Millions pledged to revive Welsh centres — Swansea, Port Talbot, Haverfordwest, Porthcawl and Bridgend among winners

Town and city centres across Wales are in line for a major facelift after the Welsh Government unveiled a £19.6m cash package. The funding, part of the Transforming Towns and Placemaking programmes, will target empty shops, tired public spaces and stalled developments — with South West Wales councils among the biggest winners.

Swansea’s Biophilic Living gets fresh cash

Swansea Council has secured more than £559,000 for the commercial and retail elements of the flagship Biophilic Living scheme, which promises 50 affordable homes alongside shops and offices in a nature‑inspired design.

A further £1.36m is earmarked for the Mowbray Yard redevelopment, creating a new green courtyard space in the heart of the city centre.

Port Talbot facelift for Aberafan Shopping Centre

In Port Talbot, up to £840,000 will fund a redesign of the public realm outside the southern entrance of the Aberafan Shopping Centre, aiming to boost footfall and modernise the tired frontage.

Haverfordwest Wilko site transformed

Pembrokeshire County Council will receive more than £1.27m to redevelop the former Wilko store in Haverfordwest, part of the Western Quayside regeneration. A smaller grant of £100,000 will also support works at 16‑18 Bridge Street.

Porthcawl seafront gets new events space

Bridgend Council has secured £600,000 to create a new events space on the Hillsboro South site in Porthcawl, a key part of the seafront regeneration plans.

Wyndham House overhaul for Bridgend town centre

Bridgend will also benefit from £1.78m to acquire and refurbish Wyndham House, with housing association Valleys to Coast planning to transform the building into its new HQ alongside apartments and commercial units.

Welsh Government hails “heart and soul” of communities

Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government Jayne Bryant said the funding would “breathe new life into our high streets, support local traders, and create the vibrant, welcoming spaces that our communities deserve.”

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

City Centre ‘Biophilic Swansea’ scheme ‘a first for the UK’
Landmark Biophilic Living project promises homes, shops and offices built around nature-inspired design.

New city centre courtyard to honour late council officer Huw Mowbray
Swansea Council begins work on Mowbray Yard, a green courtyard space due for completion in 2026.

Aberavon Shopping Centre regeneration coverage
Updates and stories on Port Talbot’s busiest retail hub, including plans for a public realm facelift.

Haverfordwest ‘Western Quayside’ project gets underway
Bold redevelopment of the former department store site aims to transform the riverside area.

Valleys to Coast unveils plans to transform Bridgend town centre building
Wyndham House set to become housing association HQ alongside apartments and commercial units.

“I fed eight for £27!” – Port Talbot dad’s Christmas dinner bargain

Festive feast on a shoestring Simon Jones, 57, says tight budgets won’t stop him p…
#dining #cooking #diet #food #Frenchfamilymeals #budgetcooking #christmas #christmasdinner #FairforYou #familymeals #festivesavings #Food&Drink #francais #france #French #groceries #groceryshopping #iceland #MichaelSheen #PortTalbot #SimonJones
https://www.diningandcooking.com/2428907/i-fed-eight-for-27-port-talbot-dads-christmas-dinner-bargain/

“I fed eight for £27!” – Port Talbot dad’s Christmas dinner bargain

Festive feast on a shoestring

Simon Jones, 57, says tight budgets won’t stop him putting on a spread.

“I can feed eight of us for £3.30 a head — and still have leftovers,” he told Swansea Bay News.

With a frozen turkey crown from Iceland, a Welsh beef joint from his local butcher, and piles of veg, Simon has slashed the average cost of Christmas dinner in half.

Budgets are tight while Simon takes time off work awaiting two hip replacements and a knee operation, but he’s determined to make Christmas special.

“It’s about family, not how much you spend,” he said. “With planning, you can still have a proper Christmas.”

Leftovers keep on giving

Simon’s plan stretches beyond Christmas Day.

“On Boxing Day we’ll have bubble and squeak with cheese, then curries with the leftover meat. Nothing goes to waste,” he said.

Even Alfie, the family’s French bulldog, gets his share.

“He’s fussy — only diced beef and lamb will do. Iceland’s three‑for‑£12 deal keeps him happy,” Simon laughed.

🎄 Simon’s top tips for a budget Christmas

Check prices online
Compare in-store and online deals before you shop.

Shop around tea time
That’s when reduced items start appearing on shelves.

Never shop hungry
You’ll end up buying more than you need.

Batch cook and freeze
Curries, stews and pies save money and time.

Cook from frozen
Products like Iceland’s turkey crown cut waste and prep time.

Inspired by Michael Sheen

Simon says Port Talbot’s own Michael Sheen has inspired him to share his story.

“Michael Sheen has done amazing work here — clearing debts, supporting families. He’s very well thought of. If he can help people, I can share my tips too.”

Making Christmas count

Awaiting surgery, Simon is off work but determined to make Christmas special.

“Budgets are tight, but with planning you can still have a proper Christmas. It’s about family, not how much you spend.”

Spreading the cost

Simon also uses the Fair for You Shopping Card loan to spread the cost of essentials. He says it helps him budget for festive food and even Alfie’s meals.

“I can put it on my Iceland bonus card and get £1 back for every £20 spent — it all adds up,” he explained.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Festive donations worth over £4,500 brighten Christmas for Neath Port Talbot community groups
Local housing provider plays Santa with thousands of pounds in support for community projects.

Worried about frugal festivities? Here’s how to save £40 as Christmas costs soar
Practical tips to cut spending as households tighten their belts this festive season.

Energy expert calculates cost of Christmas and reveals how to cut £100 bill
Advice on trimming energy bills during the most expensive time of the year.

Steelworkers face ‘catastrophic’ Christmas pay cuts as Tata plans extended shutdown
Port Talbot steelworkers warned of severe pay reductions over the festive period.

#budgetCooking #Christmas #ChristmasDinner #FairForYou #familyMeals #festiveSavings #foodDrink #groceries #groceryShopping #Iceland #MichaelSheen #PortTalbot #SimonJones

“I was just existing, not living” — Port Talbot’s Ayla beats the odds to graduate as mental health nurse

The Sandfields student collected her BSc Nursing (Mental Health) from Swansea University this week, a moment she once thought impossible.

“I was experiencing paranoia and mania — I was really unwell, and it affected my schooling very badly. I had to be home schooled, and I left education without any kind of qualification,” Ayla recalled.

By 18 she felt isolated and hopeless.

“I had no friends and no social life. I was just existing, not living. The drugs slurred my speech, and I was sleeping during the day. I knew I wanted to take control of my life, I had to break free from the fear.”

Determined to become a nurse, she enrolled at Afan College to gain access qualifications. With support from lecturers and family, she began to rebuild her confidence.

A turning point came when she met campaigner Jonny Benjamin, founder of the charity Beyond. He invited her onto a youth board and asked her to contribute to The Book of Hope: 101 Voices on Overcoming Adversity — alongside Joe Wicks, Dame Kelly Holmes and Zoe Sugg.

“That gave me a huge confidence boost and led to me applying to Swansea to study nursing,” Ayla said.

At Swansea University she was paired with specialist mentor Pamela Johnson through the wellbeing service.

“I couldn’t have done any of this without her,” Ayla said. “I would never have been able to cope. I am so grateful.”

Pamela praised her resilience:

“Ayla has worked incredibly hard throughout her course to manage her mental health while consistently working to the best of her ability.”

Now qualified, Ayla wants to use her experience to change the way schools support young people.

“I hope to raise awareness and make changes within schools to help children and young people struggling with mental ill health in a supportive and inclusive way, all the while sharing hope that we can still achieve our dreams.”

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Swansea University celebrates record number of nursing graduates
Hundreds of new nurses qualify as demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise.

Mental health support boosted in Welsh schools
New funding aims to improve wellbeing services for children and young people.

More Swansea University stories →
Browse the latest news and features from the university.

#AfanCollege #DameKellyHolmes #JoeWicks #mania #mentalHealth #MentalHealthNurse #nursing #paranoia #PortTalbot #Sandfields #SchoolOfHealthAndSocialCare #SwanseaUniversity #ZoeSugg

Coastguard and police in dramatic late‑night rescue at Aberavon Beach

Coastguard teams from Port Talbot and Porthcawl joined police and ambulance crews at around 9.45pm in a major multi‑agency response.

Coastguard Rescue Officers say the casualty was found badly hurt on the pier. Officers gave urgent first aid while a rescue helicopter swooped in, with a winch paramedic delivering extra medical support before the person was lifted clear.

According to the Coastguard, crews then worked with police and ambulance staff to carry the casualty from the beach to a waiting ambulance. The individual was rushed to hospital for further treatment.

Rescue officers added that they also set up a landing site for the helicopter and managed crowd control before standing down just after midnight.

Port Talbot RNLI was initially tasked but stood down before launching.

A Coastguard spokesperson said:

Our team responded to a multi-agency incident involving Port Talbot and Porthcawl Coastguard, South Wales Police, and the Welsh Ambulance Services University NHS Trust at the North Pier, Aberavon Beach.

“We were tasked following reports of a person in the water. Upon arrival, officers from South Wales Police had secured the casualty on the pier. The individual had sustained severe injuries, and Coastguard Rescue Officers immediately provided urgent casualty care, stabilising and monitoring until safe to extract.

“Coastguard Rescue Helicopter 387 was deployed, with the winch paramedic delivering additional medical support before the casualty was extracted from the pier.

“Coastguard Rescue Officers, Police, and Ambulance personnel worked collaboratively to safely transfer the casualty from the beach to a waiting ambulance. The individual was then conveyed to hospital for further treatment.

“Coastguard Rescue Officers also assisted in establishing a helicopter landing site (HLS) and managing crowd control before standing down at approximately 00:45.

The spokesperson added:

“We extend our best wishes to the casualty for a full and speedy recovery.”

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Child rescued from rip current at Aberavon Beach
Coastguard teams raced to save a youngster caught in dangerous waters — their third call‑out of the day.

Man found dead at Rhossili Beach
Police and Coastguard confirm the body of a 63‑year‑old man was discovered on the Gower coastline.

Lifeboat crew rescue stranded walkers on Worm’s Head
Horton Port Eynon RNLI launched to save two walkers cut off by the tide at Rhossili.

#AberavonBeach #HMCoastguard #PortTalbot #PortTalbotCoastguard #PorthcawlCoastguard #rescue

Making tracks: Port Talbot Parkway - Jon Gower goes in search of the spirit of Port Talbot.

Jon Gower is Transport for Wales’ writer-in-residence. He will be travelling the breadth and length of the country over the course of a year, reporting on his travels and gathering material for The Great Book of Wales, to be published by the H’mm Foundation in late 2026.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 https://nation.cymru/feature/making-tracks-port-talbot-parkway/

#Wales #PortTalbot

Plans for giant Y Bryn wind farm near Port Talbot refused after landscape concerns

The Y Bryn Wind Farm would have seen up to 18 turbines, each rising to 250 metres from base to tip, constructed on the Welsh Government Woodland Estate northeast of Port Talbot. At that scale, the turbines would have been more than twice the height of Swansea’s Meridian Quay Tower, and visible across much of South Wales.

A project promising power for thousands of homes

Developers Coriolis Energy and ESB argued the scheme could generate enough electricity to power more than 85,000 homes each year, offsetting over 137,000 tonnes of carbon emissions. They said the project would contribute towards Wales’ 2030 renewable energy target, while also offering a £1 million annual community benefit fund and opportunities for local ownership.

Concerns that the turbines would dominate the skyline

Despite those potential benefits, the inspector concluded the turbines would cause “unacceptable adverse impacts” on the landscape and visual amenity. Both Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend councils warned the sheer size of the structures would dominate the skyline and affect historic sites.

The inspector acknowledged the climate and energy security advantages but ruled that the harm to the landscape outweighed them. The decision noted that while the impacts would eventually end when the turbines were decommissioned, they would be felt for decades.

Relief for campaigners after years of opposition

Local residents in Bryn and nearby communities, who had opposed the plans since 2021, welcomed the refusal.

Resident Rhodri Williams said:

“We’re over the moon with this decision and so happy to see that common sense has prevailed. After fighting it for years, we’re pleased to have saved our local landscape so that future generations can enjoy what we have now.”

The Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales (CPRW) also praised the outcome, describing the project as “industrial‑scale in an entirely inappropriate landscape” and warning it would have threatened valued forests, wildlife and community wellbeing.

Developers say Wales has missed an opportunity

Project manager Trevor Hunter said Coriolis and ESB were “bitterly disappointed” by the refusal, calling it a setback for Wales’ renewable energy ambitions. He highlighted the inspector’s concerns about long‑distance impacts on the Gower National Landscape and cumulative effects on heritage assets.

Hunter added that the developers would review the decision with legal and technical teams before deciding on next steps, but stressed the project had promised significant community benefits and investment.

What happens next for Y Bryn

For now, campaigners say they are relieved the project has been halted, while developers consider whether to appeal or resubmit revised plans. The debate over how Wales balances renewable energy targets with protecting sensitive landscapes is likely to continue.

#bryn #coriolisEnergy #energy #esb #landscapeImpact #maesteg #planning #planningPermission #portTalbot #renewableEnergy #welshGovernment #windFarm #yBrynWindFarm

Neath man fined over fly-tipping in Port Talbot after ignoring £400 penalty

Shaun Robert James, 36, of Woodland Road, Crynant, admitted illegally depositing controlled waste at Edward Street, Port Talbot when he appeared before Swansea Magistrates Court on Thursday 13 November.

The court heard that Neath Port Talbot Council’s Waste Enforcement Officers were alerted to the fly-tipping on 17 December last year. Following an investigation, officers found evidence linking the dumped items — including a bread basket and a container of motor oil — to Mr James.

After initially denying responsibility over the phone, Mr James later attended a formal interview at Neath Civic Centre where he admitted dumping the waste.

He was issued with a £400 FPN, with the option to pay a reduced amount of £280 if settled within 10 days. However, after failing to pay, the case was referred for prosecution.

Magistrates fined Mr James £120 and ordered him to pay £556.12 in prosecution costs, plus a £48 victim surcharge — bringing the total to £724.12.

Council statement

Cllr Scott Jones, Cabinet Member for Streetscene, said:

“Fly-tipping is an environmental crime which blights our communities and yet again our Waste Enforcement Officers have worked hard to bring a prosecution.

“The council has the power to issue FPNs for these offences but as this case shows we will prosecute if the FPN is not paid. Hopefully this case will send a clear message to people of the consequences of illegally depositing waste in Neath Port Talbot.”

#crynant #fixedPenaltyNotice #flyTipping2 #flytipping #neathPortTalbotCouncil #portTalbot

Port Talbot tipped for key role as third Celtic Sea wind farm confirmed

The decision completes the trio of sites awarded under the UK’s Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5, joining projects already secured by Equinor and Gwynt Glas earlier this year. Together, the three floating wind farms are expected to generate enough clean energy to power more than four million homes.

Port Talbot in the spotlight

Ports including Port Talbot and Bristol have already been identified as front‑running candidates for turbine assembly and deployment. With deep‑water access and existing industrial infrastructure, Port Talbot is seen as a natural hub for the heavy engineering and logistics required to deliver floating offshore wind at scale.

Local leaders have long argued that investment in the Celtic Sea must translate into jobs and training opportunities in South Wales. Under Round 5 rules, developers must ensure at least 3.5% of their workforce are apprentices and that 10% of employees aged 19–24 are not in education, employment or training, opening the door for significant opportunities in Neath Port Talbot.

Welsh Government hails investment

Welsh Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans said the certainty over all three sites “will help unlock investment from ports, manufacturing companies and skills providers,” adding that Wales is now “at the global forefront of the offshore wind sector.”

Industry groups including RenewableUK and the British Ports Association welcomed the announcement, saying it positions Wales and the South West of England at “the cutting edge” of a sector that could support nearly 100,000 UK jobs by 2050.

Ocean Winds brings global experience

Ocean Winds, described as a world leader in floating wind technology, has already delivered the WindFloat Atlantic project in Portugal and operates major UK wind farms including Moray East and Moray West.

The Crown Estate said it had taken steps to “derisk” Round 5 for developers, including grid connection plans with the National Energy System Operator and extensive technical and environmental surveys.

What happens next

Ocean Winds and the Crown Estate will now work towards finalising an Agreement for Lease by spring 2026, allowing development work to advance.

For Port Talbot, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether the town secures a central role in turbine assembly and deployment – a move that could bring hundreds of skilled jobs and billions of pounds of investment to the local economy.

#britishPortsAssociation #celticSea #crownEstate #energy #equinor #floatingWindFarm #gwyntGlas #industry #oceanWinds #offshoreWind #portTalbot #rebeccaEvansMs #renewableuk #windPower #windfloatAtlantic

Senedd pays tribute to Richard Burton on centenary of his birth

Aberavon MS David Rees led the commemoration, describing Burton as a trailblazer for aspiring actors, an inspiration to people across Wales, and a global icon whose legacy continues to resonate.

“On 10 November, 1925, Richard Walter Jenkins Jr was born in his family home in Pontrhydyfen,” Mr Rees told Members. “His father was a miner. His mother worked in the local pub, the Miners Arms. As the 12th of 13 siblings, he grew up in a Welsh‑speaking household until his mother, Edith, died tragically when he was just two.”

Burton was raised by his sister Cecilia and her husband in Taibach, in a community shaped by coal, steel and chapel life. His talent was spotted at Port Talbot Secondary School by teacher Philip Burton, who became his mentor and whose surname Richard later adopted.

“Richard’s two passions were acting and rugby, and it was the former in which he truly excelled,” Mr Rees said. “Performing in local plays and eisteddfodau, he developed his acting skills and built a strong reputation. Following his time at Oxford University, he began a professional career on stage across the UK before moving into film, where the world became aware of his talent.”

Burton went on to become one of the most recognisable actors of his generation, nominated for an Oscar seven times and starring in films including Cleopatra, Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and The Spy Who Came in from the Cold.

Despite his international fame, Mr Rees said Burton remained deeply connected to his roots.

“He retained strong links with Port Talbot, proudly promoting his Welsh identity internationally and returning regularly to Pontrhydyfen – the one place where he felt he truly belonged,” he said.

Marking the centenary, Mr Rees told the Senedd it was fitting to honour Burton’s achievements and his pride in being Welsh.

“Richard would have been 100 this week, but he sadly died well before his time at the age of just 58. A short life, but a great legacy. We will never forget that talent or that voice – and what a memorable voice. Thank you for everything, Richard.”

#aberavon #actor #davidReesMs #film #pontrhydyfen #portTalbot #richardBurton #richardBurtonCentenary #senedd #taibach

Blue Plaques unveiled for Richard and Philip Burton in Neath Port Talbot

The unveiling ceremonies took place on 10 November, with Richard Burton’s plaque revealed by his daughter Kate and granddaughter Charlotte. Family members, admirers and the local community gathered to mark the centenary of one of Wales’s most celebrated performers.

Richard Burton, born in Pontrhydyfen, rose from humble beginnings to international stardom. Discovered by his teacher Philip Burton — who adopted him to improve his chances of studying at Oxford — Richard went on to become a Shakespearean leading man, a Hollywood star in films such as Cleopatra and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, and the voice behind recordings including Dylan Thomas’s Under Milk Wood and Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds.

Philip Burton, also recognised with a Blue Plaque, played a pivotal role in nurturing Richard’s talent. He later became a radio producer and theatre director, working across the UK and USA, and co‑founded the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City.

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

“The Blue Plaques recognise and celebrate two men who are integral to our history in Neath Port Talbot. Both went on to achieve international acclaim, yet stayed true to their Welsh roots and represent the kind of grit, passion and community spirit we are immensely proud of here in the region.”

Charlotte Burton added:

“The Blue Plaques are an honour for my grandfather’s legacy. As a family, it is truly heartwarming to see how precious he continues to be to the local community who raised him.”

Centenary celebrations continue

The unveiling is part of a wider programme marking Richard Burton’s centenary year. Events include poetry and play readings in Port Talbot and London, a lecture at the Richard Burton Archives, and a guided walking tour of the Richard Burton Trails.

Highlights also include the sold‑out Richard Burton Centenary Gala at Margam Country Park on 14 November, featuring performances from Michael Sheen, Jeff Wayne, the West Glamorgan Youth Theatre and actor Nansi Adams. In December, the British Film Institute will host a retrospective season Richard Burton: Muse of Fire at BFI Southbank in London.

The celebrations conclude with award‑winning Welsh actor Matthew Rhys performing Playing Burton at Bethel Chapel Café — his first return to the Welsh stage in over 20 years.

For full details, visit richardburton100.org.

#BluePlaque #CllrCenPhillips #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #PhilipBurton #Pontrhydyfen #PortTalbot #RichardBurton #RichardBurtonCentenary

CCTV shows shocking misuse as Port Talbot level crossing reopens after safety upgrade

The Heol‑y‑Deliad crossing near Margam was closed in June after repeated incidents of trespass and unsafe behaviour. During the closure, CCTV and on‑site security recorded 61 incidents, including people forcing entry through fencing and carrying bicycles with children strapped in across locked gates.

Trains on the South Wales Main Line travel at speeds of up to 125mph, leaving anyone misusing the crossing with little or no time to react.

New deterrents installed

Network Rail said the crossing has now reopened with 2.4‑metre high palisade fencing on both sides and enhanced warning signage. The measures are designed to deter climbing and prevent people carrying items over the railway.

Dean Jenkins, Level Crossing Manager at Network Rail Wales and Borders, said:

“We’ve had people ignoring safety instructions, climbing fences and even carrying bikes with children attached across a live railway. These behaviours are extremely dangerous — trains travel at high speeds and cannot stop quickly.

We want to thank everyone for their patience while we’ve carried out this work, and we urge everyone to always use level crossings safely and responsibly.”

Ongoing concerns

The crossing provides access to land near the coast, where misuse has included attempts to cross using motorised or electric‑powered vehicles — which are prohibited on public footpaths.

Network Rail said it continues to work with DB Cargo UK, Tata Steel and Neath Port Talbot Council on long‑term safety and accessibility, including discussions around the public right of way to the beach.

Safety reminder

Network Rail is urging the public to:

• Stop, look and listen before crossing
• Only cross when sure no trains are approaching
• Never climb, force or go around gates or barriers
• Avoid using bikes, e‑scooters or motorised vehicles on crossings
• Report misuse immediately to Network Rail’s 24‑hour helpline on 03457 11 41 41

#HeolYDeliad #levelCrossings #Margam #misusedLevelCrossing #NetworkRail #PortTalbot #railSafety #railwaySafety

Four Neath Port Talbot vape shops shut down in crackdown on illegal sales

A District Judge at Swansea Magistrates Court approved three‑month closure orders against:

• Vape Land, Commercial Road, Taibach
• Vape Zone, Queen Street, Neath
• Classic Vape, Station Road, Port Talbot
• Pontardawe Vape, James Street, Pontardawe

It is the second time in six months that Vape Land has been issued with a closure order.

Pattern of illegal sales

The court heard that test purchases and inspections over the past two years had repeatedly found counterfeit cigarettes, non‑tax‑paid tobacco and oversized or non‑compliant vapes on sale.

In September, joint inspections by South Wales Police, Neath Port Talbot Council Trading Standards and Waste Enforcement Officers led to seizures of vapes, leaf tobacco and cigarettes. Further complaints were also received about sales to under‑18s.

Despite being notified of the council’s intention to apply for closure orders, the owners of Vape Land, Vape Zone and Pontardawe Vape did not attend their hearings. Classic Vape’s new owner contested the application, but the judge accepted the council’s evidence that the business had changed hands repeatedly following inspections.

What Trading Standards do

Trading Standards teams work to protect consumers and communities by tackling illegal, unsafe or unfair trading practices. Their work includes:

• Carrying out test purchases to check if shops sell age‑restricted products like tobacco, alcohol or vapes to under‑18s
• Inspecting premises for counterfeit or non‑compliant goods
• Seizing unsafe or illegal products, including oversized or disposable vapes
• Taking enforcement action through the courts, including closure orders
• Advising businesses on compliance with consumer protection laws

Residents can report concerns about illegal sales to their local council’s Trading Standards team.

Wider crackdown

The closures come just days after Swansea Magistrates extended closure orders on vape shops in the city, underlining a wider regional clampdown on illegal sales.

Since June 2025, the sale of disposable single‑use vapes has been banned across the UK. The ban was introduced to tackle environmental concerns and to protect children and young people, with many illicit products found in child‑appealing packaging and flavours.

Council response

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

“Trading Standards work hard at protecting the public and the vulnerable from illegal tobacco and vape sales. Considerable work has gone into obtaining these closure orders, and the team will continue to use the resources at their disposal to combat this illegal trade.”

He urged residents to report any information about illegal tobacco or vape sales to the council.

More on Trading Standards

From vape shop closures to counterfeit goods crackdowns, our Trading Standards coverage follows the teams working to protect communities across South West Wales.

Browse all Trading Standards stories →

#ClassicVape #CllrCenPhillips #counterfeitCigarettes #illegalTobacco #illegalVapes #Neath #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #Pontardawe #PontardaweVape #PortTalbot #QueenStreet #Taibach #TradingStandards #VapeLand

South West Wales Pizza Hut branches face uncertainty as chain enters administration

The company confirmed that 68 restaurants will close after its franchisee DC London Pie Limited went into administration. A rescue deal by parent company Yum! Brands has secured 64 sites and saved around 1,277 jobs, but the future of the remaining branches is unclear.

Locally, Pizza Hut operates dine‑in restaurants at Llanelli’s Trostre retail park, Neath, Port Talbot and Bridgend, as well as a takeaway‑only site in Swansea. The chain has not yet confirmed which of these will be affected.

The closures put more than 740 jobs nationwide at risk. Administrators FTI Consulting said their priority was to support staff and maintain continuity at the restaurants included in the rescue deal.

The move comes less than a year after the same franchisee bought the UK dine‑in business out of insolvency.

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#administration #Bridgend #DCLondonPieLimited #franchise #franchisee #Llanelli #Neath #ParcTrostre #Pizza #PizzaHut #PizzaRestaurant #PizzaTakeaway #PortTalbot #restaurant #YumBrands

Bats still rule the roost as Halloween fright fest returns to Margam Country Park

Scream Time returns with added scares

The popular Scream Time event is back at Margam Country Park this Halloween, promising more scare points and hair‑raising encounters inside the 19th‑century castle and across the estate grounds. Visitors will come face‑to‑face with nightmare characters including the Sandman’s victims, the Sleepwalkers, in a trail designed strictly for those aged 15 and over.

For younger families, a gentler Spooky Time trail will run alongside the main event, offering Halloween fun without the full‑on frights. Both trails run from Wednesday 15 October to Sunday 2 November.

Protecting Margam’s bats

While the scares are designed to thrill human visitors, organisers J9 Events have worked closely with ecologist Megan Price to ensure the hundreds of bats that call Margam home are not disturbed.

“Bats are sensitive to light, so we need to make sure there are no new lights placed in the areas where they roost and fly,” explained Megan. “Wire and netting can also be hazardous. We’ve worked with the team at Scream Time, and they know how best to work around the bats to ensure these species continue to be protected.”

A haven for wildlife

Margam Country Park is recognised as one of the UK’s richest bat habitats, with 14 of the 18 species found in Britain recorded on the estate. These include three types of Pipistrelle, Brown Long‑Eared bats and the distinctive Lesser Horseshoe bat, named for the horseshoe‑shaped fold around its nose that aids echolocation.

The park’s mix of woodland, open water, parkland and historic ruins provides ideal roosting sites. Other species spotted include the large Noctule bat, with its 18‑inch wingspan, and Daubenton’s bats, often seen skimming ponds for insects.

Authentic Halloween setting

Event organiser Janine Maycock said: “One of the reasons we work with Margam Country Park is because it is such a special location. It works for many of our events and the fact that they have so many bats and protect them means that our Halloween events are even more authentic.”

How to book

Scream Time (15+) and Spooky Time (family trail) run from 15 October to 2 November at Margam Country Park, Port Talbot.

Tickets and further details are available at screamtime.co.uk.

Related Halloween & heritage stories

Haunted South West Wales: the spookiest spots to visit this Halloween
From castles to coastlines, discover the most haunted places across South West Wales — perfect for a seasonal scare.

Spooks in the City returns with new Monster Mash‑up for 2025
Swansea’s family‑friendly Halloween festival is back with a monster‑themed parade, live entertainment and plenty of spooky fun.

Public chooses Margam Country Park as one of UK’s top green spaces
Margam Country Park has once again been voted among the nation’s favourite parks, recognised for its wildlife, heritage and visitor experience.

#bats #ecologistMeganPrice #Halloween #HalloweenActivitiesForFamiliesWales #HalloweenEventsInWales2025 #HalloweenWales #J9Events #MargamCountryPark #PortTalbot #ScreamTime #SpookyTime

Young volunteers launch new litter picking hub in Port Talbot

Volunteers lead the way

Five young volunteers turned out on Saturday 4 October to take part in the launch, joining forces to tidy up the town centre. The group spent the morning collecting litter around The New Plaza, filling seven bags in total.

The event marked the official opening of the site as a Litter Picking Hub, part of a Wales‑wide network run by Keep Wales Tidy and funded by the Welsh Government. The hubs provide free access to equipment such as pickers, hi‑vis vests, rubbish bags and hoops, making it easier for residents to organise their own clean‑ups.

Partnership with Keep Wales Tidy

The New Plaza hub is one of 14 now operating across Neath Port Talbot. Organisers say the aim is to support local communities, encourage pride in shared spaces and boost wellbeing through outdoor volunteering.

Sam Hunt, YMCA Port Talbot Hostel Manager, said the launch showed the difference young people can make: “It was brilliant to see so many young people turn out for the launch and take action to improve our shared spaces. Together, we can inspire long‑lasting change.”

Pride in the local environment

Kathryn Britton, Keep Wales Tidy Project Officer for Neath Port Talbot, added: “Port Talbot is an area of outstanding natural beauty, and it was fantastic to see The New Plaza celebrate their Litter Picking Hub launch with such a great effort from young people.”

She encouraged residents to continue using the hub, describing it as a simple and effective way to keep communities clean and cared for.

Open to all

The New Plaza hub is free to use and open seven days a week. Anyone can borrow equipment to carry out their own litter picks. More details are available at keepwalestidy.cymru/litter-picking-hubs.

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#communityVolunteering #KeepWalesTidy #litter #litterPickingHub #NeathPortTalbot #NewPlaza #PortTalbot #WelshGovernment

Unite: First Cymru strike will ‘shut down bus network’ across Wales

Hundreds of drivers, cleaners, engineers, stores workers and administrative staff are set to walk out from depots in Swansea, Port Talbot, Bridgend, Carmarthen, Haverfordwest and Ammanford between 22–25 October.

The union says its members rejected a 5% pay offer because First Cymru, part of the First Group transport network, refused to backdate the deal in full.

‘Poverty wages’

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said:

“First Group is a hugely profitable company making millions yet it is treating its workers, and the communities they come from in Wales, with utter disdain.

It is simply unacceptable to pay poverty wages, offer a paltry pay rise and then try and withhold back pay. Our members won’t stand for it and they have the full support of their union in this dispute.”

First Group reported profits of more than £200 million last year, with its chief executive paid over £3 million.

‘Anger on the picket line’

Unite regional coordinating officer Alan McCarthy added:

“This strike will shut down the bus network across huge swathes of the country but it is a dispute entirely of First Cymru’s own making. All our members want is to be paid in line with other colleagues at other bus companies and for that pay to be backdated.

First Cymru has messed around in negotiations for long enough and will now see the anger of our members on the picket line.”

Background

Earlier today Swansea Bay News reported that First Cymru staff would take four days of strike action in October, warning of major disruption to services across South and West Wales.

Unite is demanding a pay award of £15 per hour, bringing First Cymru drivers in line with colleagues at Cardiff Bus and Arriva in North Wales.

The company has not yet issued a public response to the union’s latest comments.

#AlanMcCarthy #Ammanford #Bridgend #busStrike #Carmarthen #FirstCymru #Haverfordwest #industrialAction #PortTalbot #SharonGraham #Swansea #Union #Unite

Port Talbot steel crisis: Local Labour MP and MS demand UK Government raise tariffs to protect industry

Tata Steel confirmed earlier today that it will suspend production across all three of its South Wales sites — Port Talbot, Trostre in Llanelli, and Llanwern in Newport — for up to five weeks over Christmas. The company told staff the decision was due to “continuing low market demand”.

“UK steel is being undercut”

In a joint statement, the two Labour politicians said President Trump’s decision to sharply increase tariffs on steel imports into the US had triggered a “devastating knock‑on impact” for UK producers.

They warned that steel originally destined for America is now being diverted and “dumped” into Europe at cut‑price levels, undercutting Port Talbot and other UK producers.

“This diversion and dumping are leading to a collapse in domestic demand for Port Talbot steel, as we are being undercut on price by a glut of product from places like China and Vietnam,” they said.

“UK steel makers are under attack, and we must take action to defend them through enhanced trade defence measures.”

Call for urgent government action

Kinnock and Rees said the UK must follow the EU in tightening trade defence rules:

“There is only one way to respond to this, which is for the UK government to urgently increase tariffs and decrease quotas, to stop our steel being unfairly undercut. The last country to protect its steel industry will be the first country to lose it.”

They confirmed they have already sought a meeting with ministers to press the case for urgent intervention.

Extended stoppages confirmed

According to Tata’s internal briefing to staff, the shutdowns will run as follows:

• Llanwern (pickle line): 27 November – 5 December
• Trostre (tinplate, Llanelli): 1 December – 8 January
• Port Talbot (hot rolled products): 8 December – 8 January

The stoppages are far longer than the traditional two‑week festive pause and follow Tata’s earlier announcement this morning, first reported by Swansea Bay News, that production at Port Talbot and Trostre would be halted over Christmas. The latest update confirms the shutdowns will now extend across all three South Wales operations.

Related Tata Steel coverage

• Tata Steel to halt production at Port Talbot and Llanelli over Christmas
• £1.25bn green plan: Tata begins new project at Port Talbot
• EU’s 50% steel tariffs spark fears for Tata jobs in South Wales
• Plaid MS calls for UK to rejoin single market as tariffs loom

#DavidReesMS #PortTalbot #PortTalbotSteelworks #steel #steelTariff #StephenKinnockMP #tariffs #TataSteel #TataSteelworks #WelshLabour

Local children envision Port Talbot’s future in vivid new murals

Children reimagine their town beneath the motorway

On Ynys Street, under the shadow of the M4, pupils aged 7 to 11 have transformed grey concrete into a canvas of colour. Through Swansea University’s Steeltown Storybook: Children’s Chapter, workshops encouraged them to explore Port Talbot’s history, identity and future — from clay modelling to podcasting and photography.

From flying cars to DJ aliens: visions of a brighter future

The children’s ideas ranged from Aberavon Beach and Taibach Memorial Park to dreams of steel museums, flying cars and even DJ aliens soundtracking the town’s future.

One pupil summed up the mood:

“We’d like the town to be more vibrant and colourful with painting under bridges and more graffiti projects, we hope that scientists will discover new colours.”

Local artists bring children’s voices to the walls

Turning those imaginative sketches into reality fell to local collective THEW CREW. Artists Ryan Lee Davies and Matthew Cole said they wanted the murals to reflect the children’s eyes: colourful, happy and full of pride.

“As local lads who’ve grown up in the community, we are grateful to have had the opportunity to take the children’s ideas and turn them into a piece of art that represents the past, present and future of our town,” they said. “We tried to make the murals as seen through the children’s eyes – nice, colourful, and happy, and we really hope everyone enjoys it.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBywhn_zZvo

Challenging the story of decline with colour and hope

Project organisers say the murals do more than brighten a wall — they challenge the narrative that Port Talbot’s industrial transition leaves little hope for the future. Swansea University researchers argue the children’s voices show a community that still sees possibility, not just loss.

The project was funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Impact Accelerator Account and brought together schools, artists and community groups including Raspberry Creatives, Families First and Neath Port Talbot Council.

Emily Adams, History PhD candidate, said:

“By centring the voices of young people, this project has challenged dominant narratives about Port Talbot. Headlines sparked by the ongoing industrial transition would suggest a town without hope for the future, but over 200 local children have creatively shown that this is not their reality.”

Dr Michaela James added:

“The United Nations calls for all children and young people to have a voice on matters that affect them. I think this project is a fantastic example of what we can learn from listening to these voices.”

Jack Palmer, Co‑Production Officer at HDRUK Wales, said the children’s pride and passion for their home was “inspiring” and urged decision‑makers to take their suggestions to heart.

What comes next for Steeltown Storybook

With new funding secured, the team plans to continue amplifying children’s ideas — from tackling pollution to opening more youth clubs. And this November, the public will get a behind‑the‑scenes look at the project during the Being Human Festival’s Steeltown Schoolkids exhibition at The Art Space on Station Road.

The team has secured further AHRC funding to continue platforming children’s hopes for the future — from reducing pollution to brightening public spaces and opening more youth clubs.

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#Art #artists #ArtsAndHumanitiesResearchCouncil #BeingHumanFestival #HDRUKWales #ImpactAcceleratorAccount #M4 #mural #PortTalbot #Steeltown #SteeltownSchoolkids #SteeltownStorybook #SwanseaUniversity #TheArtSpace #YnysStreet

Tata Steel to halt production at Port Talbot and Llanelli over Christmas amid weak demand

Longer stoppages than usual

In a message to 6,000 staff, Tata Steel UK chief executive Rajesh Nair said production pauses at the Port Talbot hot strip mill and the Trostre tinplate works in Llanelli will run far longer than the usual two‑week Christmas shutdown.

• At Port Talbot, the stoppage will begin on 8 December and last until 8 January.
• At Trostre, production will halt from 1 December until 8 January.

The company said it would work with unions, suppliers and customers to manage the impact, but admitted the extended closures were necessary to “responsibly adapt to current market challenges.”

Jobs and exports under pressure

The announcement comes just weeks after Tata urged UK ministers to act over the EU’s decision to impose 50% tariffs on steel imports while cutting tariff‑free volumes almost in half. Around a third of Tata Steel UK’s output is exported to the EU, making the bloc a critical market for South Wales steel.

Industry leaders have warned that without a carve‑out deal, Welsh plants could face a double hit: weaker domestic demand and reduced access to European buyers. UK Steel director general Gareth Stace has cautioned that “the last country to put up trade defences will be the first country to de‑industrialise.”

Port Talbot’s transition and Llanelli’s future

The stoppages come as Tata begins work on its £1.25bn green steel plan at Port Talbot, which will see the site transition from blast furnaces to an electric arc furnace by 2027. While the investment is designed to secure long‑term production, it also means Tata will increasingly import slab and coil from its operations in India and the Netherlands during the transition.

At Trostre in Llanelli, which produces tinplate for food and drinks packaging, unions have already voiced concern that EU tariffs could undermine exports and threaten jobs. As Swansea Bay News has reported, Plaid Cymru MSs have called for the UK to rejoin the single market to safeguard Welsh steel, while industry figures are pressing for tougher UK import quotas to prevent a flood of cheaper steel from China and Turkey.

A critical moment for Welsh steel

The wider industry is warning that global overcapacity — forecast by the OECD to reach 721 million tonnes by 2027 — risks flooding the UK market with subsidised imports. Cardiff‑based 7 Steel, which operates an electric arc furnace, has joined calls for the UK Government to negotiate country‑specific EU quotas and introduce stronger domestic safeguards.

For workers in Port Talbot and Llanelli, the immediate concern is the impact of a five‑week shutdown over Christmas. While Tata insists the measures are temporary, unions and local leaders will be watching closely to see whether the combination of weak demand and looming tariffs signals deeper challenges ahead for Wales’s steel heartlands.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Tata Steel begins new project at Port Talbot in £1.25bn green plan
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Plaid MS calls for UK to rejoin single market as EU steel tariffs loom
Political pressure grows as Plaid Cymru urges the UK Government to secure market access to protect Welsh steel communities.

#industry #Llanelli #PortTalbot #PortTalbotSteelworks #RajeshNair #steelProduction #steelworks #TataSteel #TataSteelworks #TrostreTinplateWorks #UKSteel