THREE new wind turbines to bolster renewable capacity at Waterston Renewables Energy Park

DRAGON Energy’s plans for three wind turbines at the Waterston Renewables Energy Park have gained planning approval. Supported by Dragon LNG, the company acknowledged the contributions of key stakeholders, including residents of Waterston, Llanstadwell, and Blackbridge, who have engaged since community consultations began in March 2022.

The turbines, designed to complement the park’s 18,500 solar panels, aim to cut emissions and support decarbonisation goals. The new energy infrastructure is expected to be operational by Q4 2026, boosting local renewable energy output.

Community fund to support skills

In line with its community-focused mission, Dragon Energy has established a community benefit fund, suggested by local residents and set to operate for at least a decade from the project’s launch. Beginning in September 2025, the fund will provide upskilling opportunities and energy subsidies specifically for Waterston, Llanstadwell, and Blackbridge residents.

Simon Ames, Managing Director of Dragon, said: “The addition of three wind turbines will bring both immediate construction jobs and lasting benefits to our community. Combined with our solar farm, these renewable assets will help offset about 11,500 tonnes of carbon emissions each year. When on-site demand is low, clean electricity will also be fed into the local grid. We’re immensely grateful for the project team’s hard work and the support from our stakeholders, allowing us to capitalise on this prime location for onshore wind, significantly reducing our scope II carbon emissions.”

Dragon Energy is partnering with Boralex, its consenting and construction advisor, and will maintain open communication with the community and stakeholders throughout the project.

ON Wednesday evening (Oct 30), a dramatic flaring event at the Valero refinery in Pembroke lit up the Milford Haven waterway, sparking significant attention on social media. Hundreds of observers shared their experiences and posted striking photos, with one witness comparing the flame’s appearance to “Elon Musk’s rocket flying upside down.”

The roar from the flare stack was heard as far afield as Letterston, Brawdy, Whitland, Carmarthen, and Haverfordwest, amplifying the visual spectacle. This incident followed a scheduled maintenance shutdown at the refinery—a routine industry practice to ensure safety and operational efficiency. During such shutdowns, flaring is necessary to safely dispose of excess gases, often resulting in high flames visible from miles away.

Although the flaring was bigger than expected, a call to the refinery resulted in reassurances to this newspaper that everything was okay, and that such events are expected when restarting operations after a shutdown.

(Image: Alex Mathias)

THE PEMBROKSHIRE coroner has opened an inquest into the tragic death of Honey Foxx French, 12, from Hakin – who died after emergency services were called to a home on Saturday (Oct 19).

Pembrokeshire assistant coroner Gareth Lewis opened an inquest into the 12-year-old’s death on Wednesday (Oct 30).

The coroner adjourned the inquest until April 10, 2025, to allow for further investigation. He extended his condolences to Honey’s family and friends.

Dyfed-Powys Police have stated that her death is not being treated as suspicious.

In a joint statement, Honey’s school, Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi, and Pembrokeshire County Council described her as “much loved and cherished.”

“Honey French was a beloved member of our school community at Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi VA. She was a talented performer and writer who generously shared her humour, time, and talents with our school family and the wider community – she will be deeply missed. Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with her family during this difficult time.”

The police have launched a full investigation, with inquiries ongoing.