Community

Plans for deep space radar in Pembrokeshire sparks renewed debate

Published

1 year ago

March 5, 2025

PLANS to establish a high-tech space radar facility in Pembrokeshire have sparked widespread debate, with proponents highlighting its strategic importance while opponents raise concerns over environmental, health, geopolitical risks, and the shifting global power dynamics.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) intends to construct 27 radar dishes at Cawdor Barracks in Brawdy as part of the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) initiative. The facility, which will be one of three such sites globally, aims to track objects in geosynchronous orbit up to 22,000 miles from Earth. The project is being developed in partnership with the United States and Australia under the trilateral AUKUS security alliance.

***Cawdor Barracks in Brawdy: How the site looks now***

Why the radar is needed

According to the MoD, the DARC system is essential for national security and global stability. Defence officials argue that space has become a contested domain, with nations such as Russia and China developing anti-satellite weapons that could threaten the UK’s communication and navigation infrastructure.

***Plan to track China and Russia from space: Trump launched US Space Force during first term in office (Image: The White House)***

“The ability to track and identify potential threats in deep space is vital to maintaining the safety of our satellites, which underpin everything from mobile communications to military operations,” an MoD spokesperson said. “The DARC facility in Wales will significantly enhance our capacity to monitor space activity and deter hostile actions.”

Former Defence Secretary Grant Shapps described the radar system as a crucial element in countering emerging threats. “With the rise of space warfare capabilities among adversaries, the UK must invest in its ability to defend itself in this new frontier,” he said.

The MoD has also highlighted economic benefits, stating that the project will generate around 100 jobs and provide long-term investment in Pembrokeshire. Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said the development would “secure jobs in the area and position the UK at the forefront of space surveillance technology.”

Geopolitical concerns and shifting alliances

Beyond local and environmental issues, campaigners have pointed to broader geopolitical uncertainties as a reason to oppose the radar project. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the fluctuating stance of the United States under President Donald Trump, and growing tensions with Russia and China contribute to unease about the UK’s role in global military strategies.

Jim Scott, a spokesperson for PARC, said: “Would you trust Donald Trump, who in recent weeks has switched sides in a global proxy war, to militarily dominate all of space using Pembrokeshire as a foothold? If not, we strongly urge people to take action against DARC.”

Campaigners suggest that recent US foreign policy shifts, including unpredictable decisions regarding support for Ukraine, cast doubt on the reliability of the United States as an ally. “The geopolitical landscape is more volatile than ever. If the UK becomes too dependent on American military projects, where does that leave us if alliances change?” asked Sarah Jenkins, a local resident.

***Cefin Campbell MS: “This radar station represents an unnecessary provocation”***

Cefin Campbell, Plaid Cymru’s Member of the Senedd (MS) for Mid and West Wales, added: “This radar station represents an unnecessary provocation, locking Wales into a geopolitical contest that has little to do with our own security. It risks dragging Pembrokeshire into international disputes over which we have no control.”

Experts also warn that while the UK remains an important ally to the US, there is no guarantee that future administrations will maintain the same commitments. With NATO facing challenges due to political instability in member countries, some argue that the UK should reconsider placing strategic defence assets under US control. A military analyst speaking anonymously said: “There are valid concerns about whether we are investing in a long-term partnership with a country whose global positioning is uncertain.”

Environmental and tourism concerns

One of the main objections to the radar facility is its location. The proposed site is close to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Opponents worry that the construction of 20-metre-high radar dishes will have a lasting visual impact and could deter tourists from visiting the region.

“This will be a massive industrial complex in a protected area,” said Mark Williams, a local business owner. “Tourism is one of our biggest economic drivers, and we risk losing visitors if Pembrokeshire is associated with military infrastructure.”

There are also concerns about the potential health effects of high-frequency radar emissions. While the MoD insists that the facility will meet all health and safety regulations, campaigners argue that insufficient research has been conducted into the long-term impact of such radiation exposure.

Environmental groups have also expressed fears that the facility could disrupt local wildlife, particularly bird migration patterns. “We know very little about the long-term impact of this kind of technology on wildlife,” said Helen Davies of the Pembrokeshire Environmental Network. “Given the proximity to a national park, we should be taking a far more precautionary approach.”

History of opposition to military radar in Pembrokeshire

This is not the first time Pembrokeshire has resisted military radar developments. In the early 1990s, plans for a similar installation at St Davids Airfield were abandoned following widespread public outcry. Campaigners see the current DARC proposal as a revival of a decades-old issue and have vowed to fight against its approval.

“The community came together before to stop this, and we can do it again,” said Jenny Rees, a long-time resident and activist. “We do not want Pembrokeshire to be used as a pawn in global military strategies.”

The legacy of past opposition has led many locals to question whether the UK government is listening to public concerns. “We fought this once before, and we won,” said Gareth Morgan, who was involved in the original campaign against radar installations in Pembrokeshire. “What makes them think we will accept it now?”

What happens next?

A planning application for the DARC facility is expected to be submitted later this year. If approved, construction could begin in late 2026, with the radar becoming operational by the end of the decade.

The MoD has stated that it will work closely with Pembrokeshire County Council and relevant environmental bodies to ensure compliance with planning and environmental regulations. However, with strong opposition from local groups, further protests and legal challenges are expected in the coming months.

As the debate continues, the people of Pembrokeshire find themselves at the centre of a complex discussion on national security, environmental conservation, and the future of space warfare. Whether the radar station will be built remains uncertain, but what is clear is that the battle over its approval is far from over.

Community

Bongo Clive brings rhythm and smiles to VC Gallery celebration

Published

18 hours ago

June 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

LEARNING DISABILITY WEEK MARKED WITH MUSIC, LAUGHTER AND INCLUSION IN PEMBROKE DOCK

THE VC GALLERY in Pembroke Dock was filled with music, laughter and energy as visitors came together to celebrate Learning Disability Week.

The event saw popular entertainer Bongo Clive lead a lively session of singing, drumming and participation, with those attending joining in throughout the day.

The gallery said the session had created a joyful atmosphere, with music helping to bring people together and celebrate inclusion, creativity and wellbeing.

A spokesperson for The VC Gallery said: “The smiles said it all. A huge thank you to Bongo Clive for bringing your incredible energy, enthusiasm and positivity to The VC today. You certainly had everyone moving to the beat.”

Learning Disability Week celebrates inclusion and the abilities, creativity and individuality of people with learning disabilities.

The Pembroke Dock event highlighted the role of community spaces such as The VC Gallery in supporting wellbeing, friendship and confidence through shared creative activities.

Community

Sir Karl Jenkins named Eisteddfod President for 2026

Published

19 hours ago

June 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SIR KARL JENKINS has been named President of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod for 2026.

The internationally acclaimed Welsh composer, one of the world’s most performed living composers, will take on the role as the festival prepares to welcome performers, competitors and visitors from across the globe.

Sir Karl is best known for works including The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace, Adiemus and Requiem.

His appointment comes in a landmark year after The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace was voted the most popular work in the Classic FM Hall of Fame 2026.

Opening night return

Sir Karl’s presidential year will begin with the opening night concert, Uniting Nations: One World, on Tuesday, July 7.

The concert had been due to take place in 2025 but was postponed, causing disappointment for volunteers, performers and audience members who had travelled from across the UK and overseas.

The Eisteddfod has now brought the event back with support from the Arts Council of Wales.

Sir Karl said: “I’m delighted to be returning to the Llangollen Festival this year and especially honoured to do so in the role of President.

“Llangollen is always a very special place to be, with its unique sense of community and international spirit.

“I’m greatly looking forward to conducting my most recent choral work, One World, particularly following the postponement of last year’s performance.

“It’s a piece that I feel reflects the very essence of the festival, bringing together outstanding musicians from across the globe to form one powerful collective voice.”

Global chorus

The evening will feature a full performance of One World, conducted by Sir Karl and performed by an international massed chorus made up of WorldChoir and NEW Voices, accompanied by the Llangollen International Orchestra.

The work blends Jenkins’ distinctive musical style with themes of humanity, compassion and environmental stewardship.

The concert will also include a complete staging of Peace Child: The Musical, which places young people at the heart of its message of peace and global citizenship.

Opening the evening will be the world premiere of Greeting the Dawn, a newly commissioned bilingual work by emerging Welsh composer Sam Buttler.

The piece was written for the 2026 Eisteddfod through the Harmony Without Borders initiative, continuing Llangollen’s tradition of supporting new talent and giving Welsh composers an international platform.

‘Great cultural ambassador’

John Gambles, Chair of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Sir Karl Jenkins has agreed to serve as President of the Eisteddfod for 2026.

“Few musicians have done more to promote the values of peace, friendship and international understanding that lie at the heart of our festival.

“Sir Karl is one of Wales’s greatest cultural ambassadors and his music has inspired audiences across every continent.

“The fact that The Armed Man has just been voted the nation’s favourite classical work is a testament not only to his extraordinary talent, but also to the universal appeal of the messages of peace, hope and humanity that run through so much of his music.”

Mr Gambles added: “The postponement of One World last year was heartbreaking for everyone involved.

“We knew how much the concert meant to audiences, performers and volunteers alike, and we were determined to find a way to bring it back.

“Thanks to the support of the Arts Council of Wales, we can now finally give this extraordinary concert the audience it deserves.

“With Sir Karl as our President, the return of One World, the world premiere of a major new Welsh composition and the powerful message of Peace Child, this promises to be one of the most memorable and significant opening nights in the Eisteddfod’s history.”

Festival programme

The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod returns for its 79th year on Tuesday, July 7.

This year’s programme includes performances from Michael Ball, Emeli Sandé with the Absolute Orchestra, Uniting Nations: One World featuring Sir Karl Jenkins, and the Choir of the World competition.

Thousands of competitors from around the world will also take part in the daytime programme, with the Parade of Nations returning on Friday, July 10.

Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting from £33.

Further information is available at llangollen.net.

Community

Lord Rhys emerges from the mist in St Davids

Published

22 hours ago

June 20, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Giant puppet begins historic journey marking 850 years since the first Eisteddfod

MIST swirled around St Davids Cathedral on Friday evening as a giant Lord Rhys puppet emerged from the fog to begin a journey celebrating 850 years since the first recorded Eisteddfod.

Accompanied by traditional musicians and followed by crowds of spectators, the towering figure cut an imposing sight against the backdrop of the ancient cathedral.

The procession marked the start of Taith yr Arglwydd Rhys (The Journey of Lord Rhys), a cultural pilgrimage retracing the legacy of the Welsh prince whose gathering of poets and musicians at Cardigan Castle in 1176 is widely regarded as the first recorded Eisteddfod.

As fog drifted across the city and church towers faded into the background, the scene felt more like a chapter from Welsh folklore than a modern-day celebration.

The giant puppet, accompanied by fellow performers and musicians, travelled from St Davids Cathedral to Oriel y Parc before beginning a wider journey through west Wales.

The travelling celebration will visit communities across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion before culminating in Cardigan, where Lord Rhys originally staged his famous cultural gathering eight and a half centuries ago.

Video and photographs shared by DrifterStDavids captured the remarkable atmosphere, with many describing the spectacle as one of the most memorable cultural events seen in St Davids for years.

Photo caption: Lord Rhys emerges from the mist outside St Davids Cathedral as celebrations begin to mark the 850th anniversary of the first recorded Eisteddfod

(Pic: SmallWorld – Video: Drifter St Davids)