Entertainment

Will new broadband work bring faster internet to rural Wales by early 2026?

Published

7 months ago

December 8, 2025

Wales is moving forward with plans that bring real internet coverage to areas where speeds fall short. The project now launched is built on data, fieldwork, returned funding and a clear digital objective. The timing and the scope are fixed, the tools are known, and the outcome is firm. Rural parts of Wales can expect change early in 2026.

A plan built for areas still waiting

The Welsh Government set aside £70 million to bring high-speed broadband to premises where 30Mbps is still out of reach. These areas sit outside all commercial and public rollout activity confirmed for the next three years.

The new effort uses returned funds from BT’s Superfast Cymru phase. Take-up levels went up, the clawback clause activated, and now the amount is being put back into the ground.

There are two LOTS in the framework. LOT 1 carries £60 million and targets clusters with 1,000 or more premises. LOT 2 carries £10 million and goes to smaller sites with fewer than 1,000.

The tender was open until November 26th, 2025. Contracts are expected to be handed out on 20 January 2026. Once awarded, the build can begin. The first results are expected soon.

Coverage gaps are actively targeted

As of mid-2025, around 97.6 percent of premises across Wales reach 30Mbps or more. Roughly 87.8 percent of those can access gigabit speeds. However, smaller areas still remain with lower coverage. These are the homes, farms, outbuildings, and business spots now included in the new plan.

The open market review defines the list. It checks all current commercial and government plans and picks only those premises outside them. That keeps the focus on gaps. It also stops money from going to areas already covered.

Installation cost per premise stands around £2,400. That is slightly higher than figures under Project Gigabit, which usually run under £2,000. Reaching these remote spots takes more work, more equipment, and more time. FTTP is the main option here, as fibre to the Premises means fast, direct access right at the socket.

Where the difference will be felt

This rollout reaches people and places with low speeds, weak lines and poor access to online services. The reach includes people working from rural homes, small business owners, live streamers, and residents who rely on online platforms for everyday tasks.

New coverage will also change how users access data-heavy services like online gaming, app-based tools, and systems that demand instant response and secure payments.

Faster internet helps with media, support platforms, and site features that rely on strong upload and download signals. Those who play online casino games on established gaming platforms will notice smoother delivery.

This type of gaming in the UK has grown steadily in recent years. It is driven by the ease of access from home and the steady shift toward digital formats. With stronger networks, features like live tables, high‑speed slots, and timed promotions can perform more reliably.

With the broadband upgrade, performance will be more consistent, and the interface will become more responsive, especially where visuals or payouts are involved.

Research that helped target the project

The Welsh Government commissioned Cwmpas to gather feedback from those living and working in the most affected areas. This research reached across all parts of Wales and focused on rural users. Respondents included students, self-employed workers, remote professionals, and community leaders.

The biggest age group was 54 to 63, which made up 31.4 percent of replies. The group with the lowest reply rate was 16 to 25, at just 1.45 percent.

Many users saw FTTP as the best solution. They wanted something that worked now, but they were ready to accept bridging options until the final system could be built. Every user surveyed asked for fast and reliable service. No one wanted to wait another three years.

UK Government feedback from similar research confirmed the trend. Those living in areas with limited coverage said they wanted better access for basic online actions, work‑from‑home tasks, and information services. Businesses said they needed faster lines for productivity, better access to cloud tools, and system stability for customer contact.

Support, structure and who builds it

The Welsh Government worked alongside Building Digital UK and local councils to avoid overlap and make sure that funding reached places without confirmed service. City and growth deals across Wales also had input. Coordination across all levels was a key part of planning.

The grant process will include requirements for environmental awareness. Past broadband builds asked providers to show how they would manage biodiversity, and this project will carry the same. Civil works for fibre take weeks, so early notice and open communication help ease disruption in each area.

While this is an infrastructure project, some users face extra difficulty once it goes live. Low income and low digital confidence can slow take-up. This was flagged in early assessments. Providers may offer setup guidance and local signposting to make sure coverage turns into real access.

The build also gives support to third sector groups. These groups use online tools to manage funding, communicate with teams and run outreach. Reliable broadband makes this simpler. The same applies to people using online learning, public service portals or tools with streaming content. It keeps users in touch with what matters.

Fixed timetable, clear impact

The contracts close in late 2025, and awards follow in January 2026. The first build phase starts just after that. Over time, the network will stretch into farms, valleys, border towns, hill properties, and distant coast spots. Each home and business added gets stable signal and a future‑proof line.

The aim is always steady access. Rural areas take longer to build into, but the model here has been tested and planned with care. Providers like Openreach, Ogi, Netomnia and Virgin Media all match the project size. Some need more backing than others, and some may only go after one LOT.

Service helps people stay productive. It lets platforms run with fewer errors. It removes the weak points in a stream or feed. Once the new lines go live, the full package of modern tools and services can follow. Wales stays online without lag, skips the drop, and cuts out the wait.

Entertainment

Everything you need to know for Classic Transport Weekend

Published

1 day ago

July 3, 2026

Tom Sinclair

FINAL preparations are underway for one of the biggest celebrations of transport heritage in Wales, as the Llangollen and Corwen Railway prepares to welcome thousands of visitors to its Classic Transport Weekend this Saturday and Sunday.

The event, taking place on July 4 and 5, will bring together close to 400 classic vehicles, three heritage train services, vintage shuttle buses, live music, family entertainment and a packed programme of attractions across the Dee Valley.

Glyndyfrdwy Station will once again form the centrepiece of the weekend, opening to visitors from 9.15am. Displays will include classic cars, motorcycles, vintage buses, military vehicles, tractors, commercial vehicles and rare fire engines, including the famous Green Goddess.

Visitors will also be able to enjoy unlimited travel on the railway throughout the weekend, with services operated by GWR Pannier Tank No. 7754, a Class 47 diesel locomotive and a classic four-car heritage DMU.

Trains will link all five stations on the line at Llangollen, Berwyn, Glyndyfrdwy, Carrog and Corwen, giving visitors the chance to explore the full railway.

Vintage shuttle buses will run approximately every 30 minutes between Corwen and Glyndyfrdwy, helping visitors move easily between different parts of the event.

New for this year is the exclusive Class 507 Driving Simulator, which will be based in the historic waiting room at Llangollen Station.

Created by the Class 507 Preservation Society using genuine controls rescued from withdrawn Merseyrail trains, the simulator gives visitors the chance to experience what it is like to drive one of Britain’s best-known electric trains.

Food and drink will also be available throughout the weekend. The Hungry Shunter will be serving freshly prepared food, while two fully licensed bars will offer Welsh ales from Hafod Brewery and Purple Moose Brewery, along with wines selected by Pip Gale of Blas Wine School.

Visitors can also relax at Glyndyfrdwy Station Tearoom and Porter’s Bar.

Saturday’s programme will continue into the evening with the popular Party in the Park, where the internationally acclaimed Froncysyllte Male Voice Choir will perform from 7.00pm in marquees beside the railway.

The concert is free for all Classic Transport Weekend ticket holders. Evening-only tickets are also available for £5.

Visitors will also be able to travel on the special Pavarotti Special heritage bus from Corwen before returning on a complimentary heritage railcar after the performance.

Classic Transport Weekend organiser Tim Hines said: “Everything is now in place and we’re ready to welcome visitors for what promises to be a fantastic weekend.

“Wherever you look there will be something happening, from steam trains and heritage diesels to vintage railcars, hundreds of classic vehicles, vintage buses, great food, live music and a wonderful atmosphere across the whole railway.

“One ticket gives visitors unlimited train travel and access to everything that’s happening at Glyndyfrdwy. Whether you’re a lifelong transport enthusiast or simply looking for a great family day out, there really is something for everyone.”

Co-organiser George Walker added: “The response from vehicle owners has been incredible.

“To have close to 400 exhibits travelling to Glyndyfrdwy is a wonderful achievement and we’re immensely grateful to everyone who has chosen to be part of this year’s event.

“You’ll see everything from beautifully restored classic cars and vintage buses to historic tractors, military vehicles, motorcycles, commercial vehicles and some wonderful surprises.

“There really is nowhere else where you’ll find this combination of road and rail heritage brought together in such a spectacular setting, and we’re incredibly proud to welcome everyone to Glyndyfrdwy this weekend.”

Free parking is available at Glyndyfrdwy, although spaces are limited.

Visitors are being encouraged to travel by train from Llangollen, Berwyn, Carrog or Corwen wherever possible, and make the journey part of the experience.

Classic Transport Weekend tickets include unlimited train travel, access to the vehicle displays, vintage shuttle buses and free admission to Saturday evening’s Party in the Park.

For more information and to book tickets, visit llangollen-railway.co.uk/classic-transport-weekend

Entertainment

Seaweed takes centre stage at new Saundersfoot family festival

Published

2 days ago

July 2, 2026

Tom Sinclair

A new coastal event celebrating Welsh food, marine life and sustainable seaweed farming will be held at Saundersfoot Harbour next weekend

A NEW family festival celebrating seaweed, seafood and Welsh coastal cuisine is coming to Saundersfoot next weekend.

Saundersfoot SeaFest takes place on Saturday, July 11, from 10am to 5pm, with activities planned around the harbour, beach and Regency Hall.

The new event will bring together chefs, food producers, artists, local businesses, coastal organisations and marine experts for a day of demonstrations, workshops, stalls and hands-on experiences.

Organisers say the aim is to connect people of all ages with the benefits of seaweed, local food culture and marine sustainability, while offering a fun day out for families.

Highlights will include demonstrations from Sam Everton, National Chef of Wales 2025, and local foraging expert Craig Evans.

Several local restaurants will also be putting seafood specials on their menus for the weekend, using seaweed from Câr-y-Môr, the Pembrokeshire-based regenerative ocean farming business.

Visitors will be able to browse local traders offering artisan gifts, handcrafted jewellery, seaweed products and sustainable goods. There will also be arts and crafts, free workshops, drop-in sessions and subsidised watersports activities.

The event has been developed in partnership with the Wales Festival of Seaweed, WWF-UK, Pembrokeshire Local Food Partnership, Saundersfoot Harbour and Saundersfoot Rotary.

It is funded by Food and Drink Wales and WWF-UK through the Unlocking the Power of Seaweed project, which has received almost £1m from The National Lottery Community Fund thanks to National Lottery players.

Organisers say SeaFest is designed to introduce new audiences to local, regeneratively farmed seaweed and shellfish, while showcasing the quality of Welsh food and drink.

Donna Page, Regenerative Ocean Farming Development Officer at Pobl Tir Môr, said: “It’s wonderful to help organise an event of this kind, bringing together many parts of the community and providing something new for Saundersfoot.

“SeaFest reflects what we’re passionate about at Pobl Tir Môr, connecting people with nature, celebrating our coastline and showing how sustainable choices can become part of everyday life.

“Blending local seafood, seaweed, conservation and community, Saundersfoot SeaFest creates a space for people to discover, taste and experience the future of our marine environment in a way that’s accessible and inspiring for all.”

Sue Latham, Coordinator for Pembrokeshire Local Food Partnership, said the event would help strengthen local food networks and encourage people to think about the resources available on their doorstep.

She said: “Looking towards the future, it is vital to strengthen local food networks and create thriving systems that connect people to their environment and the food sources available near them.

“In Pembrokeshire, we’re lucky to be at the forefront of regenerative ocean farming, and events like this help introduce local communities to the abundance of good, nutritious and sustainable food on their doorstep, while having a fun day out in the process.”

Saundersfoot SeaFest is part of the wider Wales Festival of Seaweed, which takes place in St Davids from September 10 to 13. That event will take a deeper look at the economic, nutritional and environmental benefits of seaweed.

Organisers hope Saundersfoot SeaFest and the Wales Festival of Seaweed will become regular fixtures in Pembrokeshire’s calendar, celebrating Wales’s marine potential and the people working sustainably in coastal and seafood industries.

The full Saundersfoot SeaFest programme can be found at canva.link/sfseafest and on the Wales Festival of Seaweed website at www.festivalofseaweed.wales.

Entertainment

Pembrokeshire artists bring county landscapes to Torch Theatre gallery

Published

2 days ago

July 2, 2026

Tom Sinclair

From Castlemartin to Lower Town, new exhibition celebrates local people, places and wildlife

A GROUP of Pembrokeshire artists inspired by the county’s people, places and landscapes are showcasing their work at the Torch Theatre this July.

The exhibition, titled Out and About (Most of the Time), will be on display at the Joanna Field Gallery in Milford Haven throughout the month.

The artists, known as the “Homework Club”, meet weekly throughout the year to paint, sketch and develop their work. Many of the members first met while attending art classes with Pembrokeshire Learning.

Their pictures are inspired by locations across the county, from Castlemartin church to Lower Town in Fishguard, as well as local houses, wildlife, people and fellow artists.

When the weather allows, the group can often be seen painting outdoors in different parts of Pembrokeshire. On less favourable days, they gather indoors at one of their homes to work on still life subjects.

Paul King, one of the artists involved, said the group was looking forward to welcoming visitors and hearing their views on the work.

He said: “It will be really good to know what people visiting the exhibition think of the artwork.

“We’ve tried to vary what we paint and have visited places such as Castlemartin church and Lower Town in Fishguard. We’ve produced work featuring houses, people, wildlife and each other. Our pictures include all sorts really.”

Paul said painting in public often sparks curiosity and conversation.

He added: “It can be a little daunting when people come up to you and ask what and why you are painting, but it starts some interesting conversations and engagement.

“We aren’t in it to make money, we just enjoy ourselves. We are all amateurs. Some of us use ink, pencil or watercolours, and it’s not often we get oils out, but it’s great fun.”

The group previously exhibited at the Joanna Field Gallery last year and is now keen to gather more feedback from visitors.

This year, members are asking people to score the pictures and leave an overall comment. One completed feedback form will be drawn at random, with the winner receiving four Torch cinema tickets.

Paul said: “It’s a way of engaging with people, with the aim of finding people’s favourite picture and seeing what people really like and why.

“I’m really keen to know what people think of the pictures.”

Out and About (Most of the Time) can be seen at the Joanna Field Gallery, Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, throughout July during Box Office opening hours.

For further information, visit torchtheatre.co.uk or contact the Box Office on 01646 695267.