News

Moves to support hydropower in Wales

Published

11 years ago

January 16, 2014

NEW GUIDANCE published this week will make it more straightforward for hydropower schemes to be developed in Wales whilst protecting rivers and the wildlife that lives there.

The guidance, which has been developed by Natural Resources Wales alongside the hydropower industry and fishing and wildlife groups, will advise how much water can be used for electricity generation without damaging the river.

A new assessment checklist has also been developed that will allow developers to consider at the very early stages of project development, how much water could be available on certain rivers before they consider applying for the necessary permissions.

There are also plans in the first half of 2014 to review Natural Resources Wales’ permitting process to look for ways to make it quicker for developers to get approval for sustainable hydropower schemes.

Hydropower schemes can cause lower water levels in rivers between the points where the water is taken out and where it is put back into the river after passing through the turbine.

River levels and day to day changes in the natural flow of the river are essential to protect important wildlife habitats for spawning fish and other species.

Natural Resources Wales has provided additional guidance to help hydropower developers to develop sustainable schemes in the right places, which are designed and operated in the right way.

A hydropower working group consisting of developers, community groups, angling groups and other environmental organisations has been established to work together to help the industry in Wales develop sustainably for the long term.

Ceri Davies from Natural Resources Wales said:

“Hydropower in Wales has the potential to make a real difference for farmers, landowners and community groups, to help their economic and environmental sustainability on a local level.

“We are in the process of making the whole process for hydropower developers simpler and faster and we are grateful for the involvement of the industry and fisheries and wildlife groups in our work.

“This guidance will enable the generation of energy from our natural water resources, whilst protecting our water environment and other water users.”

The new guidance will come into force in 12 weeks time to give the hydropower industry an opportunity to prepare.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

21 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!