Machete wielding biker jailed after threatening to stab group of teens

20-year-old James Driver, from Caewern, brandished the knife at three boys in an incident in Aberavon on 22 January.

Terrified onlookers described how Driver brandished a machete and charged at a group of youngsters while threatening to stab them.

He then then rode off on a motorbike, going around a busy roundabout the wrong way cutting-up a number of vehicles, before driving over a pedestrian footpath into Lidl supermarket’s car park.

He was later arrested on suspicion of affray and possession of a bladed article. The machete was found by police officers who were conducting a search of Driver’s address.

In court, Driver pleaded guilty to affray, possession of bladed article, possession of an offensive weapon and dangerous driving. He has five previous convictions for nine offences including driving without a licence and without insurance.

He has been sentenced to sixteen months in prison, serving up to 40% of that sentence in custody before being released on licence to serve the remainder in the community.  He was also banned from driving for 15 months and will have to take an extended test before he can get a licence in future.

PC Lincoln Burrow from South Wales Police said: “James Driver’s behaviour for all three of his offences was unacceptable. Threatening and intimidating behaviour such as that he has displayed will not be tolerated.

“We hope that James will use his time in prison to think hard about his actions and change his ways.”

#Aberavon #Caewern #knifeCrime #Neath #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice

Government criticised for treatment of Port Talbot steelworkers

The Liberal Democrats say they have highlighted several problems with the transition deal struck with Tata Steel.

At a parliamentary debate earlier today (30 April) the Lib Dems claimed that since the news that British Steel in Scunthorpe was to be nationalised, Labour have consistently defended its position not to do the same in Port Talbot by arguing they were able to secure an improved redundancy and training package for the almost 3,000 people being made redundant.

David Chadwick, the Lib Dem MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe put to the Wales Office minister, Jo Stevens that since the announcement of the deal last summer with Tata numerous problems have been reported by those facing redundancy.

These include employees with 40+ years of service, who are currently on job share contracts, have had their redundancy figures based on their part-time contract. Those who have asked to return to full-time roles have been refused.

Mr Chadwick went on to claim that employees were not being provided clear finishing dates, meaning they can’t secure new employment, or if they want to start new employment imminently, they need to forfeit the voluntary redundancy package.

He said that many staff left the site without receiving payouts, saving the company millions of pounds in order to start in new jobs instead of being left in limbo waiting for a finish date.

In February 2025, whistleblowers reported to Nation.Cymru, that just three ex-employees had accessed the Employment and Skills Flexible Fund retraining scheme. One major problem cited was that if an employee stays in the retraining scheme longer than a month, they will not receive the full enhanced redundancy payment.

The enhanced redundancy package comprises 2.8 weeks’ pay for every year of service up to 25 years’ service. It also includes a minimum payment of £15,000 plus a possible £5,000 ex gratia payment dependant on attendance. The standard redundancy package comprises 2.1 weeks’ pay for every year of service.

Mr Chadwick said that when questioned, Tata did not deny only three people had accessed the retraining scheme.

The Lib Dems said that Jo Stevens was not able to answer the specific questions asked by David Chadwick.

The UK government has previously said it could claw back its investment should Tata renege on the deal.

Commenting, Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster Spokesperson David Chadwick said: “Since this Labour Government announced it was acting to save jobs in Scunthorpe, but not Port Talbot, Labour has repeatedly claimed this is because they secured a good deal for workers losing their jobs at Tata, yet conversations I’ve had with workers since directly contradict this claim.

“With those workers having served over 25 years, not having that service recognised and only a handful of people accessing retraining courses due to the threat of receiving a worse redundancy package, this does not sound like a good deal.  

“The way workers and the wider community in Port Talbot have been treated by this new Labour Government and the previous Conservative Government has been disgraceful.

“The Welsh Liberal Democrats will continue to highlight their failures and fight for immediate investments to replace the jobs that have been lost as a result of this mismanagement.”

The UK Government has told Swansea Bay News in response that it “acted decisively” to ensure “steelmaking would continue in Port Talbot” and have “done so again to protect the industry in Scunthorpe”.

However it added that “the circumstances between the two cases are very different”.

A UK Government spokesperson said: “The agreement with Tata Steel to build an electric arc furnace and Tata’s decision to shut down the blast furnaces and coke ovens in Port Talbot were all made in 2024 under the previous government.

“In just a few weeks we negotiated an improved deal with Tata which preserved 5,000 jobs, ensured there would be no compulsory redundancies, confirmed a £500m grant for future steelmaking in Port Talbot and secured investment opportunities for the local area.

“We also offered support for every single worker and supply chain business via our £80m Port Talbot Transition Board. More than £50m has already been announced, much of it on retraining and reskilling of workers, and the rest will follow in the coming months.

“In contrast, Jingye, British Steel’s owner in Scunthorpe, rejected our offer of financial support meaning we had to legislate to ensure the continued safe operation of the blast furnaces.

“Our ongoing support for British steelmaking ensures that steel communities like Port Talbot and Scunthorpe have a bright future.”

#industry #PortTalbot #PortTalbotSteelworks #steelworks #TataSteel #WelshLabour #WelshLiberalDemocrats

Police say far-right conspiracy theorist’s claims of Muslim attack on fire-struck Port Talbot Chapel “completely false”

Notorious US conspiracy theorist and radio talk show host Alex Jones has claimed on social media platform X that the recent devastating fire at Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel in Port Talbot was “set on fire by 2 Pakistani invaders”.

The post, which has been seen by over 1.7million people and shared 4,500 times has been described as “completely false” by South Wales Police, who replied to Jones’ post with their own message saying “two teenagers, both from Neath Port Talbot, have been arrested on suspicion of arson in connection with this incident.”

The misinformation is the latest in a series of controversial statements by Jones, who was ordered to pay $1.32 billion to bereaved families of Sandy Hook school in the USA after being found guilty of spreading lies about the mass shooting that took place there in 2012.

Police arrested two boys aged 14 and 15 in connection with the chapel fire, which at its height saw six fire appliances including a specialist turntable ladder appliance tackling the blaze.

The fire came just days after a large empty school building near Penlan was also “deliberately” set on fire.

Neath Port Talbot Council subsequently sought to reassure residents on the condition of the fire ravaged chapel, saying that it was “not in immediate danger of collapse”

#AlexJones #Arson #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice

Former solider handed extended sentence for raping two women

Swansea Crown court heard that two teenagers, aged 17 and 18 were drunk when Sutton raped them and that he plied one of the teenagers with alcohol to increase her level of intoxication – one of whom woke up while she was being raped.

35-year-old Johnathan Sutton, who now lives in Walsall, pleaded not guilty to the offences, which took place in June and August 2021 in Cwmavon, at an address where Sutton was living at the time.

However, he was found guilty at Swansea Crown Court, and has been sentenced this week.

Judge Catherine Richards described Sutton as a “large, imposing man” in his 30s, while his victims were petite in stature. Judge Richards said Sutton had tried to “manipulate” the victims after the rape, claiming they had initiated the sexual contact.

Sutton was described by the judge as a “calculating, manipulating individual” who was capable of exhibiting “uncontrollable behaviour”.

Sutton was handed an extended 18-year sentence for two counts of rape against the two victims.

Detective Constable Gary Willis-Hill from South Wales Police said: “Johnathan Sutton was clearly a dangerous man who preyed upon victims when he felt he was in a position of control upon them.

“By pleading not guilty to these crimes, he has shown that he has no remorse for his actions, and the impact which his actions have had upon the lives and wellbeing of his victims.

“He is now going to be behind bars for a very considerable amount of time.”

#Cwmavon #PortTalbot #rape #SouthWalesPolice

Steel investment programme for jobs hits £3 million

The Programme was launched last summer in response to changes as Tata Steel moves to greener steel-making at its Port Talbot plant with a £1.25 billion investment in the new Electric Arc Furnace. 

Many of the 84 companies supported are in the Port Talbot and Swansea area, while the others are across South Wales.  

“Our strategy is to stimulate the jobs market by identifying businesses with growth potential that can create the jobs of the future,” said UKSE Area Manager Rob Barber. “We took a flexible approach aimed at making a swift response in order to make a significant impact on the local economy.

“We committed considerable resources to the Programme, both in terms of personnel and finance, and I am delighted to say we have exceeded our expectations and the response from both employers, and new start-up businesses, has been excellent.”

Just under 50 start-ups have received grants and loans, many of them launched by former workers at the plant such as Coffi Portablo, the colourful and inviting coffee venue in Aberavon Shopping Centre run by Vichuda and Cassius Walker-Hunt.  The loan enabled Cassius to buy a commercial refrigerator, coffee blenders and other equipment. “It has been very useful indeed and has helped get the business off the ground,” he said.

A further 30 companies have benefitted from loans to enable them to bring their business plans forward with speed.

Port Talbot based JES, an important contractor to the steelworks over many years, has launched an academy to train former steelworkers and others in welding and fabrication skills backed with a £200,000 loan from UKSE.

Businesses supported cover a diverse range of sectors – environmental, well-being and mental health support, innovation in industrial equipment, heavy industry, personal care, sportswear, landscaping and many others. 

To deliver the programme UKSE in Wales increased the size of its Investment team, bringing in Regional Executives Michelle Noble and Alan Jenkins to work alongside Howard Thompson, under the leadership of experienced former commercial banker Rob Barber. 

“Working closely with other agencies I am confident that UKSE has made a significant and useful contribution to helping the local economy move ahead and mitigate the changes that have occurred. There is of course more to be done and the UKSE Support Programme is set to continue and support job creation in Port Talbot and South Wales,” said Mr Barber.

#Business #PortTalbot #PortTalbotSteelworks #steelworks #TataSteel #UKSE

Council says fire damaged Port Talbot chapel ‘not in immediate danger of collapse’

Neath Port Talbot Council have said that a safety cordon will remain around the fire damaged Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel in Port Talbot.

The council says it has removed loose material from the building, but there is no immediate danger of collapse.

Forge Road and Station Road remain open to the public.

A council spokesperson said: “On Friday (25th April 2025), the Council used emergency powers available to it under section 78 of The Building Act (Dangerous Building – emergency measures)  and took action immediately in removing any loose materials from the building and erecting a steel fence safety cordon around the building.  Building Control, assisted by the Council’s Structural Engineers, have made an initial assessment of the remaining masonry structure and are of the opinion that it is not in immediate danger of collapse.

“The Council is currently in dialogue with the building owner relating to further works required to secure the long term safety of the building, and will monitor the building’s condition closely over the coming weeks.  Whilst the cordon remains in place, there are currently no plans to close either Forge Road or Station Road.”

Police arrested two boys aged 14 and 15 in connection with the fire, which at its height saw six fire appliances including a specialist turntable ladder appliance tackling the blaze.

The fire came just days after a large empty school building near Penlan was also “deliberately” set on fire.

#Arson #fire #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PortTalbot

Two teens arrested for Port Talbot chapel fire

The historic Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on the corner of Station Road and Forge Road in Port Talbot was destroyed by the fire which started around 6.45pm yesterday.

At its height six fire appliances attended the scene including a specialist turntable ladder appliance.

The fire comes just days after a large empty school building near Penlan was also “deliberately” set on fire.

A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: “Officers investigating a fire at Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel in Port Talbot town centre yesterday evening (Thursday April 24) have arrested two teenagers in connection with starting the blaze.

“A 14-year-old boy from Sandfields, Neath Port Talbot and a 15-year-old boy from Bryn, Neath Port Talbot have been arrested on suspicion of arson.

“This investigation is ongoing.”

A spokesperson for Mid and West Wales Fire and rescue said: “At 6.49pm on Thursday, April 24th, the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews from Port Talbot, Morriston and Neath Fire Stations were called to an incident at the Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on Station Road in Port Talbot.

“Supported by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, crews responded to a fire within the disused chapel, measuring approximately 30 metres by 15 metres.  Crews utilised six water jets and one turntable ladder appliance as a water tower to extinguish the fire.

“Crews continued to monitor and extinguish remaining hot spots into the early hours of Friday, April 25th.  The building was severely damaged by the fire.”

#Arson #fire #MidAndWestWalesFireAndRescueService #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice

Headteacher who hit deputy with wrench jailed for 2 years and 4 months

Anthony Felton, 54, from Gorseinon, attacked a fellow teacher using a wrench at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Comprehensive School in Aberavon, Neath Port Talbot, on March 5, in an incident which was captured on the school’s CCTV.

Police have now released shocking CCTV footage that shows the moment Felton repeatedly struck Deputy Headteacher Richard Pike as he was sat at a desk.

After pleading guilty to causing grievous bodily harm with intent in April, he has today been sentenced to two years and four months in prison.

Detective Sergeant Simon Davies said: “Anthony Felton’s actions have resulted in him going to prison, have had a significant impact on his personal life and have destroyed his decades-long teaching career – not to mention the physical impact upon the victim, who we are pleased is on the road to recovery.

“This attack, and its aftermath, has been an alarming ordeal not just for those directly involved, but also for other staff at the school, as well as the pupils and their parents and guardians.

“There is absolutely no excuse for what Anthony Felton has done, and there was no other possible outcome than for him to go to prison.”

#Aberavon #assault #featured #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice #StJosephSCatholicSchoolAndSixthFormCentre

Derelict Port Talbot Chapel destroyed by fire

The fire at the historic Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on the corner of Station Road and Forge Road in Port Talbot saw six fire appliances and firefighters from across the region tackle the blaze which broke out yesterday evening (24 April).

Large crowds turned out to watch and record the fire, which is suspected locally to have been deliberately set, although not yet confirmed as such by the fire service.

A spokesperson for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “At 6.49pm on Thursday, April 24th, the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews from Port Talbot, Morriston and Neath Fire Stations were called to an incident at the Bethany English Calvinistic Methodist Chapel on Station Road in Port Talbot.

“Supported by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, crews responded to a fire within the disused chapel, measuring approximately 30 metres by 15 metres.  Crews utilised six water jets and one turntable ladder appliance as a water tower to extinguish the fire.

“Crews continued to monitor and extinguish remaining hot spots into the early hours of Friday, April 25th. 

“The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.”

The 150-year-old chapel has been empty for over 20 years. Originally founded as a Welsh Calvinistic Methodist Church in 1879, it later became a library before closing permanently in 2002.

The fire comes just days after a large empty school building near Penlan was “deliberately” set on fire.

Just like the school fire, locals have complained about the empty church in Port Talbot being a magnet for vandalism with recent reports of multiple small fires and break-ins.

#Arson #Chapel #featured #fire #MidAndWestWalesFireAndRescueService #PortTalbot

Aberavon burglar jailed for latest string of offences

Police say 38-year-old Marcus Bevan targeted no fewer than four addresses in the Port Talbot area on February 11 this year.

Swansea Crown Court heard that Bevan was a serial burglar who had committed 114 offences including numerous house and commercial burglaries and a conviction for burgling and trashing a local rugby club.

His latest burglary spree on 11 February this year saw hundreds of pounds worth of clothes taken from a property on Tydraw Street in Port Talbot with further incidents in nearby Tudor Street that same morning.

Doorbell footage from the properties submitted to the court showed a hooded figure trying front doors in the area around 6.30am. All of the properties targeted by Bevan were found to have been occupied by people on their own.

Bevan’s distinctive fur-trimmed hood was identified by a Police officer familiar with Bevan after looking at nearby CCTV footage.

Following a guilty plea at Swansea Crown Court, Bevan was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison

Detective Sergeant Jonathan Holding from South Wales Police said: “It is always disappointing to see when offenders continue to commit crimes, having undergone programmes designed to reduce their re-offending whilst in custody.

“During this latest spree of brazen offending, Marcus Bevan stole clothing from one address and house keys from another. He also tried the front doors of at least two other addresses, but was unable to gain access.

“Marcus Bevan is a prolific burglar who shows no sign of ever learning his lesson and changing his ways. He is rightly beginning a lengthy term in prison.”

(Lead image: South Wales Police)

#Aberavon #burglary #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice

“Restraining a prisoner helped me realise I had Parkinson’s”

Tony Hillier worked for 13 or 14 years as a Prisoner Custody Officer in South Wales, transporting people to and from prison and court. One day, he injured his thumb when restraining a prisoner and from that moment he noticed his hand had started to shake. Even though he had surgery on his right thumb, his right hand continued to shake. After many tests no one could identify what was wrong. Until he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2012 when he was 59 years old.

Given the nature of Tony’s job, he was told it would be impossible for him to keep up with any new training on how to control and restrain prisoners. It was upsetting for him at the time having to give up a job he had been doing for so many years. So in the same year as his diagnosis, Tony set up his own sports massage company. He had already completed his training and was doing some part-time work in this area before but it became his full time job for nine years until he retired just before the Covid pandemic in 2020. 

Tony is convinced that treating other people’s injuries helped him, as his mind and body were constantly active. The tremor wasn’t an issue when working as a massage therapist. He told every patient about his Parkinson’s. Nobody complained and everyone was very kind. 

Tony is a firm believer that exercise helps with managing his Parkinson’s symptoms and adding some fun to it is always a bonus. He thinks it’s also important to have a hobby or two to keep the mind and body as active as possible. He would urge everyone, if they can, to challenge themselves and push Parkinson’s to one side. Wood carving is his go-to hobby and he recently started making clocks. Even turning old vinyl records into clocks.

Tony and his wife Jill now volunteer and run the monthly Parkinson’s Support Group meeting in Longford, Neath as well as a more informal cafe-style Port Talbot “Cuppa and Chat” meeting in Port Talbot which was launched in 2022.  They offer a range of activities in the group sessions but Tony reiterates that there’s no pressure to do anything or to get involved. They want everyone to feel comfortable. Just turning up and being there is enough.

Parkinson’s is a complex brain condition that gets worse over time. It’s the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, affecting 153,000 people in the UK and around 8,300 in Wales. It has more than 40 symptoms, from tremor and pain to anxiety, and there is currently no cure.

Tony said: “Whatever your circumstances, life is all about lessons that we must learn. Parkinson’s can be a tough teacher. My advice to anyone would be to never tap out even when life gets really difficult; if you get knocked down seven times, get up eight times and; adapt and overcome – always.” 

“Support groups are invaluable to most people – whether they’re living with Parkinson’s or a family member or carer. They’re somewhere safe where no one sees people just for their Parkinson’s. 

“On my journey with Parkinson’s there has been one constant – my wife Jill. I could never have achieved all I have without her at my side. Helping, encouraging, supporting. Worrying and probably shedding hidden tears. Parkinson’s has brought us closer, and has made us realise what is really important in life.”

Dawn McGuinness, Wales Community Development Manager at Parkinson’s UK Cymru said: “Around 8,300 people live with Parkinson’s in Wales so it’s vital for us to continue raising awareness of the condition and showing there is support available as we mark World Parkinson’s Day.

“There are more than 30 Parkinson’s UK Cymru local groups across Wales and we work closely with partners to offer a wide range of activities. As well as our community programmes, we offer support in all areas of Wales through our adviser service, we influence decision makers and support and run fundraising events. We can’t do it all without the support of amazing volunteers such as Tony and Jill and we’ll continue our work so people in all parts of Wales can continue to live well with Parkinson’s.”

#ParkinsonS #ParkinsonSUKCymru #PortTalbot

Former Port Talbot steelworker Martyn launches Mental Wellbeing support business

Martyn worked at the steelworks for two years in the run up to the recent changes at the plant offering Mental Health and Wellbeing support to the workforce during that difficult period. 

Now, with financial support from Tata Steel subsidiary UKSE he has launched Springfield Advisory working with businesses and organisations in Neath and Port Talbot and elsewhere to continue his work helping people get through the challenges of daily life.

The problem, he says, is that people often don’t want to confront issues and find it hard to open up to others. “Many people don’t want to admit what they see as weakness and dig themselves further into a hole. This is what I myself did some years ago until I sought help and my life improved as a result.”

While at the Port Talbot works he supported around 100 employees conducting webinars, awareness seminars, walking groups and other techniques he had learnt previously in his work with youth groups in the town where he gained a range of qualifications in First Aid, Mental Health, Addiction and Wellbeing. 

The £11,500 Fast Track loan from UKSE was part of its Support Programme for Wales which has now injected £3 million into the Welsh economy since it launched last year, creating around 400 jobs in 81 businesses.

“It was very beneficial and enabled me to create a website, and this has really helped get the business off the ground.”

Martyn explained that recent changes by the Health and Safety Executive mean that employers must take more responsibility for providing Mental Health and Wellbeing support for the workforce. “This has been a major step forward, and benefits both employers and their workers. From the employer’s point of view it means a more productive, efficient workforce and less time lost through absence.”

Michelle Noble Regional Executive with UKSE said she was delighted to support Springfield Advisory. “In modern life there is a growing awareness of the importance of Mental Wellbeing both at work and in the community. Martyn has the skills and experience to help people deal with the challenges they face and effect real change. We wish the business every success.”

(Lead Image: Nick Treharne)

#Business #mentalHealth #PortTalbot #steelworks #TataSteel #UKSE #wellbeing

Swansea, Port Talbot and Milford Haven ports in running for huge offshore wind construction contracts

Plans for a new generation of floating wind farms off the coasts of Wales and South West England moved a step closer as the leasing round for three sites in the Celtic Sea entered its final stages.

The Crown Estate – which manages the seabed around England, Wales and Northern Ireland –also revealed that, as part of the process, companies bidding to build the new wind farms shortlisted a range of potential locations in Wales and South West England for the assembly and deployment of the new turbines.

Research published last year by The Crown Estate showed these new wind farms could support the creation of more than 5,000 jobs and deliver a £1.4 billion boost to the economy, with further opportunities through the supply chain.

As part of their bid proposals, Bidders have set out which ports they intend to work with to support the delivery of projects if they are successful. This refers specifically to ‘integration ports’ where turbines will be mounted on large floating platforms before being towed out to sea. 

The Crown Estate say the development of ports to support the new wind farms are expected to lead to the creation of significant new opportunities for jobs and economic growth.

The turbines could be as much as 300 metres tall, around the same height as The Shard in London, and sit on a floating platform similar in size to a football pitch.

Bidders have put forward a range of ports at this stage which are in relative proximity to the Celtic Sea. These are Port of Milford Haven, Port of Swansea, Port Talbot, Port of Bristol, Port of Plymouth, Falmouth Port and the Port of Brest.

The Crown Estate say that at this stage, the information provided by Bidders indicates a strong potential for Port Talbot and/or Port of Bristol to play a key role in the delivery of Round 5 projects.

Gus Jaspert, Managing Director, Marine at The Crown Estate, said: “The advent of floating offshore wind offers a generational opportunity for the UK to be at the forefront of an exciting new global industry. Developing this new technology in the Celtic Sea will open up transformational opportunities for new jobs, investment and growth across Wales, South West England and beyond.

“With Government backing to secure the long-term success of the UK as a global leader in floating wind, we can lay the foundations for future generations to reap the rewards of a decarbonised, energy-secure and prosperous future.

“We look forward to continuing our work with governments and the industry to secure the investment and commitment needed as we move forward, for the benefit of coastal communities and the UK as a whole.”

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: “The UK is a world leader when it comes to floating offshore wind, and by unlocking the untapped potential of the Celtic Sea we will reap the benefits of economic growth and thousands of jobs in Wales and the South West, delivering on our Plan for Change.

“Since taking office, we have approved the world’s largest floating offshore wind farm project, and we are backing the industry even further so this cutting-edge technology can continue to thrive off the UK coastline.

“More floating turbines in our waters means more clean, homegrown power that we control, delivering energy security for families and businesses.”

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said: “Today’s announcement shows that Wales is ready to seize the golden opportunity of floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea, and secure more than 5,000 jobs and billions of pounds of investment this has the potential to bring.

“Wales will play a key part in delivering clean power as part of our Plan for Change, boosting economic growth, lowering energy bills and putting more pounds in people’s pockets.”

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “The UK is open for business, and this leasing round will help unlock vital new investment in our world-leading floating offshore wind industry to create jobs and prosperity in our coastal communities.

“Backed by our Industrial Strategy, which will place the clean energy sector at the heart of our growth plans, we’re driving forward our missions to make the UK a clean energy superpower and secure economic growth – delivering on two of the foundations of our Plan for Change.”

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, said: “This milestone represents a significant opportunity for Wales. Floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea will not only advance our clean energy goals but create valuable jobs and investment across Wales’ coastal communities. Our ports are well positioned to support this growing industry and we’re committed to ensuring such developments deliver lasting economic benefits for Wales whilst continuing to strengthen our position as a renewable energy leader.”

RenewableUK’s Deputy Chief Executive Jane Cooper said: “We welcome this step forward towards the crucial final stages of this landmark leasing round which will kickstart the industrial development of floating offshore wind projects and supply chains at scale in the UK. Today’s announcement on the ports which could host new wind turbine assembly facilities will provide confidence for investors in port facilities around the country, including those in south Wales and the south west of England who are focussing on new floating windfarms in the Celtic Sea. 

 “By 2050, floating turbines could provide a third of the UK’s offshore wind capacity with 40 gigawatts fully operational – enough to power every home in the country. By then, our analysis shows that the UK’s floating wind industry will employ 97,000 people, contributing £47 billion to our economy by building and supplying projects here as well as exporting our cutting-edge technology worldwide. Maximising the capacity of floating wind to be delivered in future leasing rounds would enable the UK to make the most of these exciting opportunities.” 

Richard Ballantyne, Chief Executive of the British Ports Association, said: “Floating offshore wind will bring jobs and prosperity to UK shores, whilst moving us closer to net zero. Ports are critical to securing the social and economic benefits of the energy transition and we welcome this step forward in making floating wind a reality in UK waters. As an industry we will continue to work closely with Government, The Crown Estate and the renewable energy sector to deliver on our shared ambitions for offshore wind.”

(Lead image: Crown Estate)

#CrownEstate #MilfordHaven #offshoreWind #PortOfMilfordHaven #PortOfSwansea #PortTalbot #renewableEnergy #Swansea

Headteacher to be jailed after pleading guilty to attacking deputy at school

Anthony John Felton, 54 from Swansea pleaded guilty to attacking Deputy Headteacher Richard Pike with a spanner after discovering he was having an affair with the same female teacher.

Police were called to the school on Wednesday 5 March after Felton delivered “a number of blows” with a spanner to Mr Pyke, which had all been caught on CCTV.

Mr Pyke has since been discharged from hospital after suffering minor injuries.

Felton spoke only to confirm his name and enter his plea as he appeared by video-link from prison.

Following Felton’s guilty plea, Judge Paul Thomas KC at Swansea Crown Court said the offence was so serious that only a prison sentence could be justified.

Judge Thomas said: “In the context of where and how this offence was committed, and in particular, bearing in mind the propensity of violence in schools perpetrated by pupils, it seems to me that my public duty require that only a prison sentence can be passed here.”

Felton was appointed headteacher at the 900-pupil school in March 2023 having worked at the school since 2001, initially as the Head of Mathematics according to his LinkedIn profile.

Prior to the attack, Felton had emailed staff at the school apologising “for the distress which the rest of today will bring.”

Felton will remain in custody until he is sentenced on 25 April.

(Lead image: St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Comprehensive School)

#Aberavon #assault #featured #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice #StJosephSCatholicSchoolAndSixthFormCentre

UK Government funds mental health support to help Port Talbot steelworkers back into work

Chairing the latest meeting of the Tata Steel Port Talbot Transition Board today (27 March) Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens announced £3.27 million to fund mental health support services in Neath Port Talbot for those affected by Tata Steel’s transition to greener steelmaking.

The funding, which is flexible and may be increased depending on demand, is planned to cover services including hiring more counsellors to work directly with affected steelworkers, and providing extra resources and grants to support existing mental health provision.

It also covers expanding availability of community and peer support such as through Men’s Sheds, She Sheds and other community groups and funding mental health support in schools where children are affected by the Tata Steel transition.

The funding will also allow for the provision of specialist advice for steelworkers and their families navigating the welfare system or struggling with debt, along with training council and trade union support workers in suicide awareness and prevention.

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens said:  “The past 18 months have been incredibly difficult for the steelworkers of Port Talbot, their families and for the wider community but we said we would back them in whatever ways were needed. We are helping people learn new skills but we also need to help protect people’s mental health, because well-being is crucial to getting back into work and staying in work. 

“By boosting direct support services, we are investing in the people of the area and supporting growth in the local economy.”

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans MS said: “Working alongside our Transition Board partners, we will continue to make sure that the right assistance and support is in place for those impacted by the Tata changes as well as providing opportunities for growth, investment and employment wherever they arise.”

Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt said: “Neath Port Talbot Council welcomes the announcement of this funding and the commitment to support the wellbeing of our local communities through this difficult time. We know the impact of change at the steelworks is being felt deeply across the area, and particularly within Port Talbot itself, where every household will know many others directly or indirectly affected.

“This is a vital addition to the support the council is delivering alongside our Transition Board partners, as we adapt to the future of steelmaking in the town and prepare for the new opportunities offered by future investment and developments such as the Celtic Freeport.”

Martyn Wagstaff, Mental Health Advisor said: “It’s really important that anyone who is struggling with their mental health asks for help. There is support available and talking to someone is the best way to get better.

“This funding from the Transition Board means that people in Neath Port Talbot will be able to access more help when needed.”

#mentalHealth #PortTalbot #PortTalbotSteelworks #steelworks #TataSteel #UKGovernment

‘Green Screen’ and murals latest nature project under Port Talbot motorway viaduct

The initiative is part of Neath Port Talbot Council’s “Returning Grey to Green” project which aims to integrate nature into urban areas.

The latest project has turned an area under the M4 motorway between Llewellyn Street and Pentyla-Baglan Road into a vibrant green space that benefits both nature and the aesthetics of the area.

The ‘green screen’ intends to support local wildlife by providing shelter, nests and food. Constructed using a trellis support system and climbing plants, the screen will contribute to improving air quality and regulating temperatures in an urban area. It also aims to improve the aesthetics of the area and have a positive impact on people’s physical and mental health.

Local artists including THEW Creative, JenksArt and Fresh Creative, have painted murals on the concrete columns supporting the motorway. The murals highlight key species of plants and wildlife to act as a reminder of the rich natural heritage in the county borough.

Additionally, native trees have been planted adjacent to Port Talbot multi-storey car park to support existing mature trees, and a wildflower meadow has been established to enhance the area’s biodiversity.

Cllr Wyndham Griffiths, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Transport and Connectivity, said: “This project is a wonderful example of how we can bring nature into urban spaces, improving both the environment, and the look and feel of the area.

“Along with other nature-based schemes the team has delivered, I’m sure local residents will welcome the improvements.”

(Lead image: Neath Port Talbot Council)

#Environment #M4 #mural #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PortTalbot

Over ‘300 skilled jobs’ secured for Port Talbot Steel works green transition plan

Tata Steel say the new jobs in the local supply chain will be part of new contracts signed with Bridgend-based companies Darlow Lloyd & Sons, Wernick Buildings, and Swansea-based business, Andrew Scott Ltd. 

Darlow Lloyd & Sons will play a key role in the initial phases of the project, overseeing excavation, recycling, infrastructure, and drainage works essential to the site’s transition to Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmaking.

Director, Rhys Lloyd, said: “We are delighted to announce this partnership which will boost employment across Neath Port Talbot and lay the foundation for future growth across the manufacturing sector.

“Our involvement in this transformation is not only a privilege, but fundamental to maintaining our strong presence and heritage at the site.

“This collaboration safeguards our experienced workforce and allows us to appoint local experts with transferable skillsets to this once-in-a-lifetime project.”

Critical infrastructure, including the construction of a new scrap yard to manage the inflow of UK-sourced used steel as a feedstock for the new Electric Arc Furnace (EAF), will be completed by Andrew Scott Ltd. 

David Evan Williams, Civil Contracts Director said: “Having worked major on civil and construction projects at Port Talbot since the late 1800s, our involvement in this transformation is not only a privilege, but fundamental to maintaining our strong presence and heritage at the site. 

“We have committed to supporting local talent, ensuring that we fill positions with our skilled workforce, alongside experienced former Tata Steel workers and experts in the supply chain. As work progresses, we aim to provide further opportunities for individuals in surrounding communities to help deliver this exciting vision.”

Ben Wernick, Managing Director, Wernick Buildings added: “We are thrilled to bring our wealth of experience in the modular construction sector to deliver the centrepiece of Port Talbot’s contractor village; an 8500 square metre space spanning three buildings, comprised of offices and welfare zones.

“90% of the workers we employ to build this impressive space will be from communities surrounding the steelworks – spanning Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and Cardiff – allowing us to nurture and grow regional talent.”

UK Industry Minister, Sarah Jones commented: “Today’s news is a major boost for communities in South Wales, delivering high-skilled opportunities for local people, and will help Welsh steelmaking to drive growth and attract further investment as part of our Plan for Change.”  

Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens added: “We have supported Tata Steel with £500m to safeguard Welsh steelmaking and I’m pleased that the company is itself investing in the local supply chain, securing hundreds of jobs and driving economic growth.

“It is fantastic news for the South Wales economy that local firms have secured these major contracts to deliver the transformation of steelmaking at Port Talbot.”

Lloyd Bryant, Head of Infrastructure & Amenities, Tata Steel, concluded: “The expertise of these long-standing contractors is key to the success of our transformation. 

“We look forward to collaborating with them, under Sir Robert McAlpine’s supervision, to safeguard the future of sustainable steelmaking in the area, securing jobs and ensuring the long-term viability of steelmaking in Wales for generations.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AxsEV-Y1Ys

#AndrewScottLtd #construction #DarlowLloydSons #industry #PortTalbot #PortTalbotSteelworks #steelworks #TataSteel #WernickBuildings

Plans revealed for Port Talbot eco-school

Planning consultants Asbri Planning have released the details as part of a pre-planning consultation with the local community, ahead of the council submitting a formal planning application.

The proposals call for the demolition of the existing primary school and Tir Morfa Centre, and construction of a new school incorporating community facilities, a sports pitch and play areas, as well as highway and access improvements to the site.

The school will be packed with energy efficient technology including a ground source heat pump system and photovoltaic panels.

Plans say the use of carbon intensive materials will be discouraged where practicable in favour of natural and renewable materials and the use of recycled materials, where appropriate, will be encouraged.

It’s proposed that the new school will include a Welsh Language Immersion Unit and Community Hub delivering a range of educational and community services provided by Neath Port Talbot Council, partner organisations and voluntary groups.

The school design is part of the Welsh Government’s ‘Sustainable Schools Challenge’ and have been designed with help from school pupils.

Neath Port Talbot Council declined to comment on the proposal until a decision on planning approval has been made.

The consultation on the plans for new school is open on Asbri Planning’s website until 16 April 2025.

(Lead image: Asbri Planning)

#construction #education #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #PortTalbot #Sandfields #YsgolGynraddGymraegRhosafan

Port Talbot arsonist jailed for four years

36-year-old Laura Evans, from Port Talbot, deliberately set fire to a towel within an address on Velindre Street. This caused a nearby bed to also set alight, engulfing the bedroom in flames. There were no other people within the address at the time.

She has this week been sentenced to four years in prison.

Detective Sergeant Jonathan Holding from South Wales Police said: “Were it not for the intervention of the fire service, Laura Evans’ irresponsible and reckless actions could have resulted in significant damage being done not only to the address but also to several neighbouring properties too.

“Cleary Laura poses a safety risk to others around her, so it is only right that she sees several years in prison.”

(Lead image: South Wales Police)

#Arson #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice

Celtic Freeport officially launched

Within the freeport area businesses are offered significant UK Government and Welsh Government tax breaks and customs exemptions to encourage investment and growth. The Celtic Freeport is set to attract £8.4bn of private and public investment, deliver 11,500 new jobs and add £8.1bn of economic value (GVA) to the local economy. 

The Celtic Freeport opened for business in November 2024 and is supported by £26 million of committed UK Government investment. It has now been officially launched at an event in Cardiff, attended by the Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens, and Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning.

Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens said: “This Government has a Plan for Change focused on delivering economic growth and ensuring that the UK is a renewable energy superpower. This announcement is a significant step towards achieving those ambitions.

“The Celtic Freeport will create up to 11,500 well-paid, highly skilled jobs and could leverage up to £8.4bn in investment.

“The UK Government has committed £26 million to the freeport in addition to significant incentives from the UK Government and Welsh Government. I am very pleased that we now have two governments working in partnership to deliver for people of Wales.”

Rebecca Evans, Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning said:  “The official opening of the Celtic Freeport sends another clear signal to the world that the industrial heartlands of South Wales are a vital cog in the growth and future prosperity of the UK’s low-carbon economy. We are already seeing a real appetite across the region and beyond to make the most of the skills and job opportunities that this new industrial age will provide.    

 “The Welsh Government will be at Celtic’s side providing major tax reliefs to attract business investment, and the Freeport will be able to use future non-domestic rates revenues for vital infrastructure and skills projects which will benefit Port Talbot and Milford Haven for generations to come.” 

Following the launch event, Luciana Ciubotariu, CEO of Celtic Freeport, said: “The Celtic Freeport is taking significant strides forward with key milestones secured such as the planning consents for the LanzaTech’s sustainable aviation fuel production plants and RWE’s Pembroke Green Hydrogen plant, the launch of the Milford Haven CO₂ Project, H2 Energy and Trafigura’s West Wales Hydrogen project securing a hydrogen CfD, Haush establishing a green energy HQ and their green hydrogen plant coming forward at Pembroke Dock and the approval of the wind turbine development to expand Dragon Energy’s Renewables Park.

“These Celtic Freeport partner initiatives, coupled with investments in battery energy storage by RWE and port infrastructure at Port Talbot, are accelerating South Wales’ reindustrialisation and driving a decarbonised economy rich in evolving and new industries.”

The Celtic Freeport is one of 12 Freeports across Wales, England and Scotland. 

#CelticFreeport #MilfordHaven #PortOfMilfordHaven #PortTalbot