areas that may be at risk to cold weather – attics or uninsulated cupboards.
Fix those drips: Dripping taps can increase the risk of frozen pipes. Fixing it will also save you litres of water every day, saving both energy and money on your water bill.
Away from home? Empty buildings are at particular risk. If you’re leaving your home for a prolonged period, turn off your stop tap and drain down the system – so there is no water in the system to freeze. If you’re away for a short time, if you can, we suggest keeping your heating on low to help keep your home warm and prevent pipes from freezing.
The free kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To request a free winter lagging kit or tap jacket, customers can visit: www.dwrcymru.com/en/winter-ready

Alongside the helpful tips to prepare your home this winter and advice on how to manage any issues should they arise. Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water are also offering free water efficiency home visits to all domestic customers – and the free lagging kit and tap jackets can be installed as part of the visit.

If you would like to find out more ways you could start saving, visit: www.dwrcymru.com/en/help-advice/cartref/water-efficiency-home-visit

Continue Reading

Community

Former Port Chair Dr Chris Martin Awarded OBE in New Year Honours

Published

on

DR CHRIS MARTIN, former Chair of the Port of Milford Haven and a proud Pembrokeshire native, has been awarded an OBE in The King’s New Year Honours list for his outstanding contribution to the maritime and ports sector.

Dr Martin’s leadership journey at the Port began in August 2017, following his appointment as Chair by the Secretary of State for Transport.

Prior to this, he had served as Vice Chair for four and a half years, bringing with him a wealth of experience from a successful entrepreneurial career.

Having built and sold pharmacy chains across South West England and Pembrokeshire, he transitioned into leadership roles across healthcare and advisory boards. Between 2009 and 2014, he was the lead Chair for all health organisations in Wales, demonstrating a strong commitment to public service.

During his tenure at the Port of Milford Haven, Dr Martin played a pivotal role in steering the organisation through a significant period of change and diversification.

His strategic vision ensured the Port maintained its position as the UK’s leading energy port and a cornerstone of Pembrokeshire’s economy, supporting thousands of jobs and attracting inward investment.

Beyond the Port, Dr Martin’s dedication to public service extended to a variety of leadership roles.

He served as Deputy Lieutenant, Chair of Life Sciences Hub Wales, Trustee of Marie Curie UK, Governor at Pembrokeshire College, Co-Chair of the Bevan Commission, and Vice Chair of St John Ambulance Cymru.

Each role reflects his deep commitment to improving the lives of people across Wales and beyond.

This recognition is a moment of immense pride for the Port of Milford Haven, Dr Martin, and his family.

Congratulations, Dr Chris Martin, on this well-deserved honour, and thank you for your tireless dedication and service.

Continue Reading

Crime12 hours ago

Garage owner faces rape charge, case sent to Crown Court

A HAVERFORDWEST garage proprietor has been dealt what has been described as ‘very stringent bail conditions’ after appearing before a...

Crime20 hours ago

Gardener cleared of exposure after court hears incident was accidental

A PEMBROKESHIRE gardener has been found not guilty of exposing his ‘flaccid penis’ to a female property owner after agreeing...

Crime3 days ago

Dyfed-Powys Police pays out hundreds of thousands in compensation claims

NEW figures reveal Dyfed-Powys Police has paid out £324,000 in compensation over the past five years, following nearly 200 claims...

News3 days ago

Rail passengers in west Wales ‘let down’ by hundreds of train cancellations

RAIL passengers in west Wales are being “let down” following the cancellation of more than 650 Transport for Wales (TfW)...

Crime5 days ago

Police issue update following incident at Tenby multi-storey

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed this morning that they are investigating a collision on the ground floor of the multi-storey car...

Crime5 days ago

Emergency services dealing with ‘serious incident’ at multi-storey car park

POLICE, ambulance crews and the air ambulance are attending to what is being described as a ‘serious incident’ at Tenby’s...

Crime5 days ago

Pembroke Dock man denies historical sexual offence allegations

A PEMBROKE DOCK man has denied indecently assaulting two children under the age of 14 and inciting them to commit...

Health7 days ago

Pressures remain high despite the end of ambulance ‘critical incident’

AMBULANCE service pressures remain high despite the end of a 48-hour critical incident declared by the Welsh Ambulance Service. The...

Crime7 days ago

Pembroke man to face court over historical child sexual offences

A SIXTY-YEAR-OLD man is due to appear in court on Thursday (Jan 2) facing multiple historical child sexual offence charges...

Community1 week ago

Former Port Chair Dr Chris Martin Awarded OBE in New Year Honours

DR CHRIS MARTIN, former Chair of the Port of Milford Haven and a proud Pembrokeshire native, has been awarded an...

Popular This Week