News

Consultation launched on plans to protect Wales’s waterways

Published

5 months ago

October 22, 2025

NATURAL RESOURCES WALES has launched a new public consultation as it prepares the next phase of long-term plans to protect and improve the health of the nation’s rivers, lakes, streams, groundwaters and coastal waters.

The consultation, which runs until April 21, 2026, invites residents, communities and organisations to share their views on the challenges facing Welsh waterways and the actions needed to address them.

River Basin Management Plans are reviewed and updated every six years. They outline how NRW will manage, protect and enhance Welsh water bodies while helping them meet statutory environmental standards. The plans also provide vital evidence about the condition of Wales’s waters and the pressures affecting them.

Dr Rhian Thomas, Sustainable Water and Nature Manager at NRW, said:
“Our waters are under increasing pressure from climate change and human activity.
“In recent years, we’ve seen major efforts by ourselves and many others to tackle pollution, poor water quality and habitat loss.
“This consultation gives everyone who cares about our rivers and coastal waters the chance to share what they see in their local area and help shape future solutions. The actions we take now will determine the health of our waters and wildlife for generations to come.”

NRW will develop new River Basin Management Plans for Western Wales and the Dee River Basin Districts. The Severn River Basin Management Plan, which covers parts of both Wales and England, will be led by the Environment Agency in partnership with NRW and will open for consultation later this year.

Members of the public can take part by visiting the consultation page on the Natural Resources Wales website. Those unable to complete the survey online can request a paper copy by emailing [email protected] or calling 03000 65 3000.

NRW has also published an interim progress report on the current 2021–2027 River Basin Management Plans, assessing delivery against planned actions and progress towards Wales’s water quality goals. The report is available on the NRW website.

Crime

Assault investigation launched after late-night incident in Carmarthen

Published

20 minutes ago

March 17, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Police appeal for witnesses following attack in Guildhall Square

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an alleged assault reported to have taken place in Guildhall Square, Carmarthen.

At around 12.30am on Sunday (Mar 15), an 18-year-old man was approached by a small group outside Cofio Lounge.

It is reported that the victim was pulled to the ground and assaulted before the group — described as one man and two women — left the area.

The victim attended hospital shortly after the incident, where he was treated for head injuries. He was discharged later the same day.

Officers are appealing for anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward.

Information can be provided in the following ways:

Online: https://orlo.uk/KRjzb
Email: [email protected]
Call: 101

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

Please quote reference: 26*208852

News

Emergency services flood Haverfordwest after reports of body in river

Published

1 hour ago

March 17, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Town centre bridges sealed off as multi-agency response continues

A MAJOR emergency response is underway in the centre of Haverfordwest after reports of a body in the River Cleddau.

Multiple police units, fire crews and ambulance teams were called to the scene shortly before 11:00am on Tuesday (Mar 17), with large parts of the town centre sealed off.

The Herald understands that access across both the Old Bridge and the newly installed Instagramable Bridge near by has been restricted while emergency services deal with the incident.

A witness at the scene told The Herald that he was among several members of the public who contacted emergency services after spotting a body in the water.

He said that a significant response followed, including several police vehicles, multiple fire engines, and a specialist water rescue unit.

A rigid inflatable boat (RIB) was also deployed on the river as part of the operation.

An ambulance is also still in attendance.

Emergency services remain at the scene and the situation is ongoing.

There has been no official confirmation from Dyfed-Powys Police at this stage regarding the nature of the incident.

MORE TO FOLLOW

Climate

New deal aims to unlock Wales’ renewable energy potential

Published

6 hours ago

March 17, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Sector partnership targets 100% renewable electricity by 2035

A NEW deal has been launched to help Wales meet its renewable energy targets while ensuring greater benefits for local communities.

The Renewable Energy Sector Deal will see the Welsh Government and industry work in strategic partnership to unlock the full economic potential of Wales’ renewable energy future.

The announcement coincides with the publication of the latest Energy Generation and Energy Use in Wales report, which shows renewable electricity generation in 2024 was equivalent to 54% of Wales’ electricity consumption.

The Welsh Government has set a target for renewable electricity to meet 70% of demand by 2030 and 100% by 2035. It also aims to deliver at least 1.5 gigawatts of locally owned renewable energy capacity by 2035.

The Sector Deal is intended to accelerate deployment across onshore and offshore wind, solar, marine and hydro projects. It will also focus on strengthening supply chains, developing skills, and ensuring communities across Wales benefit directly from renewable energy developments.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, is launching the deal during a visit to the Morlais tidal energy project on Anglesey.

The Morlais scheme, owned and managed by social enterprise Menter Môn, is set to become the largest consented tidal energy project in Europe. The Welsh Government holds an £8 million equity stake in the project.

Rebecca Evans said: “Our ambition is to become a world leader in renewable energy, creating jobs and green growth to make families in Wales more prosperous and help with the cost of living.

“The current conflict in the Middle East has further highlighted the importance of energy independence. Our Renewable Energy Sector Deal will provide a strong foundation for future delivery, benefiting our economy, environment and energy security.

“The Morlais project shows how sustained partnership can unlock Wales’ natural energy resources and turn them into lasting economic opportunities for local communities and businesses.

“The latest energy report shows we are making progress towards our targets. Combined with the record 20 major renewable projects, totalling 1,400MW, backed in the most recent UK Government Contracts for Difference auction, it is clear we are building a more resilient, renewable-powered future.”

Dafydd Gruffydd, Managing Director of Menter Môn, added: “The Renewable Energy Sector Deal is an important step in accelerating growth in Wales and across the UK.

“It recognises the role marine energy schemes like Morlais can play in strengthening energy security, creating high-quality jobs and delivering long-term economic benefits for communities such as Anglesey.”

The Sector Deal was co-produced by a task and finish group made up of developers and community organisations.