Three Towns Forum
Members' Lounge => Politics & Current Affairs => Topic started by: SteveH on September 14, 2016, 06:05:50 pm
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Saying all the right things, as long as it is pushed forward, good for North Wales
Growth plan to create 120,000 extra jobs in North Wales.
A growth plan that highlights how the region can create an extra 120,000 jobs has been unveiled.
The North Wales Economic Ambition Board has put forward its vision for the region’s economy.
The document - A Growth Vision for the Economy of North Wales - urges the UK and Welsh Government to back their ambition for investment and greater powers in the region.
They say the return will be an increased size in the region’s economy from £12.5bn to £20bn by 2035
“We have a good track record in attracting investment but recognise that more needs to be done if job creation and income levels are to match UK levels.
“The plan focuses on strategic infrastructure investments that link business to key markets and communities, developing and skilling the workforce to take advantage of opportunities and working with partners cross-border to grow key sectors and support projects with the potential to transform our economy.
“We recognise that the plan is ambitious, but we have identified a number of projects that could support jobs and prosperity.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/growth-plan-create-120000-extra-11884007 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/growth-plan-create-120000-extra-11884007)
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'Tax cut' or 'spin doctoring'...rates relief pledge for North Wales businesses turns into row.
The Welsh Government says it has delivered a tax cut for thousands of small firms in Wales but this claim has been attacked as "spin-doctoring" by a business group.
Local Government Secretary Mark Drakeford has confirmed that the £98m Small Business Rates Relief scheme will be extended for 2017-18, with it becoming permanent after then.
FSB Development Manager Mike Learmond said: “Whilst we welcome the announcement that Small Business Rates Relief in Wales is to be put on the same permanent basis as in England, to describe such a move as a tax cut for small businesses is blatantly misleading and the worst form of spin-doctoring.
"Putting the current relief scheme on a permanent footing merely maintains the status quo and does not mean that small businesses in communities across Wales will pay any less in business rates than they did previously.
“In its manifesto Welsh Labour pledged to 'offer a tax cut for all small businesses' - today’s announcement in no way meets that pledge, and we would urge the Finance Minister to look at how the Welsh Government can keep the promise that it made to the small business community and the wider electorate.”
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/tax-cut-north-wales-businesses-11891307 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/tax-cut-north-wales-businesses-11891307)
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I think this article shows how lucky Llandudno is, and will be in the future, certainly from a shopping point of view.
More than one in five shops lie empty in some town centres in North Wales - sparking a “ghost town” warning.
Shocking figures from the Local Data Company(LDC) show the region has some of the worst performing towns in the UK when it comes to empty premises.
Bangor had a shop vacancy rate of 21.8% in the first half of 2016.
This figure was one of the worst in the UK for towns of that size, although the vacancy rate was down from 22.4% in 2015
In Rhyl , 21.6% of shops were empty, up from 17.5% in 2015 as the seaside resort has struggled to cope after losing major chains like Marks & Spencer and Next in recent years.
“There are so many empty units and a lot of those filled are charity shops, we need to do something to get retailers back on the high street.
“If something does not happen soon Rhyl town centre will be a ghost town.
“We are looking at setting up a Business Improvement District which is a start and we need action on rates from the next re-valuation.
Bangor has already seen the creation of a Business Improvement District to help support the city centre.
More and comments below article....
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/ghost-town-warning-one-five-11910657 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/ghost-town-warning-one-five-11910657)
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Is your North Wales business a tourism champion?
Tourism firms and small businesses are being urged to get their entries into the Daily Post Business Awards 2016.
The awards aim to find the area’s most innovative companies and talented people.
Prizes will be awarded to the firms and business people who have excelled over the last 12 months and are helping drive the economy forward.
There are 10 categories for businesses to enter with a showcase awards ceremony in November at Bangor University, who are the headline sponsor of the awards and also support the Business Person of the Year category.
Has your organisation helped promote the growth and expansion of the local tourist industry? Can you demonstrate how you are attracting more visitors to North and mid Wales for days out and longer holidays, business trips, conferences, exhibitions or other events?
Entries will be judged on business achievement and growing financial performance, with the business possibly also demonstrating strong future growth potential.
The 10 awards are open to ANY type of business based within North Wales.
It’s free to enter and there are number of ways to enter your business.
For an entry form and information visit www.dailypostbusinessawards.co.uk (http://www.dailypostbusinessawards.co.uk) , call: 01492 574 472 or email events@dailypost.co.uk.
“The aim of the North Wales Economic Ambition Board (NWEAB) is for a single, joined-up vision for economic and employment growth for North Wales.
“Currently with the public and private sector working together within the NWEAB, a “Team North Wales” approach can be delivered through collaboration and partnership working.
“Our ambition is to support the further development of a confident, cohesive region with economic growth, capitalising on the success of high value economic sectors.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/your-north-wales-business-tourism-11905541 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/your-north-wales-business-tourism-11905541)
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Thousands of firms in North Wales are set to find out how much they are set to pay in business rates today - but huge demand has seen the Government's on-line checker crash.
The Valuation Office Agency published the new "rateable values" of their properties at around 9.30am this morning.
It was set to show the changes in the amount firms will pay in business rates from next April.
North Wales is expected to benefit as the last review took place in 2008 prior to the economic crash.
But the system has experienced serious technical difficulties this morning due to the sheer level of demand.
Some figures have been available but many searches have come back unsuccessful.
The Government department is working to resolve the issues.
One Llanfairfechan firm said it had been able to log-on and had discovered the rates they were due to pay on a new unit could soar.
All UK firms pay a tax on the shops, offices, warehouses and factories that they use.
Rates are the third biggest outgoing for many small businesses after rent and staff costs. ref DP
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High street retailers across North Wales could see their business rates slashed after the UK-wide review by the Valuation Office Agency(VOA).
The final business rate level is calculated by multiplying the rateable value with a ‘multiplier’ (the number of pence per pound of rateable value) set by the government.
Colliers found that some stores on Mostyn Street in Llandudno could see rateable values almost halved, with an average reduction of around 20%.
Colwyn Bay firms on Station Road could benefit from 20% cuts while those in the Bay View Centre were projected to see falls of 43%.
Edward Hiller, managing director of Llandudno landowner Mostyn Estates, said: "For the past six years, retailers in Llandudno have in the main suffered excessive rates bills.
"For those that have survived the combined impacts of the past recession, and internet competition, it is encouraging to see their costs can now approach some sense of normality.
"The headline numbers suggest a modest average fall in rateable values within Llandudno.
"However, we have noticed there are some significant differentials.
"There are some very obvious areas we will be discussing with the Valuation Office.
"As a case in point, I fail to see why Vaughan Street has improved over that time. It is just about to lose the Post Office, which could be a significant blow to footfall.
MORE http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/could-shops-your-north-wales-11963260 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/could-shops-your-north-wales-11963260)
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Dog owners in North Wales are being warned about the potentially fatal parasite lungworm after an increase in reported cases.
Lungworm is a parasite that lives in slugs, snails and frogs which can cause weight loss, difficulty breathing, a chronic cough, trouble exercising, and can even be fatal.
Chris Cater, who has been in practice as a small animal vet in the Llandudno area for 34 years, said he had noticed an increase in lungworm cases throughout the country over the last few years.
Mr Cater, clinical director at Cater Veterinary Practice in Llandudno, told the Daily Post: “The trouble is that slugs and snails are involved because they swallow the larva of the lungworm so they’re part of the cycle.
“Dogs will eat slugs and snails and will get the infection from that.
“Dogs can also accidentally digest slugs and snails from their water bowls and toys, so it’s important to make sure that they’re left outside clean in the garden."
“The lungworm is a problem in North Wales as there are a lot of slugs and snails and it’s very rural with wet weather.
“The lungworm comes from Southern Europe and it has sped throughout the country in the last few years.”
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-north-wales-dog-owners-11974827 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-north-wales-dog-owners-11974827)
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Interesting article re. Lonely Planet travel guide puts North Wales #4 best place to visit.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/north-wales-global-top-ten-12070597 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/north-wales-global-top-ten-12070597)
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Bank of Wales to launch next year...and it will be based in the North.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/bank-wales-launch-next-yearand-12312176 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/bank-wales-launch-next-yearand-12312176)
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I found this article interesting, and looked into it a bit more, links below.......
800m Deeside waste incinerator construction to start next month.
Wheelabrator Parc Adfer will be a combined heat and power enabled facility which will generate 18.8 MW (gross) / 16.6 MW (net) of sustainable electricity to meet the needs of over 30,000 UK homes and businesses.
In 2014, Wheelabrator was selected as preferred bidder to build and operate the facility over the next 25 years as a public-private partnership, with support from the Welsh Government to serve the five local authorities that make up the North Wales Residual Waste Treatment Project - Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd and the Anglesey councils.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/800m-deeside-waste-incinerator-construction-12331482 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/800m-deeside-waste-incinerator-construction-12331482)
Seems a very impressive system ...well worth watching......
Video http://www.wtienergy.com (http://www.wtienergy.com)
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This seems a bit heavy, considering its tax payers money paying the fine........
Gwynedd Council hit with £73,000 fine for waste 'negligence'.
Tywyn county councillor Mike Stevens criticised NRW for taking the case to court and using a “big stick” to beat the council with.
He said: “This fine isn’t going to benefit the taxpayers of Tywyn and the people of Gwynedd.”
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-council-hit-73000-fine-12363828 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-council-hit-73000-fine-12363828)
Comment.......
Steamnut
So, if the Council makes a mistake then, indirectly, we pay the fine. If we make a mistake then we also pay. If my business makes a mistake then I pay not my customers. to make things a bit fairer why not fine, or sack the employees involved? Oh, sorry, I forgot, Council employees assume that have a job
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Cleaners could earn £45 an hour in North Wales...but...............
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/cleaners-could-earn-45-hour-12443909 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/cleaners-could-earn-45-hour-12443909)
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Not sure if this has been mentioned before but just in case it hasn't.
Interesting NHS waiting times app.
Hopefully you will never need to use it but just in case, this app might make the decision to go left or right along the A55 to A&E a more informed one.
It was written for the Midlands hospitals but can be used for North Wales.
http://www.waittimes.uhnm.nhs.uk/ (http://www.waittimes.uhnm.nhs.uk/)
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Did you spot Apache helicopters over North Wales?
No you weren't mistaken, they were Apache helicopters on exercise around our region.
Squadron Dave Williams from RAF Valley said locals should keep their eyes peeled over the next few days as there will be some good images to be had as they roam the region.
He said: “They’re here on detachment for around a week around the local area.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/you-spot-apache-helicopters-over-12632032 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/you-spot-apache-helicopters-over-12632032)
Some comments.....
there's me thinking north wales police have got some new toys
Heard it was Trump looking at all the protesters against him!
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I've seen these lots of times over the years from my office. They often fly over Conwy mountain as they did yesterday about 4pm
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This type of investment adds to the increasing popularity of N. WALES
Plas Glynllifon owners give exclusive first look inside historic mansion they will transform into 5* hotel
Paul and Rowena Williams have spoken to the Daily Post about their £6m plans.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/plas-glynllifon-owners-give-exclusive-12636854#ICID=sharebar_twitter (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/plas-glynllifon-owners-give-exclusive-12636854#ICID=sharebar_twitter)
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Nice to see some positive thinking, I hope they can make it work.
New £14m cheese plant earmarked for 2018 opening on outskirts of Bangor.
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Look out Anglesey.........
Anglesey Council chiefs trial new firm to tackle dog mess and litterbugs......guess who
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http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/anglesey-council-chiefs-trial-new-12754982 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/anglesey-council-chiefs-trial-new-12754982)
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What do you think ?
town council is planning to spend up to £1,000 a year renting a garage ... from the 12-year-old son of its own mayor.
Beaumaris officials struck a deal with schoolboy Dai Ifor Evans-Jones - the son of mayor Gwen Evans-Jones - to rent a garage he owns.
The unlikely budding property tycoon stands to make £87 a month from renting out the site - just behind the family home - for which his mother says he paid £13,000 in pocket money he’d saved up.
Cllr Evans-Jones told the Daily Post “everything is above board”, and that she left the council chamber when the arrangement was approved.
13 comments.... http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/beaumaris-anglesey-mayor-son-garage-12788985 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/beaumaris-anglesey-mayor-son-garage-12788985)
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In case anyone is interested, there is a very positive two page spread in today's Daily Telegraph on visiting Llandudno. Various local businesses such as Providero and Johnny Dough's are covered, some with pictures.
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Sorry Cambrian, cannot see article on line without signing up. :(
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In case anyone is interested, there is a very positive two page spread in today's Daily Telegraph on visiting Llandudno. Various local businesses such as Providero and Johnny Dough's are covered, some with pictures.
It isn't happy with the pier though is it?
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Sad news, crash site found, five dead
A major search has been launched after a helicopter with five people on board went missing.
The UK Coastguard is co-ordinating the massive search and rescue operation which is now focusing on the Snowdonia National Park area.
Live: Search for missing helicopter 'focusing on Snowdonia'
The aircraft, with five people on board, went missing at 4.15pm on Wednesday
BYTOM DAVIDSON
UPDATED12:19, 30 MAR 2017
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An acorn picked from Mametz Wood where thousands of Welsh soldiers were slaughtered during World War I, is to be planted in Llandudno by Lord Mostyn.
The poignancy of the planting ceremony, which is taking place next Saturday at Bodysgallen Woods, will resonate with the landowner as his grandfather raised one of the battalions that fought in the battle.
Organisers are also inviting any descendants of those who died in the battle to attend.
The oak sapling will be planted in the grounds near the spot where a photograph was taken showing the then Lord Mostyn inspecting his troops in 1916.
Mametz Wood was the objective of the 38th (Welsh) Division during the First Battle of the Somme.
The acorn from which the sapling has grown, was picked up in the forest of Mametz by Wyn Jones, from Rhos on Sea
“I picked up the acorn and put it my pocket and then totally forgot about it, but when I discovered it again weeks later-for the hell of it I put it in a pot and couldn’t believe it when it started to sprout.
More http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/acorn-world-war-battlefield-planted-12901418 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/acorn-world-war-battlefield-planted-12901418)
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Is this the photo http://royalwelchfusiliersmuseum.blogspot.co.uk/2016_09_01_archive.html (http://royalwelchfusiliersmuseum.blogspot.co.uk/2016_09_01_archive.html)
Scroll down the page until you see it
Phil
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Is this the photo http://royalwelchfusiliersmuseum.blogspot.co.uk/2016_09_01_archive.html (http://royalwelchfusiliersmuseum.blogspot.co.uk/2016_09_01_archive.html)
Scroll down the page until you see it
It makes sense, I have that photo somewhere, as it is possible my Grandfather was part of the group, fortunately he survived, I have copied the photo from your link. $thanx$
Just noticed the Gt. Orme goat mascot at the front.
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Welsh Mountain Zoo's HALF PRICE deal for local residents
The Colwyn Bay attraction is launching its first ever community weekend with 50% off for people living in Conwy county.
"Tickets for next week’s offer which runs on May 6 - 7, will be from £6.35 an adult and £4.78 for children aged 3 - 15. The offer will be given to anyone presenting documentary proof of residency in Conwy County."
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/welsh-mountain-zoo-conwy-deal-12925451 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/welsh-mountain-zoo-conwy-deal-12925451)
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Conwy's business champions are revealed at annual award ceremony
Surf Snowdonia boss and Welsh Mountain Zoo are among the winners.
The winners of Conwy Business Awards 2017 have been revealed this evening.
The awards are now in their fourth year and celebrate the best of Conwy’s private sector businesses and their contribution to communities and the local economy.
Awards were presented at a glittering ceremony at Venue Cymru on Friday night.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/conwys-business-champions-revealed-annual-13063737 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/conwys-business-champions-revealed-annual-13063737)
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This sounds like a good idea, but the design looks shocking.......
Zip World has revealed plans for a 75-bedroom hotel with a giant slide and underground caving.
The proposed Gwesty Antur/Adventure Hotel at Parc Tŷ Gwyn, off the A470 on the outskirts Llanrwst, will include a dining area, sauna and pool.
The proposals also include adventure-based features such as the slide from the top to the ground floors, external climbing wall and virtual reality pods.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/zip-worlds-new-adventure-hotel-13166269 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/zip-worlds-new-adventure-hotel-13166269)
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Industry Figures Back Investment for North Wales and Cheshire Rail Strategy.
http://businessnewswales.com/industry-figures-back-investment-north-wales-cheshire-rail-strategy/ (http://businessnewswales.com/industry-figures-back-investment-north-wales-cheshire-rail-strategy/)
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Industry Figures Back Investment for North Wales and Cheshire Rail Strategy.
http://businessnewswales.com/industry-figures-back-investment-north-wales-cheshire-rail-strategy/ (http://businessnewswales.com/industry-figures-back-investment-north-wales-cheshire-rail-strategy/)
Very nice, who's going to pay for it though?
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Industry Figures Back Investment for North Wales and Cheshire Rail Strategy.
http://businessnewswales.com/industry-figures-back-investment-north-wales-cheshire-rail-strategy/ (http://businessnewswales.com/industry-figures-back-investment-north-wales-cheshire-rail-strategy/)
Very nice, who's going to pay for it though?
The subject of the N.W. rail link, raises it's head every now and again, the only good news is, they are still talking about it, although I am not convinced they will remember N.W. if it ever gets going.
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This looks like a good opportunity, I hope the local schools get involved.
Hundreds of jobs on offer at Wales's largest careers fair in Llandudno
There are more than 40 employers already signed up for SkillsCymru at Venue Cymru
The North Wales event, which is free to attend, will be happening on October 4 and 5 at Venue Cymru, Llandudno and is expected to attract more than 10,000 young people, graduates and job-seekers
The event will also feature a careers information evening for parents, which will be hosted on October 4 at Venue Cymru
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/hundreds-jobs-offer-waless-largest-13481606 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/hundreds-jobs-offer-waless-largest-13481606)
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COMING SOON TO AN AREA NEAR YOU.....?
Dog owners will be fined if they don’t carry enough bags to clean up after their pets.
Denbighshire council is the latest to roll out a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) enforcing strict new rules to keep communities free from mess
Kingdom will enforce the order which comes into effect from next Wednesday and will see pet owners hit with a £75 fixed penalty notice if they flout the rules.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/denbighshire-dog-poo-bags-fine-13662831 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/denbighshire-dog-poo-bags-fine-13662831)
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All change...................
Arriva Trains 'proud' of rail service improvements in North Wales as announces it won't be carrying on
The company has released a comment after it was revealed yesterday they have withdrawn from bidding for services beyond 2018
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/arriva-trains-proud-rail-service-13835184 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/arriva-trains-proud-rail-service-13835184)
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North Wales gets its own regional chief from Welsh Government to drive economy.
Since devolution the Welsh Government has often been accused of being Cardiff-centric and is now taking steps to move to a more regional approach.
This has seen them create the new role for a senior civil servant dedicated to providing leadership in the region and bring together other partners to develop the economy in North Wales.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/north-wales-gets-regional-chief-14031727 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/north-wales-gets-regional-chief-14031727)
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Who would have thought it Steve ? Before the WAG was established, the Welsh Office had an Assistant Director (Industrial Development) located in North Wales. Funny how it takes nearly 20 years for the current lot to realise the need!
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Any one feel the earthquake ?
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/earthquake-tremor-wales-north-swansea-14303263 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/earthquake-tremor-wales-north-swansea-14303263)
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Any one feel the earthquake ?
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/earthquake-tremor-wales-north-swansea-14303263 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/earthquake-tremor-wales-north-swansea-14303263)
I did not.
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I did not.
[/quote]
I can't tell you how relieved that makes me feel Fester. Thank You.
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See which North Wales developments are shortlisted for Wales Project of the Year
The projects range from a restored beach shelter to an adventure hub.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/see-north-wales-developments-shortlisted-14307672#ICID=sharebar_twitter (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/see-north-wales-developments-shortlisted-14307672#ICID=sharebar_twitter)
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Tellytubby sent me this link about the fastest RIP ride in the world. Last year TellyTubby arranged for four of us to have a trip on the RIP ride from Menai Bridge and it was a great experience and we got up to about 50 mph in that boat so we're looking forward to seeing what the new boat is capable of
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/rib-boat-anglesey-zip-world-14306833 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/rib-boat-anglesey-zip-world-14306833)
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Interesting article relating to local issues.......
Wages have hiked 10% in this sector but some employers still struggling to recruit
Hospitality sector transformed and wages are now increasing.
Hospitality wages are increasing more rapidly than any other industry - with sector growth, the Living Wage and staff shortages driving the pay hike.
The sector has transformed in recent years with North Wales at the forefront of the changes - creating more full time permanent roles and more emphasis on training and retaining workers.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/wages-hiked-10-sector-employers-14382586 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/wages-hiked-10-sector-employers-14382586)
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Car dealer Slaters of Abergele goes into administration
KPMG has been appointed as administrator to the cash strapped family business
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/car-dealer-slaters-abergele-goes-14399415 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/car-dealer-slaters-abergele-goes-14399415)
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Councils unite to back 'one North Wales' to bring economic success
The region's six council leaders are supporting the #backthebid campaign to secure £1.3bn boost.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/councils-unite-back-one-north-14667645 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/councils-unite-back-one-north-14667645)
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Planners give verdict on Surf Snowdonia's plans for zip line hotel and adventure centre
Surfing lagoon bosses want to bring 106 bedroom hotel to the Conwy Valley
Plans for a 106 bed hotel and adventure attraction at Surf Snowdonia look set to be knocked back.
An application for the hotel and an activity building will go before Conwy's planning committee when it meets next Wednesday.
Andrew Ainscough, the managing director at Surf Snowdonia made the application for the 106 bed hotel and a five storey activity building, with the plans set to cost £10 million and bring in 100 jobs.
"A report before members of the committee concluded: "The initial details in the submission fail to demonstrate compliance with a number of matters including flood risk, drainage, land contamination, ecology, residential amenity, highways and planning obligations.
"The development should not be approved until associated social and environmental impacts have been fully addressed."
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/planners-give-verdict-surf-snowdonias-15392770 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/planners-give-verdict-surf-snowdonias-15392770)
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Why on earth have CCBC Planning Department accepted this application if the details in the submission fail to demonstrate compliance with several matters.They normally have pre application discussions between the Officers & applicant, why not tell the applicant at that stage to come back when the application complies. The Planning Department recommend the Planning Committee vote against giving permission so why waste their time, money & manpower on this, it beggar belief. It's about time CCBC started looking at ways to save money in various departments and this is one area they could start >:(
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We cannot deny the investment made by these companies, and I am not be surprised by this decision.
A hotel and adventure centre at Surf Snowdonia has been given the green light by planners in Conwy.
The plans, set to cost £10 million and create 100 jobs, will see the building of a 106-room hotel in Dolgarrog as well as a five-storey activity building.
The four-storey hotel would have facilities including a gym, spa, bar and restaurant, as well as treatment rooms and conference and other function rooms.
Officers had originally recommended that the application be refused after concerns were raised about the suitability of the development in such a rural area and issues over the flood risk.
But the recommendation was changed ahead of today’s meeting after the council received updates from the applicant.
Speaking against the plans at the planning commitee meeting, Catherine Mortimer Hart said: “Surf Snowdonia is a massive development in the county and has been a good use of a redundant industrial site, with the activity to date being enjoyed by thousands of visitors.
“The original application promised a major boost to all tourism businesses in the area.
“However, this proposal threatens to make the site completely self-contained and this will diminish the opportunities for local enterprise.”
continued..... https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17225929.plans-approved-for-new-hotel-and-adventure-centre-at-surf-snowdonia/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17225929.plans-approved-for-new-hotel-and-adventure-centre-at-surf-snowdonia/)
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Car dealer Slaters of Abergele goes into administration
KPMG has been appointed as administrator to the cash strapped family business
Good news for Mochdre.
Former Slaters of Abergele site bought in £1.6m investment
Gwynedd Forklifts Ltd has expanded into garage's former Mochdre site.
The former servicing site on Blackmarsh Road will provide additional space and create 10 new jobs for this local family business. ref DP
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Following on from the above posts, re. the new hotel at Surf Snowdonia.
Surf Snowdonia is in advanced talks with Hilton to open a hotel at its Conwy Valley surfing lagoon.
Under the plan a 106-bedroom Hilton Garden Inn would open next to the lagoon along with a 'wellness spa' and conference facilities.
The company also revealed a new brand and more details of its game-changing new adventure offer which will open to visitors in summer 2019.
Surf Snowdonia, which opened in 2015, will rebrand to Adventure Parc Snowdonia to reflect its broader offer, although the 300-metre inland surf lagoon will remain a key part of the attraction.
Investment in the development will be in the region of £16m and Surf Snowdonia say around 100 new roles will be created.
Continued https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/surf-snowdonia-talks-hilton-over-15465022 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/surf-snowdonia-talks-hilton-over-15465022)
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One of world's largest wind farms off coast of North Wales could be about to get BIGGER
The 160 turbine Gwynt y Mor, situated around 10 miles off the coast of Colwyn Bay, could get extended.
Now operator Innogy is seeking to extend the wind farm, which was the second largest in the world when it was built.
There are no details yet about how many extra turbines could be added.
A spokeswoman for innogy said: "In October 2018, The Crown Estate completed a review of applications to extend existing UK offshore wind farms.
"Subject to a successful plan level Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA), The Crown Estate intends to grant rights to extend offshore wind projects including Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/one-worlds-largest-wind-farms-15553952 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/one-worlds-largest-wind-farms-15553952)
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Not so good news for Conwy, as the All-Wales Boat and Leisure Show, is moving to the Anglesey Showground, but good news for North Wales.
A MAJOR maritime-themed show will spearhead ambitious plans to transform Anglesey into the events capital of North Wales.
Tourism chiefs have hailed news that the All-Wales Boat and Leisure Show is coming to the Anglesey Showground as an economic boost for the island.
The event from May 30 to June 1, is expected to attract boat lovers from across the UK.
It’s grown out of the All-Wales Boat Show previously staged in Conwy and Pwllheli.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17333669.maritime-themed-show-tipped-to-provide-economic-boost-to-anglesey/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17333669.maritime-themed-show-tipped-to-provide-economic-boost-to-anglesey/)
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Zip World going to 'next level' after Lloyds takes stake in £45m adventure business
LDC has bought out two of the investors with founder Sean Taylor remaining at helm of the business.
Now Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) have bought out two of the shareholders and will provide a cash injection and additional expertise to expand the business further.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/zip-world-going-next-level-15639282 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/zip-world-going-next-level-15639282)
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North Korea and Russia in cyber attacks on Anglesey council
Attempts by rogue states to breach authority's digital security.
I liked some of the comments............ https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-korea-russia-cyber-attacks-15826587 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-korea-russia-cyber-attacks-15826587)
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I rather liked this quote:
A report by the council's security chiefs revealed that there had also been attempted hacks from Russia.
So Anglesey has 'security chiefs', eh? And anyone who runs a blog or a forum is well aware there are hordes of would-be hackers attempting to gain access all the time. Quite a few are from Russia, but most are trying to sell pornography or drugs.
Wonder if CCBC has 'security chiefs'?
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What's coming to Rhyl Air Show instead of the Red Arrows
The famous display team pulled out of the annual spectacular but here's what you can see instead.
The RAF Eurofighter Typhoon display team will be making their debut appearance at Rhyl Air Show in place of the Red Arrows, organisers have today announced.
The annual extravaganza which takes off on August 24 and 25 will also feature the Lancaster Bomber, Spitfire and Hurricane along with the Tucano.
The line –up also includes Team Raven – a formation aerobatic display team flying 5 Van’s RV8 aircraft from Wales, high energy aerobatics from Steve Carver and The Royal Logistic Corps Silver Stars Army Parachute Display Team.
Last month, the RAF's famous Red Arrows announced they won't be appearing at the show because they will be displaying in the US and Canada later in the summer. More https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/whats-coming-rhyl-air-show-16099874 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/whats-coming-rhyl-air-show-16099874)
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The Typhoon? Wow, that’s a fabulously noisy beast.
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Fears have been raised over the impact of planned 60 metre barges as part of a tidal project off the west coast of Anglesey.
Menter Mon is developing the £35m Morlais tidal scheme off Holy Island/Ynys Gybi - with international firms lined up to use the infrastructure to test new tidal technologies.
Anglesey resident Mark Llewellyn, who lives on the coast of Holy Island, said he was initially supportive of the project.
But this was when he believed the schemes would all be underwater and his opinion has changed after being told part of the project will involve barges off the coast, near South Stack. cont. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/fears-over-flotilla-barges-anglesey-16431677 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/fears-over-flotilla-barges-anglesey-16431677)
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A TOURIST attraction which once won a prestigious national award will finally close this weekend.
The Bodelwyddan Castle Trust announced in February that it would keep the property open to the public as long as possible after deciding to sell the 99-year lease.
Since then, although the mansion itself and art gallery have been closed the gardens and parkland have remained open. But with very limited income the closure was inevitable.
“We have looked at other ways we might become self-sufficient but just could not carry on,” said Trust chairman Dr Helen Papworth.
Cont..... https://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/news/17736675.bodelwyddan-castle-which-is-up-for-sale-and-valued-at-1million-to-finally-close-its-doors/ (https://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/news/17736675.bodelwyddan-castle-which-is-up-for-sale-and-valued-at-1million-to-finally-close-its-doors/)
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First pictures of Hollywood film crews in Snowdonia for Wonder Woman sequel
Warner Bros is currently filming the follow up to the 2017 film Wonder Woman
North Wales Live last night revealed that the makers behind Wonder Woman 1984 were set to use Swallow Falls near Betws-y-Coed to shoot some action scenes.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/first-pictures-hollywood-film-crews-16614231 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/first-pictures-hollywood-film-crews-16614231)
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Hmmm...Gal Gadot will make a welcome addition to the scenery.
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Following on from the above posts, re. the new hotel at Surf Snowdonia.
Under the plan a 106-bedroom Hilton Garden Inn would open next to the lagoon along with a 'wellness spa' and conference facilities.
The company also revealed a new brand and more details of its game-changing new adventure offer which will open to visitors in summer 2019.
Surf Snowdonia, which opened in 2015, will rebrand to Adventure Parc Snowdonia to reflect its broader offer, although the 300-metre inland surf lagoon will remain a key part of the attraction.
Investment in the development will be in the region of £16m and Surf Snowdonia say around 100 new roles will be created.
Continued https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/surf-snowdonia-talks-hilton-over-15465022 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/surf-snowdonia-talks-hilton-over-15465022)
Hilton hotel development underway at surf lagoon
Work has started on the 106 bedroom hotel at Adventure Parc Snowdonia in the Conwy Valley.
A ground-breaking ceremony was held at the Conwy Valley surf lagoon this week for Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia.
The combined investment is worth £16m with "significant" funding from Welsh Government. An exact figure is due to the finalised in the coming weeks. Cont.. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/hilton-hotel-development-underway-surf-16615116 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/hilton-hotel-development-underway-surf-16615116)
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Ambitious plans to rebuild storm ravaged Holyhead Marina unveiled
The breakwater and pontoons were damaged along with dozens of boats when Storm Emma hit in March 2018.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/ambitious-plans-rebuild-storm-ravaged-16675314 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/ambitious-plans-rebuild-storm-ravaged-16675314)
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A FORMER popular tourist attraction has officially been closed off to the public.
Bodelwyddan Castle Trust said said that public access is no longer granted for the woodlands, parklands, play area and trench experience. The trust were hoping to stay open until the end of the year, but 'various obstacles' have resulted in the early decision to close.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17829047.bodelwyddan-castle-park-halt-public-access/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17829047.bodelwyddan-castle-park-halt-public-access/)
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GRANTS from a fund which has paid out nearly £4 million in 10 years are on offer again this year.
Applications to the fund are being sought by The Gannett Foundation, the charitable arm of Gannett Co, Inc, owner of Newsquest Media Group, which publishes the North Wales Pioneer.
Charities in North Wales are being urged to apply for a grant from the fund, with a deadline of Friday, October 18. The judges will meet in November to choose the winners.
A spokesman for Newsquest said: “We value practical and creative projects that bring lasting benefits to the communities and neighbourhoods served by our newspapers and online audience.
“That includes schemes for neighbourhood improvement and local problem-solving, economic development, youth development, education and cultural enrichment, care of the elderly or infirm, help for the disadvantaged or disabled, and environmental conservation.
“We particularly invite clearly reasoned applications asking for specific items of equipment or materials. Most of our applications are for relatively modest sums meeting everyday needs and that will be our special focus in 2019.
“We are also able to join with other contributors to support elements of more ambitious projects. While preference will be given to ideas which create a tangible and durable benefit, we will consider single events, performances or other projects of limited duration that otherwise meet our criteria.”
Applicants must be registered charities, and must not have received a grant from the fund within the last two years.
Gannett Foundation UK 2019 Application Form.docx
Grant forms IDEALLY the trustees prefer grant application to be in electronic PDF format on the standard application form but paper applications can be accepted.
To find out more email news@northwalespioneer.co.uk
In every case, applications must arrive by 5pm on Friday, October 18, 2019.
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The Virgin Atlantic publicity stunt that saw these amazing Airbus images captured over Wales
Airbus A350-1000 caused a stir when it was seen circling the region on Saturday.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/virgin-atlantic-publicity-stunt-saw-16897109 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/business/business-news/virgin-atlantic-publicity-stunt-saw-16897109)
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That's an exceptional spend by visitors ! !
Overall spend by visitors to North Wales increased to £3,241 billion in 2018
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17947013.overall-spend-visitors-north-wales-increased-3-241-billion-2018/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17947013.overall-spend-visitors-north-wales-increased-3-241-billion-2018/)
GOVWALES Report 2018 https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/statistics-and-research/2019-06/wales-tourism-performance-report-january-to-december-2018.pdf (https://gov.wales/sites/default/files/statistics-and-research/2019-06/wales-tourism-performance-report-january-to-december-2018.pdf)
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Dramatic images of what's planned for the Ferodo and Plas Brereton sites have been released as the formal pre-application consultation gets underway.
Maybrook Investments, which owns Ferodo, had completed the deal to take on derelict mansions Plas Brereton and Plas Tŷ Coch.
The developer announced that they wanted to build a holiday village and water park on the site and were in discussions with Landal Greenparks, one of Europe’s leading park operators. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/incredible-images-show-whats-planned-17109448 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/incredible-images-show-whats-planned-17109448)
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I have read recently the difficulties Anglesey is having funding schools and doctors surgeries etc, and this mornings story that the WG is going to fund a 100 space Park and Ride at Gaerwen, costing £600.000 a great idea, but it does seem over expensive and hardly a priority.
A55 park and ride to tackle 'fly parking' and congestion
Jones Bros has secured the contract to build the facility on Anglesey
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/a55-park-ride-tackle-fly-17733695 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/a55-park-ride-tackle-fly-17733695)
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Supermarket giants have launched a massive recruitment drive - with jobseekers crashing career sites.
Sectors like hospitality have had to cut workers as the country closes down many social activities to stem the spread of coronavirus.
But food stores have been booming as shoppers stock up on groceries and items like loo roll - and they need extra workers.
This has seen an urgent appeal for more staff with hopes they can take on some people left jobless by the problems hitting other sectors like tourism and hospitality.
Today there were up to 250 jobs within 50 miles of Conwy - from shop assistants to drivers - with many roles wanting an immediate start.
Ref DP https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/tesco-co-op-asda-iceland-17951277 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/tesco-co-op-asda-iceland-17951277)
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One of Europe's largest agricultural shows has been cancelled due to the "deteriorating situation" surrounding coronavirus.
The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society announced on Monday that the 2020 Royal Welsh Show will not go ahead in July.
Steve Hughson, chief executive, said: "It is with deep regret that due to the deteriorating situation surrounding Coronavirus, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society after taking careful account of the latest Government and Public Health guidance, has today announced the cancellation of the 2020 Royal Welsh Show." ref Pioneer
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New smoking laws will come into force later this month and will see certain types of cigarettes banned.
The legislation, which will be brought in on May 20 includes stripping menthol-flavoured cigarettes from the shelves.
Smokers will no longer be able to buy rolling tobacco or skinny cigarettes with a "characterising flavour other than tobacco" from UK stores.
The smoking ban is part of an EU Tobacco Product Directive law with the aim to attempt to stop young people smoking.
It is also part of a four-year plan to phase out flavoured cigarettes.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/everything-you-need-know-new-18183092 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/everything-you-need-know-new-18183092)
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Does it apply to bonfires Steve?
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A FORMER popular tourist attraction has officially been closed off to the public.
Bodelwyddan Castle Trust said said that public access is no longer granted for the woodlands, parklands, play area and trench experience. The trust were hoping to stay open until the end of the year, but 'various obstacles' have resulted in the early decision to close.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17829047.bodelwyddan-castle-park-halt-public-access/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/17829047.bodelwyddan-castle-park-halt-public-access/)
Financial details which remain 'unresolved' could prove a stumbling block in efforts to sell Bodelwyddan Castle
After 12-months of being on the market, Bodelwyddan Castle is attracting a considerable amount of interest.
It is understood, however, that financial details which remain unresolved could act as a stumbling block in efforts to sell castle.
The gothic revival style country house, set within 200 acres including farmland, parkland and woodland along with a two bedroom house - St Asaph Lodge - was put up for sale with an asking price of £1million after Denbighshire County Council withdrew its £144,000 annual grant in 2017.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18426760.financial-details-remain-unresolved-prove-stumbling-block-efforts-sell-bodelwyddan-castle/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18426760.financial-details-remain-unresolved-prove-stumbling-block-efforts-sell-bodelwyddan-castle/)
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Britannia Bridge fire: 50 years on
Two firefighters have recalled being trapped on the roof of a burning bridge, high above the Menai Strait, to mark the 50th anniversary of the fire.
On 23 May 1970, John Owen and Les Roberts were working for Anglesey Fire Service when they tackled a blaze on the Britannia Bridge - which links the island to the rest of Wales.
But they soon found themselves surrounded by flames and "panicking".
"It was that moment I shook hands with my maker," Mr Owen said.
They have told their story in detail for the first time as part of a BBC Wales programme to mark 50 years since one of the most dramatic fires in recent Welsh history.
Videos etc.... https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-52760291 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-52760291)
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Plans for a wind farm off the coast of North Wales have been revealed - with the potential for 332 metre high turbines.
innogy Renewables wants to build Awel y Môr just over 10km off the coast of Llandudno and Colwyn Bay as an extension to its Gwynt y Môr scheme.
It could include up to 107 wind turbines to the west of the 160 windmills of Gwynt y Môr with the Environmental Impact Assessment part of the scoping report submitted.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/wind-farm-turbines-taller-eiffel-18363294 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/wind-farm-turbines-taller-eiffel-18363294)
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With the number of developers collapsing, leaving others to pay the price, which is usually a high one, it is to easy for them just to walk away, change the company name and start again, need to make them more liable.
Developer behind Denbigh asylum-themed hotel bid collapses with £113m debts
Signature Living Hotel Ltd, based in Merseyside, had wanted to revamp the North Wales Hospital.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/developer-behind-denbigh-asylum-themed-18514045 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/developer-behind-denbigh-asylum-themed-18514045)
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That type of thing happens too often and the directors seem to get away with it under company law.
I wonder who exactly owns the freehold on this valuable site
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Hugo
I think it is back in the ownership of D.C.C. , they have appointed Jones Bros. of Ruthin as main contractors for housing , seems an ideal site for Mr Waldron to me
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I believe the backer for Prince Madoc Cove the development next to Rhos Golf Club is pulling out, and it's up for sale ( as is ). I'm waiting for confirmation
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oh goodness. I hope not, not an ideal time to buy something. Hope we aren't left with another eyesore.
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Port bosses want to build £600m tidal lagoon off the coast of North Wales
Under the proposal the lagoon wall would stretch from the breakwater at Mostyn to Point of Ayr in Flintshire
Plans have been unveiled for a £590 million tidal lagoon capable of providing low carbon electricity to power 82,000 homes in North Wales.
Building the 6.7 kilometre long lagoon, stretching from the breakwater at Mostyn to Point of Ayr in Flintshire, would create 300 jobs during the construction phase and up to 30 high-skilled permanent posts.
It’s being developed by Mostyn SeaPower Ltd, a subsidiary of the busy Port of Mostyn, who say it will provide a massive boost for the regional economy and would play a key role in helping North Wales to recover from the economic downturn caused by the Covid-19 crisis.
Previous schemes for a giant £7bn tidal lagoon on the North Wales coast have not progressed and the wider sector was hit by a snub from UK Government when it failed to back the £1.3bn Swansea Tidal Lagoon in 2018.
But the developer of this new scheme believes the more modest ambitious of this project could get the go ahead and also inspire further tidal power projects along the North Wales coast.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/port-bosses-want-build-600m-18518325 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/port-bosses-want-build-600m-18518325)
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A £60m leisure resort, which would include a water park, is being planned for north Wales. ref BBC
Maybrook Investments wants to develop the old Ferodo factory site and nearby Plas Brereton on the banks of the Menai Strait, near Caernarfon.
The plans would also include more than 250 holiday lodges and apartments, shops, restaurants and bars, creating 80 jobs.
Maybrook has applied to Gwynedd council for planning permission.
The company said it could start work immediately if this was granted.
It also plans to renovate part of the old Ferodo factory into commercial units, which would have enough space for 600 people to work on site.
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Major Trawsfynydd jobs boost for 'next two decades' as chosen for decommissioning project
Nuclear Decommissioning Authority said the Trawsfynydd Site has been chosen as the site to lead Magnox’s reactor decommissioning project
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/major-trawsfynydd-jobs-boost-next-18687158 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/major-trawsfynydd-jobs-boost-next-18687158)
The North Wales firms who have secured emergency Covid funding from Welsh Government
Recipients of phase one of the Economic Resilience Fund have been published
Conwy
Adventure Parc Snowdonia Ltd: £100,000
Alpine Travel: £65,000
Anna Davies (Betws-y-Coed): £37,500
Blas ar Fwyd, Llanrwst: £77,500
BODNANT FURNACE FARM: £77,500
Creating Enterprise C.I.C: £100,000
Elmtree Healthcare: £89,000
Empire Hotel (Llandudno ): £85,883
Grosvenor Construction: £67,000
Merrion Hotel, Llandudno: £66,100
Welsh Mountain Zoo: £85,000
Palins Holiday Park: £52,500
Ray Seager Scaffolding Services: £75,000
Restaurant 72, trading as Harveys New York Bar & Grill: £100,000
St.Kilda Hotel, Llandudno: £70,000
The Royal Oak Hotel, Betws-y-Coed: £80,000
Tynedale Hotel, Llandudno: £72,500
more https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-firms-who-secured-18685248 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-firms-who-secured-18685248)
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Red Arrows practise display over Anglesey - when you'll catch it
RAF Valley will play host to 'out of season practise' later this week.
The Red Arrows are coming to Anglesey for a practise session this week.
The Covid-19 pandemic has left the aerial display team largely grounded
A Notice to Airmen (Notam) published in the past few days states "The Red Arrows will conduct flying display rehearsals at Royal Air Force Valley, Anglesey on 13th August 2020.
The document notes between 9am and 4pm that day no aircraft is to fly below 8,100 feet within a six nautical mile circle centred on the airbase. But the display is expected to take place between 12.45pm and 1.30pm.
Based at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire the team was formed in late 1964 as an all-RAF team, replacing a number of unofficial teams that had been sponsored by RAF commands. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/red-arrows-practise-display-over-18746902 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/red-arrows-practise-display-over-18746902)
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Re above Possible sightings today......
Thursday 13 / 08 / 20, Flying Display REHEARSALS @ VALLEY on ANGLESEY, AHEAD of FLYPASTS IN OTHER AREAS OF U K, 09.00 - 16.00hrs.
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UPDATE on above.
LIVE: Pictures and updates from Red Arrows display at RAF Valley
The aerobatics team are having a training rehearsal over Anglesey ref DP
Pictures and videos....... https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-pictures-updates-red-arrows-18762824 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-pictures-updates-red-arrows-18762824)
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UPDATE on above.
LIVE: Pictures and updates from Red Arrows display at RAF Valley
The aerobatics team are having a training rehearsal over Anglesey ref DP
Pictures and videos....... https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-pictures-updates-red-arrows-18762824 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-pictures-updates-red-arrows-18762824)
Well Llandudno just had a Red Arrows fly past, complete with coloured smoke, and looks like they are heading home to Scampton, along the coast .. $good$ stock photo, came over to fast :-[
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Plans to create one of the biggest offshore wind farms in the world off the north Wales coast have got a step closer despite fears over the impact on scenery.
About 100 turbines could be built as part of plans for Awel y Môr, between Colwyn Bay and Llanfairfechan.
Campaigners who fought against the nearby Gwynt y Môr farm said the turbines were "an eyesore".
RWE Renewables said the wind farm would create "green clean renewable energy".
Back in 2015, the same developers opened one of the UK's largest offshore wind farms, Gwynt y Môr, which has 160 turbines, off the coast of Llandudno, Conwy.
Now they have been granted rights by the Crown Estate for the sea bed between Colwyn Bay and Llanfairfechan.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53851846 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53851846)
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Furloughed workers within the arts have been temporarily employed on I'm a Celebrity.
The new series will be filmed in Abergele and is set to provide jobs for the local community.
This includes a recent recruitment of experienced production runners within the area by ITV.
They aren't the only local professionals involved with the upcoming TV project though.
North Wales Live can exclusively reveal that furloughed theatre staff are also being used.
Technicians from Venue Cymru and Theatr Colwyn began working on the production this month.
Eight employees joined the show last Monday (September 14) along with an additional two yesterday.
The staff, all of whom had been furloughed, are now expected to remain on set for another 10 days.
They will be paid by ITV and are currently assisting crew on location at Gwrych Castle.
Those involved account for 50 percent of the permanent staff within Venue Cymru's tech department.
And it's hoped that ITV will extend their contracts in the coming weeks to cover production itself.
It could also offer roles on the series to additional furloughed theatre staff during filming of the show.
This may include more technicians as well as those in other departments, such as in catering.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/im-celebrity-hires-furloughed-north-18969398 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/im-celebrity-hires-furloughed-north-18969398)
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Anyone on furlough is paid by the Government ( that's you and I ) so many employees consider taking temporary jobs during a furlough. They should check carefully for rules against outside employment and/or second jobs, as their employer is free to enforce these policies even during a furlough.
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A TRAIN owned by Llangollen Railway had its windows smashed and seats and tables damaged by vandals.
North Wales Police has launched an investigation into the incident which occurred some time between Friday afternoon and Monday (October 12) while the train was situated outside Llangollen train station.
Police say the perpetrators "smashed windows, pulled up seats and tables and left empty bottles of alcohol".
Liz McGuinness, general manager of Llangollen Railway, which has battled to survive amid the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, said: "We are devastated at the awful damage that has been done to our beautiful carriages.
"It's one of the carriages we use and were hopeful of using when we plan to reopen over October half term.
"We're not sure exactly how much repair costs are going to be, but it's going to be in the thousands.
"In my nine years of working for Llangollen Railway this sort of thing has only happened once - and that was years ago.
"It's saddening that someone would go out of their way just to cause damage to one our train's carriages."
Anyone who can assist police with their enquiries is asked to call them on 101 quoting reference number Y150557.
The Leader: https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/18790491.police-appeal-train-vandalised-llangollen/ (https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/18790491.police-appeal-train-vandalised-llangollen/)
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All major bonfire night and fireworks displays have been called off due to the Covid-19 pandemic. ref DP
Both Llandudno and Colwyn Bay town councils announced earlier this year that their firework displays - which usually attract more than 20,000 spectators combined - will not be going ahead.
Other town councils, including Buckley, Denbigh, Caernarfon and Pwllheli have now confirmed that no public displays have been organised in these areas due to social distancing rules.
Anglesey County Council have also confirmed that the annual events in Beaumaris, Llangefni, Holyhead and Amlwch have been cancelled.
According to government guidelines outdoor gatherings of more than 30 people are not allowed anywhere in Wales.
North Wales Fire and Rescue Service (NWFRS) is now appealing to the public to think twice about using fireworks at home.
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The RRS Sir David Attenborough is sailing to North Wales
The vessel, once dubbed Boaty McBoatface, will be undergoing trials in the region's coastal waters and its crew will be training in Holyhead ahead of polar trip.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rrs-sir-david-attenborough-sailing-19140372 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rrs-sir-david-attenborough-sailing-19140372)
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Plans to create one of the biggest offshore wind farms in the world off the north Wales coast have got a step closer despite fears over the impact on scenery.
About 100 turbines could be built as part of plans for Awel y Môr, between Colwyn Bay and Llanfairfechan.
Campaigners who fought against the nearby Gwynt y Môr farm said the turbines were "an eyesore".
RWE Renewables said the wind farm would create "green clean renewable energy".
Back in 2015, the same developers opened one of the UK's largest offshore wind farms, Gwynt y Môr, which has 160 turbines, off the coast of Llandudno, Conwy.
Now they have been granted rights by the Crown Estate for the sea bed between Colwyn Bay and Llanfairfechan.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53851846 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53851846)
A county council economic spokesman told owners of a wind farm he’d rather see a tidal lagoon than more giant turbines off the coast.
Cllr Goronwy Edwards, Conwy county council’s cabinet member for economic development, revealed he told Innogy Renewables the council’s preferences during a presentation about Awel y Mor wind farm extension.
Speaking at Thursday full council meeting he said the new field would see Gwynt y Mor field “double in size” in the direction of Anglesey.
The proposals, revealed earlier this year, would see giant turbines taller than the Eiffel Tower (up to 330m) situated off the coast.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18817092.conwys-economic-chief-shows-support-tidal-lagoon-awel-y-mor-wind-farm-expansion-presentation/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18817092.conwys-economic-chief-shows-support-tidal-lagoon-awel-y-mor-wind-farm-expansion-presentation/)
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Well we are pretty quick to find fault with CCBC but I agree with Goronwy Edwards comments on the new wind farm ,lets hope they don`t proceed with the new farm and we have a tidal lagoon to replace them but the decision will be made in London .
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With this lot ccbc the lagoon will go to Deeside as far as Rhyl that's where they are in favour of.
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Airbus' latest giant BelugaXL flew into Broughton this week on first operational flight
The third of the mammoth planes to come off the production line has made its first trip to North Wales.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/airbus-latest-giant-belugaxl-flew-19172439 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/airbus-latest-giant-belugaxl-flew-19172439)
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How giant wind farm turbines will look - from Llandudno prom to the summit of Snowdon
The CGI images have been created to show the impact of Awel y Mor on the landscape
The developers of a new wind farm off the coast of North Wales have opened up a virtual exhibition - with CGI images showing how the turbines will look from various points across the region.
RWE Renewables is leading the development of Awel y Môr - a sister project to Gwynt y Môr Offshore Wind Farm.
It would sit to the west of Gwynt y Môr with the turbines potentially 332 metres tall. There would be between 57 and 107 turbines, depending on the size chosen.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-giant-wind-farm-turbines-19212656 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-giant-wind-farm-turbines-19212656)
PS Climate change: Welsh green energy hindered by 'strained' grid capacity
Developers of green energy schemes in Wales face "significant challenges" in linking up to electricity power lines, the industry association has warned.
Lower emissions targets could be missed as a result, Renewable UK Cymru said.
It also claimed new zones allocated by ministers for onshore wind farms provided "virtually no opportunity whatsoever" for development. cont BBC https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-54782345 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-54782345)
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Stena Line preparing for 'return of duty free' as Holyhead booze cruise could be back after Brexit
The ferry giant said there would be 'significant savings' on alcohol and cigarettes under the new prices
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-line-preparing-return-duty-19278759 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-line-preparing-return-duty-19278759)
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THE British Antarctic Survey’s new polar research ship, the RRS Sir David Attenborough, has berthed at Orthios Jetty, Holyhead Port during a break in trials off the North Wales coast.
The ship has completed its first series of technical tests and shortly after arrival will be handed over from the builders, Cammell Laird shipyard, to the Natural Environment Research Council and British Antarctic Survey (BAS).
While operating in North Wales waters prior to arriving at Holyhead, the ship’s propulsion, steering, engineering and navigation systems were all calibrated.
A spokesperson for the BAS said: “The crew will spend approximately 50 days intensive training at Holyhead, including safety drills, familiarisation, helicopter deck certification and stocking and stowing the ship. The stay will also include the completion of her interior fitting out.
“She is programmed to sail early next year for ice trials in the Arctic, and in November 2021 make her maiden voyage to Antarctica.
“In Antarctica her role will be to support scientists conducting vital research in the polar regions.”
The spokesperson added: “The RRS Sir David Attenborough is a multidisciplinary research platform that will transform how shipborne science is conducted in the polar regions and provide scientists with state of the art facilities to research the oceans, seafloor, ice and atmosphere.” ref Pioneer
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Leaving things a bit late ?..............
The Roadking truck stop in Holyhead and Bryn Cegin business park in Bangor have been identified as the two target sites for a new customs facility.
Proposals for a customs HGV facility on Anglesey Show’s existing park-and-ride facility on the Mona Industrial Estate were thrown out by the island's local authority in September.
This month North Wales Live revealed that traffic coming into Holyhead from Dublin is set to be directed to interim sites in Birmingham and Warrington for customs checks.
UK Government said it was progressing its hunt for a suitable site nearer the port and that two potential locations have been identified.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/roadking-bryn-cegin-uk-governments-19345718 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/roadking-bryn-cegin-uk-governments-19345718)
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This month North Wales Live revealed that traffic coming into Holyhead from Dublin is set to be directed to interim sites in Birmingham and Warrington for customs checks
_))* _))* _))* _))* _))*
Wonderful!
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The £1billion North Wales Growth Deal is taking a major step forward today as a final agreement is signed.
The major deal, which is backed by £120m each from the Welsh Government and UK Government, is set to create thousands of jobs and transform the region's economy.
The final deal agreement will be signed in a live streamed virtual event on Thursday.
A few days later, on 22 December, progress on the Mid Wales Growth Deal is expected to be announced involving representatives of Powys and Ceredigion county councils as well as the Welsh Government and UK Government.
Both deals will back green and sustainable growth in their regions' economies.
Minister for economy and North Wales Ken Skates said: “This has been an incredibly difficult and challenging year for businesses across Wales, and we know that there are more challenges to come as we continue to deal with the effects of the pandemic.
“I’m pleased, however, that we are able to move forward with both the North and Mid Wales growth deals before the end of this year which will be key for the future.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/1billion-north-wales-growth-deal-19472629 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/1billion-north-wales-growth-deal-19472629)
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The following comment taken from this article has a ring of truth to it, I think.............
"They’re creating a new structure that the public don’t want and will be seen as just another carriage on the gravy train, taking the power even further away from the people."
Concerns have been raised that “undemocratic” moves to establish regional public bodies will “diminish accountability” and lead to less autonomy for elected councillors.
The Welsh Government is set to create four regional bodies known as Corporate Joint Committees (CJCs) that would cover the north, mid, south-east and south-west regions of the country.
While the leaders of each local authority would sit on the relevant body, opposition was raised by members of Gwynedd Council’s cabinet when it met on Tuesday.
In the case of the north of Wales, the body would be made up of Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, Wrexham and Flintshire local authorities as well as the Snowdonia National Park Authority.
CJCs would be legal entities in their own right, employing staff, co-opting members and having their own budget while working on fields including transport and promoting the economic well-being of their areas via new strategic development plans.
Cont https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/18952260.moves-establish-regional-bodies-will-diminish-nbsp-accountability/?ref=rss (https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/18952260.moves-establish-regional-bodies-will-diminish-nbsp-accountability/?ref=rss)
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It's hard to know what the benefit of yet another layer of bureaucracy could be.
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Interesting coming on the day we learn that AMs (or MSs as we must now learn to call them) are likely to have a 2.4% pay increase!
The Gwynedd councillors make some very valid points. WG loves to have commissioners (a handy sinecure for favoured ex-councillors) and quango-type bodies usually populated by the nomenklatura or other folk from the Cardiff Bay Repertory Company. This enables their surrogates to carry out WG bidding come what may. Devolution should not end in Cathays Park.
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What do you call 1000 bureaucrats chained together at the bottom of Cardiff Bay?
A very good start $hands$
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Tax hike of 1% (now 4%) on second homes in Wales approved - but some say it doesn't go far enough
The latest Welsh Government budget announcement will see people buying second homes or buy-to-let properties in Wales having to pay extra.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/tax-hike-second-homes-wales-19501689 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/tax-hike-second-homes-wales-19501689)
Comment.........
“It does beg the question though, if the Welsh Government is so eager to take this step to help manage the second home market, why do they remain so reluctant to prevent second homeowners and holiday let owners from moving their properties from the Council Tax rate to the Business Tax Rate "
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.https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/tax-hike-second-homes-wales-19501689 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/tax-hike-second-homes-wales-19501689)
Comment.........
“It does beg the question though, if the Welsh Government is so eager to take this step to help manage the second home market, why do they remain so reluctant to prevent second homeowners and holiday let owners from moving their properties from the Council Tax rate to the Business Tax Rate "
I couldn't understand that either Steve, that loophole which I believe was instigated by a businessman with interests in Abersoch should be closed. If the properties are a genuine business then hopefully HMRC should be aware of the fact
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Maybe one of the reasons for rejecting the transfer to business rates is because of the reduction in receipts which would ensue due to the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme;
'Small Business Rates Relief in Wales
The Welsh Government provides non-domestic rates relief to eligible small businesses.
eligible business premises with a rateable value of up to £6,000 will receive 100% relief; and
those with a rateable value between £6,001 and £12,000 will receive relief on a tapered basis from 100% to zero'
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That's one of the reasons Hammy, that guy in Abersoch spotted a loophole in the system and advised second home owners to change to the lower rate of the Business tax
The other thing is that they want to discourage people from buying second homes in the area as that action is inflating the prices of houses and making them out of reach of the local young people
It's not unique to Wales because Cornwall, the Lake District and other areas are facing the same problem
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Leaving things a bit late ?..............
The Roadking truck stop in Holyhead and Bryn Cegin business park in Bangor have been identified as the two target sites for a new customs facility.
Proposals for a customs HGV facility on Anglesey Show’s existing park-and-ride facility on the Mona Industrial Estate were thrown out by the island's local authority in September.
This month North Wales Live revealed that traffic coming into Holyhead from Dublin is set to be directed to interim sites in Birmingham and Warrington for customs checks.
UK Government said it was progressing its hunt for a suitable site nearer the port and that two potential locations have been identified.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/roadking-bryn-cegin-uk-governments-19345718 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/roadking-bryn-cegin-uk-governments-19345718)
Holyhead Roadking customs plan dropped by UK Government - with hope truck stop jobs can be saved
The site had been proposed for a new customs facility and workers already told they were being made redundant
“Investigations by both Welsh and UK Governments have established that there is no single site immediately available in Holyhead that is big enough to support both functions, "This means that the operations will need to be split over multiple sites.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-roadking-customs-plan-dropped-19511247 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-roadking-customs-plan-dropped-19511247)
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Update on above......
The planned two new sites on Anglesey for customs facilities have been revealed after the proposal to take on the Roadking truck stop were dropped.
UK and Welsh Governments had entered into talks with the owners of the Roadking truck stop at Parc Cybi and staff told they faced redundancy due to the move.
But this plan has been scrapped and two new sites identified.
These are understood to be plots seven and nine on Parc Cybi.
It is understood HMRC will take on plot nine to deal with customs and immigration checks with Welsh Government responsible for ensuring compliance with DEFRA standards such as the SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) checks and traffic management.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-planned-holyhead-customs-sites-19517631 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-planned-holyhead-customs-sites-19517631)
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Super seven that can create hundreds of jobs in 2021
From construction to communications these firms can help boost the economy next year
Despite an incredibly challenging 2020 and the ongoing impact of the pandemic there are firms in North Wales gearing up to create jobs over the next 12 months.
There are hopes that 2021 will bring better times for the economy once vaccinations start to ramp up and Wales enters the warmer spring months.
In the region there are firms already planning on growth - from sectors as diverse as communications to construction.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/super-seven-can-create-hundreds-19536025 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/super-seven-can-create-hundreds-19536025)
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In pictures: Striking photos from Wales in 2020
We take a look at some of the most striking images from across Wales during 2020 - a year which was defined by the coronavirus pandemic.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-55489831 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-55489831)
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More great photos of 2020.....see above
46 pictures which sum-up life in North Wales during the strange year that was 2020
It's been an eventful year for everyone and our photographers have been there to capture an extraordinary 12 months
Some are images which show just how much life has changed in North Wales during the pandemic.
Others are great examples of life as we know it - pictures which show that there is still a world beyond the facts and figures of the pandemic.
photos https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gallery/46-pictures-sum-up-life-19493655 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gallery/46-pictures-sum-up-life-19493655)
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Households across Conwy will soon be asked to take part in Census 2021. ref Pioneer
The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales. It has been carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941.
It will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets.
“A successful census will ensure everyone from local government to charities can put services and funding in the places where they are most needed,” Iain Bell, deputy national statistician at the Office for National Statistics, said.
“This could mean things like doctors’ surgeries, schools and new transport routes. That’s why it is so important everyone takes part and we have made it easier for people to do so online on any device, with help and paper questionnaires for those that need them.”
Census day will be on March 21, but households across the country will receive letters with online codes allowing them to take part from early March.
The census will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity. And, for the first time, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity.
In Wales, households will also be asked a specific question about their Welsh language skills.
Those who wish to complete the census in Welsh can do so both online and in paper form. There are 'Cymraeg' and 'English' buttons to switch between languages at any time online, and on paper you can use Welsh and English on the same form.
Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.
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I hope this one is better than the last one, I know of big blocks of flats in Llandudno that didn't receive one.
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Two reports affecting export of goods from the UK
The Irish Government will temporarily ease customs arrangements for businesses importing goods from the UK - in a move that should boost Welsh ports.
Last night North Wales Live reported that Stena Line was cutting 12 weekend sailings between Holyhead and Dublin, and Fishguard and Rosslare.
This follows a 70% slump in freight trade on the routes as businesses struggle with new customs arrangements after the end of the transition period on December 31.
In Ireland this has sparked concerns about empty shelves in supermarkets as goods fail to arrive.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/irish-government-eases-post-brexit-19585004 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/irish-government-eases-post-brexit-19585004)
PS BBC report Brexit: Firms warn of problems as new EU trade rules kick in.
New border rules introduced last week are already creating problems for exporters and traders, say firms.
On Friday, Marks & Spencer became the latest company to warn of the administrative burden and increase in export costs to some countries.
Parcels firm DPD has already suspended some services and there have been warnings from seafood exporters.
One export trade body told the BBC there was a "growing problem and sense of unease" among its members.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-55583244 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-55583244)
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Truckers bypassing Holyhead &shake& to Dublin route a sign of 'Brexit success' says Boris Johnson
The PM made the claims during the Liaison Committee meeting earlier this evening
The PM said that trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain is flowing so smoothly that many exporters are opting to use the new route and bypassing North Wales in the process.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/truckers-bypassing-holyhead-dublin-route-19621056 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/truckers-bypassing-holyhead-dublin-route-19621056)
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Update on above...
Stena Line has cancelled Irish Sea sailings again this weekend as the post-Brexit trade slump continues at Holyhead and Fishguard.
The ferry firm is still reporting a 70% drop in freight trade on routes between Wales and Ireland compared with similar periods in previous years.
The reason is stockpiling prior to the end of the post-Brexit transition period and a surge in direct services between Ireland and the rest of the EU.
Additional red tape on trading is impacting retailers, hauliers and ports in the UK and the island of Ireland - while Covid travel restrictions are hitting passenger figures.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-line-cancels-holyhead-sailings-19624567 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-line-cancels-holyhead-sailings-19624567)
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Irish hauliers are bypassing Welsh ports to avoid Brexit bureaucracy, industry leaders say.
So called "teething problems" with new export rules are causing "enormous strain on staff", according to one haulage company.
But others warn of a longer-term shift by truck firms from using Holyhead, Fishguard and Pembroke Dock.
long-term consequences for the ports.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-55682597 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-55682597)
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Plaque in memory of missing antiques dealer mysteriously appears on bench - and no-one knows why I remember watching a TV programme on the original disappearance and it could shed no light on the reason why she vanished without trace
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plaque-memory-antiques-dealer-mysteriously-19616661 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plaque-memory-antiques-dealer-mysteriously-19616661)
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Traffic through Holyhead Port has been down by more than 50%, and traders at the frontline of Brexit in Wales are warning a long-term drop in its port activity will hurt its future.
The port is the second-largest roll-on-roll-off port in the UK and according to Wales Online, they carry 1,200 lorries and trailers across the Irish Sea every day.
The UK officially left the European Union on December 31 and many concerns have been raised about the falling numbers at the Port.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/brexits-taking-back-control-plan-19697798 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/brexits-taking-back-control-plan-19697798)
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A CASE of Avian Influenza (bird flu) has been confirmed in pheasants at a premises on Anglesey.
The Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales has confirmed the case.
A temporary control zone (TCZ) has been immediately imposed around the infected premises to limit the risk of the disease spreading and as part of the wider surveillance and disease control measures.
Further laboratory results to determine if virus is a Highly Pathogenic type are expected in the next 48 hours. If so, the TCZ will be replaced by 3 km protection and 10 km surveillance zones.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19045177.bird-flu-discovered-pheasants-anglesey-chief-veterinary-officer-wales-confirms/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19045177.bird-flu-discovered-pheasants-anglesey-chief-veterinary-officer-wales-confirms/)
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Is there no end to the good news. I wonder?
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Stories within stories................
The deep water jetty at Holyhead port is receiving an upgrade that will make it more attractive for cruise ship passengers and prepare it for a new use.
Work has begun on the £500,000 upgrade of the Orthios jetty at Holyhead https://www.orthios.com/the-eco-park-anglesey/ (https://www.orthios.com/the-eco-park-anglesey/) - currently being used as a base for sea trials and training by the world’s most advanced polar research vessel the RSS Sir David Attenborough.
The upgrade serves two purposes - including getting the jetty ready to receive plastics for recycling for Orthios' Plastics-to-Oil facilities at the former Anglesey Aluminium site. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-55813259 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-55813259)
It will also benefit Welsh tourism as Orthios said it will make the jetty "more attractive" to cruise ships when the holiday industry revives.
The improvement works are being managed for Orthios by Cadarn Consulting of Anglesey.
Orthios CEO Sean McCormick said: “Cruise traffic dropped off almost entirely in 2020 due to the pandemic but we already have 20+ bookings for later this year, with each liner expected to bring hundreds of passengers and their spending power into the region.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-jetty-upgrade-make-more-19894584 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-jetty-upgrade-make-more-19894584)
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Welsh exports to Irish Republic 'hindered by wrong ink'
Welsh exports to Ireland are being blocked by extra paperwork and costs at customs, says CBI Wales.
Director Ian Price said the authorities in the Republic of Ireland were "zealous" when checking goods which was "causing some delays."
He said documents had been rejected for being written in blue not black ink.
Ireland's consul general in Wales insisted the Irish Government was "focused" on facilitating trade between the two countries.
Mr Price called for "consistency of approach" when exporting to the EU.
The republic is Wales' fourth biggest export market, behind Germany, France and the US and the fifth largest market for the UK.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56201813 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56201813)
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Gwynedd council decides it will double council tax on holiday homes
The premium levied on owners of holiday homes and long term empty properties in Gwynedd will be doubled from April.
While second home owners already face premiums of 50%, it will rise to 100% after the cabinet-backed plans were supported by 38 to 16 during Thursday’s full council meeting.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-council-decides-double-council-19969848 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-council-decides-double-council-19969848)
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The Queen will address the nation via BBC One in a rare televised speech this weekend.
The speech will mark Commonwealth Day, the annual Commonwealth Day service, due to take place on March 8, is usually attended by the Queen and other members of the royal family.
However, amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the ceremony has been scrapped and the Queen will instead share her message via BBC One on Sunday March 7.
Buckingham Palace has now released further details about the special programme to be aired at 5pm on Sunday evening.
The palace said: "In Her Majesty's annual Commonwealth Day message, the Queen will pay tribute to the way in which communities across the family of nations have come together in response to the pandemic."
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19141966.queen-will-deliver-rare-televised-speech-nation-weekend-bbc-one/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19141966.queen-will-deliver-rare-televised-speech-nation-weekend-bbc-one/)
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This is a major problem for NW ....... ridiculous
Plants destined for Caernarfon nursery sent on 1,400-mile three-nation detour to avoid Holyhead Port
Products for Neil Alcock’s Seiont Nurseries in Caernarfon have a four-day marathon via France, Holland and England
Plants are being shipped from Ireland to Wales on a 1,400-mile, three-nation detour instead of through Holyhead because of Brexit.
The 170-mile journey between Neil Alcock’s Seiont Nurseries in Caernarfon and his supplier in Kilkenny used to take just 12 hours via Holyhead.
Now red tape means a four-day marathon via France, Holland and England – at £280 a trolley instead of £100.
Neil, 51, told The Mirror : “It’s ridiculous and not sustainable.
"Holyhead is the best solution but we can’t find hauliers because they worry about paperwork errors holding them up.
"The only way is via Europe on existing trade routes.
"It makes no sense but it’s our only option.”
Plants are now driven to Rosslare and shipped to Dunkirk, in northern France.
They go by road to Aalsmeer, in the Netherlands, to join other plants being imported by Seiont.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plants-destined-caernarfon-nursery-sent-19984463 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plants-destined-caernarfon-nursery-sent-19984463)
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Doesn't seem to affect Irish mushrooms in local shops either in quantity or price.
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Take your pick of these stories "Chancellor’s £4.8m boost for Anglesey hydrogen hub could create extra jobs" or "The North Wales areas set to lose out on millions feels like 'slap in the face' for locals"
Chancellor’s £4.8m boost for Anglesey hydrogen hub could create extra jobs
Rishi Sunak hoped it would help Wales 'pave the way to a greener future'
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/chancellors-48m-boost-anglesey-hydrogen-19986341 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/chancellors-48m-boost-anglesey-hydrogen-19986341)
The North Wales areas set to lose out on millions feels like 'slap in the face' for locals
There are fears the UK Government's new infrastructure fund has put some parts 'at the back of the queue'
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-areas-set-lose-19986353 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-areas-set-lose-19986353)
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Update on March 07, 2021, 05:17:47 PM » above
The UK Government's Brexit plan to avoid 1,400 mile shipping 'rigmarole' for Welsh products
The Irish Sea freight woes highlighted in Westminster
“The freight hauliers don't want to accept mixed loads as any single item not having the paperwork would stop the whole load.
“Why is the paperwork so difficult between Holyhead and Dublin that the Irish exporter prefers to send the freight on such a long journey?
“The Port of Holyhead has been hit by the perfect economic storm, brought about by Brexit. As of the last week of February, freight was down 49% while between Ireland and France was up by 102%.
“No other port in Europe would put up with this daylight robbery brought about by EU red tape, there’s no need for it. Some spot checks should be all that are needed.”
Full story https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/uk-governments-brexit-plan-avoid-20063017 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/uk-governments-brexit-plan-avoid-20063017)
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How extra layer of Government could impact housing and travel in North Wales
The proposals to create four regional bodies is pressing ahead and could also have repercussions for Snowdonia National Park
Ministers have been described as “dictators” for pressing on with proposals for another regional layer of government, referred to by councillors on Anglesey as “back door reorganisation”.
The Welsh Government is pressing ahead with plans to create four regional bodies with powers to decide on where to build new housing developments and invest in transport across the respective areas.
The four corporate joint committees (CJCs) would be created in the south-east, south-west, north and mid Wales, while sitting on the committees would be the leaders of every contained council.
But the indirectly elected layer of government would sit above all six northern authorities as well as the Snowdonia National Park.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-extra-layer-government-could-20063193 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-extra-layer-government-could-20063193)
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I had been blaming the EU red tape for our delayed import/export delays, this is a ridiculous situation.
Holyhead border post site confirmed by Welsh Government
Brexit and the deal struck by the UK Government means physical checks are required on certain goods entering the UK from the EU
Welsh Government has announced that Plot 9 at Parc Cybi has been selected as the site for the post.
A planning consultation under a Special Development Order will begin shortly.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-border-post-site-confirmed-20117019 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-border-post-site-confirmed-20117019)
Brexit: UK delays border checks on EU goods into Great Britain
"The government had been "confident of being ready on time" for the checks to take effect."
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-56361229 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-56361229)
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I had been blaming the EU red tape for our delayed import/export delays
"The government had been "confident of being ready on time" for the checks to take effect."
The grim reality of Brexit has only just started to appear. I susp[ct things will get far, far worse before any improvement.
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Update
Holyhead Border Control Post details revealed as consultation starts on post-Brexit checkpoint
The site will employ 75 people over a 24-hour period and will carry out checks on animals, plants and products of animal
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-border-control-post-details-20248994 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-border-control-post-details-20248994)
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This is looking like ..... too little too late
Welsh ports under threat from post-Brexit trade
The Welsh government has warned that post-Brexit trading patterns threaten the viability of the country's Irish Sea ports.
Trade flows from Ireland to Welsh ports have collapsed since January.
Irish hauliers are avoiding the ports due to complicated new administration.
The Welsh government has published a plan aimed at simplifying those processes and encouraging the return of Irish freight.
It says: "The urgency of this work has become self-evident.
"Data for Welsh ferry ports volumes in February shows a relative decline of in 'year-to-date volumes' of 50% in Holyhead, and 40% in the south West."
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-56521780 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-56521780)
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Air quality monitors installed in bid to get to bottom of estate's smoke mystery
Denbighshire council has moved to buy the machine to establish what's in the smoke clouds If I'm correct this is a lovely new estate just outside of Ruthin and within a few years of being built had serious flooding problems,
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/air-quality-monitors-installed-bid-20337983 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/air-quality-monitors-installed-bid-20337983)
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This is more encouraging news than the last few posts on the UK / Irish ferry story.
Freight traffic between Welsh and Irish ports rises after slump.
One of the largest Irish Sea ferry operators says freight traffic is on the up between its ports in Wales and Ireland, following a dip after Brexit.
It was down by half for much of the first three months of 2021 at Holyhead and Fishguard.
Ferry operators said this was partly because lorries from Ireland to other EU countries had started going on ferries direct to France.
But latest Stena Line figures show the reduction in lorry numbers is now 28%.
The figures are for the week ending on Easter Sunday, compared with the same week last year.
The company said at least one major exporter had now begun sending lorries through Holyhead again, and others were sending test loads as they look at returning to the route.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56667921 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56667921)
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A depressing piece of news...........
IT AND digital jobs in North Wales are being filled by people from the rest of the UK and not local talent which is going elsewhere.
That is the belief of Colwyn Bay and Bangor-based S2 Recruitment who have witnessed this trend.
Sian Shepherd, business manager, said: "We have the skills right here in North Wales but for some reason a lot of people have travelled to England and further afield for work, rather than applying for digital roles right here on their doorstep.
“This has become a significant issue, especially due to the coronavirus pandemic and more people than ever moving online, with S2 Recruitment helping to appoint people from as far away as London, Kent, Norfolk and even Scotland to take up positions in Gwynedd and Anglesey.
“That said, we are also aware there are skilled and experienced people from North Wales working nationally and internationally for global companies, so there is a crossover.”
“Research has also revealed there is a massive need for more candidates with Artificial Intelligence, robotics and cloud computing experience, and there is a disparity in the number of young women applying for roles.
“More than 80 per cent of the positions we have appointed to in the last six months have been filled by male candidates, the number of female applicants in this sector is low,” added Sian.
“This is where education is going to be key, we really need to see academia and the private sector work together to attract more youngsters into industries where there will be a better chance of a career for them, and to address the demographic challenges.
“It is a candidate-driven market right now, especially for those who are highly skilled, so it’s imperative this is capitalised on.”
A study by the Learning and Work Institute found that across the UK, one in four companies have a significant gap when it comes to basic computer skills. There has been a 40 per cent fall in school pupils taking ICT at GCSE level since 2015. ref Pioneer
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LIVE: Huge landslide hits Nefyn beach as cliff collapses near houses
Police have urged people to avoid the area
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-huge-landslide-hits-nefyn-20417484 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/live-huge-landslide-hits-nefyn-20417484)
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UK Government still 'identifying' customs site at Holyhead for already delayed post-Brexit checks
HMRC wants a suitable location close to where Welsh Government will carry out checks on animals, plants and products of animal origin
UK Government says it is “currently identifying” a suitable location for a customs facility near Holyhead port in preparation for already delayed checks on EU traffic.
Exports to the EU from Britain have been subject to controls since January 1, but the UK Government decided to opt for a phased approach on EU imports to give hauliers and businesses more time to adapt.
Checks were due to be introduced in stages from April 1 and from July 1 but UK Government has been told the network of border posts will not be built on time - and in Holyhead they are still finalising where the site will be.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/uk-government-still-identifying-customs-20534251 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/uk-government-still-identifying-customs-20534251)
cont
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NORTH Wales could become one of the most prosperous areas in Europe within ten years, a business leader has said.
Askar Sheibani, managing director and CEO of Comtek Network Systems and chairman of Deeside Business Forum (DBF), said the transformative possibilities of large scale projects in the region's future could "completely change North Wales' economy.
cont https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/19285537.north-wales-become-world-leader-renewable-energies/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/19285537.north-wales-become-world-leader-renewable-energies/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
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A good sign..............
Stena Line is bringing its new vessel Stena Estrid back to its key Holyhead – Dublin route in the expectation that restrictions on travel between Wales and Ireland will be removed soon.
In recent months the ship moved to direct Ireland - France routes due to the dip in passenger numbers, and the Brexit and lockdown hit on Wales to Ireland freight trade.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-estrid-returning-holyhead-dublin-20623100 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-estrid-returning-holyhead-dublin-20623100)
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Rhyl Air Show cancelled for second year running leaving organisers 'devastated'
Denbighshire Leisure confirmed the August Bank Holiday event which draws thousands will once again be put off because of Covid-19 'uncertainty'
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rhyl-air-show-cancelled-second-20652613 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rhyl-air-show-cancelled-second-20652613)
No plans to move flying operations from RAF Valley to RAF Leeming confirms Ministry of Defence
Reply from junior defence minister James Heappey said: “There are no plans to move any flying operations from RAF Valley to RAF Leeming.
“RAF Valley will remain the home of UK Military Flying Training System (UKMFTS) Hawk T2, Texan T1 and Jupiter fleets.
“There's been quite a few politically inspired social media rumours flying around faster than a Hawk itself suggesting the jets were leaving for Leeming because that’s in the Chancellor’s constituency.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19321171.no-plans-move-flying-operations-raf-valley-raf-leeming-confirms-ministry-defence/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19321171.no-plans-move-flying-operations-raf-valley-raf-leeming-confirms-ministry-defence/)
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50-mile tunnel from Holyhead to Dublin backed by UK Government
The idea has previously been priced at £15bn and would be twice as long as the Channel Tunnel (and end up twice the cost) &shake&
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/50-mile-tunnel-holyhead-dublin-20669170 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/50-mile-tunnel-holyhead-dublin-20669170)
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Economy minister Vaughan Gething on North Wales, Wylfa and not having dedicated tourism minister
The Welsh Government’s new Economy Minister Vaughan Gething says North Wales will not be “de-prioritised” in his department and responded to criticism that the deputy minister position for tourism had been dropped.
Mr Gething has replaced North Wales MS Ken Skates in the role but he says there is “no way” he will ignore the region and says he sees tourism, marine energy, aerospace and the post-Covid relocation of skilled people as potential key drivers of economic growth.
He also said he had not given up on nuclear investment at Wylfa.
Welsh Government has come under criticism for dropping the dedicated deputy tourism role.
But Mr Gething said it was wrong to say that tourism isn’t a priority sector when “actually it’s now within my direct brief as a cabinet minister”.
He added: “It’s an area where I think we can look for growth and support and I’m really excited about having it as part of the portfolio,
“I think it makes a lot more sense for it to be in the economy brief because it’s a key economic sector. The numbers of people employed in the sector are significant and there are opportunities to look at what we can do more of in the future.”
cont https://www.business-live.co.uk/economic-development/economy-minister-vaughan-gething-north-20703441?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.business-live.co.uk/economic-development/economy-minister-vaughan-gething-north-20703441?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
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Clwydian range: The incredible attractions and breathtaking views in Wales’ new national park
The Clwydian range and Dee Valley will make-up Wales' fourth national park
The ‘Clwydian range and Dee Valley will make-up Wales' fourth national park, joining the existing Pembrokeshire Coast, Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia national parks.
Wales Online reported that the area has been chosen to become Wales' newest national park for its outstanding natural beauty.
The Welsh Government also hopes the move will help solidify its place as a tourist attraction.
However, some people who live there aren't happy with the scheme - with some describing it as a 'bonkers' plan.
The national park will be the first one of its kind in more than 50 years and will be located in northeast corner of Wales.
Made-up of 390km of land spanning Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham, it will cover the coastal slopes of Prestatyn Hillside in the north to the remote Berwyn Mountains and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and canal in the south.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/clwydian-range-incredible-attractions-breathtaking-20756608 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/clwydian-range-incredible-attractions-breathtaking-20756608)
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Holyhead Roadking staff told jobs going for a second time after HMRC come back in for site
Brexit has seen site become less commercially successful and deal will see 24 jobs lost as HMRC struggle to find alternative location
Truck stop workers have been told they have lost their jobs for the second time after HMRC came back in for the site to build a new customs post following Brexit.
Last year North Wales Live revealed that staff at Roadking had been told their jobs were going due to plans by UK Government to buy the site for a customs facility.
But this fell through following a backlash over the jobs and concerns about the return of the problem of parked trucks in the town and around the island.
It is understood they have since struggled to find an alternative site for the 200 job customs facility.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-roadking-staff-told-jobs-20954040 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-roadking-staff-told-jobs-20954040)
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The three ways Welsh Government will tackle second home crisis including closing a tax 'loophole'
Housing minister, Julie James will today set out plans for a 'summer of action' in response to the issue in rural Wales
Inspired by a report compiled by Porthmadog-based academic, Dr Simon Brooks, the Welsh Government is expected to set up a pilot area where such measures can be trialled and evaluated before being considered for wider roll-out.
While many authorities have already implemented a council tax premium on second and empty homes, evidence that some are “exploiting a loophole” that allows them to avoid paying not only any council tax but also business rates, has held back all but two from charging the full 100%.
It is possible to “flip” such a property from paying domestic to non-domestic rates if it’s proven to be available for up to 140 days in a year and actually let for at least 70.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/three-ways-welsh-government-tackle-20978268?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/three-ways-welsh-government-tackle-20978268?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
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A NEW scheme is launching which will see one ticket be valid on all buses across North Wales.
From Saturday, the 1bws ticket scheme will come into effect - meaning if people buy it on their first journey of the day, the ticket will then be valid for travel on busses across North Wales.
An adult ticket will cost £5.70, a child (or young person with a My Travel Pass) will pay £3.70 and holders of English and Scottish concessionary bus passes will also pay £3.70.
A 1bws family ticket is available for £12.
One ticket, for all day, valid on North Wales busses in Wrexham, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey,—and on buses from North Wales to Chester, Whitchurch and Machynlleth.
There are buses covering most of the region and it is possible to explore the North Wales Coast, Snowdonia, the Clwydian Range, the Dee Valley.
“The initiative is a great way to get people back on buses and open up the North Wales countryside for the summer in a way that protects the environment.
Timetable information for all buses in North Wales is available online at http://bustimes.org (http://bustimes.org) or traveline.cymru; or by phone on 0800 464 00 00.
1bws is valid on all local bus services operating in North Wales with the exception of service 28 between Mold and Flint.
It is also not valid on tourist services operated by open top buses, on National Express coach services and park and ride services.
https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/19441536.new-one-bus-ticket-whole-north-wales-scheme-launch/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/19441536.new-one-bus-ticket-whole-north-wales-scheme-launch/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
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Holyhead truck stop worker made redundant twice slams 'mess' of customs post bid - and issues warning
'They have had five years to sort this' as he warns it will be HGV chaos once truck stop shuts
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-truck-stop-worker-made-21071179 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-truck-stop-worker-made-21071179)
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The slate landscape of Gwynedd, known for roofing the 19th Century world, is to become Wales' fourth UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In an announcement on Wednesday, the UN specialised agency revealed that the bid led by Gwynedd Council had been approved by its World Heritage Committee.
As a result, the landscape dominating communities from Dyffryn Ogwen to Abergynolwyn and Tywyn will now enjoy the same status as landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, while bringing to an end, a process dating back well over 10 years.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/slate-landscape-north-west-wales-21161171 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/slate-landscape-north-west-wales-21161171)
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North Wales sees biggest population rise in decade amid pandemic
The region's population has increased by 3,870 over the past year with people relocating from England and south Wales
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-sees-biggest-population-21134083?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-sees-biggest-population-21134083?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
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North Wales swimmers 'disadvantaged' without Olympic 50m pool
Of the six Welsh swimmers competing at the Olympics this year none were from north Wales.
The Welsh government said it had not received any recent calls for an Olympic sized swimming pool.
It comes after Welsh swimmers broke records as part of Team GB in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.
Matt Richards and Callum Jarvis broke a 109 year wait for a Welsh Olympic Gold medal as they were part of Team GB's men's winning 4x200m freestyle squad.
In Llandudno, volunteer coach, Bryn Phillips, said swimmers from north Wales regularly travel to to compete at pools in England like Sheffield, Manchester and Liverpool, or to south Wales in Cardiff and Swansea.
He wants to see a larger pool for young swimmers in the region.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-58156228 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-58156228)
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Plans to build 106 new homes directly opposite Ysbyty Glan Clwyd
The application is being made on behalf of St Asaph-based Pure Homes and is planned for land directly across the road from the main entrance to the Bodelwyddan site
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/ysbyty-glan-clwyd-houses-hospital-21355156?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/ysbyty-glan-clwyd-houses-hospital-21355156?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
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New images have been released to show more on the ambitions of the North Wales Metro programme as a minister said there are no current plans for road tolls in the region.
The Metro map was first launched back in 2016 but had come under fire for initially stopping at Rhyl.
These new images show priorities up until 2029 which include major enhancements at popular stations, the creation of new stations, and frequency enhancements from Bangor to Wrexham.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-north-wales-metro-maps-21535665 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-north-wales-metro-maps-21535665)
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The UK is to delay introducing post-Brexit checks on food and farming imports to England, Scotland and Wales, blaming Covid disruption and pressure on global supply chains.
Measures which were expected to come in next month will now be introduced in January and July next year.
Labour said the government did not have a "sustainable answer to tackling delays and red tape at the border".
The move comes amid shortages of some products in shops and supermarkets.
Many large companies have blamed a lack of lorry drivers for the problems experienced, with M&S chairman Archie Norman, a former Conservative MP, predicting a "bumpy ride" for retailers in the run-up to Christmas.
The EU has implemented full checks on UK goods since the start of this year.
Checks on goods going the other way were also due to come into force in full after the post-Brexit transition ended in January.
But they were delayed and, in March, the government announced a timetable to get changes for the food and agriculture sectors done by 1 October.
Paymaster General Penny Mordaunt has told MPs another postponement is now needed.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-58556453 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-58556453)
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Thus far, all we’ve seen is loads of downside from Brexit, and absolutely no upside.
Several of my friends and family who were ardent Brexiteers have recently expressed regret.
Way too late, was the cry!
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Yep. Keep waiting for the upside...
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People may one day wake up and realise this gov is full of lies, this brexit is a complete cockup.
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Small steps ...... ;)
The "world's smallest" border duty free store has opened in Holyhead - based inside a shipping container.
Irish daytrippers were a regular sight on the streets of Holyhead during the 1980s and 90s, with the town’s shops and pubs benefiting while visitors took advantage of duty-free sales onboard while sailing from Dublin and Dún Laoghaire.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/worlds-smallest-duty-free-border-21627116 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/worlds-smallest-duty-free-border-21627116)
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The Airbus helicopter that could bring 400 jobs to Broughton
This month it was revealed that if they secured a contract the helicopter plant would be built at the wing factory at Broughton
The Ministry of Defence plans to retire Airbus Puma HC2 medium helicopter fleet in the middle of this decade and Airbus believes a military variant of the H175 is fully capable of fulfilling the MoD’s needs.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/airbus-helicopter-could-bring-400-21637900 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/airbus-helicopter-could-bring-400-21637900)
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New North Wales paper mill pledges 463 jobs and economic spin-offs
An Italian-based firm wants to build a vast factory on Deeside, not far from the existing Shotton Mill where ambitious developments are also planned
The mill, on a 50-acre site, will manufacture paper products such as toilet rolls, :D kitchen towels, napkins, handkerchiefs and industrial uses.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-north-wales-paper-mill-21863080 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-north-wales-paper-mill-21863080)
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Welsh ports could be “relegated to the sidelines” as more ferry routes from Ireland to Europe start
There were 12 routes between Ireland and Europe pre-Brexit but this has now risen to 44
Before Brexit occurred on January 1 this year there were 12 routes between Ireland and Europe but this has now risen to 44. A variety of shipping companies have launched services from Dublin, Cork and Rosslare to ports as far apart as Rotterdam in the Netherlands and Oporto in Portugal.
The latest is a new route from Rosslare to Dunkirk by DFDS. Torben Carlsen, the chief executive of DFDS, told RTÉ News: "This was something that is in response to Brexit"
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-ports-could-relegated-sidelines-21848087#comments-wrapper (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-ports-could-relegated-sidelines-21848087#comments-wrapper)
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The fascinating story of how a Welsh plaque ended up on the world-famous Washington Monument
A Welsh phrase has been carved into the monument for more than a century
Hidden inside the tower's thick marble walls sits a tribute to the people of Wales, but how did it get there?
During the tower's construction, which lasted four decades due to lack of funds, the Washington National Monument Society (WNMS) invited states, cities and other groups to contribute memorial stones to be displayed at the monument.
Believed to be some of the early settlers in the US, Welsh citizens played a vital role in American history.
It is thought that at least five of the signatories of the Declaration of Independence were Welsh, or of recent Welsh descent.
There have also been at least eight US Presidents with Welsh ancestry, including Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, John Adams and John Quincy Adams.
A Welsh community living in New York at the time decided they would donate their own stone to the site, marking Wales' role in American history.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/fascinating-story-how-welsh-plaque-21841149 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/fascinating-story-how-welsh-plaque-21841149)
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Trust the Daily Post to get the translation wrong, Fy = my so it should be My language, my country, my nation &shake&
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I didn't even notice the plaque when we went up there.
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Business leaders say freeport would 'turbo charge' North Wales economy with thousands of jobs
BUSINESS leaders say securing freeport status for Holyhead would be a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity to turbo charge the North Wales economy.
According to the North Wales and Mersey Dee Business Council, it would help attract billions of pounds of investment and create thousands of new jobs.
The influential organisation’s Commercial Director, Ashley Rogers, spoke out after meeting Anglesey MP Virginia Crosbie, who is leading the freeport campaign, and a senior figure from Rolls-Royce who want to build up to four mini-nuclear reactors on the island.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19659354.business-leaders-say-freeport-turbo-charge-north-wales-economy-thousands-jobs/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19659354.business-leaders-say-freeport-turbo-charge-north-wales-economy-thousands-jobs/)
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These are the fastest growing firms in North Wales right now
Four companies made the list of the Wales Fast Growth 50 run by Professor Dylan Jones-Evans
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/fastest-growing-firms-north-wales-21992381?IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/fastest-growing-firms-north-wales-21992381?IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
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A French warship has been spotted anchored off the coast of Anglesey today.
The FS Loire Class BSAM Garonne, was spotted on the Marine Traffic website ship tracker, and sparked debate on social media as to why it was here.
Speculation ranged from the vessel travelling for the COP26 summit in Glasgow to the ongoing tensions over fishing rights between the UK and France.
However the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has now confirmed it was conducting an exercise with the UK military.
They confirmed the presence was nothing to do with any fisheries operations, as tensions over fishing rights continue between the UK and France.
A MoD spokeman said: "We can confirm a French warship is currently operating in Liverpool Bay, but her presence has nothing to do with any fisheries operations.
cont
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Freight traffic between North Wales and Ireland plunges, as hauliers avoid Holyhead route
New report shows the impact of Brexit as firms use dozens of new ferry services to the European mainland
Freight to Dublin Port from Holyhead, Liverpool and Heysham has dropped by 21% while direct traffic from Ireland to mainland Europe is up by 36%.
Irish hauliers have been avoiding the Holyhead-Dover-Calais route over the past nine months, making use of the dozens of new ferry services to the European mainland that have opened up since January this year.
North Wales Live reported there are now 44 direct ferry routes from Ireland to France, Belgium, Spain and the Netherlands - previously there were 12.
Hauliers are also routing into Britain via Northern Ireland to avoid Brexit-related bureaucracy.
The report by Dublin Port reveals only half its containers now come from the British ports compared with 64% before Brexit.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/freight-traffic-between-north-wales-22027858 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/freight-traffic-between-north-wales-22027858)
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Here we go again............new plans for a custom post, but since trade has nearly halved, they only need a big shed now.
Plans to turn former Anglesey truck stop into Brexit customs site submitted
HMRC expects the development to create 390 temporary jobs during construction and another 175 permanent roles
The UK Government has submitted the first phase of its planning bid to convert Holyhead's former truck stop into a Brexit customs facility.
Following a high profile search for a suitable site, it was announced in July that HMRC had completed the purchase of the Roadking unit at Parc Cybi.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plans-turn-former-anglesey-truck-22071838#comments-wrapper (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plans-turn-former-anglesey-truck-22071838#comments-wrapper)
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New rules on fireplaces and log burners leave millions of homeowners baffled
Many people have questioned whether they now need to remove their fireplace
In light of the recent energy crisis, people are making desperate bids to warm their homes - but recent changes to the rules around fireplaces and log burners have left people confused about what they can do.
In May earlier this year, the UK Government began banning the sale of coal and wet wood for use in home fires as part of a plan to reduce air pollution.
The Government rules state: "Burning at home, particularly with traditional house coal or wet wood, is a major source of the pollutant PM2.5 - which has been identified by the World Health Organisation as the most serious air pollutant for human health.
"People with log burners and open fires can still use them but will be required to buy cleaner alternative fuels – if they are not already – such as dry wood and manufactured solid fuels which produce less smoke.
"Burning dry wood also produces more heat and less soot than wet wood and can reduce emissions by up to 50%."
The UK Government restrictions, which began on May 1 2021, mean that sales of bagged house coal and wet wood in units under 2m3 are now unlawful.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/fire-log-burner-rules-heating-22147780 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/fire-log-burner-rules-heating-22147780)
WHAT IS THE BEST MOISTURE CONTENT FOR LOGS?
It is generally agreed that a moisture content of less than 20% is best.
There are three factors which determine how much heat you can get from a log when you burn it. The variety of the wood (and how 'dense' it is) and the efficiency of the stove are two, but these are fairly insignificant when compared to the importance of the third: moisture content. Depending on the variety, a log from a recently felled tree can have as much moisture as 60% – something like a pint of water for every kilo of log. A seasoned log will produce twice as much heat as a freshly cut (aka 'wet' or 'green') log because this water must be boiled away first before the log gives up any real heat. This makes unseasoned wet logs an incredibly expensive heat source, not to mention the damage that burning them does to our air quality and your chimney system, so it is vital that your logs are always 'dry' and ready to burn.
Virtually every wood burning stove manufacturer recommends only burning wood logs with a moisture content of less than 20%. Somewhere between 10% and 20% is ideal. Once the moisture content gets less than 10% then the wood quickly burns away, sucking in too much air and cooling the flue gases as it does this, which in turn increases unwanted emissions. A little moisture is good for moderating the burn rate.
cont https://www.thestoveyard.com/pages/what-is-the-best-moisture-content-for-logs (https://www.thestoveyard.com/pages/what-is-the-best-moisture-content-for-logs)
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During the Dubai Airshow, US-based investment firm Indigo Partners, have signed a firm order with Airbus for 255 additional Airbus A321neo and A321XLR to be operated by its four airlines.
Indigo Partners portfolio airlines' Wizz Air (Hungary), Frontier (United States), Volaris (Mexico) and JetSMART (Chile, Argentina), have announced the order for their family aircraft under a joint agreement.
The wings for the 225 planes will be made at the international aircraft manufacturers factory based in Broughton.
This order brings the total number of total aircrafts ordered by the Indigo Partners’ airlines to 1,145 A320 Family aircrafts. ref DP
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A £175 million contract boost to expand pilot training at RAF Valley will mean 20 new jobs at the Anglesey airbase - and modifications to the 'howling' Texan planes means pilots can now train at sea.
Ascent Flight Training has been given the extra money by the Ministry of Defence to increase the number of students pilots under the UK Military Flying Training System (MFTS) programme.
Basic flying training capacity will increase from 36 to 53 students per year from 2024.
The deal includes four new Texan T6 aircraft, which were delivered this month, a new static flight simulator and additional infrastructure at Valley.
These planes have come under fire for their 'incessant howling noise' while flying over parts of Gwynedd and the Conwy Valley - an issue made worse by safety issues which prevented training over water.
But Ascent said: "The aircraft have undergone some modifications to allow them and the pilots to operate over water, these included a new seat harness, new life raft and a new life preserver for the pilots.
"So, they are able now to fly over water which was important to reduce the impact of noise over North Wales and make full use of the over water airspace."
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/good-news-raf-valley-jobs-22334805 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/good-news-raf-valley-jobs-22334805)
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Stena says Brexit slump 'not short term issue' but committed to Holyhead for 'the long term'
The ferry company says trade is around 30% down on last year at its two ports in Wales
The UK's exit from the EU has seen trade diverted away from both of Stena's Welsh ports - with hauliers instead choosing direct Ireland - mainland EU routes or services via Northern Ireland.
Irish Maritime Development Office figures show trade from Dublin to Holyhead and Liverpool was down 19% this year (compared to 2020) and 30% on the two routes from Rosslare in south-east Ireland to the Welsh ports of Pembroke and Fishguard.
Meanwhile trade between Northern Ireland and GB was up 17% and direct freight trade between Ireland and the rest of EU up 50%.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-says-brexit-slump-not-22348453 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-says-brexit-slump-not-22348453)
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Contradictory stories &shake&
Fears for future of service as Irish Ferries ship vanishes from Holyhead summer timetables
The Epsilon has operated the Holyhead to Dublin route for the Irish company since 2014
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/fears-future-service-irish-ferries-22401593 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/fears-future-service-irish-ferries-22401593)
UK Government have submitted plans for a £45m Brexit customs post near Holyhead port.
HMRC bought the Roadking truck stop at Parc Cybi this year after struggling to find another suitable site on the island.
A full planning application has now been submitted to Anglesey council for the £45.75m build project that will provide post-Brexit customs checks for traffic coming through Holyhead port.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/hefty-price-tag-angleseys-brexit-22403721 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/hefty-price-tag-angleseys-brexit-22403721)
a couple of comments ........
"45 million for that - a car park and a couple of new buildings?"
"Dont be daft that's just the first quess by the time its actually fully completed that cost will have doubled.........."
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I read this article in the Daily Post and it had a number of photos of the old Rhyl, some of which I can remember. I worked in Rhyl for many years and often used to go fishing on the Rhyl pier in my dinner hour.
I remember in the 1960's and 1970's the Rhyl Council was run by councilors who were usually business people who had vested interests in any local decisions made by them. I suppose they were as competent as the CCBC is today
They got rid of the pier and then the pavilion and alleged that the reason why the pavilion was demolished was because it was unsafe but when it was demolished that beautiful domed roof came down in one piece.
Nowadays Rhyl is under going change and the west parade looks like something from a war zone
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/nostalgia/gallery/strolls-along-promenade-new-open-22602605 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/nostalgia/gallery/strolls-along-promenade-new-open-22602605)
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All sounds good?.............let's think positive.
Super Seven developments to kickstart the North Wales economy in 2022
From a multi-million pound marina to 1,000 jobs at new planned factories these schemes can help the region recover
From major redevelopments to a paper driven manufacturing boom these schemes can bring investment and jobs as the country looks to recover from the pandemic.
Here we highlight seven schemes across North Wales that can drive the recovery.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/super-seven-developments-kickstart-north-22635190?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/super-seven-developments-kickstart-north-22635190?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
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Interesting story of NW and Liverpool...................
How life is returning to the Welsh Streets of Liverpool which lay derelict for a decade
On a clear day, the Clwydian hills can be seen from Liverpool, once regarded as the capital of North Wales.
In the late 19th century, thousands of people from the region made the move across the border, many to find work on Liverpool’s docks.
A series of “Welsh Steets” – row after row of 4,000 terraced houses – were built in the heart of Liverpool to accommodate these workers and were given names to reflect their heritage.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-life-returning-welsh-streets-22697199 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-life-returning-welsh-streets-22697199)
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That's an interesting article Steve and I remember seeing them on TV after they were redeveloped. The buildings looked really nice inside and outside and there seemed to be a community spirit about the area.
Many Welsh builders built the original houses and they were all built in a similar style. Years ago I read a book about these houses and in it were listed the names of many builders from Anglesey who went to Liverpool to live and work there.
In fact there was a whole community of Welsh speaking people who lived there, they had Welsh speaking Chapels etc in that area
A neighbour of mine was born there about 90 years ago, his parents were both Welsh and he couldn't speak any English until he went to school at the age of 5 and he and the other Welsh pupils learnt English in the schools.
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Welsh ports had 30% less traffic due to Brexit - shipping chief
Holyhead and Fishguard ports saw a 30% drop in traffic in 2021, according to its operator Stena Line.
Ian Davies, boss of Stena's UK ports, said it was down to the new post-Brexit trading relationship with the European Union rather than the pandemic.
But he added the company had a "long-term" commitment to its Welsh ports and expected things to improve.
Speaking to the BBC Politics Wales programme, Mr Davies said the start of the new UK-EU trading relationship hit its Welsh ports "quite hard".
"In January, we saw a big drop off ranging from 50-60% of our freight volumes," he said.
"As people really kind of got used to the new regimes and the new documentation that was required, I would say it caught quite a few, not so much in the haulage industry but their customers, unaware.
"But then things gradually improved, but we seem to have plateaued; currently, we're probably in the region of 30% down on our [pre-pandemic] 2019 volume."
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-60099413 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-60099413)
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An oil pipeline supplying fuel from Wales to the Isle of Man has leaked hundreds of barrels into the Irish Sea.
The leak, which was first reported on Monday (February 14), was confirmed by oil company Eni, which said that its pipeline running between Conwy and Douglas had released nearly 500 barrels into the sea, just over 20 miles off the North Wales coast.
While the line was shut off immediately, and remains closed, there are fears that an oil slick could affect parts of the North Wales and Lancashire coastline.
It remains unclear exactly what caused the leak, with details of the incident still being confirmed.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Eni said: "Eni UK Ltd confirms that a limited hydrocarbons release of less than 500 barrels occurred on Monday, February 14, from its pipeline between the Conwy and Douglas Installations, approximately 33km from the North Wales coast.
"Details of the incident are still being confirmed. The Conwy to Douglas line was shut immediately and remains off. All the relevant authorities have been promptly informed and we are working in full collaboration with them. There is no impact to any personnel on the installations.
"An Incident Management Team has been mobilised and is working closely with the relevant authorities and response contractors to understand the situation and minimise any effect to the environment.
"A further statement will be made as soon as more information becomes available." ref Wales on line
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lans to convert a former truck stop on Anglesey into a Brexit customs facility have been approved by councillors.
The UK Government completed the purchase of the Roadking unit at Holyhead's Parc Cybi last summer and later submitted its application for planning permission.
Although the application was approved some councillors expressed concern about the plans and its effects on local residents.
Cllr Trefor Lloyd Hughes said he supported the application but said he had received numerous complaints about noise pollution from the site as it operates 24 hours a day.
Cllr Eric Wyn Jones shared Cllr Hughes' concerns, fearing the site was not large enough to cope with the number of lorries likely to use the site.
He urged HMRC to purchase further land to ensure there was sufficient space.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plans-convert-former-truck-stop-23265244 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/plans-convert-former-truck-stop-23265244)
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Definitely time for a customs post at Holyhead........ ref DP
" Smuggled beer worth more than £84,000 (€100,000) was seized by Irish revenue officers after searching a truck that travelled from Holyhead to Dublin.
A staggering 25,400 litres of Perla beer was found in a Romanian registered truck and trailer that had disembarked a ferry from North Wales"
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While the UK domestic market is hugely important, for the Welsh economy to thrive it needs more firms winning orders for their products and services overseas.
And here we feature 25 Welsh export champions - both indigenous and international - that are doing just that by driving impressive growth in overseas markets ranging from food and drink to fintech and manufacturing.
cont https://www.business-live.co.uk/enterprise/2022-welsh-exports-champions-global-23336836?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.business-live.co.uk/enterprise/2022-welsh-exports-champions-global-23336836?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
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Hundreds of engineering jobs have been secured at RAF Valley after BAE Systems was awarded an 11-year contract to continue its support for the UK’s Royal Air Force Hawk fleet. The £590million contract will support the Anglesey airbase, home to No. 4 Flying Training School.
The training school is responsible for training the UK's next generation of world-class fighter pilots. As well as providing availability support to the RAF’s Hawk T2 fleet, BAE Systems and its partner Babcock International will provide depth maintenance to the RAF’s iconic Red Arrows display team from RAF Valley, ensuring the Hawk fleet continues as a global ambassador for the UK.
The Hawk aircraft is heralded by the RAF as its chosen jet trainer to train its student pilots who will ultimately go on to operate aircraft including Typhoon, F-35 and next generation combat aircraft. BAE Systems has provided support to the Hawk fleet for 12 years. The new contract will deliver efficiencies through new ways of working and harnessing the use of technology to drive savings which will be reinvested into the RAF’s training capability.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/hundreds-anglesey-jobs-secured-deal-23548592 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/hundreds-anglesey-jobs-secured-deal-23548592)
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A navy ship has been spotted off the North Wales coast today. The RFA Argus British Navy auxiliary vessel has been sitting in waters off the Gwynedd coast to the south of Criccieth and west of Harlech.mm https://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/home/centerx:-4.4/centery:52.8/zoom:9 (https://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/home/centerx:-4.4/centery:52.8/zoom:9)
According to the Royal Navy website, the RFA Argus is a "Primary Casualty Receiving Ship of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary". It has a 100-bed medical complex on board, and acts as a floating medical facility during times of crisis or war.
The vessel weighs 28,081 tonnes, is 175 metres in length and has a top speed of 18+ knots. The commanding officer is Captain Kevin Rimell RFA. The marinetraffic.com website has the Argus on a journey from Plymouth to an unknown destination.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/huge-navy-ship-spotted-north-23785146 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/huge-navy-ship-spotted-north-23785146)
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Holyhead is set to fight it out to secure freeport status as a deal between the Welsh and UK governments for a site in Wales is expected to be confirmed today. Politicians and businesses on the island have backed the idea of a freeport which they say will boost jobs and investment.
The governments in London and Cardiff had seemed miles apart on the plans with ministers in Wales saying the country was being short changed when it came to the seed money to set up a freeport. Wales was being offered £8m while sites in England - where eight zones are being created - had £25m each.
Now though it looks like a deal is set to be announced - with a source saying Westminster had addressed Welsh Government concerns over funding and employment protection within the zones. Ports across Wales, including Holyhead, Milford Haven and Associated British Ports’ South Wales ports, have expressed an interest to securing freeport status and the next stage will be selecting a site.
cont
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Update on above.....
The Welsh Government has reached agreement with the UK Government on the establishment of Freeports in Wales with £26m in starter funding secured. North Wales Live revealed this morning that the deal had been sealed after months of wrangling about funding and concerns about how a freeport would operate.
Now Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething, has confirmed Welsh Ministers have agreed to support Freeport policies in Wales following the UK Government’s agreement to meet demands that UK Ministers provide at least £26m of non-repayable starter funding. This represents parity with the deals offered to the eight English Freeports.
UK Government’s Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove also confirmed the deal. He added: "The UK Government’s ambitious Freeports agenda will help to level up our coastal communities and create new opportunities for people right across the country."
Ports across Wales, including Holyhead, Milford Haven and Associated British Ports’ South Wales ports, have expressed an interest to securing freeport status and the next stage will be selecting a site.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/wales-26m-set-up-freeport-23936332 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/wales-26m-set-up-freeport-23936332)
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Apple has begun a new project to update its Maps application, including re-surveying large parts of the UK, and has now made its way into North Wales as part of the upgrade.
The white Subaru Impreza owned by the US-based company is equipped with a powerful 360 degree camera on its roof, designed to capture images from the front, rear and sides as the vehicle travels.
The car was seen outside the Shell fuel station in Llanddulas on Friday before heading off in a westbound direction towards Llandudno.
Apple aims to improve its Maps application, which has struggled against its Google Maps competitor, by conducting "ground surveys" of large areas of the world - including the UK.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/apple-maps-car-spotted-north-24198711?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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New Airbus military helicopter that could create hundreds of jobs touches down in North Wales
The new H175M landed at the manufacturer's plant in Broughton for the first time today
cont/video https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-airbus-military-helicopter-could-24564081
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North Wales beaches denied Blue Flag award as councils' risk assessments 'don't comply' with new criteria
Only one beach in the region was awarded the Blue Flag this year
Several beaches across North Wales have been denied a Blue Flag award after safety risk assessments made by the local authorities were deemed "not to comply with the new Blue Flag criteria". Earlier this year just one beach in North Wales received the prestigious Blue Flag award after the new requirement was introduced.
Prestatyn beach in Denbighshire was the only beach to receive the iconic award, Keep Wales Tidy announced in June. Following the decision, Anglesey, Gwynedd and Conwy councils said that they were going to "continue to work with Keep Wales Tidy to fully understand this new requirement and identify a suitable way forward".
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-beaches-denied-blue-24654127
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Water from Welsh lake could be diverted to London to solve drought
A union has called on Thames Water to implement the 'win win' plan to send the water to England from Lake Vyrnwy
Lake Vyrnwy is a reservoir in Powys, Wales, built in the 1880s for Liverpool Corporation Waterworks to supply Liverpool with fresh water. It flooded the head of the Vyrnwy valley and submerged the village of Llanwddyn.
It's time that they built a new reservoir in that part of England namely Abingdon as they discussed n 2006
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/water-welsh-lake-could-diverted-24769659
https://www.shropshirestar.com/news/environment/2022/08/14/exclusive-images-of-underwater-lake-vyrnwy-village-that-has-resurfaced-due-to-heatwave-conditions/
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Wales Freeport with tax breaks and simplified customs rules to be in place by next summer
Holyhead port among those bidding for the special status
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/wales-freeport-tax-breaks-simplified-24907216
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Swedish firm Stena - which has owned and operated Holyhead port for 27 years - has announced it has bought the 213-acre site. They said it was bought to facilitate the extension of the port?s operations in the area.
The firm said the new site has the potential to provide additional land and services to existing customers and attract new long-term uses and investment to Holyhead.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-line-bought-former-anglesey-25065294
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Update on above story...
The cruise ship sector in North Wales has received a major boost following a multi-million pound deal. This week North Wales Live revealed that the former Anglesey Aluminium site in Holyhead - left empty when Orthios collapsed - had been snapped up by Stena Line.
As well as the 200+ acres of land where the aluminium smelter was sited the deal included the old Anglesey Aluminium jetty in the port. This has previously been used to dock cruise vessels but this summer ships had to anchor off the coast and passengers brought ashore in small craft
Now though Stena has confirmed that the jetty will be brought back into use next year for the 2023 cruise season. Having these facilities is a big plus point for cruise tours, making it easier for passengers to disembark and hopefully increasing the spend locally.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/more-cruise-ships-could-heading-25083904
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I get the feeling that RAF Valley is going to disappear bit by bit.......
RAF Valley jet problems mean some pilots may be sent abroad for training
Trainees could be sent to the NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training programme in the USA
RAF pilots could be trained abroad as problems affecting fast-jet training at RAF Valley continue. While training is continuing at the Anglesey base, some potentially faulty jets were taken out of service amid fears of in-flight failures.
Last month North Wales Live reported how RAF resources were limited due to faulty components wiping out part of their fleet. The issue had the potential to cause disruption to the usual flow of training over the next few years, although efforts were underway to minimise the impact.
Recently John Healey, Shadow Secretary of State for Defence, asked the Secretary of State for Defence: ?What steps his Department is taking to ensure that the disruption to the UK Fast Jet training is minimised over the next three years," reports the UK Defence Journal.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/raf-valley-jet-problems-mean-25279728
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Why is the Menai Bridge closed?
The Welsh Government said in a statement: ?As a result of further investigation, serious risks have been identified and structural engineers have recommended to close Menai Bridge to all traffic. The findings that led to the recommendation to close the bridge are currently being reviewed which could take up to two weeks. Available options to reopen the bridge as soon as possible are being actively assessed.
?Temporary hanger strengthening works may need to be installed to ensure the safety and integrity of the Menai Bridge. This programme could take between 14 to 16 weeks, with the bridge reopening in early 2023.?
Menai Bridge closure is a 'wake-up call' for a third crossing to Anglesey
Welsh Government announced on Friday that the historic Thomas Telford built bridge would be closed until potentially the end of the year
Keith Jones, Director Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), said the Government had been right to take the decision to close - saying safety should always come first. However he criticised the fact progress has not been made on a third crossing over the Menai Strait.
The circa 130m project has been on the agenda for years but remains at the consultation stage. It is currently on pause thanks to the Welsh Government's roads review, with recommendations on numerous highways schemes expected at some point this autumn.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/menai-bridge-closure-wake-up-25345407?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Third Menai bridge reaches critical crossroad after two decades of debate
A look back at the tortuous process that fuelled hopes a third crossing would one day materialise
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/third-menai-bridge-reaches-critical-25382010
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Siemens Healthineers has announced a healthcare centre of excellence in Llanberis which will help secure and create 500 jobs. The move will mean a multi-million-pound investment in research and development (R&D) with support from the Welsh Government.
Siemens Healthineers is to consolidate its global operations for the manufacture of IMMULITE? blood analysis technology, used worldwide to aid the diagnosis of medical conditions, at its site in Gwynedd.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/multi-million-pound-investment-gwynedd-25429661?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Thousands of jobs could be created by making the port of Holyhead into a freeport, its owners have claimed.
Shipping company Stena Line said it was working with companies that were interested in building factories on Anglesey, if freeport status was granted.
Holyhead is expected to be one of five Welsh bidders for freeport status.
The UK and Welsh governments will make a joint decision on where the first one will be
Stena Line has already bought the former Anglesey Aluminium site so companies can set up factories within the freeport zone if the status is awarded.
It said it was in discussions with Rolls Royce and Bechtel, which are interested in making components for small nuclear reactors.
Ian Hampton, executive director of Stena Line Ports said: "We can bring businesses that wouldn't ordinarily come to Holyhead, they can take advantage of what a freeport brings, but also create new jobs, and create economic growth for the whole of north Wales, and for the UK."
He added that it had the potential for ?1bn of growth and up to 13,000 new jobs.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-63703613
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French industrial giant Boccard is set to create 200 jobs in North Wales with its first major nuclear production facility in the UK. The engineering, manufacturing, construction and maintenance company, headquartered in Lyon, unveiled the facility at Broughton in Flintshire.
They said the development will support the growth of the UK?s reputation as a significant strategic location for the advancement of nuclear technologies. The Boccard Broughton facility will have 150 direct jobs on site and create another 50 in the supply chain. ref DP
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Any bets on who will win, North or South ?
Applications have closed from bidders interested in setting up a new Freeport in Wales - with Holyhead to compete Cardiff Airport and ports in south west Wales. Backed by ?26 million in UK Government funding, the Freeport Programme in Wales aims to create jobs, boost the local economy and regenerate surrounding areas.
Stena Line and Anglesey County Council have submitted the bid for Holyhead - aiming to bring an economic boost and reverse the Brexit hit on trade at the port. It would see the establishment of a secure customs zone at Holyhead and other sites on Anglesey with special tax and tariff arrangements designed to attract major domestic and international investment.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/holyhead-faces-cardiff-airport-race-25630590
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One of Britain's largest builders' merchants is set to expand its operations to an empty multi-million pound industrial park in Bangor. It is hoped the move by Huws Gray Ltd to Parc Bryn Cegin could provide some of the site's "first local jobs" whilst acting as a "catalyst" for further investment.
Plans for the Parc Bryn Cegin site were first submitted in 2000. The Welsh Government later faced criticism after spending more than ?11M on the project. :(
The scheme attracted further millions in European funding and cash from the former Welsh Development Agency in 2005. It was hoped the 35 acre site would attract 1,600 jobs, additional investment and create more than 70,000sqm of business floor space.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/huws-gray-set-move-bangors-25792594?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Seven developments to kick start North Wales economy in 2023
From a high street transformation to a new hotel these projects can bring jobs and economic growth
Once again the year has started in difficult circumstances thanks to rising prices and a cost of living crisis. The UK economy has been impacted by global inflationary pressures - a situation compounded by political instability and Brexit.
But there are still big plans in the pipeline in the region that can help boost the North Wales economy in the coming year. These range from ambitious plans for a former aluminium site to a scheme to transform a retail giant's old high street store.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/seven-developments-kick-start-north-25758176
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Eight firms set to create North Wales jobs in 2023
From hospitality chains to nuclear companies these firms are set to bring jobs
The challenges facing businesses as we move into 2023 are numerous - but some firms still plan to expand job numbers across the region.
It has been a difficult three years with a global pandemic quickly followed by surging price rises that are affecting businesses and their customers.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/eight-firms-set-create-north-25756010?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Plans have been unveiled to make Wales a global centre of excellence and leader in the production of life-saving cancer-treating substances.
Radioisotopes are radioactive atoms used to diagnose and treat cancer.
The Welsh government said nuclear medicine in the UK, Europe and beyond will face a supply crisis by 2030 if nothing was done.
It wants the UK government and other partners to help fund the multi-million pound plan which could create 200 jobs.
The Welsh government wants to secure the supply of medical radioisotopes for Wales and the UK through the development of a project called the Advanced Radioisotope Technology for Health Utility Reactor (Arthur).
Based in Trawsfynydd, Gwynedd, the ?400m facility would be a public sector national laboratory with its own nuclear reactor, producing the medical radioisotopes for use in the NHS in Wales, England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Wales' Economy Minister Vaughan Gething said: "Our vision is the creation of project Arthur - a world-leading nuclear medicine facility, which will bring together a critical mass of nuclear science research, development and innovation.
"Through this development, not only can Wales become the leading place in the UK for medical radioisotope production - producing life-saving medical radioisotopes that are critical to cancer diagnosis and treatment
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64212469
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Future of car-free transport in North Wales shown in dramatic maps
Hundreds of new walking and cycling paths are planned as motorists are encouraged to ditch their cars
Ambitious plans for new walking and cycling routes have been published by five of the six councils in North Wales. They show a massive rise of ?active travel? routes is on the cards as motorists are encouraged to leave behind their cars.
The Welsh Government hopes the new routes will persuade drivers to swap their cars for a ?healthier and more cost-effective commute? by walking or cycling to work. More than 2,000km of walking and cycling routes are already available across Wales but this figure will rise dramatically if all new routes are built as planned.
cont/map gallery https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/future-car-free-transport-north-25941476
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Anglesey: 730 jobs at 2 Sisters at risk in chicken factory closure
Poultry giant 2 Sisters Food Group said the site in Llangefni, Anglesey, was old and would require significant investment to bring it up to the same standard as its other locations.
The firm also said Llangefni was one of its smallest sites and products could be made more efficiently elsewhere.
It added that it would speak with employees to explore the options before making final decisions on closure.
The company's chief executive Ronald Kers said 2 Sisters would try to find alternative work for everyone.
This would be with other local employers, or at its other sites including Sandycroft in Flintshire and Rogerstone, Newport.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64397513
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Update..
Mark Drakeford hopes 2 Sisters can be persuaded to keep Anglesey site open
A total of 730 jobs are at risk after the firm announced plans to shut the Llangefni abattoir
Mark Drakeford said the Welsh Government would do what they could to try and persuade 2 Sisters to keep its Anglesey factory open. The firm announced yesterday that it was planning on closing the Llangefni factory, putting 730 jobs at risk.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/mark-drakeford-hopes-2-sisters-26079254
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Here we go again, I wonder what the odds are................
Billions of pounds could be generated by granting freeport status to two ports, say the campaign's backers.
The Celtic Freeport bid hopes to see the ports of Milford Haven and Port Talbot given the status, which would see relaxed tax and customs rules.
The Labour Senedd member for Aberavon, David Rees, said it "gives an opportunity to local people in Port Talbot and Pembrokeshire to gain from opportunities we haven't seen before".
The Celtic bid is competing with Holyhead and Cardiff airport, which are also promising massive job creation opportunities.
First Minister Mark Drakeford previously said that creating only a single Welsh freeport "is the expectation but two is not impossible and the quality of the bids will be pivotal".
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64426667
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I wonder if they need somewhere to dump the dredged sand ................
A port has revealed major expansion plans to cater for the next generation of giant wind turbines. The Port of Mostyn in Flintshire has applied to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) for a marine licence to build a new 350-metre-long quay wall and reclaim 4.5 hectares of land behind it.
Dredging work would also be needed to create new berths for ships while deepening existing berths while the approach channel would have to be re-dredged. If the scheme gets the go-ahead, construction is expected to take around 21 months, depending on the weather.vealed major expansion plans to cater for the next generation of giant wind turbines. The Port of Mostyn in Flintshire has applied to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) for a marine licence to build a new 350-metre-long quay wall and reclaim 4.5 hectares of land behind it.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/port-wants-reclaim-land-sea-26124415
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Cheese firm offers jobs to 2 Sisters workers facing redundancy after devastating closure decision
Staff at the soon to close factory in Llangefni may be able to find work at a plant in Gwynedd if they can make the commute
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cheese-firm-offers-jobs-2-26133475
Film studio opens on Anglesey to capitalise on spectacular North Wales locations
Aria Studios is a brand new 20,000 square foot facility with a fully soundproofed film and television studio
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/film-studio-opens-anglesey-capitalise-26135491
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Airbus Broughton to get jobs boost as wing work to transfer from German factory
Additional equipping on the wings of the A330 family will move from Bremen to North Wales
This will see around 60 new roles created at the Flintshire plant, where more than 4,000 people work. As well boosting jobs it will reduce the number of wing movements in the assembly process.
A spokesperson for Airbus said: "We can confirm that a package of A330 wing equipping work will be transferred from Bremen to the Broughton plant in North Wales. The transfer will materialise in 2024/25 and entail 60 full time roles at Broughton.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/airbus-broughton-jobs-boost-wing-26230842
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Air India to buy 250 jets from Airbus in deal that will boost Broughton......... Further good news on top of the above article
The deal will include 210 A320 planes and 40 widebody aircraft
Which will see Rolls-Royce provide the engines for the A350 planes.
The wings will be designed in Filton, and assembled in Broughton. This is supporting the bounce back in production levels at the North Wales plant - where staff numbers fell from 6,000 to 4,000 over the pandemic.
Those numbers are starting to ramp up as the production rate increases and the factory will see the former giant A380 factory repurposed for A321 wing production.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/air-india-buy-250-jets-26234694
Valentine's Day roads' massacre a bridge too far for the people of North Wales
Scrapping the third Menai Crossing and the Deeside red route feels like the region's creaking transport network is being martyred to hit 'net zero' targets
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/valentines-day-roads-massacre-bridge-26239666
Another story on NW roads .......
Welsh roads review ignored citizens, ex-Labour transport minister says
The announcement followed a year-long review, and prompted open criticism of the Welsh government from some Labour backbenchers.
Defending the decision on Tuesday, Mr Waters said Wales would not get to net-zero carbon emissions "unless we stop doing the same thing over and over".
"None of this is easy but neither is the alternative," he said.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-politics-64640227
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The big questions hanging over one corner of Wales after years of 'body blows'
The island of Anglesey has been hit with a series of damaging blows including the collapse of major industry, Brexit, and failed projects promising thousands of jobs
Even considering Brexit and a global pandemic the Isle of Anglesey has faced tougher times than most in recent years. The island of around 70,000 residents off the north-west coast was once a thriving production hub with giants like Anglesey Aluminium, Octel, and Marco Cable employing thousands of people.
But economic changes, the collapse of previously-thriving industrial areas across the UK, Brexit, and Covid-19 have hit the island hard. Major employers have departed leading to thousands of job losses ? many of which have not been replaced. Brexit has created years of turmoil at the port of Holyhead ? once a focal point for freight and tourism traffic coming into the UK ? and in January poultry giant 2 Sisters announced it was proposing to close its factory in Llangefni which could see another 700 jobs lost.
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/anglesey-future-economy-jobs-brexit-26251557?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Cunard Queen heads to Anglesey this summer as cruise ship tourism becomes 'big business' in Wales
More than half of the cruise ships docking in Wales this year will be in Holyhead - and next year looks even better
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cunnard-queen-heads-anglesey-summer-26316021
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Historic Brexit deal over the Northern Ireland Protocol announced
Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford welcomed the deal between the UK Government and the EU
Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford said: "We welcome the new Northern Ireland deal. We hope it will ease the barriers to trade experienced at Welsh ports. It is also a step towards improved relationships between the UK and EU, which is in all our interests."
As long as Holyhead is given a fair hearing, and not the usual South before North Wales
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/historic-brexit-deal-over-northern-26345673
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Wynne Construction have a full order book with ?60m worth of schemes
A BODELWYDDAN-based construction firm is due to commence ?60m worth of schemes across Wales.
Wynne Construction's order book and number of employees continues to grow. The firm has a huge number of projects to work on which include the development of new schools, colleges, social housing and apartments within North Wales.
The company will also deliver major projects currently in progress within the region, including the ?10m design and build of the new Ysgol Corn Hir on the Isle of Anglesey and a ?5.5m disability respite centre in Colwyn Bay.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23353803.wynne-construction-full-order-book-60m-worth-schemes/
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Freight traffic from Holyhead to Dublin should be fast-tracked through green lanes if it is then going on to Northern Ireland(NI). That is the request from Stena Line to help the Anglesey port which has seen a chunk of its freight trade shift to direct routes between Great Britain and NI.
Prior to Brexit around 30% of goods sailing from Holyhead to Dublin then went on to Northern Ireland but this trade has been badly impacted by the UK's exit from the EU.
Now the Windsor Framework agreed between the UK Government and the EU will further ease restrictions on those GB-NI routes, with green lanes for goods destined for NI. These will not be subjected to the same checks as the red lanes for products going to the EU. If ratified this will put Holyhead at even more of a disadvantage.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/call-green-lanes-holyhead-dublin-26365760
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The projects across North Wales hit by collapse of well known developer
RL Davies (Construction), based in Llysfaen, near Old Colwyn, went into administration last month
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/projects-across-north-wales-hit-26372030?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Huge pipeline plan to take water from Wales to London nears critical decision
The ambitious scheme, which ultimately could also involve the use of renovated canals, faces a next-step decision this month
An interesting read, especially the part about putting a tax on the water supplied.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/huge-pipeline-plan-take-water-26376163
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AMBITION North Wales is leading a call to action encouraging organisations to seize the opportunity to access a ?30million funding allocation.
With three weeks until the closing date, bids are sought for projects which have the potential to drive economic growth and innovation to create jobs and to support communities.
The North Wales Growth Deal?s portfolio of agri-food and tourism; low carbon energy, land and property programmes are to be the focus for the funding.
But bids for projects which align with the digital connectivity and innovation in high value manufacturing programmes are also encouraged.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23368992.final-call-north-wales-projects-apply-30million-funding/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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The head of the panel that recommended axing new road projects in Wales defends the review
'My view as Chair is that the Panel?s approach was proportionate'
The chair of the Welsh Government's Roads Review panel has defended the review's methods after Senedd Members criticised its "lack of engagement" with the public, elected representatives and others. The review, which resulted in the mass scrapping of upcoming roads projects in Wales to facilitate a move towards public transport and active travel, was criticised by Senedd members who said "for many residents... private road transport is the only practical transport option".
cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/head-panel-recommended-axing-new-26476985?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Anglesey has secured freeport status in a move backers say will create thousands of jobs. In May 2022, the Welsh Government reached an agreement with the UK Government to establish a freeport programme in Wales after a long stand-off over the levels of funding.
The island freeport around Holyhead was up against the Celtic Freeport in Milford Haven and Port Talbot and a multi-site freeport in south east Wales that included Cardiff Airport. Tonight it was confirmed that Anglesey and the Celtic Freeport had both been successful.
This was a joint decision by UK and Welsh governments and the UK Government will provide up to ?26m of non-repayable starter funding for each of the freeports being established in Wales. This represents parity with the deals offered to each of the English and Scottish freeports. Wales had originally only been offered ?8m for a Freeport and they have now secured ?52m.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/anglesey-freeport-status-reinforces-need-26537986
Anglesey freeport status reinforces need for third Menai crossing
Welsh Government pulled the plug on the project earlier this year although it was later placed under 'review'
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/anglesey-freeport-status-reinforces-need-26537986
What are freeports and will they help the economy?
The Celtic Freeport and Anglesey Freeport are expected to be operational later this year.
Eight freeports have already been set up in England, with a further two soon to be operational in Scotland.
Freeports aim to create economic activity - like trade, investment and jobs - near shipping ports or airports.
Goods imported into freeports are exempt from taxes, called tariffs, that are normally paid to the UK government.
It means manufacturers in freeports can import raw materials tariff-free, only paying tariffs on finished products leaving the site for elsewhere in the UK.
Or the goods can be re-exported overseas without UK duties being paid.
Companies inside the sites will also be able to claim lower property taxes, including on new buildings they buy.
Firms also benefit from lower rates of national insurance - a tax paid on employees' wages - if they take on new staff.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-55819489
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Anglesey freeport will 'rocket boost' economy and help Wales capitalise on natural resources
Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak came to Holyhead today
A freeport on Anglesey can give "rocket boosters" to the island's economy and help Wales exploit its "enormous" natural resources. Those were the messages from UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Wales First Minister Mark Drakeford in Holyhead today.
Last night it was announced that Anglesey and the Celtic Freeport in Milford Haven and Port Talbot had secured freeport status in a joint decision by Welsh and UK governments. It will see UK Government provide up to ?26m of non-repayable starter funding to each location - a massive increase on the ?8m originally offered for a freeport in Wales.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/anglesey-freeport-rocket-boost-economy-26544560
Two Welsh freeports are to be created which aim to bring 20,000 jobs and investment worth ?5bn.
Bids from Celtic Freeport, at Milford Haven and Port Talbot, and Anglesey Freeport have been given the green light by the UK and Welsh governments.
Freeports are zones where companies benefit from tax and duty relief and simplified customs processes.
Each was chosen to exploit renewable energy opportunities and are expected to contribute to UK net-zero ambitions.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65044061
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North Wales should have its own 'Metro Mayor' demand after road schemes halted
Askar Sheibani, Chief Executive of Comtek Network Systems and chairman of Deeside Business Forum, made the call
A leading businessman has launched a campaign for North Wales to have its own Metro Mayor to ensure the region doesn't continue to miss out on funding. Askar Sheibani, Chief Executive of Comtek Network Systems and chairman of Deeside Business Forum, decided to act after many planned major road schemes in North Wales were scrapped by the Welsh Government.
He says this will hamstring the area's manufacturing industry and its potential to provide a major source of cheap, green energy for the country. According to Mr Sheibani, it was yet another example of how the North-South divide is putting the region at a huge disadvantage.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-should-metro-mayor-26570020
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We need more success stories these days, especially nice to here that it is in N.Wales
A North Wales food wholesaler is on course for record sales this year after investing 500,000 in an ingenious hack to increase storage capacity.
Harlech Foodservice which has premises in Cricieth and Chester has increased the capacity of its giant freezer by 25% after reconfiguring the racking with narrower aisles and adding an extra row.
As part of the plan the company also bought ?bendy? forklift trucks that can navigate the tighter spaces.
As a result, the capacity of the freezer has been increased by 270 pallets to a total of 1,100.
The package of measures includes installing a new, more environmentally friendly refrigeration system to keep the temperature in the freezer at a constant -21C.
All told the initiative will lead to an annual reduction of more than 111 tonnes in CO2 emissions as well as generating significant savings on the energy bill.
Turnover is set to hit an all-time high of 38 million this year, which is well above the previous, pre-pandemic record of 32 million.
https://www.wales247.co.uk/food-firms-cool-storage-hack-with-bendy-forklift-trucks?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
PS
North Wales whisky distillery expands as demand exceeds 'all expectations'
Aber Falls Whisky Distillery has unveiled a new extension to its distillery in Abergwyngregyn.
The growth has also seen the Welsh distillery create eight new job opportunities. An additional six distillery operatives recently joined Aber Falls to help run the 24-hour operation with a further two roles to be filled at the cask warehouse.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-whisky-distillery-expands-26581496?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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NEW pictures have shown what a gym, water-sports centre and wellbeing caf? could look like in Pensarn.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23429948.sneak-peek-pensarns-new-gym-cafe-water-sports-centre/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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I hope this is not a waste of good money, it does seem like spending for spending sake, we do seem to waste a lot of grant funding.
30m Active Travel route and A55 improvements officially opened
The completion of the safety and improvement work on the Aber Tair Meibion section of the A55, which includes a new active travel route, has been officially marked by the Minister for North Wales Lesley Griffiths.
The 30m scheme, which includes 20.7m EU funding, addresses the increased risk of flooding due to climate change and also improves safety on the section which was over 50 years old. Work included removing eight gaps in the central reservation where agricultural vehicles used to cross.
cont https://www.wales247.co.uk/30m-active-travel-route-and-a55-improvements-officially-opened?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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New rules on fireplaces and log burners leave millions of homeowners baffled
Many people have questioned whether they now need to remove their fireplace
In light of the recent energy crisis, people are making desperate bids to warm their homes - but recent changes to the rules around fireplaces and log burners have left people confused about what they can do.
In May earlier this year, the UK Government began banning the sale of coal and wet wood for use in home fires as part of a plan to reduce air pollution.
The Government rules state: "Burning at home, particularly with traditional house coal or wet wood, is a major source of the pollutant PM2.5 - which has been identified by the World Health Organisation as the most serious air pollutant for human health.
"People with log burners and open fires can still use them but will be required to buy cleaner alternative fuels – if they are not already – such as dry wood and manufactured solid fuels which produce less smoke.
"Burning dry wood also produces more heat and less soot than wet wood and can reduce emissions by up to 50%."
The UK Government restrictions, which began on May 1 2021, mean that sales of bagged house coal and wet wood in units under 2m3 are now unlawful.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/fire-log-burner-rules-heating-22147780 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/fire-log-burner-rules-heating-22147780)
WHAT IS THE BEST MOISTURE CONTENT FOR LOGS?
It is generally agreed that a moisture content of less than 20% is best.
There are three factors which determine how much heat you can get from a log when you burn it. The variety of the wood (and how 'dense' it is) and the efficiency of the stove are two, but these are fairly insignificant when compared to the importance of the third: moisture content. Depending on the variety, a log from a recently felled tree can have as much moisture as 60% – something like a pint of water for every kilo of log. A seasoned log will produce twice as much heat as a freshly cut (aka 'wet' or 'green') log because this water must be boiled away first before the log gives up any real heat. This makes unseasoned wet logs an incredibly expensive heat source, not to mention the damage that burning them does to our air quality and your chimney system, so it is vital that your logs are always 'dry' and ready to burn.
Virtually every wood burning stove manufacturer recommends only burning wood logs with a moisture content of less than 20%. Somewhere between 10% and 20% is ideal. Once the moisture content gets less than 10% then the wood quickly burns away, sucking in too much air and cooling the flue gases as it does this, which in turn increases unwanted emissions. A little moisture is good for moderating the burn rate.
cont https://www.thestoveyard.com/pages/what-is-the-best-moisture-content-for-logs (https://www.thestoveyard.com/pages/what-is-the-best-moisture-content-for-logs)
Update ...
Log burners won't be banned for key reason despite climate concerns
The polluting stoves have generated calls for a ban, but a recent report has outlined why this will not occur
Hundreds of thousands do not possess mains gas or electricity and must continue using the appliances. The 'Ready to Burn' scheme, administered by Defra, aims to limit pollution, ensuring that timber with the Woodsure RTB label is certified with content moisture of less than 20 per cent. this is important, but difficult to police.
It significantly reduces the emissions from wood burners, with untreated, non-kiln-dried timber considerably dirty and damaging to animal and human health.
cont https://www.inyourarea.co.uk/news/wood-burning-stoves-not-to-be-banned-for-key-reason-despite-climate-concerns/
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Every North Wales beach dogs can't be taken on from May onwards
There are dozens of beaches where dogs are now banned or partially banned
Conwy
Rhos on Sea Beach (between Rhos Point and the eastern end of the Cayley Promenade)
Colwyn Bay Beach (between the Victoria Pier and the entrance to Eirias Park).
Pensarn Beach (between the embedded wooden posts by the caf? and the embedded concrete posts at the western end of the promenade).
Kinmel Bay Beach (between Dinas Avenue, Kinmel Bay and Sandbank Road Towyn)
Llandudno North Shore Beach (from Llandudno Pier to Clarence Road)
Llandudno West Shore Beach (between the two stone groynes)
Penmaenmawr Beach (from the east side of the caf? to the sailing club slipway)
Llanfairfechan Beach (between the 2 slipways extending down from the promenade to the Low Water Mark)
Small Sandy Beach at Rhos Point, Rhos on Sea (all year)
cont plus full list https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/every-north-wales-beach-dogs-26824840?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Where ?58m will be spent on active travel routes as minister says 'small changes' can make difference
Deputy Climate Change Minister Lee Waters announced the funding on a trip to North Wales
.Welsh Government has been under fire in North Wales in recent months after scrapping a number of road projects.
But the Government says it wants to help move people onto public transport and active travel (cycling and walking) - although minister Lee Waters admits services are not yet to scratch. More on that here.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/58m-spent-active-travel-routes-27123553
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Airbus secures biggest plane order in the history of commercial aviation
IndiGo has placed an order for 500 A320 Family aircraft in a big boost for Airbus Broughton
The wings for the planes will be made at Airbus Broughton - giving the site a major boost. The historic purchase agreement was signed at the Paris Air Show 2023. At list prices the deal is worth ?40bn but these will be discounted given the size of the order.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/airbus-secures-biggest-plane-order-27153783
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The things that will be banned in Wales in the next 18 months
From driving speeds to healthy eating Welsh Government has been busy legislating
Some of these steps are fairly well supported but others have attracted a fair degree of criticism from opposition politicians, the media and general public.
Here we look at what could be banned in Wales in this Senedd term and how those planned changes have gone down so far.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/things-banned-wales-next-18-27319671
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We can only hope this money is being well spent, especially these days !
Cable car venture and film studio among five new projects invited to join North Wales Growth Deal
The new projects could attract Growth Deal investment of around ?28m
New projects could be in line for multi-million pound funding boosts after being invited to join the North Wales Growth Deal portfolio. Today, members of the North Wales Ambition Board supported a recommendation to invite five new projects.
Subject to agreement of certain conditions, each project will now go on to develop an outline business case. The total investment of Growth Deal cash could be around ?28m - which would be backed by millions of pounds more in private or other public sector investment.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cable-car-venture-film-studio-27365795
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The Nicola Faith coroner's report
Mr Lewis gave a narrative conclusion into the men's deaths after a jury inquest.
And he has sent the prevention of future deaths report to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA)
Inadequate checks on adapted fishing boats could put them at risk, according to a coroner's report.
It comes after three fishermen drowned when their boat sank off the Conwy coast during calm weather on 27 January 2021.
David Lewis, assistant coroner for North Wales East and Central, has produced a prevention of future deaths report, external following their inquests.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c51xkk8n541o
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Single malt Welsh whisky given post-Brexit PGI status
Whisky made in Wales has been given protected status like Welsh lamb.
Single malt Welsh whisky is the first spirit to receive geographical indication (GI) status since UKGI was launched in 2021 after Brexit.
Production has expanded since its revival 20 years ago with exports to more than 45 countries. And the spirit is expected to generate ?23m this year.
Four distilleries were part of the final bid for GI status - Penderyn, In the Welsh Wind, Da Mhile, and Coles.
Penderyn boss Stephen Davies said gaining the status was a "significant milestone".
"It assists in safeguarding both the quality of the product and also its source of origin," he added.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-66278973
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More people are moving from England to Wales and these are reasons why
Compare My Move says there has been hike in people moving to the country
A report has revealed an increase in the number of people moving from England to Wales - as well as the main reasons why. Compare My Move has compiled stats on where people are moving to and has seen a trend towards this country.
They show a 27.9% increase in people moving from England to Wales between 2020 and 2022. This covers the period of the pandemic and supports anecdotal evidence that this triggered an exodus from urban areas of England to parts of Wales.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/more-people-moving-england-wales-27389753
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North Wales bucks nation's employment trend with hike over last year
North Wales has bucked the nation's employment trend over the last year. The overall economic figures have been gloomy for Wales over the last 12 months.
The Annual Population Survey's labour market statistics show the country has seen the employment rate fall 0.6 percentage points to 73% between April 2022 to March 2023. But this is not the story in North Wales where the unemployment rate has increased 0.8 0.8 percentage points over the year, and now stands at 75.1%.
Mid and South West Wales also saw the rate increase by 0.8 to 73.4%. The national fall came due to a 1.9 percentage points drop in South East Wales where the rate is now 71.9%. The UK rate was 75.4%, up 0.3 percentage points over the year.
The largest increases in employment rates over the year were seen on Anglesey (up 6.0 percentage points to 76.6%), but this may not include the significant job losses at the 2 Sisters site, which shut at the end of March.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-bucks-nations-employment-27409731
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A "pro-growth" campaign group has launched a campaign for a third Menai Strait crossing after Welsh Government's roads review halted the project. Britain Remade wants Ministers in Cardiff to reverse the decision as well as restore other roads schemes axed in the review.
The campaign group is led by Sam Richards, a former energy and climate adviser to ex-PM Boris Johnson, and the push to bring back scrapped road schemes in Wales is backed by Ynys Mon Tory MP Virginia Crosbie as well as former Welsh Government Economy Minister Ken Skates.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/pro-growth-group-launches-campaign-27413433
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?37m cheese plant starts major expansion and unveils UK's first electric milk tanker
Mona Dairy hopes its electric tanker will be the first of many, each quietly cruising along country lanes
A cutting-edge cheese factory that runs entirely on renewable energy is undergoing a major expansion just months after opening. Anglesey?s Mona Dairy plant is also aiming to go even greener with the introduction of an electric milk tanker, a UK first.
The 25,000 sq ft factory on Mona Industrial Park opened earlier this year and is capable of producing 7,000 tonnes of Welsh and continental cheeses every year. This will eventually rise to more than 30,000 tonnes following the completion of a multi-million-pound expansion.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/37m-cheese-plant-starts-major-27523323
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The big decision that could now transform Holyhead port as we know it
Stena Line has secured permission for huge changes to Wales's busiest port
A major decision has helped pave the way to transform Holyhead port and potentially create hundreds of jobs. The Holyhead Gateway scheme from Stena Line would see 100,000 m2 of land reclaimed from the sea and a new giant berth built.
The potential ?100m investment would support port operations and back cruise industry ambitions as well as supporting planned wind farm developments. It has the provisional backing of Ambition North Wales with a potential ?35m allocated from the North Wales Growth Deal.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/big-decision-could-now-transform-27532394
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North Wales is being looked at for the location of a new National Park. Currently there are three in Wales, Eryri (Snowdonia), Brecon Beacons and Pembrokeshire Coast.
The Welsh Government has commissioned Natural Resources Wales, as the Designating Authority in Wales, to evaluate the case for a new National Park, based on the existing Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), in the north east. It would become the fourth in Wales, if given the go-ahead.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/trips-breaks/north-wales-could-new-national-27693797
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Census map reveals North Wales' most crowded areas
Wrexham and Rhyl dominate but the population density in rural parts of Gwynedd is among the lowest in the UK
Whilst North Wales is mainly rural, especially in comparison to many areas of South Wales and over the border in England, there are a few areas in our larger towns and cities which are quite densely populated. According to Census data, which you can view on the interactive map below, the most densely populated area in our region is as packed as a football pitch with more than three teams playing on it.
cont plus interactive map https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/census-map-reveals-north-wales-27933118?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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New figures have suggested that up to 120,000 houses in Wales - or one in 12 - may be sitting empty.
The majority were classed as "truly vacant", with no indication that people were living there.
About 15% (17,500) were identified as second homes.
The latest data, which has been published by the Office of National Statistics (ONS), combined Census figures from 2021 with information from other government bodies.
London was the only one of nine English regions with a higher proportion of vacant dwellings than Wales, while south west England was the only area with a marginally higher percentage of second homes.
The Welsh government said it was taking steps to ensure that "everybody has a right to a decent, affordable home to buy or to rent in their own communities".
But the ONS also warned that since the 2021 Census was conducted during the Covid pandemic, some homes that were usually occupied may have been empty when data was gathered.
With an estimated 7% of houses in Wales classed as "truly vacant", it was a higher proportion than every English region apart from London (7.3%).
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-67244326
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The Wales Fast Growth 50, 2023: these are the fastest growing indigenous firms in Wales
This year's 50 firms collectively generated sales of ?800m in 2022 and created 2,000 new jobs in just two years
The fastest-growing firms in Wales can be revealed. The indigenous companies making the 25th annual list of the Wales Fast Growth 50 - a project devised by Prof Dylan Jones-Evans - collectively generated revenues of ?880m in 2022.
Over three years they grew by an average of 208% - a record for the Wales Fast Growth 50 index. And for the first time in 25-years, all 50 firms have grown by more than 100% to make the 2023 list
cont full list https://www.business-live.co.uk/enterprise/wales-fast-growth-50-2023-28198604?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Minister insists electrification of North Wales main line a 'priority'
They did not answer a question on the cost - with the ?1bn estimate dating back to 2015. Will it still go ahead and if so when?
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/minister-insists-electrification-north-wales-28245881
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This electrification should have been done in the 1970's same time as the A55. Whole job could have been done for less than the Conway Tunnels.
At that time BR had Electrification teams ready to carry out schemes. Because of this stop/start the teams are stood down and it then cost millions to get it up and running again, before work even starts. In my case after finishing the East Coast Electrification in 1989 we hoped to then take on Hull/York, Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool but it was not to be. Here we are in 2023 and they are still talking about it. If it was France, Netherlands, Germany etc it would have been done years ago. We are fast becoming a 3rd world country.
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You're right about the fact that they should have done it in the 70's but look at the A55, all done on the cheap. Those two roundabouts are still there and some of the slip roads are like the hard shoulders, non existent.
It's just General Election hype and they have even mentioned a third bridge over the Menai Straits. Now if it was in Cardiff or London then things would have been done years ago
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On ITV Wales last night they had some nice photos of the sky that were sent in by viewers. The colours were really good and were various shades of lilac and purple.
Here in Colwyn Bay the light was really strange but more of a yellowish colour and very interesting to see
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/how-sky-turned-pink-wales-28252309
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Maybe every town needs a couple of Hollywood stars to help regeneration ;)
The UK Government is to relocate more than 300 roles from London to Wrexham. The Government has pledged to move 22,000 positions out of the UK capital by 2027.
As part of this they said the city in North Wales will get extra roles in the DWP and the Ministry of Justice departments. They said it demonstrated their commitment to 'levelling-up.
This could bring an estimated economic benefit of around ?9m due to additional spending in the area.
Welsh Secretary David TC Davies said: "More than 300 jobs moving to Wrexham is fantastic news for the economy of north east Wales. It shows once again the UK Government?s commitment to improving how services are delivered to the public while bringing greater opportunity and jobs to areas across the country.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/uk-government-relocate-more-300-28271268
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Six developments that can drive the North Wales economy in 2024
From a new hotel to service stations and business units
Spiralling costs have seriously impacted development plans in recent years and seen some developers go bust. Prices are now starting to stabilise and it is hoped this will give companies the confidence to push on with investment plans in 2024.
There are a number of developments in the pipeline that can help kickstart the North Wales economy over the year. They range from a new hotel to housing and business units - with hopes they will bring new jobs to the area.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/six-developments-can-drive-north-28322230?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Bangor based developer Watkin Jones plunged to a ?42.5m pre-tax loss over the last year due to building safety remedial works and restructuring but remains confident about the future. The costs set aside for cladding remediation wiped out ?35m, while a further ?3.1m charge was made against an internal restructure.
They were also hit with additional build costs on a scheme in Exeter, where the third-party main contractor went into liquidation while build cost inflation also reduced the margin on some schemes during the year.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-developer-watkin-jones-28500430
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Rhyl Air Show cancelled for 2024 due to Red Arrows decision ref DP
It follows the announcement of the Red Arrows 60th season anniversary international tour this Summer
"Unfortunately, we have been informed that they will be away on an international tour over the summer, and unavailable for UK displays. With the programme already subject to scrutiny over recent years, we believe the Red Arrows to be irreplaceable, and that their loss would inevitably lead to criticism of the Air Show. We have concluded that it would be impossible for DLL to deliver a show in keeping with the proud tradition of the Rhyl Air Show, which also meets public expectations, but we will come back in 2025 stronger."
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Serious Fraud Office raids development group that wanted to turn hospital into asylum-themed hotel
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has today raided three residences and made four arrests in Merseyside and Greater Manchester
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) has today raided three residences and made four arrests in Merseyside and Greater Manchester as it announced it is investigating Signature Group. The group attracted over a thousand UK and international investors in the redevelopment of iconic landmarks including Belfast?s Scottish Mutual Building and the Coal Exchange in Cardiff.
They had also attempted to buy up the old North Wales Hospital in Denbigh and turn it into an asylum-themed hotel complex. This later collapsed as Denbighshire council looked elsewhere for its investment partner in its bid to bring the site back to life.
The Signature Group operated for over seven years, buying up predominantly historic buildings within the UK for redevelopment into luxury hotels, residential apartments and office spaces. Investors loaned money to Signature or purchased a hotel room, apartment or office space in one of the group?s properties, with promised returns on their investment of between 8% and 15%. The business collapsed into administration with losses of up to ?140 million.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/serious-fraud-office-raids-development-28675573
PS
Millions of pounds in funds to redevelop former North Wales asylum gets initial approval
Growth Deal funding moves a step closer with approval of the outline business case
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/millions-pounds-funds-redevelop-former-28614541
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All good projects, but 20.8 million pounds ?...................... ref pioneer
WELSH Government is investing ?20.8million in north Wales to improve public transport and encourage economic growth, the cabinet secretary for North Wales and transport, Ken Skates, has said.
As part of Wales? Transport Strategy, the support includes funding for active travel and safe routes, road safety, electric vehicle charging facilities, road resilience, transport and adopted roads.
In North Wales, ?20.8m will be invested in projects such as:
Improving walking and cycling connections to Llandudno railway station.
A safer route to walk, scoot and cycle to Ysgol Treffynnon and Ysgol Maes Y Felin in Holywell.
An active travel route connecting Holyhead railway station and ferry terminal with Penrhos employment and retail sites, the leisure
centre, Parc Cybi and Trearddur Bay.
Support the Sherpa?r Wyddfa bus service in Eryri.
Mr Skates said: ?These grants are a substantial investment to support sustainable local economic growth, enhance public transport facilities and create and improve routes that will enable and encourage more people in Wales to walk, wheel and cycle.
?The projects are prime examples of the practical solutions we have asked local authorities to design in order to make it easier for residents to connect with their places of employment and businesses, and to do so more sustainably.?
This funding also builds on allocations which have been made to different phases of some projects in previous years.
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Lets hope this gets sorted, just the type of business NW needs................
'Devastation' as £27m Anglesey cheese plant shuts down and seeks buyer a year after opening
Mona Dairy's main shareholders said they were 'so close' to making the project a success
A cutting-edge cheese factory on Anglesey has run into difficulties and is looking for a buyer. Mona Diary said it was “devastated” it had “come up short” in delivering Europe’s “newest and most sustainable cheese factory”.
The company said it had failed to source sufficient short-term funding from key stakeholders to “keep functioning in its current form”. An interim milk buyer has been found for the factory’s 31 farmer suppliers. Staff will be kept on for as long as possible while the Mona Dairy works through its options.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/devastation-27m-anglesey-cheese-plant-29256341
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The North Wales seaside village ranked one of UK's 30 best places to live
The resort has long been a popular destination
That's strange, I thought that most of the villagers actually lived in Cheshire
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/trips-breaks/north-wales-seaside-village-ranked-29264045
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A leading civil engineering firm has been appointed to deliver crucial multi-million-pound coastal defence improvements in North Wales. Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK is utilising its expertise on the £13m Kinmel Bay development after being selected by Conwy County Borough Council following a competitive tender process.
The Ruthin-headquartered company will procure and import up to 80,000 tonnes of rock armour, sourced from North Wales quarries, to strengthen the current revetment between Towyn and Kinmel Bay. Jones Bros will also raise just under 2km of existing sea wall by 500-750mm and replace two floodgates as part of plans to minimise the impact of stormy weather and associated coastal flooding.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/multi-million-pound-seafront-defence-29307764
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Post Office hero Alan Bates and the North Wales people recognised in King's Birthday Honours
'It was a bit of a surprise, it sort of came out of the blue'
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/post-office-hero-alan-bates-29355123
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Mobile networks swamped by tourists causing 'embarrassing' problems for North Wales
A Conwy taxi driver said he sometimes can't take fares as network capacities become overloaded
New figures have shown the stimulating effect of tourism on the North Wales economy as the sector heads into the high season. But businesses can struggle to take advantage of the boom because of the stretched capacity of mobile signal networks, according to a taxi driver sometimes unable to take payments from customers.
While mobile coverage continues to improve across the country - 86 Westminister-funded 4G masts are currently being rolled out in Wales - drop-outs remain a problem even in areas with strong signals. In summer, Conwy cabbie Dave Fare can struggle to use his SumUp card machine – a mobile payment device that accounts for almost 70% of his transactions.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/mobile-networks-swamped-tourists-causing-29357595?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Interesting in depth article............
Parts of North Wales lie near bottom of UK table on important economic measure
The GVA figures make bad reading for some areas in North Wales but other parts perform much better
Parts of North Wales are near the bottom of a UK table when it comes to productivity. The ONS has released the latest national, regional, and sub-regional statistics for GVA per hour - a measure how much money is generated through goods produced and services delivered.
The figures from 2022 continue to show that Wales is lagging behind other parts of the UK. GVA per hour worked (relative to the UK) was 82.7% in 2022 - it was an increase of 0.8 percentage points over the previous year but still kept the country bottom of the table in the UK. It was also second bottom in provisional GVA per head figures.
Read more.. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/parts-north-wales-lie-near-29383300
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Plans to breathe new life into a former Grade-II listed hospital have moved a big step closer after they cleared a major planning hurdle. Councillors have green-lighted plans to build up to 334 homes at the old North Wales Hospital site in Denbigh.
The site is much cherished by local people but it has fallen into disrepair since closing in 1995. The former asylum was acquired by the council through compulsory purchase in 2018 and its use for housing is seen as crucial if the historic core is to be saved.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/relief-bid-build-334-homes-29567895?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Sounds very good for the area, and no mention of taxpayers grants?
A £50 million project to redevelop a theatre in North Wales will create 100 new jobs. Once completed the massive makeover at Theatr Clwyd in Mold will generate an annual boost of up to £30 million for the local economy as well as making it a carbon positive building for much of the time.
“The redevelopment is going to enhance all our theatre making capabilities. We’re one of only four theatres in the whole of the UK that still has all the making departments in-house, the costume makers, the scenic artists, the scenic construction with the welders and carpenters, the props makers and the lighting and sound technicians.
“As a result, we have a specific space to train the talent of the future talent in those departments.
“The other benefit is that it gives us dedicated space for our extensive communities programme – arts and health programmes for the NHS, our work with social services and housing associations along with refugee charities. There’s also dedicated youth hub spaces.
“We’ll also have dedicated event spaces that will help drive revenue – whether it’s small board meetings, big conferences or sit down dinners for 200 people.
“On top of all that we’ll have brand new kitchens where our new catering partner, Bryn Williams and his team, will give people yet another reason to come here.
Full article https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-theatre-restaurant-development-29795455
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People vow to 'cover up' as AI face-mapping cameras deploy in North Wales
The technology was first used on Anglesey when 6,259 faces were scanned
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/people-pledge-cover-up-ai-29887737
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Former sub-postmaster Alan Bates gets married on Richard Branson’s private island
https://www.itv.com/news/2024-09-08/sir-alan-bates-gets-married-on-richard-bransons-private-island
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Decision due on selling mansion to secret bidder
Details of the bidder were being kept secret before the meeting, and the decision will be taken behind closed doors.
But people living in the area have expressed their concern at the way the national park authority is handling the sale.
They are also worried that if Plas Tan y Bwlch is sold to a private company, then that would mean people would not be able to access the 59 acres of ancient woodland which surrounds the house and is classified as a site of special scientific interest.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cq6rey9vzdeo
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Sale of £1.2m mansion postponed after backlash
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cq6rey9vzdeo
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Great news for NW, but am I wrong to be disappointment, that it is a foreign investment?
A £1bn development of a former paper mill could "completely transform recycling levels in the UK", its owner has claimed.
Up to 2,000 contractors are working to transform Shotton Mill in Flintshire into one of the UK's largest cardboard and tissue production facilities, which it is hoped will start operating next year.
Turkish firm Eren Holding said its new plant would be the most advanced of its kind in Europe and it marked part of the "renaissance of north Wales".
The UK government described it as a "massive vote of confidence in the Welsh economy", while the Welsh government said it was "excellent news" for Deeside and beyond.
cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3rl8e7er4po
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Airbus has secured a new multi-billion pound planes deal. Cebu Pacific of the Philippines has placed a firm order for 70 A321neo.
The wings for the planes will be made at Airbus Broughton. Cebu Pacific currently operates 61 A320 Family aircraft on its extensive regional network. In addition it flies nine A330 widebodies on high density routes in the region, as well as to destinations in the Middle East...https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/airbus-secures-multi-billion-pound-30053769
Kellogg's to create Europe’s largest cereal factory in Wrexham with 130 new jobs
The company's £75m investment is its biggest in the UK for more than three decades
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/kelloggs-create-europes-largest-cereal-30058700
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Storm Lilian damaged Conwy harbour will cost £500,000 to repair
Conwy's harbour was badly damaged but asking the council to fix it may be a 'futile gesture'
Bookmark
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/storm-lilian-damaged-north-wales-30074893
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A55 truck facility proposal after last stop turned into Brexit customs post
The logistics hub would provide vital facilities near Holyhead port
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/a55-truck-facility-proposal-after-30093753
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Huge new nature reserve yards from A55 will be missing one key facility
The 70-acre reserve will have 22 ponds, a 16ft 'viewing mound' and one half will be kept 'wild' and inaccessible
A large nature reserve with 22 ponds, woodlands and a 16ft “viewing mound” is to be created just yards from the A55. Denbighshire Council is pushing ahead with its plans for a 70-acre reserve that will be partly open to the public.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/huge-new-nature-reserve-yards-30106494
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Famous Eryri attraction to close until 2026 for massive £21m revamp
The National Slate Museum in Llanberis will shut in November
A major Eryri attraction will close next month for over a year for a major redevelopment. The National Slate Museum in Llanberis will shut in November and won't reopen until 2026.
The redevelopment will breathe new life into the much-loved museum transforming it into a "world-class" visitor attraction at the heart of The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales - a UNESCO World Heritage site.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/famous-eryri-attraction-close-until-30164834
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Conwy second home and empty home owners to be hit with 150% council tax premium
The rise will come into effect next April
Owners of second homes and empty homes will be charged a 150% council tax premium from 1 April 2025 in Conwy. At a council meeting this week, councillors voted in favour of the increase, as well as opting to charge owners a 200% Council Tax Premium for properties that have been empty for up to five years or less
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/conwy-second-home-empty-home-30176435
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The UK is to announce five new freeports and a new investment zone in the Budget next week as part of a bid to boost economic growth.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said it is part of a plan to help create thousands of jobs and more trade in the UK.
Speaking to the BBC, Sir Keir said freeports - low tax zones - were "working well" despite criticism that they do not increase overall jobs numbers.
But he said "they could work better" with more involvement from local businesses and politicians.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0j8w73pdn8o
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An ADVENTURE firm offering sled dog treks through the Alwen Forest has warned rising costs may force it to close.
Mynydd Sleddog Adventures has 20 working Siberian Huskies and provides experiences for people to ride on a dry sled through the Conwy woodland or, for the bold, to pilot their own husky sled.
In addition to being a visitor attraction, it offers specialist programmes for Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and adult mental health services specifically designed to help those with complex needs engage with their environment.
cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24680114.conwy-sleddog-adventure-firm-may-forced-close/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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A ferry service which had planned to begin operating between Bangor and Belfast in 2024, is now set to launch late next year.
The proposed sailings from the two cities are set to utilise a zero carbon emissions ferry powered by a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system developed by Artemis Technologies.
A pilot scheme of the service, which is set to be operated by Condor Ferries, from Bangor Marina to Belfast's Titanic Quarter was expected to begin operating by 2024................. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5y9y79vvdpo?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
UPDATE
No new freeports in Budget after 'comms cock-up'
The chancellor will not unveil new freeports in the Budget on Wednesday, despite a government announcement on Friday saying she would.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c74887vj8p4o
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https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/uks-biggest-lions-hidden-away-30287609
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UK's biggest lions hidden away by A55 continue to inflame passions in North Wales
They're huge and imposing but they're largely tucked out of sight
I was timed out on my previous post but the link is shown below again. I remember seeing these impressive Lions when I traveled by rail in the past and it was before the A55 was built above the rail tunnel. I think that there is a technical issue with the statues and that they may not be relocated
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/uks-biggest-lions-hidden-away-30287609
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Storage units and trailer destroyed in blaze sparked by fireworks
Fire engines were called to Towyn last night to tackle the blaze
Two storage units and a trailer were destroyed in a fire caused by fireworks last night, amid bonfire celebrations. The fire service was called shortly before 9.25pm to Sandbank Road, in Towyn, Conwy and sent two engines to the scene to extinguish the blaze.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/storage-units-trailer-destroyed-blaze-30316122
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Cinema to close in latest blow to once bustling Welsh seaside resort
Vue will leave Rhyl in January next year
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cinema-close-latest-blow-once-30347735
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Eryri National Park too 'secretive' over sale of North Wales mansion
The Authority has still refused to identify a pontential buyer of the £1.2m valued Plas Tan y Bwlch
You have to see this property to appreciate its beauty and location and although someone may have to spend a lot of money on it, at the price reported it seems a bargain.
I wonder who this mystery buyer is as it all sounds a bit suspicious to me
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/eryri-national-park-secretive-over-30372333
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Major update over future of historic Eryri mansion and access to lake
Plas Tan y Bwlch is a 30-bedroom listed building near Blaenau Ffestiniog.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/major-update-over-future-historic-30393584
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Full list of school closures as snow hits North Wales
Around 30 schools across the region won't open today after heavy snow fell overnight
There's no mention of Ysgol Pen Y Bryn in Colwyn Bay closing Norman so watch that your grand child doesn't pull a fast one
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/full-list-school-closures-snow-30400822
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Most expensive and cheapest places to live in Wales as one place sees major fall
House prices fell by around £16,000 in one county
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/most-expensive-cheapest-places-live-30410765
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Truck carrying ice rink to Bangor Christmas fair crashes. It would be ironic if ice was the cause of the crash
Truck carrying ice rink to Bangor Christmas fair crashes
https://ct.moreover.com/?a=55358410887&p=14e&v=1&x=HeJt6du1ZeKtw2FWNiJKVw&u1=ND&u2=up-urn:user:PA187552270
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North Wales bridge swept away in storm will be rebuilt but no-one will say when
Llanerch Bridge collapsed in 2021 but the link between Trefnant and Tremeirchion has yet to be rebuilt. The report says that the bridge collapsed nearly 4 years ago but it's nearly 5 years and nothing has been done about it.
I suppose we can expect it to be done at the same time that the North Wales railway line is electrified
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-bridge-swept-away-30429376
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US bomb suspect in Wales for years - investigators
The description of the area sounds a bit like Nant Y Felin and district. It's only a short distance from the A470 but seems a million miles away from that busy stretch of road
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c33exln14mgo
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'I sold my house to man on FBI's most wanted list'
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwy151yk5dzo
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AN ENTREPRENEUR and former Channel 4 Secret Millionaire from North Wales has snapped up an industrial estate in Bangor.
Rob Lloyd’s Bearmont Capital has completed the purchase of Denis Ferranti, a 6.5-acre industrial site on Caernarfon Road in Bangor.
Rob, who is originally from Rhos-on-Sea and owns several properties in Llandudno, said he aimed to create a “dynamic industrial hub that accommodates a wide range of businesses”.
This site has been owned by Denis Ferranti, a privately-owned engineering business specialising in mechanical, electromechanical, and electronic manufacturing, since 1951.................... https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24788259.conwy-retail-group-purchases-3-5m-industrial-estate/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Diggers on beach in £13m scheme to protect seaside resorts in North Wales
The £13m flood defence scheme is backed by Welsh Government and Conwy council funding
Work is well underway on a multi-million pound scheme to protect two seaside resorts. The £13m flood defence scheme - backed by Welsh Government and Conwy council funding - will see the coastline strengthened around Kinmel Bay and Towyn........https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/diggers-beach-13m-scheme-protect-30697831?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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A global firm has taken on a giant unit in North Wales. Legat Owen and JLL, acting on behalf of Legal & General, have secured a new tenant for a 100,000 sq ft facility in Deeside.
The property on Tenth Avenue, Zone 3, Deeside, has been let to new tenants Boccard UK Limited on a 12-year lease. Boccard UK is a leading company in the field of engineering and maintenance services.
Operating globally across a variety of sectors they hold a key position in the industrial marketplace. The facility at Deeside forms part of their strategy to expand their UK business............. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/giant-unit-north-wales-taken-30727616
PS
Welsh Government issues update on Holyhead port
Ferry services at the port have been halted since Storm Darragh in December
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/welsh-government-issues-update-holyhead-30728811
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Historic 18th century humpback bridge destroyed in storm set to be replaced with modern design
But locals have now been waiting four years for a replacement for the bridge over the River Clwyd which links Trefnant and Tremeirchion and there is no end in sight for the seven mile diversion they face as a result
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/historic-18th-century-humpback-bridge-30721551
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List of school closures in North Wales on January 9 as snow and ice hit
Dozens of schools are closed today
We had a fresh fall of snow and hail this morning and the road and gardens are covered in it so it's a good job that Ysgol Pen Y Bryn in Colwyn Heights is closed.
I bought a couple of bags of rock salt yesterday so that will come in handy now
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/school-closures-north-wales-january-30740345
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£92m earmarked to protect Welsh coastal areas
The National Wealth Fund is providing a loan to help protect the Welsh coast
Looking at Llandudno's dwarf wall sea defences it won't cost more than a few grand from that loan
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/92m-earmarked-protect-welsh-coastal-30799245
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RAF fighter jet damaged after bird strike over North Wales A RAF fighter jet suffered "damage" after sustaining a bird strike as it flew over North Wales yesterday (Monday). The F-35 was flying over the region at around 1.25pm, after taking off from RAF Marham, in Norfolk, when the collision occurred.
The pilot was reported to be 'fine' following the incident
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/raf-fighter-jet-damaged-after-30826844
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Plan for massive £107m redevelopment of old 'asylum' moves step closer
The former North Wales Hospital in Denbigh has been empty since 1996
Denbighshire Council's cabinet has rubberstamped the first phase of the £107m redevelopment of the former North Wales Hospital in Denbigh. The cabinet met today (Tuesday) seeking approval to issue £3m of third-party funding to North Wales Hospital Ltd to support the delivery of phase one of the Former North Wales Hospital project.
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/plan-massive-107m-redevelopment-old-30830616
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Sadness and anger as second biggest town in North Wales loses its last cinema. Another blow to Rhyl
'Look at what we were, and look at what we’ve become' says local Senedd Member
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/sadness-anger-second-biggest-town-30832848
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Plans approved to limit second homes at national park
People wanting to turn a house into a second home or holiday accommodation at Wales' largest national park will have to apply for planning permission.
Eryri National Park Authority (ENPA) becomes the first park to use the powers, granted by the Welsh government in October 2022, which aims to control the number of second homes.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjex7lx01dgo
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The North Wales schools closed due to Storm Éowyn
Dozens of schools are closed today amid storm force winds and rain
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-schools-set-close-30851912
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Zip World sold in £100m deal with sights set on further expansion
The adventure giant is already due to open two more attractions this year
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/zip-world-sold-100m-deal-30868318?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589&utm_campaign=Daily-2712025&utm_medium=email&utm_source=IYA-DailyDigest&utm_term=news-link&source=email&sourceUserIid=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Major North Wales shopping centre heading to auction
The centre's tenants include Sports Direct and Shoe Zone
Is this another blow for Rhyl?
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/major-north-wales-shopping-centre-30870056
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Well known Conwy firm to relocate to new headquarters
Robertson Geo will relocate from its sites in Deganwy and Llandudno to a new 20,500 square-foot building on Tre Morfa Enterprise Park, Conwy
“Relocating to Conwy means our UK team will all be on one site, and the new base will set the standard for the industry. We have always been leaders in technology development, calibration, validation, and compliance, so this will further enhance our strengths and future-proof the organisation.
I wonder if the land at Deganwy/ Llandudno has already been earmarked for yet more building development?
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/well-known-conwy-firm-relocate-30894156
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'Cheaper to fly to Africa' - Chester Zoo slammed for 'insane' prices at new safari resort
'“Do I get to take home a giraffe for that price?'
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cheaper-fly-africa-chester-zoo-30892193
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Hugo,
'I wonder if the land at Deganwy/ Llandudno has already been earmarked for yet more building development?'
The industrial premises in Deganwy have had a detailed planning application in for change of use to Residential for nearly 6 months now and the premises in Llandudno are part of the business units in Council Street.
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Thanks for that info Hammy. The way things are going now Deganwy, Junction, Llanrhos and Llandudno will just merge eventually.
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Firefighters battle overnight blaze in town centre
Crews from two counties called to the scene in the early hours
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/firefighters-battle-overnight-blaze-town-30917657
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Iconic' old Post Office in North Wales city centre bought - with plans for its future announced
The site has been empty for a number of years
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/iconic-old-post-office-north-30921297
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Same Company & Directors who have just bought the lease on Bodlondeb Civic Offices in Conwy. Is there really the need for two World Class Business Centres so close together?
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Same Company & Directors who have just bought the lease on Bodlondeb Civic Offices in Conwy. Is there really the need for two World Class Business Centres so close together?
Sounds like more Welsh government grant money up for grabs by private companies........?
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I do recall someone mentioning that they hope it will be a self repairing lease, and not left to the tax payers........... :-\
CONWY County Borough Council has entered into an agreement for its Bodlondeb offices to be leased.
The council confirmed this morning it has agreed a lease with the Quidos Investments Ltd for the Conwy building.
Quidos plan to use the premises to develop a new business centre.
Councillors gave the final go-ahead for all democratic and office services to move to one location at Coed Pella, in Colwyn Bay, on December 5.
The agreement for lease means Quidos will sign a 250-year lease on Bodlondeb in late May...........
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/24910904.conwy-lease-agreed-bodlondeb-council-offices/
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A nuclear power station was blocked by officials who were concerned about its impact on the Welsh language, it emerged yesterday.
Senior industry figures slammed the move as Sir Keir Starmer seeks to launch a generation of mini nuclear plants by watering down planning laws.
In one farcical case, government planning inspectors rejected a multi-billion-pound project on the Welsh island of Anglesey on grounds including the negative 'socio-economic' impact on the local community.
Claiming it could put pressure on housing, forcing locals to relocate, the five planning inspectors added in their report: 'In turn, given the number of Welsh-speaking residents, this could adversely affect Welsh language and culture.'
The 906-page document was cited by industry figures as an example of the difficulty with opening the nuclear power stations that Sir Keir announced his support for on Thursday.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14374443/Welsh-nuclear-power-plant-fears-impact-Welsh-language.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
update......
Response after claim Welsh language scuppered Wylfa nuclear plant
The Telegraph reported that the nuclear power plant was "shelved after concerns for Welsh language". This is based on a planning inspectorate report released into the public domain four years ago in February 2021, although it was completed in the autumn of 2019.
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/response-after-claim-welsh-language-30961807?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Hundreds of Wales’ old chapels and churches should be 'repurposed for social housing'
It's estimated that 70% of the country's places of worship could close in the next 20 years
It sounds like a good idea in principal providing of course that they are affordable to local people and intended for occupation by local people
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/hundreds-wales-old-chapels-churches-30984991
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Tribute bench washes up 80 miles away after journey across the sea
https://ct.moreover.com/?a=56004091706&p=14e&v=1&x=AArw3XjcJPFuEVto_aW1Wg&u1=ND&u2=up-urn:user:PA187552270
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Landowner accused of building holiday cabins without permission refused officers onto farm
The landowner was prosecuted and found guilty of 'wilfully obstructing a person acting in the exercise of a right of entry'. They were ordered to pay a fine as well as Denbighshire Council’s legal costs
CCBC is guilty of the same failure to inspect any building work and when the developer has been found to have completed construction work without permission CCBC allows it to stand and agrees to a retrospective planning application which is then passed
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/landowner-accused-building-holiday-cabins-30990938
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New Denbighshire sewage works 'shouldn't smell' worried locals told
The plans for Tremeirchion have been put forward by Welsh Water but people living locally fear it will result in odours and a loss of local habitats
I don't blame the villagers of Tremeirchion raising a stink about this proposal from Dwr Cymru.
Some years ago Dwr Cymru wanted to relocate the sewage works from near the Black Cat roundabout to near the hamlet of Dolwyd. They also gave a virtual cast iron assurance that there would be no odours as a result of the move. Everyone objected and the proposal was refused by CCBC
Since then I have driven past the old sewage works numerous times and quite often there is a very unpleasant smell coming from the works.
There is also a pumping station near Lidl's in the junction and the pong from it can sometimes be smelt in the pub I go to
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-denbighshire-sewage-works-shouldnt-30991809
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Popular water park tourist attraction plans to be 'bigger and better' in 2025
Sblash Aqua Park launched last year
A popular tourist attraction will return bigger and better after a buoyant first year saw them welcome more than 6,000 visitors. Sblash Aqua Park in Penmaenmawr, Conwy, was launched last May and immediately captured the public's imagination.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/popular-water-park-tourist-attraction-31014202
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Stena Line issues major update on repairs to damaged Holyhead Port ferry berth
The port partially reopened last month following repairs to Terminal 5
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stena-line-issues-major-update-31021152
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Full re-opening date set for Holyhead Port after Storm Darragh damage
HOLYHEAD Port is set to fully re-open on July 1 after it was damaged during Storm Darragh in December.
https://ct.moreover.com/?a=56051052846&p=14e&v=1&x=iY20PJop2nl96RlM1pg-SA&u1=ND&u2=up-urn:user:PA187552270
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Luxury 'treehouse' chalets with private pool will be 'unlike anything else in North Wales'
The planned scheme was unveiled shortly after a six-lane bowling alley was approved at a neighbouring site
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/luxury-treehouse-chalets-private-pool-31029749
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Port's major expansion will create 300 'well paid' jobs in North Wales
The approved scheme will allow the port to accommodate giant next-generation off-shore wind turbines
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/ports-major-expansion-create-300-31027606
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Famous Anglesey lifeboat station for sale but buyers should 'proceed with caution'
The old building is going under the hammer as an 'extremely rare opportunity'
Moelfre’s stone and slate lifeboat station at Porth Nigwyl is being offered at auction with a guide price of £95,000. Town & Country Property Auctions said the sale represents an “extremely rare opportunity to acquire a landmark marine property”.
The new Lifeboat Station is not far away and just around the corner, that would make a fantastic home just like the old one in Tenby
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/famous-anglesey-lifeboat-station-sale-31032228
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Bangor to celebrate St David's Day with fireworks display
This event is part of the city's 1,500th anniversary celebrations, marking a significant milestone with a year full of activities planned throughout 2025.
A variety of events are planned to honour Bangor's rich history, vibrant present, and promising future.
The celebrations will showcase the community spirit and highlight the heritage and diversity that make Bangor a unique place.
https://ct.moreover.com/?a=56106212804&p=14e&v=1&x=dShDWkG6HltcHF2vk3HcgA&u1=ND&u2=up-urn:user:PA187552270
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Gwynedd second homes campaign takes dramatic turn after court decision
A High Court decision means new planning controls on holiday homes could yet be reversed
The council took action as part of attempts to address the county’s housing crisis by controlling holiday accommodation. However legal proceedings were issued by critics of the policy after £73,000 was raised by homeowners worried it would distort the house market by limiting potential sales. I wonder if it was the "Cheshire Set" that raised the £73k ?
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-second-homes-campaign-takes-31102852
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The North Wales castles and abbeys you can visit for FREE on St David's Day 2025
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/north-wales-castles-abbeys-you-31106815
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'Great concern' over police fraud probe into £250m Anglesey resort developers
Police have made four arrests and seized a 'large quantity' of weapons and cash from a company looking to build luxury lodges at Penrhos Coastal Park near Holyhead
cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/great-concern-over-police-fraud-31122233?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Replacement of famous 'wobbly' bridge approved by Eryri planners
Wider footbridge to help increase accessibility to more users and encourage active travel
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/replacement-famous-wobbly-bridge-approved-31135872
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Conwy Morfa among UK's best dog-friendly beaches - see why
A Conwy beach with "miles of golden sand" has been named among the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK.
Conwy Morfa is a good place for dogs to run around and play but what the newspaper hasn't said, and it's a big but is that there is a hidden danger beneath the sand. The surrounding dunes were once a Victorian dumping ground for bottles and crockery and the sea has eroded part of the bottle bank over time and the debris is still visible today
I used to take my Old English Sheepdog there years ago and used to take carrier bags with me, one was his poo and the other was for the glass and crockery and that was always full. I collected the glass and crockery for weeks until I decided it was not worth the risk and we stopped going there again
https://ct.moreover.com/?a=56196605476&p=14e&v=1&x=E_WIL9kHjsW4jwwKSZvEqg&u1=ND&u2=up-urn:user:PA187552270
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Stena Line submit plans for tech park on Anglesey that could create 1,200 jobs
The proposals include space for technology and data centre buildings and a battery energy storage system (BESS) scheme, as well as over 15,000 sq ft of office space which will generate up 1,200 new jobs on the island
Plans for a £1bn tech park at a former aluminium works on Anglesey have been submitted. The Anglesey Aluminium site ceased smelting operations in 2009 and was later taken over by Orthios, which developed a materials recycling facility.
However, the business collapsed in 2022, resulting in job losses for up to 100 staff. Later that year, Stena Line, the ferry operator that has owned and operated Holyhead port for nearly three decades, purchased the 213-acre site.
They subsequently unveiled a 200,000 square metre industrial and office development as part of a low carbon campus. The plans include space for technology and data centre buildings, a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) scheme, and over 15,000 sq ft of office space, which could create up to 1,200 new jobs on the Island and support UK investment in data and renewable energy.
https://www.business-live.co.uk/commercial-property/stena-line-submit-plans-tech-31152423?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
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Greggs sign 'pointing wrong way' leaves neighbour bracing for sausage roll rush
'As much as we love a good sausage roll.... we are NOT opening a Greggs'
Some direction signs can be confusing.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/greggs-sign-pointing-wrong-way-31156634
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Famous village of Portmeirion plans to bring empty building back to life
The Playhouse has not been open to the public for a number of years
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/famous-village-portmeirion-plans-bring-31186739
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Material start' on new road for clogged up North Wales village that lost its bypass
Roads review saw village lose its £14m bypass
Not before time either as Llanbedr was promised this bypass many years
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/material-start-new-road-clogged-31198430
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10 fastest and slowest places for selling homes in North Wales - and the town bucking the trend
At a time when the housing market appears to be picking up, new figures shows where houses are selling more quickly - and where transactions are slower
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/10-fastest-slowest-places-selling-31222990
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The cleanest beaches in North Wales and those strewn with dangerous litter
Nationwide beach surveys showed an alarming trend in one North Wales county
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cleanest-beaches-north-wales-those-31229817
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A PARK and ride service could return to resolve parking woes at Glan Clwyd Hospital. ............ :)
The scheme operated from the former Hotpoint factory site in Bodelwyddan to Glan Clwyd Hospital between October 2014 and June 30 2019. The service was used by thousands of patients.
A letter from Dyfed Edwards, Chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) to Darren Millar, leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd and Clwyd West MS, now reveals that plans to revive the Park and Ride scheme are being explored; BCUHB is looking at the "feasibility" of re-establishing a park and ride service...............
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/25018894.bcuhb-considers-reviving-park-ride-glan-clwyd-hospital/
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Fury as 'monstrous prison-camp watchtower' built in garden of Conwy Airbnb let
Neighbours say the structure is looming over their properties and making their lives a misery
A "monstrous" structure built in the garden of an Airbnb let in Conwy county has been likened to a "prison-camp watchtower" by angry neighbours. The large tower was built at the site of a holiday let on Tan y Bryn Road in Rhos on Sea without planning permission.
A retrospective application for the "garden room" was turned down by Conwy Council's planning department in June 2024, but a new application has now been submitted. Furious neighbours say the structure is blighting their day-to-day lives.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/fury-monstrous-prison-camp-watchtower-31238155
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'Treehouse' lodges plans for North Wales caravan park
They will replace static caravans at the site in Towyn, if approved by Conwy Council planners
Three ‘treehouse’ lodges could replace static caravans at a North Wales caravan park. Jonathan Seldon of Whitehouse Leisure Park Ltd has applied to Conwy ’s planning department, seeking permission for the lodges at the park on Towyn Road, Towyn.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/treehouse-lodges-plans-north-wales-31246712
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Wales least affordable part of Britain for first-time buyers, report says
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0q127lzy2do
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Singer Duffy teases comeback years after she shot to fame then disappeared
Duffy, whose real name is Aimée Anne Duffy, is from Nefyn and rose to stardom over a decade ago
After an absence of over a decade, Gwynedd singer Duffy has been seen for the first time as she gives a glimpse of an upcoming remix of her iconic noughties hit Mercy. Aimée Anne Duff, who came from Nefyn, shot to fame in 2008 with hits like Mercy on her award winning debut album Rockferry.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/singer-duffy-teases-comeback-years-31288684
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New bypass falls short of previous £14m plans as locals plead 'get on with it'
The bypass for Llanbedr was given the go-ahead in March 2020 but then scrapped in November 2021, with a new road scheme now being put forward for the village
North Wales Live readers have been voicing their opinions on the proposed new bypass for Llanbedr, expressing both frustration and optimism about its potential impact. However, the new plans fall short of previous proposals.
The revised relief road scheme, alongside other options, has been put forward for the Gwynedd village that lost its planned original bypass. The £14m bypass, initially given the green light in March 2020, was scrapped in November 2021 following the Welsh Government's climate change roads review.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/news-opinion/new-bypass-falls-short-previous-31284973
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Councillors throw out bid to build 36 homes near Gwynedd Aldi as they are 'out of reach' for locals
'The town is in dire need of affordable homes and social housing'
It was "hugely disappointing" that the homes were not affordable and "out of the reach" of local people," she said.
"They are priced around the £230,000 figure, a salary of 40k would be needed to own one of these houses, that is not the average salary in Pwllheli, it does not come close.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/councillors-throw-out-bid-build-31293930
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Hundreds of people have taken part in a rally calling for more control over the housing market in Wales.
About 400 people attended the march in Nefyn, Llŷn Peninsula, Gwynedd, organised by Welsh language campaign group Cymdeithas yr Iaith, in Nefyn, Llŷn Peninsula, Gwynedd.
The group said it was an opportunity to launch a new campaign that calls for local houses for local people.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cjw2wjedl89o
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Zip World Llechwedd shares details of Mine Tour enhancements
Zip World’s Deep Mine Tour, which takes visitors to the depths of the Llechwedd caverns, will now feature a range of new interactive elements, available from Saturday (April 5).
The history of the mine dates back to 1846, when it was opened by John Whitehead Greaves, a successful quarry owner.
At its peak in 1884, the quarry produced 23,788 tonnes of finished slate per year and employed 513 workers.
https://ct.moreover.com/?a=56389309619&p=14e&v=1&x=ZdYhtaptA0xNYNlLrXa2pg&u1=ND&u2=up-urn:user:PA187552270
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Huge zig-zag footbridge could leave people 'peering into homes' at North Wales seaside town
A new rail crossing is being considered as part of plans to increase services and get trains running faster on the North Wales mainline
Opposition is building over plans to close level crossings in a seaside town and build a railway footbridge instead. A petition has been launched in Prestatyn amid concerns a footbridge will allow users to peek inside nearby homes.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/huge-zig-zag-footbridge-could-31336095
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The three words scrawled at Anglesey beach that sent island into meltdown
The graffiti left people sickened
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/three-words-sprawled-anglesey-beach-31348375
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Brand New Art Trail Aims to Celebrate Conwy County[/siz
Large scale artwork has been installed in Abergele, Bae Colwyn, Conwy, Llandudno and Llanrwst, creating a trail around the county as part of the LLENWI project
https://ct.moreover.com/?a=56436939805&p=14e&v=1&x=k8a0t7B2T7wDQJYWeNPP2w&u1=ND&u2=up-urn:user:PA187552270
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Maps show 15 places in North Wales most vulnerable to coastal erosion - as famous beach at risk of disappearing
Wales is forecast to shrink as climate change accelerates erosion from the sea
At least the people of Llandudno will be protected now that the giant sea wall is near completion ???
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/maps-show-15-places-north-31402632
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Crash in seaside resort closed coastal road
Drivers were urged to avoid the area
A crash closed a section of seafront road in Conwy this afternoon (Thursday, April 17)
North Wales Police asked drivers to avoid the area around Rhos Promenade in Rhos on Sea.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/crash-seaside-resort-closes-coastal-31462069
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Warning to stay out of water at 22 Welsh beaches including popular North Wales spots
Surfers Against Sewage has warned that these sites have had pollution discharged into them recently
With this typically cold Bank Holiday weather I don't think anyone would want to go in the water
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-stay-out-water-22-31472764
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Freedom of famous Gwynedd beach now available to more people after investment
New additions at Morfa Bychan beach (Black Rock Sands)
The freedom to use a famous Gwynedd beach has been extended to more people after an investment. Wheelchair users will be able to enjoy the popular Morfa Bychan beach (Black Rock Sands) after Cyngor Gwynedd bought purpose-built wheelchairs.
Let's just hope that the wheelchair users are more responsible than the motorists that get stuck in the sand at that location ;D
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/freedom-famous-gwynedd-beach-now-31481175
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Social Housing Provider Acquires Key North Wales Site
Social housing provider Cartrefi Conwy has acquired a key piece of land at Dinerth Road, Rhos-on-Sea, from the Welsh Government.
A new housing development on the site will address local housing needs identified in the Bay of Colwyn Place Plan, focusing on affordable housing and the repurposing of underutilised spaces.
“We are delighted to have secured the Dinerth Road site and look forward to working with the local community to create high-quality, affordable homes that meet the needs of local people. This development represents a fantastic opportunity to provide sustainable housing in a way that respects and enhances the surrounding area.”
I hope that CCBC ensure that they are only for local people as Cartrefi Conwy has promised
https://ct.moreover.com/?a=56580389559&p=14e&v=1&x=JMtyO4ROr-eQ4pRaxngmZg&u1=ND&u2=up-urn:user:PA187552270
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Alarm bells ring at Gwynedd's tiny 'Church in the Sand' as disturbing trends emerge
It's been a place of worship for almost 1,600 years
“These are supposed to be places of refuge and tranquillity, where people go to worship or seek solace - but all too often they are being subjected to heinous crimes, either in or on their property.
“Irrespective of faith or none, churches are more than just community buildings, they are often part of our centuries-old history and heritage. They must be protected.”
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/alarm-bells-ring-gwynedds-tiny-31511696
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Housing market slumps as second home owner says 'I wish I'd never moved here'
Alan Harper-Smith owns a large former farm in Gwynedd but with the onset of punitive property and tourism measures, the 67-year-old is looking at alternatives
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/news-opinion/housing-market-slumps-second-home-31523100
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Major new 130-home estate could be built on edge of North Wales town
All of the homes on the estate would be affordable, according to an application
The plans include a mix of 16 one-bedroom apartments, eight one-bedroom bungalows, four two-bedroom bungalows, 53 two-bedroom houses, 39 three-bedroom houses and 10 four-bedroom houses plus a play area. All properties will have electric car charging points.According to documents submitted by Anwyl with their application, the development will provide 130 new affordable homes with a range of house types to create a balanced community. There is a genuine and acute need for the proposed affordable homes, they said.
Anwyl seem to be building homes all over North Wales, that is apart from the West Shore in Llandudno
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/major-new-130-home-estate-31536956
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Anwyl should have been told sort the west shore site before you put any other planning applications in. I see they have the land up for sale £2-5 million.
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Toxic algae warning for Wales's largest lake
The algae can cause sickness and rashes for humans and be deadly for animals
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/toxic-algae-warning-waless-largest-31546490
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Anwyl should have been told sort the west shore site before you put any other planning applications in. I see they have the land up for sale £2-5 million.
It's a shame that there isn't a land banking tax on that site because Anwyl have got away with it for too long. As it is I think that they'll have trouble seelling the land at that price.
Any local council that deals with this company should ensure that the company delivers what it has promised
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Two days at sea for brand new Mercedes at Wales' famous 'can't park there' beach
It's not the first to be swamped this year - and it won't be the last
Like summer, the “silly season” has arrived early at an iconic drive-on beach in Gwynedd. Despite multiple warnings, Traeth y Greigddu (Black Rocks Sands) at Morfa Bychan has seen several vehicles engulfed by the sea this year already.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/two-days-sea-brand-new-31553675