Llanelli retail staff report high levels of abuse as campaign calls for stronger protections

Retail staff in Llanelli say they continue to face unacceptable levels of verbal abuse, threats and physical assault while doing their jobs — prompting renewed calls for public respect and tougher enforcement.

The Freedom from Fear campaign, led by trade union Usdaw, was marked at Tesco Trostre with a visit from Dame Nia Griffith MP, alongside Lee Waters MS, Cllr Dot Jones and other local representatives. The event aimed to raise awareness of the abuse faced by shop workers and encourage the public to “keep your cool” in the run-up to Christmas.

Survey shows 71% of retail staff verbally abused

Interim results from Usdaw’s 2025 survey — based on responses from over 3,000 retail workers — show that:

• 71% have experienced verbal abuse in the past year
• 48% were threatened by a customer
• 9% were assaulted

Usdaw general secretary Joanne Thomas said the figures show a “slight downturn” compared to previous years, but warned that the scale of abuse remains “shocking”.

“Nearly three-quarters of those working in retail are regularly facing abuse from customers,” she said. “Far too many are experiencing threats and violence. Our members are saying loud and clear that enough is enough.”

Local voices call for change

Dame Nia Griffith MP said retail workers “deserve to be treated with respect” and backed Usdaw’s call for stronger legal protections.

“We’re introducing a new standalone offence of assaulting a retail worker,” she said. “That gives shop staff the protection they need and sends a clear message that abuse will not be tolerated.”

She also pointed to Labour’s Crime and Policing Bill, which removes the £200 threshold for prosecuting shoplifting and introduces new powers to ban repeat offenders.

Campaigners urge public to ‘respect shop workers’

Usdaw activists say incidents tend to rise in December as shops get busier and customer frustration grows. The union is encouraging staff to report abuse and reject the idea that it’s “part of the job”.

The Freedom from Fear campaign continues throughout the year, with workplace and community events planned across South Wales.

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Llanelli ‘well placed’ to benefit from clean energy jobs boom, says MP

Dame Nia Griffith has welcomed Labour’s Clean Energy Jobs Plan, which sets out how investment in projects such as offshore wind and carbon capture could create around 15,000 roles across Wales in the next five years.

She said Llanelli’s established manufacturing base, its links to further and higher education, and its location between South and West Wales meant the town was “ideally placed” to take advantage of the opportunities.

“The work begins now to secure the benefits of this investment for Llanelli and the surrounding areas and to take advantage of the clean energy revolution for current and future generations in our local communities,” she said.

The plan highlights demand for skilled trades including plumbing, welding and electrification, with a pledge that jobs supported by public funding will come with fair pay and workplace rights.

Nearby developments such as Port Talbot’s Green Energy Hub and offshore wind projects along the south Wales coast are expected to play a major role in driving growth.

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said the wider programme was about ensuring young people could find decent jobs without leaving their hometowns.

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Llanelli workers face pre-Christmas earnings hit after Jaguar Land Rover cyber attack

Hundreds of workers in Llanelli are facing a loss of income in the run-up to Christmas after a cyber attack on Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) disrupted supply chains and halted production across the UK.

Agency staff laid off as overtime dries up

The impact has been felt acutely at Marelli and Gestamp, two major automotive suppliers in Llanelli with a combined workforce of 360. Agency workers have already been laid off, while permanent staff have been told to stay home and “work back” hours — effectively cancelling overtime many rely on for festive spending.

Local Labour MS Lee Waters raised the issue in the Senedd this week, warning that the cyber attack had left Welsh workers “in limbo” and calling for urgent clarity on when UK Government support will reach affected sites.

Welsh Government in daily contact with suppliers

First Minister Eluned Morgan said Welsh Government teams were in daily contact with around 30 suppliers across Wales, and that support services including React and Working Wales were on standby to assist affected workers.

“The JLR cyber attack has hit Welsh suppliers and the people who work in those companies hard,” she said. “We welcome the £1.5bn UK loan guarantee, but Welsh workers need to know when the money will land.”

She confirmed that both Marelli and Gestamp were being actively monitored, and that Economy Secretary Rebecca Evans had written to UK ministers seeking urgent updates.

Tata under pressure over lack of cyber insurance

Mr Waters criticised JLR’s parent company Tata for failing to have cyber insurance in place, despite previous high-profile attacks on UK retailers. He urged the Welsh Government to press Tata directly for support for downstream suppliers in Wales.

Llanelli Labour councillor Shaun Greaney added:

“Why is it the poor workers who always pay the price for ineptitude at a higher level? They should be compensated by JLR’s owners Tata.”

JLR introduces supplier support scheme

In response, JLR said it had launched a short-term financing scheme to help suppliers with cashflow, including faster payments and reimbursement of financing costs. A dedicated help desk and manual payment system have also been introduced, with automated systems now being restored.

The company said the scheme would initially support critical suppliers needed to restart production, before expanding to include non-production partners.

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Llanelli MP urges action as late payments force thousands of UK firms to close

Nia Griffith, Member of Parliament for Llanelli, has called on local entrepreneurs to share their experiences with the UK Government’s consultation on late payments, warning that the practice is “suffocating small businesses” and holding back growth.

Local firms “spending too much time chasing invoices”

Speaking as the consultation opened, Dame Nia Griffith said too many small firms were being left out of pocket by larger companies failing to pay on time.

“Llanelli has many fantastic entrepreneurs and one of the most common challenges they face is that they are spending too much time chasing payments instead of being able to concentrate on growing their business,” she said.

“More than a quarter of businesses are affected by late payments each year, with 14,000 across the UK forced to close annually because of late payments. Often far larger businesses are responsible, not paying for goods or services promptly. It’s unfair, it’s suffocating small businesses in particular and it really has to stop.”

Call for tougher laws and penalties

The Labour UK Government is consulting on new legislation to strengthen protections for small businesses, including penalties for persistent late payers.

Dame Nia said she supported tougher rules to ensure invoices are paid quickly and urged Llanelli business owners to take part in the consultation.

“I support tougher laws to ensure fast payment of invoices and penalties for persistent late payers. The Labour UK Government is currently consulting on how to make those laws robust and practical and I urge business people in Llanelli affected by this to make their views heard,” she added.

What timely payments could mean for Llanelli

The Llanelli MP said prompt payments would not only ease pressure on small firms but also boost the wider economy.

“When businesses are paid on time, money flows more quickly through supply chains and into our local economy. Businesses can invest in their business rather than spending time and money chasing unpaid invoices. That means more jobs for Llanelli and the surrounding areas,” she said.

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Nia Griffith: JLR rescue package ‘must’ protect Llanelli jobs after cyber‑attack

Production at JLR’s UK factories was suspended on 1 September after a major cyber incident disrupted its IT systems. The shutdown has left thousands of workers in the supply chain facing uncertainty, including staff at major component manufacturers Gestamp and Schaeffler, which both operate large facilities in Dafen, Llanelli.

Dame Nia said the Government’s intervention was welcome but stressed that the benefits must reach Carmarthenshire quickly.

“The situation was perilous and there was concern for jobs at a number of companies. The loan will bolster JLR’s cash reserves enabling it to pay back companies in its supply chain.

I urge JLR to ensure it gives the maximum support to the firms in my constituency who have been involved in supplying them for some years. Speed is of the essence to ensure local companies benefit from the rescue deal announced by the Government and to help their loyal workforce.”

She added that while the £1.5 billion loan guarantee would provide certainty, JLR must now act swiftly to roll out payments and restore its IT systems to allow deliveries and pick‑ups to resume.

Timeline: JLR cyber-attack and recovery

• 1 Sept: JLR suspends production after major cyber-attack disrupts IT systems.
• 2 Sept: Company confirms systems shut down; production and retail activities severely disrupted.
• 6 Sept: JLR apologises for disruption, says it is working with cybersecurity experts and law enforcement.
• 10 Sept: JLR admits some data has been affected; regulators informed.
• 16 Sept: Production pause extended until 24 September.
• 23 Sept: Shutdown extended again until 1 October.
• 25 Sept: Invoicing and parts logistics systems begin to come back online.
• 29 Sept: JLR announces some manufacturing operations will resume “in the coming days” as phased restart begins.
• 6 Oct (expected): Engine facility in Wolverhampton to be first to restart, with phased return at other plants.

Government support package

The loan guarantee, announced by Business Secretary Peter Kyle, is designed to unlock up to £1.5 billion in private finance for JLR. Backed by the Export Development Guarantee, the loan will be repaid over five years and is intended to give certainty to the company’s extensive supply chain.

Mr Kyle described the cyber‑attack as “not only an assault on an iconic British brand, but on our world‑leading automotive sector and the men and women whose livelihoods depend on it.”

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said JLR was “a jewel in the crown of our economy”, adding that the package would protect thousands of jobs and support the wider supply chain.

JLR recovery underway

JLR has issued a series of updates throughout September as it works to restore its systems and restart production. In its latest statement today (29 September), the company confirmed that some sections of its manufacturing operations will resume “in the coming days” as part of a phased restart.

The company said:

“As the controlled, phased restart of our operations continues, we are taking further steps towards our recovery and the return to manufacture of our world‑class vehicles. Today we are informing colleagues, retailers and suppliers that some sections of our manufacturing operations will resume in the coming days.”

JLR added that it was working “around the clock” with cybersecurity specialists, the UK Government’s National Cyber Security Centre and law enforcement to ensure the restart was carried out safely. It thanked staff, suppliers and customers for their patience, saying the “foundational work of our recovery is firmly underway” but acknowledged there was “much more to do”.

Local impact

The shutdown has highlighted the vulnerability of JLR’s vast supply chain, which employs around 100,000 people across the UK. For Llanelli, where Gestamp and Schaeffler are key employers, the disruption has been particularly concerning. Both firms supply components directly to JLR, meaning the pause in production has had an immediate knock‑on effect for their operations and workforce.

Dame Nia Griffith said the Government’s loan guarantee must now translate into real support for those local businesses:

“I very much welcome this support put in by the UK Labour Government, but now we need JLR both to implement it in a timely fashion in order to safeguard jobs in our local plants, and to get the replacement IT systems up and running to enable the necessary deliveries and pick‑ups.”

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In Pictures: Supporters join Save Our Scarlets march through Llanelli

The Save Our Scarlets march brought supporters onto the streets of Llanelli this afternoon, as fans walked from Sandy Water Park to Parc y Scarlets ahead of the Munster match.

The event was filled with colour, banners and song, as supporters voiced their determination to protect the region’s future.

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Save Our Scarlets march set to bring thousands onto Llanelli’s streets today

The Save Our Scarlets march begins at 1pm from Sandy Water Park, with fans walking the historic route past the old Stradey Park rugby posts and through the town centre before finishing at Parc y Scarlets ahead of the club’s opening United Rugby Championship fixture against Munster.

The demonstration comes at the end of the WRU’s consultation on the future of the game in Wales, which has sparked widespread fears for the Scarlets’ survival.

“The thought of losing the Scarlets is unthinkable”

Organiser Andrew Gough, originally from Aberystwyth, said he has “Scarlets fever”:

“The thought of losing the Scarlets is unthinkable. Being from Aberystwyth originally, I know first hand that the Scarlets are the heartbeat in the communities of the whole of west Wales, a huge part of our region’s identity. For example, we’re the only club where you hear Welsh songs being proudly sung in the stands. The Scarlets is one of the few remaining institutions left in Llanelli, they are the pride of the town. They attract thousands of visitors every year, playing a vital role in supporting the local economy.”

He added that today’s march would be “a massive day for the club”, with Scarlets legend Rupert Moon opening proceedings, choirs leading supporters in song, and former players joining fans along the route.

Supporters are being urged to wear Scarlets colours, bring flags and banners, and join the march at any of the staging points along the way — including Boots in the town centre, Farmfoods on Swansea Road, and the Halfway on Glyncoed Terrace.

Organisers call for unity

Fellow organiser Helen Davies said:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for Scarlets fans to come and show how much the club means to them, and we are expecting a large number of people to attend from across the region as a whole, not just Llanelli.”

Catherine Davies added:

“Rugby means more to the fans than raw data, which is something that I don’t think the WRU have understood in their consultation. After all, what is the point of sport without fans?”

Political backing

The campaign has drawn support across the political spectrum.

Plaid Cymru representatives Cefin Campbell MS, Ann Davies MP and Adam Price MS issued a joint statement declaring their “fundamental opposition” to any plan that risks the dissolution of the Scarlets. They warned that losing professional rugby in west Wales would be “disastrous” for the region’s economy, identity and grassroots pathways.

Meanwhile, Llanelli’s Labour MP Dame Nia Griffith has also spoken out, insisting that Parc y Scarlets must remain central to Welsh rugby’s future. She described the stadium as “the best regional rugby stadium in Wales”, highlighting its facilities, transport links and role in developing youth and women’s rugby. Griffith argued that keeping a strong regional presence west of the Loughor bridge is “essential” if the production line of talent and community pathways is to survive.

Together, the interventions underline the breadth of political opposition to any WRU plan that could see the Scarlets disappear.

Matchday build‑up

The march will culminate at Parc y Scarlets ahead of the Scarlets’ first home game of the season against Munster. The club has confirmed a full programme of pre‑match activities, including live music, family entertainment and community events details on the Scarlets website.

Travel advice

Drivers are advised to expect disruption along the march route and to plan journeys accordingly.

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‘Transformational for our communities’: South West Wales MPs react to £214m Pride in Place funding

While Labour MPs hailed the investment as “transformational” and a “once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity”, opposition councillors in Bridgend voiced frustration that their county had received far less than neighbouring areas.

Swansea

Torsten Bell, MP for Swansea West, said:

“We have won something rare – a massive, over £20 million, long‑term investment in Swansea. This is our chance for people to get involved in improving our city, from regenerating our city centre to boosting all our high streets.”

Tonia Antoniazzi, MP for Gower, added:

“Local people know their area better than anyone else and that is why the government has decided to do this differently. This is our chance to improve our area by making the big decisions for ourselves.”

Council leader Rob Stewart also welcomed the funding, describing it as “great to see this investment coming to Swansea” and urging that Wales must not be left worse off after Brexit.

Neath Port Talbot

Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberafan Maesteg, said the £20m for Neath Port Talbot was:

“A once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to invest in our communities. It will be up to all of us to decide how exactly this money is spent – not politicians in London, but local residents, right here in Aberafan Maesteg.”

Carmarthenshire

Dame Nia Griffith, MP for Llanelli, welcomed the £20m for Carmarthenshire, saying:

“This £20 million of new funding will change lives over the next decade and be spent where local people need it most. Local people know their area better than anyone else and that is why the UK Labour Government has decided to do this differently.”

Pembrokeshire

Henry Tuffnell, MP for Mid & South Pembrokeshire, highlighted the £1.5m allocation as:

“A valuable boost for regenerating our local areas, and I’ll be working with Pembrokeshire County Council to make sure that money is used in the best way possible for our community.”

Bridgend

Chris Elmore, MP for Bridgend, announced:

“£3 million from the UK Labour Government for our communities – and you get to help decide how it’s spent. This is a huge opportunity to shape the future of Bridgend and Porthcawl together.”

But the award has drawn criticism locally.

Independent councillor Steven Bletsoe said:

“£3m is very welcome investment into our town centres and that money needs to be wisely spent. But how on earth are we getting eight times less than Aberavon and Maesteg? I simply cannot comprehend this.”

A spokesperson for the Bridgend Independent Group added:

“Of course we welcome an additional £3m but once again Bridgend gets treated less favourably than our neighbours. Maybe our MP should spend less time having photos taken and more time fighting for his constituency.”

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Llanelli MP: Parc y Scarlets must be central to Welsh rugby’s future

Dame Nia Griffith says the town’s rugby heritage, facilities and player pathway make it an essential part of the sport’s future — warning that decisions taken in the coming months will shape the game for decades.

As Swansea Bay News reported earlier this week, the WRU’s “optimal solution” would see only two professional organisations remain — each running a men’s and a women’s side — in a centralised system designed to concentrate talent, funding and facilities. The six‑week consultation is due to begin imminently, with a final decision expected by the end of October.

‘Confident, passionate and positive case’

Against that backdrop, Dame Nia said Llanelli must “continue to put forward a confident, passionate and positive case to retain first‑class regional rugby at Parc y Scarlets”, highlighting the stadium’s capacity, corporate facilities and transport links.

She described Parc y Scarlets as “the best regional rugby stadium in Wales” and said its hospitality and events offer could help attract new business and investment into the game. The site’s surrounding land, she added, could be used for further rugby‑related development.

The MP pointed to the Scarlets’ record in developing youth talent, expanding the women’s and girls’ game, and acting as a “gateway” for West Wales’ playing and coaching expertise. She argued that keeping a strong regional presence west of the Loughor bridge would be “essential” if that production line is to survive.

Investment and ambition

Her intervention comes just weeks after Scarlets secured a landmark deal with US‑based House of Luxury LLC, which will take a 55% controlling stake and lead the club’s non‑rugby operations. The Montana‑registered agency — fronted by former WRU chief David Moffett, ex‑Wales fly‑half Dan Biggar and CEO Kirsti Jane — has promised to safeguard the club’s identity while investing in commercial growth, fan experience and player pathways.

That announcement followed the revelation that Kirsti Jane had publicly criticised WRU leadership weeks before the deal was confirmed, describing Welsh rugby as “in crisis” and accusing the union of lacking vision. While the comments split opinion among supporters, they underlined the tensions between privately‑backed regions and the WRU’s drive for greater central control.

Champions Cup pedigree

Scarlets are the only Welsh club in this season’s Investec Champions Cup and will host English Premiership side Bristol Bears and reigning champions Bordeaux Bègles. The region, Dame Nia noted, has been a “flag‑bearer for Welsh rugby” with a 150‑year heritage.

“Rugby has long been central to life in Llanelli and West Wales but change is coming. How we react to it now is vital,” she said, adding that she remained confident the Scarlets and the town could “continue to be at the forefront of Welsh and European rugby for many years to come”.

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Campaigners condemn ‘appalling scandal’ over autism provision in Llanelli

A report commissioned by the council has found that at least 115 children in Carmarthenshire currently have no suitable education provision, and others face waits of up to three years for a formal diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).

The findings have prompted strong criticism from families, campaign groups, and Labour representatives in Llanelli, who accuse the Plaid Cymru-led administration of failing in its statutory duty to vulnerable pupils.

The calls for urgent action come as the council confirms its intention to build a new school for Ysgol Heol Goffa, a specialist centre in Llanelli currently operating above capacity.

The new facility — approved after a long-running campaign and a petition with more than 9,000 signatures — will eventually accommodate 150 pupils, though campaigners argue this figure is too low to meet rising demand.

Shaun Greaney, Lliedi ward councillor, said: “The situation faced by children with autism and their families in Llanelli is an appalling scandal. In my view, there has been shocking neglect of their needs. Early intervention is essential to give these children the life chances they deserve. Yet the county council seems to have no clear plan, no timescale for action, and no answers to the problem, which is growing in scale.”

Education campaigner Becki Gilroy, whose daughter Millie attends Ysgol Heol Goffa, added: “Autistic children like my daughter Millie need specialist centres of excellence. Families need a more enlightened approach — not for their children to be placed in what can sometimes amount to not much more than a babysitting service.”

Campaigners have called for wider implementation of ‘Option 4’, the full recommendation from the council’s commissioned report, arguing that partial adherence will still leave many children without the support they need.

Councillor Deryk Cundy, Labour group leader on the county council, said: “I fear the education system in Carmarthenshire is in something of a crisis and could, in future years, collapse unless there is a clear strategy going forward. Most of our ASC provision schools are already full, with many children on waiting lists and more undiagnosed in inappropriate mainstream settings.”

He added: “Schools are working incredibly hard to help children with ASC, but to ignore the situation would be incompetence by this Plaid administration and is worrying in the extreme.”

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Funding concerns ahead of Welsh Government change

Llanelli MP Dame Nia Griffith said the delay in approving the new Ysgol Heol Goffa project has placed funding at risk.

“When I last spoke to Lynne Neagle MS, the Welsh Cabinet Secretary for Education, she reassured me that money is still on the table — potentially around 75% of the cost. But the council will need to complete the required three-stage process to unlock it,” she said.

Ms Griffith also raised concerns about the wider shortage of suitable ASC provision:

“We know the existing units have next to no spare capacity. Families have had to put their lives on hold to care for their children because the proper provision is not there. It is as if all the odds are stacked against these pupils and their families. There is a duty to stand up for them and ensure better outcomes than at present.”

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Llanelli Market move: Labour calls for trader-led vision as concerns mount over town centre plans

Labour politicians in Llanelli have called for urgent public consultation and a comprehensive masterplan for the town centre, following Carmarthenshire County Council’s proposals to relocate the historic indoor market and demolish the ageing Murray Street multi-storey car park.

Llanelli MP Dame Nia Griffith and Town Council chair Cllr David Darkin say traders must be given a meaningful say in shaping the future of the market, which has served generations of shoppers and small businesses.

“What we really need is a proper vision for the town focusing on how we revitalise the town and increase footfall,” said Ms Griffith. “It should not be a piecemeal plan presented to them.”

The council recently unveiled four options for the market’s future, including temporary relocation, a move to Market Street South, or a shift to the former Woolworths building on Vaughan Street. A hybrid option would see some traders placed in vacant retail units across the town centre.

But concerns are growing that the proposals have been developed without sufficient input from those most affected. Cllr Darkin warned that traders feel they’ve been handed a “fait accompli,” and criticised the Plaid-led council for failing to engage with the Chamber of Trade’s long-standing calls for a town centre strategy.

“We need a proper strategy,” he said. “The Chamber of Trade has been calling for a proper plan for years but they have been ignored.”

The multi-storey car park above the market is believed to be suffering from “concrete cancer,” with structural assessments suggesting only a few years of life remain. The council has indicated that significant UK Government Levelling Up funding is available, but must be spent by Spring 2028.

Ms Griffith and Cllr Darkin will host a meeting with market traders at the Mayor’s Parlour on Tuesday, August 5 at 5.30pm, aiming to gather feedback and ensure local voices are heard before any decisions are finalised.

“We must do something,” said Ms Griffith, “but we need to make sure this isn’t used as an excuse to raise rents or push traders out. That would completely negate the whole aim of the project.”

The call for a masterplan echoes wider concerns about the future of Llanelli’s retail core, with many residents and business owners urging the council to publish a joined-up regeneration strategy that prioritises footfall, affordability, and long-term sustainability.

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#CarmarthenshireCouncil #DavidDarkin #Llanelli #LlanelliMarket #LlanelliTownCouncil #MurrayStreetMultiStoreyCarPark #NiaGriffithMP #WelshLabour

Reaction to Llanelli Market and car park plans: optimism, concern and calls for clarity

Plans to relocate Llanelli Market and demolish the multi-storey car park above it have sparked a wave of reaction across the town — with political leaders urging ambition and pragmatism, and residents voicing deep concern over the impact on footfall, heritage and the market’s identity.

Political leaders back regeneration — but urge caution

Dame Nia Griffith MP welcomed the council’s bid to draw down UK Government Levelling Up funding, calling the move to Vaughan Street a “bold” but necessary step.

“No change is easy, but we have to face the reality that the current structure is coming to the end of its life,” she said. “What’s really important is that stallholders can continue trading without disruption — and that the council consults carefully on what replaces the current site. Adequate, convenient parking close to the town centre is vital for increasing footfall.”

Cllr David Darkin, Chair of Llanelli Town Council, described the relocation as a “significant opportunity” and stressed the importance of public engagement.

“This must be a transparent, inclusive process that builds trust and ensures local voices are heard,” he said. “We must ensure every pound of public money delivers maximum value — not just in infrastructure, but in jobs, skills and local economic growth.”

Lee Waters MS echoed the need for careful planning, saying the market must remain central to Llanelli’s identity.

“Any relocation must strengthen — not weaken — its role at the heart of our community,” he said. “It’s not just about buildings — it’s about making the town centre a place people want to come to, shop in, and be proud of.”

Independent Councillor Sean Rees for the Glanymor Ward described the market as a “cornerstone of our town’s identity”.

“Our traders are its heart and soul offering not only their goods and services but always providing a warm welcome for all who visit” he said. “It’s crucial that the Council now works closely with our traders to ensure any move meets their needs. Supporting our local businesses and maintaining the Market’s character must be at the heart of the plans.”

Public reaction: divided, passionate and deeply personal

On social media, residents expressed a mix of frustration, nostalgia and scepticism — with many fearing the market’s character will be lost if moved to the former Woolworths building.

• “They must keep the market, definitely not like Carmarthen. It lost character when redeveloped.” – Seren Roberts
• “Go ahead, demolish yet another building and replace it with a glass and steel monstrosity. Death knell for centre of Llanelli.” – Anita Aamp
• “Why can’t some things stay as they are? I understand it needs modernising, but demolishing it to build new?” – Jane Jones
• “The market is the only positive thing in town! Who are these useless tools that think they know better?” – Jonathan Smith

Others defended the council’s decision, citing safety concerns and the need for long-term planning.

• “Keep it open and risk the lives of traders or close it and keep them safe? I know which I’d choose.” – Susan Davies
• “It’s falling down. Sorry for the market, but I moved out because the shop was in bad condition.” – Deane Bowler, former trader

Some questioned the viability of the Woolworths site, citing size constraints, parking access and transparency.

• “The stalls wouldn’t fit into the Woolworths store.” – Sian Howell
• “Why don’t they rebuild a new market on the same site after it’s been demolished?” – Kathryn Jenkins
• “Do you think the council are even aware that the unit they keep calling ‘former Woolworths’ is actually occupied?” – Robert Davies

What’s next?

Carmarthenshire Council is expected to submit a pre-planning application for the Vaughan Street site in the coming weeks — a move designed to keep the funding option alive, even if the proposal is later withdrawn.

Officials say the market will not close, and that monthly inspections continue to ensure the current building remains safe. But with the structure’s lifespan limited and funding deadlines looming, the town faces a pivotal decision — one that could reshape its retail core for decades to come.

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Llanelli faces twin loss as council moves to demolish market and multi-storey car park
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Decision on new Heol Goffa school expected this month
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Llanelli Railway Goods Shed Trust honoured with national heritage award
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#carPark #CarmarthenshireCouncil #DavidDarkin #LeeWatersMS #Llanelli #LlanelliMarket #LlanelliTownCouncil #MurrayStreet #MurrayStreetMultiStoreyCarPark #NiaGriffithMP #retail #VaughanStreet #Woolworth

Llanelli Railway Goods Shed Trust honoured with national heritage award

The award — part of the Avanti Community Award category — celebrates the Trust’s work in transforming the derelict office block into a space that retains its original architectural features while offering eight restored rooms used daily for meetings, adult education classes, and office space.

The plaque commemorating the achievement was officially unveiled last Friday by Nia Griffith MP, who chaired the Trust in a voluntary capacity for over 13 years.

“I’m delighted the high-quality work in the first phase of the restoration has been recognised,” said Griffith. “This will be a real boost to the morale of all those involved in restoring the rest of the Shed, to fulfil the vision of preserving this wonderful historic building, whilst repurposing it for the benefit and enjoyment of the people of Llanelli and beyond.”

The Llanelli Goods Shed, built in 1875, is a rare surviving example of Victorian railway architecture and played a key role in the town’s industrial development. The Trust’s long-term vision is to restore the entire site as a centre for heritage, enterprise, and community activity, with Phase 1 completed in 2022 and officially opened by the First Minister.

The National Railway Heritage Awards, established in 1979, honour excellence in the restoration and reuse of historic railway buildings across the UK. This year’s ceremony saw nearly 60 entries, with Llanelli’s project singled out for its community impact and architectural sensitivity.

More information about the Trust and its ongoing work is available on the Llanelli Railway Goods Shed Trust website.

#heritage #Llanelli #LlanelliRailwayGoodsShedTrust #NiaGriffithMP

Llanelli town centre to see summer crackdown on crime and antisocial behaviour

The town is one of more than 500 locations across the UK signed up to the Home Secretary’s Safer Streets summer blitz, which will see Dyfed Powys Police ramp up visible patrols during peak hours and work alongside councils and local partners to deter criminal activity.

The initiative has been welcomed by Dame Nia Griffith, Labour MP for Llanelli, who said the increased presence would help restore confidence among shoppers and businesses:

“Residents and local businesses have the right to feel safe in our town centre and the increased policing and enforcement will play an important part in sending a clear message to those intent on causing problems that their behaviour will not be tolerated. Putting more officers back on the beat where people can see them will make a real difference.”

She added:

“The Conservatives decimated neighbourhood policing whilst crimes like shoplifting and street theft were spiralling out of control and communities like ours here in Llanelli unfortunately paid the price.”

The crackdown comes in response to a sharp rise in shoplifting and street crime under the previous UK Conservative Government, with shop theft reportedly increasing by 70% in its final two years in office.

As part of the UK Labour Government’s Plan for Change, Dyfed Powys Police will receive 33 additional neighbourhood officers this year, backed by a £200 million investment in community policing nationwide.

Local Police and Crime Commissioners have developed bespoke action plans designed to support town centres by banning repeat offenders from hotspots, partnering with retailers and councils to disrupt crime, and coordinating community-led efforts to support vulnerable individuals and young people.

The Home Office is also introducing a Tackling Retail Crime Together Strategy, which will use shared data to target organised criminal gangs and prolific offenders, including those stealing to fund addiction.

Other towns in the Dyfed Powys area participating in the blitz include Carmarthen, Aberystwyth, Brecon, Builth Wells, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Newtown and Tenby.

#antisocialBehaviour #DyfedPowysPolice #Llanelli #NiaGriffithMP #saferStreets

Veteran Llanelli Labour MP says she will vote against Government’s assisted dying bill

Dame Nia Griffith, who is currently the UK Government’s Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Equalities says she is going to vote against the Government’s assisted dying bill in the free vote.

In a statement, the MP said she appreciated the “deeply complex” issues surrounding the bill and had carefully listened to arguments on both sides of the debate. However, despite supporting additional amendments to the bill to add safeguards, she still remained concerned about its potential implementation and the impact on vulnerable people.

Dame Nia said: “The Assisted Dying Bill is a deeply complex issue, with its principles and potential effects having a profound impact on the lives of many. I have received hundreds of letters and emails from constituents and have spoken in person with many people on both sides of the debate, each sharing important concerns with genuine compassion.

“I have listened carefully to these views and want to thank everyone who reached out to share their emotions, as well as the personal and family experiences affected by this issue.

“The pain of watching a friend or family member suffer at the end of life is something I know all too well, and it is not something I would wish on anyone. The impact on both those suffering and their oved ones is immense, and it is only right that we act with compassion to minimise that suffering wherever possible.

“At the same time, I have had to carefully consider the serious concerns surrounding this Bill – particularly how it could affect vulnerable individuals, including those who may feel they are a burden to their families or the NHS. The risk of coercion, whether overt or subtle, is a matter that cannot be overlooked.”

Dame Nia added: “Having followed the Bill and the issues around it from its inception, I have also considered the views of medical professionals, including doctors and nurses, who would be directly involved in decisions that could end a person’s life. Our palliative care system is already under considerable strain, and in debating this Bill, we must ensure that the care provided to people at the end of life is of the highest possible standard.

“Throughout the stages of the Bill, I have supported additional amendments to make sure the Bill has robust safeguards and functions responsibly in practice. Despite these efforts, I still remain concerned around its potential applications and consequences.

“Therefore, after much reflection, I will be voting against the terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill later today.”

#AssistedDying #NiaGriffithMP #PalliativeCare #UKGovernment #WelshLabour

West Wales’ produce showcased in the heart of Westminster for ‘Carmarthenshire Day’

‘Carmarthenshire Day’ was held at the historic Westminster Hall, bringing together a wealth of parliamentarians, peers and producers in a vibrant showcase of rural Welsh excellence. 

As part of the celebrations, nine celebrated producers from across the length and breadth of Carmarthenshire were present including Bremenda Isaf, Tregroes Waffles, Brecon Carreg, Castell Howell, Coaltown Coffee, Mêl Gwenyn Gruffydd, Caws Cenarth, Carmarthen Ham and The Welsh Wool Shop. Each had the opportunity to engage with MPs, Lords and guests, offering a powerful insight into the diversity and quality of Carmarthenshire’s food, drink and craft sectors.

The event was officially opened by Dame Nia Griffith MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State in the UK Government’s Wales Office, herself the Member of Parliament for the Llanelli constituency in Carmarthenshire. 

The event drew a wide range of cross-party politicians and peers from across the UK, including Ruth Jones MP, Chair of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee, Alistair Carmichael MP, Chair of Westminster’s Environment, Food & Rural Affairs Committee and DEFRA Shadow Secretary of State, Victoria Atkins MP. The politicians were also joined by over 35 Farmers’ Union of Wales members and supporters from Carmarthenshire, who made the journey along the M4 to celebrate the special day.  

Commenting following the successful event, Ann Davies MP, who has served as Chair of the Farmers’ Union of Wales Carmarthenshire branch since 2023 said: “Carmarthenshire is a county built on hard work, innovation and community, it was a huge privilege to bring our producers to Westminster and to showcase what makes our part of Wales so special. This event was about more than products – it was about giving rural voices the platform they deserve and reminding Westminster of the value of regions like ours both economically and culturally.”

The celebration follows similar events previously hosted by the Farmers’ Union of Wales in Westminster, including Montgomeryshire Day in 2023. 

The Carmarthenshire Day celebrations were particularly timely for the Farmers’ Union of Wales too, as they celebrate seventy years since the agricultural union was founded in Carmarthenshire in December 1955.

Commenting, FUW President Ian Rickman said: “2025 marks an important year for the Farmers’ Union of Wales, as we celebrate seventy years since the Union was founded in Carmarthenshire.

“Working alongside Ann Davies MP, we were therefore delighted to support this successful event, bringing a taste of West Wales to the heart of Westminster.

“It was so heartening to see the event so well-attended by politicians and peers providing them not only with an opportunity to sample outstanding produce we boast in Wales, but also a valuable lobbying opportunity for FUW to highlight the range of challenges and changes facing Welsh farmers.” 

#AnnDaviesMP #Carmarthenshire #FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW #NiaGriffithMP #Westminster

Knife crime measures an ‘important step forward’ says Llanelli MP

Dame Nia Griffith MP hailed the UK Government’s new Crime and Policing Bill as “an important step forward” to reverse the increase in knife crime related incidents that has been seen across the UK, including in Dyfed Powys where it has gone up by a whopping 243% since 2015.

The Bill, currently making its way through Parliament, will give the police new powers to seize, retain and destroy knives held in private, applicable when the police believe the knife will be used in a violent crime.

It also includes strong new rules to prevent online knife sales, including personal liability for senior managers of online platforms who fail to act on illegal content including knives and offensive weapons.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper will also introduce a new offence of possession of an offensive weapon with intent to use unlawful violence. It also increases the maximum penalty for offences relating to the sale of offensive weapons.

The Bill will also strengthen age verification requirements for online sale of bladed products. The law will be named after 16-year old Ronan Kanda, stabbed to death in Wolverhampton by a boy who had used his mother’s ID to purchase a 22-inch sword online.

Dame Nia Griffith, Labour MP for Llanelli, said: “This legislation to crack down on knife crime and protect local communities is an important step forward. Far too many young lives are being lost to violence, with families and communities left devastated as a result.  The worrying increase in knife crime since 2015 needs to be properly tackled as a matter of urgency.

“This Labour UK Government has set an ambitious mission for the country to halve knife crime over the next decade.  Stronger laws and proper enforcement is the start and we must continue to pursue every possible avenue that we can to save young lives.”

#DyfedPowysPolice #knifeCrime #Llanelli #NiaGriffithMP

The temporary change, agreed for a period of six months by Hywel Dda University Health Board today will not affect the Acute Medical Assessment Unit. Very unwell medical patients will still be taken to Prince Philip Hospital, 24-hours a day, for assessment and treatment as they are now.

Adults and children with a minor injury will still be able to attend the Minor Injury Unit at the hospital between 8am and 8pm every day.

Overnight, from 8pm to 8am patients in the Llanelli area with minor injuries that cannot wait for treatment the following day, should use the NHS 111 Wales symptom checker available from 111.wales.nhs.uk; or, call NHS 111 for help, advice and signposting if urgent but not an emergency, or in a life-threatening emergency, call 999.

The temporary adjustment to the opening hours of the MIU is due to patient safety concerns, raised both by Healthcare Inspectorate Wales, seeking assurances following an inspection in June of last year, and from staff working at the unit. This is due to the frequent inability to find suitably qualified doctors to cover the GP led service, particularly in evening and overnight sessions.

This has led to the service being led instead by Emergency Nurse Practitioners who, whilst extremely skilled at dealing with minor injuries, are not able to provide suitable care to patients who require a GP.

Additionally, some patients attending the unit have more complex needs than can be managed by a GP, as they are considered major. This means they need to be stabilised and transferred onwards.

The urgent need to address this problem has been endorsed by medical staff at the hospital with growing concerns about the safety of the service and the patients it treats.

Prince Philip Hospital’s Minor Injury Unit Clinical Lead Jon Morris said:

“To ensure the safety and confidence of people attending the minor injury unit, we need to able to provide a fit-for-purpose service during all opening hours.

“The inability to consistently cover the rota, with suitably qualified doctors, particularly during the evenings and overnight, carries risk to our patients and our staff, with staff absences then compounding the problem.

“We considered whether we could move to an emergency nurse-led model overnight, but we have found that some presentations at the unit are more serious in nature than can be dealt with in a unit of this type. Therefore, we ruled out this option in the short term.

“Whilst this temporary change is in place, it is important to stress that Prince Philip Hospital continues to provide acute medical care for the local population.

“The Acute Medical Assessment Unit provides rapid investigations and treatments to unwell patients such as those who have potentially had a stroke, or with chronic diseases, or infections.

“These cases typically come into the unit via ambulance or via GP referral. We will work closely with GPs and the Welsh Ambulance Services Trust to ensure these patients continue to be seen in Prince Philip Hospital, as their closest hospital, during this temporary change to the Minor Injury Unit.”

The health board will now run an information and engagement campaign in the community and will seek to establish a stakeholder group with representatives of the community to build the future options for the service. This will both inform people about what care and treatment is provided from the Minor Injury Unit, what the temporary opening hours are, and seek to consider what the future of the service could look like.

After hearing the changes Nia Griffith MP for Llanelli said:

“I am very concerned at the proposals to close the Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) at Prince Philip Hospital overnight and have said so bluntly to the Chair and CEO of the Hywel Dda Board.

“Today I am attending the Board’s meeting in Carmarthen and I have asked the Board to explain why they are proposing to implement the closure on 1st November before starting a consultation on the future staffing of the MIU.

“I am asking them to keep the MIU open whilst they do much more to develop a sustainable staffing model to keep the MIU permanently open 24/7.”

https://swanseabaynews.com/2024/09/26/board-agrees-temporary-overnight-closure-of-minor-injury-unit-in-llanelli/

#HywelDdaNHS #NiaGriffithMP #PrincePhillipHospital