Blockbusters come to Pontardawe as new cinema opens

First screenings announced

The redeveloped 74‑seat cinema launches with a trio of films:

• Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (PG)
• Dora: Magic Mermaid Adventures (U)
• TRON: Ares (12A)

Tickets are available now at pontardaweartscentre.com.

State‑of‑the‑art facilities

The venue now boasts cutting‑edge laser projection, immersive Dolby ATMOS surround sound, and comfortable seating, offering a high‑quality viewing experience in the heart of Pontardawe.

For the first time, audiences will be able to enjoy the latest blockbuster releases locally. The cinema will also host relaxed screenings designed to provide a calm and inclusive environment for people with a range of impairments.

Café bar and theatre upgrades

Visitors will also benefit from a new modern café bar, open to all, while the theatre itself has seen upgrades including new balcony seating, improved lighting and cosmetic enhancements.

The redevelopment builds on the centre’s varied programme of film, music, comedy and theatre, cementing its role as a cultural hub for the community.

Backed by major investment

The project was supported by the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme, Arts Council of Wales lottery funding, Neath Port Talbot Council’s capital programme, and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Cllr Steve Hunt, Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, said:

“This fantastic redevelopment means we can now screen the latest blockbuster films right here in Pontardawe. We’re incredibly grateful to the Arts Council of Wales and the Welsh Government for their support in making this vision a reality.”

Cllr Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, added:

“High‑quality venues like this are vital for our town centres – they bring people in, support local businesses, and create a real sense of place.”

Dafydd Rhys, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Wales, said the £600,000 investment would “strengthen the cultural life of the community” and ensure the centre thrives as part of a vibrant arts landscape across Wales.

Cabinet Secretary Jayne Bryant said more than £1.2m of Transforming Towns funding had been invested, “strengthening the social and cultural fabric that makes our towns vibrant places where people want to live, work and visit.”

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#ArtsCouncilWales #bar #caféBar #caféBar #cafe #cinema #CllrCenPhillips #CllrSteveHunt #films #JayneBryantMS #movies #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #Pontardawe #PontardaweArtsCentre #TransformingTowns #UKSharedProsperityFund #WelshGovernment

Crowds expected as Neath Food and Drink Festival returns this weekend

The two‑day event, organised by Neath Port Talbot Council, has become one of the area’s biggest draws since it began in 2009. Organisers say more than 20,000 people a day typically attend, with food and drink producers from across Wales joining the line‑up.

Local and Welsh producers on show

Among the exhibitors this year are:

• Toca Vida Gin, distilled in the Vale of Glamorgan.
• Mac Daddies, serving gourmet macaroni and cheese.
• Popty Cara, a Pembrokeshire bakery known for traditional Welsh cakes and gingerbread.
• Harry’s Hog Roast from Llanelli, alongside Cwm Deri Wines and Liqueurs.

Council highlights festival’s growth

Cllr Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said:

“Since starting in 2009, the Neath Food and Drink Festival has become one of the most anticipated events of its kind in Wales, drawing crowds of more than 20,000 visitors each day. With food and drink from Neath Port Talbot, across Wales and further afield, there will be something for everyone.”

Practical details for visitors

• 📍 Location: Neath town centre
• 📅 Dates: Friday 3 & Saturday 4 October 2025
• 🕙 Times: 10am–5.30pm both days

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Port Talbot trader branded ‘epitome of a rogue trader’ after Trading Standards probe

Wayne John Phillips, 56, of Lingfield Avenue, Port Talbot, pleaded guilty to six offences under the Fraud Act 2006 after an investigation by Neath Port Talbot Council’s Trading Standards team.

Between April 2021 and December 2023, Phillips, trading as WJP Electrical, was contracted by homeowners to carry out refurbishment and rewiring work worth around £14,000. He provided written quotations bearing the logo of NICEIC — the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contractors — despite not being registered with the body or holding any electrical qualifications.

Work began on three properties but was never completed. An expert later found the work to be extremely poor and potentially dangerous.

Judge: “Like someone with a Biology A‑Level claiming to be a doctor”

Phillips first appeared before Swansea Magistrates Court in July, where magistrates committed the case to Crown Court for sentencing.

At Swansea Crown Court on 25 September, Judge Paul Thomas KC told Phillips he was the “epitome of a rogue trader”, adding that his claims to be an electrician were “tantamount to someone with a Biology A‑Level claiming to be a doctor”.

Allowing a 30% credit for his early guilty plea, Judge Thomas sentenced Phillips to:

• 20 months’ imprisonment, suspended for two years
• 15 days of rehabilitation activity
• 200 hours of unpaid work
• A £156 victim surcharge

Trading Standards warning

Cllr Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said:

“Rogue traders such as Mr Phillips do not see the obligations they have to their customers, only seeing them as a means to financial gain.

Trading Standards take a hard line on investigating businesses that flout the law and target the vulnerable. The service is promoting a national trading standards run trader approval scheme called Buy With Confidence. Legitimate and responsible traders are encouraged to make enquiries with the department to join the scheme. Consumers should check the Buy With Confidence website for approved traders.”

Residents who suspect rogue trading are urged to contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 (or 0808 223 1144 for Welsh‑language advice).

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Matthew Rhys to bring acclaimed Burton play to Swansea and Neath Port Talbot as part of Welsh stage return

The Cardiff‑born star, best known for his Emmy‑winning role in The Americans, will perform Playing Burton, a one‑man play about the life of Richard Burton, as part of the RB100 centenary celebrations marking 100 years since the Port Talbot‑born actor’s birth.

The production, written by Mark Jenkins and directed by Tony Award‑winner Bartlett Sher, explores Burton’s rise from his South Wales roots to international stardom, his turbulent relationship with Elizabeth Taylor, and his struggles with alcoholism.

Swansea Grand Theatre dates

Rhys will take to the stage at Swansea Grand Theatre on 24 and 25 November, with both shows followed by a special Q&A alongside fellow Welsh actor Michael Sheen, who has spearheaded the creation of the new Welsh National Theatre.

Pontrhydyfen finale

The tour will culminate in a special performance at Bethel Chapel Café in Pontrhydyfen, Neath Port Talbot, on 26 November — the village where Burton was born and raised. The event will close the centenary celebrations in the community that shaped him.

Local pride in Burton’s legacy

Cllr Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said the centenary was a chance to celebrate Burton’s enduring influence:

“Richard Burton’s career spanned decades and instilled a life‑long love of performing arts within millions. He remained proud of his Port Talbot roots throughout it all, and we hope these performances encourage and inspire more people to engage with the arts in Wales.

It feels as though Burton is passing the torch to the Welsh National Theatre to continue representing Wales on the international stage.”

Supporting Welsh National Theatre

All proceeds from the tour will go towards supporting the Welsh National Theatre, founded by Michael Sheen to create new opportunities for Welsh talent.

Rhys said returning to Wales to play Burton was deeply personal:

“The reason I wanted to act was because of Richard Burton. He blazed the trail for us all and showed us it was possible.”

Tickets

Tickets for Playing Burton are on sale now via the Welsh National Theatre website: welshnationaltheatre.com/playing-burton.

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Neath Port Talbot backs voluntary ban on flying ring toys to protect seals and marine life

At a full council meeting on 17 September, members approved a notice of motion calling for the sale, purchase and use of flying rings to be discouraged on council‑owned beaches. The motion also endorsed a national campaign for a UK‑wide ban and instructed Council Leader Cllr Steve Hunt to write to both the Welsh and UK Governments in support of legislation.

The lightweight plastic toys, often mistaken for frisbees, have been linked to serious injuries and deaths among seals. When lost or discarded at sea, the rings can become lodged around the animals’ necks, cutting into their skin as they grow. Rehabilitation, when possible, can cost up to £15,000 per animal.

Cllr Robert Wood, who proposed the motion, said:

“This voluntary ban reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship and the wellbeing of our coastal ecosystems. We hope residents and visitors will support this initiative and help us make our beaches safer for wildlife.”

Cllr Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, who seconded the motion, added:

“Flying ring toys are often treated as disposable, and when they end up in the sea, they pose a real threat to seals and other marine life. We’re asking beachgoers to choose safer alternatives and help us protect these incredible animals.”

Growing campaign across South Wales

The decision follows similar action taken earlier this year by Swansea Council, which urged beach‑goers to back a voluntary ban after passing its own motion. Conservationists from the Gower Seal Group have been working with schools and businesses to highlight the dangers, warning that seals’ natural curiosity can quickly turn deadly when they encounter flying rings.

The issue has sparked widespread public concern, with more than 43,000 people signing a national petition and the UK Seal Alliance leading calls for a ban.

Neath Port Talbot Council said it will promote the initiative through its media channels to raise awareness among residents and visitors. While the ban is voluntary and carries no penalties, councillors hope it will encourage retailers to withdraw the toys and beach users to avoid them altogether.

Neath Port Talbot now joins Swansea and the Vale of Glamorgan among councils in Wales taking action to protect seals and coastal wildlife.

For more information or to support the campaign, residents can contact the council’s Countryside & Wildlife Team at biodiversity@npt.gov.uk.

#CllrCenPhillips #CllrRobertWood #CllrSteveHunt #Environment #flyingRing #GowerSealGroup #NeathPortTalbot #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #ringFrisbee #Seal #UKSealAlliance

Illegal vapes, fake dolls and tobacco stash seized in Neath Port Talbot raids

Trading Standards officers, working alongside the council’s Waste Enforcement Team and South Wales Police, carried out a series of raids after receiving intelligence about the sale of illicit tobacco and illegal vapes.

Illicit tobacco was discovered hidden in business premises and vehicles parked nearby, with sniffer dogs used to detect the concealments. Officers also found disposable vapes openly on sale, along with counterfeit “Labubu” dolls which are believed to flout safety laws and could pose risks to children.

A follow‑up visit to another premises uncovered further illegal vapes and fake toys. Two vehicles were seized during the operation, which also led to the identification of a man who had failed to pay a Fixed Penalty Notice for waste offences. He has since paid the outstanding fine.

The raids form part of a wider crackdown by Trading Standards in recent months, which has already seen closure orders and prosecutions. One case is due for sentencing at Swansea Crown Court in October.

Councillor Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said the results showed the value of agencies working together:

“This operation demonstrates the benefits of inter‑agency information sharing and cooperation.

These businesses are wilfully undermining efforts to protect the health and safety of the public at large by selling dangerous and illegal products. By hiding their wares they are fully aware of the illegality of their actions.”

Investigations into the seized goods are continuing.

Anyone with information about the sale of illicit tobacco or illegal vapes is urged to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

#CllrCenPhillips #fakeLabubu #fakeToys #illegalCigarettes #illegalVapes #IllicitTobacco #Labubu #NeathPortTalbot #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #TradingStandards #WasteEnforcement

Young poet sought to honour Richard Burton’s mentor in centenary commission

The commission is part of the Richard Burton Centenary celebrations marking 100 years since the Afan Valley‑born star of stage and screen was born in Pontrhydyfen in 1925.

Working with Literature Wales, organisers are inviting poets aged 16–25 to submit an original poem celebrating the life of Philip Burton — the schoolteacher who discovered Richard’s talent, encouraged him to stay in education, and later adopted him to improve his chances of winning a place at Oxford.

Philip Burton’s influence on the young actor included vocal training, coaching, and nurturing his literary and acting ambitions. His role has been highlighted in recent years through Angela John’s biography Behind the Scenes: the Dramatic Lives of Philip Burton and Severn Screen’s Mr Burton film.

Celebrating the power of mentors

Cllr Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism & Wellbeing, said the commission was an opportunity to recognise the impact of teachers, mentors and parents in supporting creative talent.

“Philip Burton didn’t have to take Richard on, he didn’t owe him anything; he simply saw a boy with immense talent, living in difficult circumstances, and gave him a chance,” he said.

“During the Centenary year, we want to recognise and celebrate the impact that mentors, teachers and parents can have on budding creatives, especially here in Neath Port Talbot where creativity runs deep.”

How to apply

The winning poet will receive a £500 commission to complete their work, which will be performed at the unveiling of a Blue Plaque at Philip Burton’s former home on Monday 10 November.

Poems can be submitted in English or Welsh, and no previous experience is required. Entries should be emailed to dramaticheartofwales@rethinkprm.com by 30 September.

Full details are available on the Richard Burton Centenary website.

#CllrCenPhillips #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PhilipBurton #poetry #Pontrhydyfen #RichardBurton #RichardBurtonCentenary

Council publishes findings of Pontardawe swimming pool feasibility study

Consultants are recommending a traditional build and forecasting running cost savings of around £279,000 a year compared to the old facility.

Neath Port Talbot Council will present the findings of a feasibility study into a replacement swimming pool for Pontardawe at its Cabinet meeting on Wednesday 3 September.

The study identifies a preferred location north of the existing Pontardawe Leisure Centre, on the site of the current tennis courts and a small play park. Consultants say this site offers the best operational advantages, allowing shared staffing and facilities with the leisure centre.

The proposed new pool would feature a six-lane, 25-metre pool with a learner pool, alongside a sauna and steam room. Because the pool would link directly to the existing leisure centre, no additional reception or studio space would be required, reducing overall costs.

Consultants also compared a lower-cost membrane-covered pool promoted by Swim England with a traditional build. The report recommends a traditional construction due to its longer design life and lower risk profile.

According to the feasibility study, the new facility could operate at around £279,000 less per year than the former pool, mainly due to energy efficiencies and shared staffing.

The total estimated build cost is £14.9 million. Efficiency savings could support approximately £4 million through prudential borrowing, leaving a £10.8 million funding shortfall with no external funding identified at this stage.

The former Pontardawe Swimming Pool was permanently closed in May 2024 after surveys confirmed it was unsafe, and the building has since been demolished. A Cabinet report at the time noted the closure had a “significant impact on Valley Communities”.

Cllr Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism & Wellbeing, said:
“We commissioned the feasibility study because we understand how important swimming provision is to the people of Pontardawe and the surrounding area. The completion of the study is a step forward and it strengthens our ability to secure funding in the future.

“We will continue to explore all available avenues to secure the necessary funding.”

The full Cabinet report and feasibility study can be viewed on the Neath Port Talbot Council website.

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£16.9m restoration begins at Port Talbot’s Princess Royal Theatre

The 40-year-old theatre, attached to the town’s civic centre, is being overhauled by Morgan Sindall Construction on behalf of Neath Port Talbot Council via the South West Wales framework. Funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, the scheme is part of wider town centre regeneration and is due for completion in autumn 2026.

The building will be stripped back to bare brick and remodelled to improve customer flow and accessibility. Plans include accessible seating on the top tier and front rows, an extended atrium foyer, expanded toilets, a new lift for wheelchair users, and relocating the bar to face the atrium rather than the auditorium.

Backstage, the theatre will be extended by up to three metres to allow performers to move discreetly between wings without using stairs, expanding the range of shows the venue can host. A lift will transport scenery directly from the car park to the stage, removing the need to carry large props via outdoor steps.

Outside, the existing fountain will make way for a small amphitheatre inspired by Ancient Greek venues to enable summer events. Rain gardens and additional greenery will manage stormwater and boost biodiversity, with selected paving replaced by sustainable landscaping.

The refurbishment preserves the theatre’s character by recycling and repairing materials where possible. The original white oak stage will be replaced with a one-inch-thick ply stage painted black, while sections of the old stage will be reused as an internal feature. Timber on the balcony and main walls will be retained to maintain the venue’s historic feel, and green roofs will be installed on each side of the new extension.

Morgan Sindall plans to use a local supply chain within 40 miles, alongside apprenticeships and student placements to deliver social value during construction. Public works will be phased to keep access open to the town and maintain car parking throughout the project.

Rob Williams, Area Director for Morgan Sindall in Wales, said: “It’s an astounding achievement to start works on Port Talbot’s Princess Royal Theatre. This building is a real cornerstone of the Port Talbot community, so we can’t wait to give it a new lease of life, all while getting to know the community along the way. We’re working closely with Neath Port Talbot Council to make sure we deliver a refurbishment that can give the local area a boost and attract some incredible acts to enjoy the upgraded facilities.”

Cllr Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said: “The Princess Royal Theatre holds a special place in the heart of Port Talbot, and this transformation marks a positive step forward in our wider regeneration plans for the town centre. By investing in this much-loved venue, we’re not only preserving its legacy but also creating a more accessible, vibrant space that can host a broader range of acts.”

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Port Talbot restaurant shut down over cockroach infestation and filthy conditions

The Mirchi Masalla restaurant, located on Commercial Road in Taibach, was issued with a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice on 21 July 2025 by Neath Port Talbot Council’s Food Safety and Health Protection team.

During a routine inspection, officers found the premises in a “filthy” state, with evidence of live cockroaches and poor hygiene standards. The notice required the business to shut immediately.

Following the inspection, Swansea Magistrates Court granted a Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Order, confirming the closure and preventing the restaurant from reopening until the council is satisfied that the public health risk has been removed.

The restaurant, which had been operating seven days a week, will remain closed while the food business operator works with the council to make necessary improvements.

Cllr Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said:

“Our officers took action to prevent this food business from operating to protect members of the public whose health was being put at risk. Officers are now monitoring the position to ensure the order is upheld and the business will not reopen until this authority is satisfied an imminent public health risk is removed.”

Neath Port Talbot Council has confirmed that it will continue to monitor the situation and ensure that food safety standards are met before the business is allowed to resume trading.

#CllrCenPhillips #cockroaches #EnvironmentalHealth #foodHygiene #IndianRestaurant #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #Taibach

Illegal disposable vapes seized from Neath Port Talbot shops

Neath Port Talbot Council Trading Standards have confiscated dozens of illegal disposable vapes still being sold in local shops — despite a nationwide ban that came into force on 1 June 2025.

Acting on intelligence, officers visited two premises in the area and discovered 67 single-use vapes on sale. The businesses voluntarily surrendered the items, which will now be safely disposed of in line with environmental regulations.

The ban, introduced under the Environmental Protection (Single Use Vapes) (Wales) Regulations 2024, is part of a wider UK effort to reduce environmental harm and protect children from underage vaping. Disposable vapes are considered non-compliant if they are not refillable or rechargeable, or if their coils and pods cannot be easily replaced.

“The ban on disposable vapes is there to protect the public and the environment and has been well publicised,” said Cllr Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing. “Disposable vapes are a significant problem, as they contain hazardous materials which are difficult to safely dispose of and because they are frequently purchased by under-18s.”

The businesses involved will receive formal warning letters, with potential penalties including fixed fines or prosecution if found selling banned products again.

Residents with concerns about illegal vape sales or underage purchases are urged to contact Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 (or 0808 223 1144 for Welsh speakers), or email tsd@npt.gov.uk.

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Taibach vape shop shut down after selling illegal cigarettes and vapes

A District Judge at Swansea Magistrates Court approved the closure of Vape Land in Commercial Road, Taibach, under Section 80 Of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Trading Standards Team say the premises had been selling counterfeit and non-tax paid tobacco and cigarettes as well as Illegal and oversized vapes on a number of occasions since June of last year.

A Senior Investigations Officer from the council’s Trading Standards Team gave the District Judge a brief history of Vape Land, explaining that on June 12th, 2024 a test purchase of a pouch of Amber Leaf hand rolling tobacco was made by colleagues as part of a national operation – trademark holders later confirmed the tobacco to be counterfeit.

In August 2024, South Wales Police and Neath Port Talbot Council Enforcement Officers conducted an inspection at Vape Land which led to vapes, leaf tobacco and cigarettes being seized.

The District Judge was further told more complaints were received regarding the sale of non-compliant single use vapes, cigarettes and tobacco and the sale of vapes to people under 18.

As a result, a further operation with South Wales Police took place in April of this year during which vapes, cigarettes and leaf tobacco were seized. All the single use vapes seized were found to contain far in excess of the fluid allowed for such products.

The District Judge agreed to the closure order at a hearing on June 12th, 2025 after being told by the investigations officer it was the council’s view that unless the shop was closed the nuisance would not stop.

The court heard the person who has been leasing the shop since April 2024 could not be traced for interview.

The sale and supply of single-use (disposable) vapes across the UK became illegal on June 1, 2025. This ban applies to all businesses, both online and in-store, regardless of whether the vapes contain nicotine. 

The rationale behind the ban is to address the environmental impact of disposable vapes, which are often discarded improperly and contain harmful substances. The ban also aims to protect children and young people, as disposable vapes are seen as appealing to underage vapers. 

Non-compliant single use vapes of the type found at Vape Land are often in colourful, child-appealing packaging and flavours. The consequences to the mental health of the impressionable children purchasing these vapes can be long term and very serious.

The NPT Council Senior Investigations Officer told the District Judge: “The business which was trading from this premises was operating with blatant disregard to the consequences the children would suffer due to accessing these vapes.”

Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, Cllr Cen Phillips said: “I commend our Trading Standards Officers for achieving this closure order and I would urge anyone who cares about their community and their children’s health to report any information they have relating to illegal tobacco or vape sales.”

#CllrCenPhillips #illegalCigarettes #illegalVapes #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PortTalbot #Taibach #TradingStandards

Margam Country Park commemorates VE Day 80 with moving tribute

In partnership with the Friends of Margam Park, staff and volunteers have worked together to create a series of installations, exhibitions and commemorative displays that will be open to the public from late April through September, encompassing both VE Day on the 8th May and VJ Day on the 14th August.

Inside Margam Castle, visitors will find the Entrance Hall beautifully decorated with hand-knitted and crocheted red poppies arranged around the fireplace. The staircase hall will feature red poppies, white paper doves and VE Day 80 flags in a display designed to symbolise both remembrance and peace.

Historic photographs from VE Day celebrations, from the 8th May 1945, will be on display, accompanied by atmospheric audio recordings – including Winston Churchill’s VE Day speech, music from the 1940s and memories of local residents who lived through war years.

One of the most ambitious elements of the tribute will be found near the Castle Terrace, where more than 3,000 handmade poppies crafted from upcycled plastic bottle ends and individually painted, will be installed on Monday 28th April. Park staff, volunteers and the Friends of Margam Park will work together to place each poppy by hand, creating a striking sea of red across the landscape. The poppies will remain in place until the 12th May.

Margam’s on-site café, Charlotte’s Pantry, will also take part in the commemoration. From the 28th April each table will feature a small-scale version of the photo exhibition, allowing visitors to quietly reflect while enjoying refreshments. There will also be a VE Day 80 ‘Street Party’ in Charlotte’s Pantry on the 8th May.

Additionally, Charlotte’s Pantry will be serving fish and chips, a nostalgic nod to one of the few foods that remained unrationed during World War Two, helping to boost morale.

Councillor Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing said: “VE Day is an important opportunity to pause and reflect on a generation that endured so much. By marking the occasion we are remembering their stories, celebrating their resilience and giving our local communities a way to come together in tribute. Our heartfelt thanks go to the Friends of Margam Park and volunteers for their support with this installation.”

The display inside Margam Castle will be in place from Monday 28 April and will remain open until the 9th September. The external poppy installation will begin on Monday 28 April and will be in situation along the Broadwalk steps and Castle Terrace for two weeks.

#CllrCenPhillips #Margam #MargamCastle #MargamCountryPark #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #VEDay #Veterans

Council to target owners of abandoned buildings in new crackdown

Neath Port Talbot’s Cabinet agreed to fund two extra officers to specifically deal with empty non-residential and commercial properties through both proactive and reactive enforcement work.

The Cabinet heard the Environmental Health Team was under increasing pressure due to a wide range of issues and, as a result, dealing with empty residential properties has been given priority over enforcement action regarding non-residential or commercial properties.

These pressures include new laws which have seen private rented housing inspections soaring, poor housing conditions linked to the cost of living crisis in which landlords are unable to afford and manage repairs, and calls for help over noise and statutory nuisance issues.

Also, public demand for enforcement regarding empty residential properties is significant. The service is currently operating a priority-based system for residential properties with a waiting list having developed made up of derelict and unsightly properties requiring targeted action.

The council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Community Safety, Cllr Alun Llewelyn, said: “Empty non-residential and or commercial properties can pose health and safety risks and other issues including anti-social behaviour, fire setting and substance misuse.

“Tackling the problems caused by these properties, as well having benefits for our communities, also ties in with our broader regeneration strategies for our towns, valleys and villages. Doing nothing is not an option.” 

Cllr Cen Phillips, Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, added: “I’m extremely pleased we’ve been able to raise a budget for these new posts and it’s important we begin addressing as soon as possible the problems associated with those commercial or non-residential buildings which are blighting our communities in Neath Port Talbot.”

(Lead image: Neath Port Talbot Council)

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Saunas, hot tubs and beach huts could be headed for Aberavon seafront

Other suggestions contained in an Aberafan Seafront Masterplan approved by members of Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet on Wednesday (5 February) include the expansion of food options and provision of extra parking and changing facilities.

The masterplan was designed by consultants Roberts Limbrick and Chris Jones Regeneration, who were commissioned by Neath Port Talbot Council to create a cohesive strategy and ‘conceptual plan’ for the future direction of the popular seafront.

With the support of the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, they developed ideas to improve the Aberafan Seafront in terms of uses and spaces.

The document says: “The natural beauty and rugged nature of the seafront here shows endless potential and it is our aim to harness this and create a destination seafront.”

Among the proposals are:

• The New Naval Club – a destination restaurant and bar overlooking the sea and a new Dunes Park created using boardwalks in the sands. 
• Scarlet Avenue Car Park – including a new toilet block and accessible route to the beach. 
• New play spaces, involving integrated ability play, beach huts (rented to beachgoers or used as shops) and play spaces (near the Ocean Way Car Park). Aqua Splash to be rationalised and made more inclusive.
• An Extensive Wellness Garden (near Remo’s) with hot tubs, plunge pools and mobile saunas. A Linear park (near the Four Winds site), with extensive green spaces retained. A new pump track and skate park (at a point in front of the leisure and fitness centre) with an expansion of existing toilets, a community stage and events area and food trucks.
• An enhanced area around The Whale Sculpture with natural elements such as logs and boulders creating a playful environment with an opportunity to incorporate diverse planting to create a soft, green space that blends with the coastal landscape. Further to the east there will be new showers, a toilet block and changing areas and active travel links to the ‘small beach’ area and Newbridge Road.

The next steps now include identifying the strategic and local partnerships needed to help co-deliver the proposals, making cost estimates and seeking funding.

Two waves of consultation were carried out regarding the masterplan with, in the first wave, 92% either totally agreeing or agreeing the seafront was ‘a great place to relax’ and 88% agreed or totally agreed it was ‘a great place for everyone’.

In the second wave, 75% of respondents agreed with the goals of the masterplan including enhancing beach attractions and amenities including food options, accessibility and enhancing the area’s profile.

Cllr Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing said: “The Seafront Masterplan provides a guide for future investment in this most important asset – one of the jewels on the crown for Neath Port Talbot – so it can be enjoyed for generations to come.

“I was particularly pleased by the enthusiasm shown by local residents in giving their views in consultation on this masterplan and we were able to include local opinions in the finished masterplan.

“This is just the start of the journey and we will now begin the process of identifying individual projects and developments on the seafront.”

The Cabinet’s decision was made subject to a three-day call-in period.

(Lead image: Neath Port Talbot Council)

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