#llanellitowncouncil — Public Fediverse posts

LLANELLI: Free paddling pools reopen for the summer holidays from today

Three free paddling pools reopen across Llanelli for the school summer holidays from today.

Llanelli Town Council is opening three paddling pools — at Crown Park, Peoples’ Park and Parc Howard — from Monday 20 July, running daily through the summer break.

The Parc Howard pool is run in partnership with Carmarthenshire County Council. Alongside the pools, splash pads at Havelock Park and Penyfan Park will also be open for the holidays.

Every pool is free to use, with no booking needed — families can simply turn up.

The pools were nearly lost. In 2010, Carmarthenshire County Council proposed closing them as budget cuts bit, and the town council took over their funding and management that April.

In the years since, the town council has gone on to directly employ its own seasonal attendants to run the pools, filling and emptying them and overseeing their daily use.

Today it maintains and operates all three — Crown Park, Peoples’ Park and Parc Howard — through the school summer holidays each year.

Each pool is staffed by an attendant who fills and empties it daily and keeps an eye on how it is being used. The council stresses the attendants are not lifeguards, and that children remain the responsibility of their parents or guardians at all times.

Portable toilets will be provided at Crown Park and Peoples’ Park for pool users, open only during pool hours.

The pools run daily but opening is weather-dependent, so they may close on cooler or wet days. The council says it will post updates when pools are shut.

Town Council Leader Cllr Sean Rees said he was “delighted” to welcome the pools and splash pads back for the summer.

“These fantastic facilities, together with the wide range of free activities taking place across our parks and community facilities, give families plenty of opportunities to keep children active, entertained and enjoying the outdoors throughout the summer,” he said.

He added that with many families looking for affordable things to do, the council was “proud to provide free and welcoming spaces that bring our communities together”, and thanked town council staff for preparing and maintaining the facilities.

The Llanelli openings come as Swansea’s free seafront pool at Blackpill finally reopened last week — the first time it had opened all season, after a sprinkler theft and a flooring failure kept it shut through repeated heatwaves.

For families across the region, it means free outdoor swimming is now on offer on both sides of the Loughor estuary just as the school holidays begin.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Blackpill Lido: Free seafront pool finally reopens after a summer of setbacks
Swansea’s free pool opens for the first time all season.

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COVERT FILMING: Row erupts at Llanelli Town Council as motion to protect staff from being recorded is deferred

A political row has broken out at Llanelli Town Council over a motion to protect staff from being covertly filmed at work — after the Independent-led administration deferred the proposal in order to seek professional advice.

The motion, brought by Labour councillor David Darkin and seconded by Cllr John Prosser, asked the council to develop a policy protecting staff in council buildings from unsolicited recording. It was deferred at a recent meeting of the council.

The Labour group says the delay leaves staff exposed at a time when retail union USDAW is warning of an “epidemic” of workers being filmed without their consent — including covertly, through camera-equipped smart glasses.

“I was really troubled by the issues raised by USDAW and want our council to take an active stand,” Cllr Darkin said.

The union has told of staff suffering daily “ritual humiliation” for internet prank videos, and has raised safety fears for workers who have escaped abusive relationships and do not want their whereabouts revealed online.

USDAW deputy general secretary Rab Donnelly has described the practice as “intimidation” and “an invasion of privacy, this is outright cruelty when you’re already in a vulnerable situation.”

The technology can make filming almost impossible to spot: Meta’s camera-equipped Ray-Ban glasses are estimated to account for more than 80% of smart glasses sales, according to the Labour group’s statement, meaning a worker may never know they have been recorded.

In its statement, the group argued that council offices, community centres and service points are workplaces rather than public spaces — meaning staff have a reasonable expectation of privacy and the council, as their employer, has a duty of care. Deferring the motion, it said, gets the sequence backwards, because research is part of developing a policy rather than a reason to delay starting one.

“Protecting our council staff is a core responsibility for the administration and it’s deeply disappointing to see the independent councillors failing to grasp this opportunity to protect our team,” Cllr Prosser said.

But council leader Cllr Sean Rees rejected the suggestion that the Independents had turned their backs on staff — insisting the deferral “was not a rejection” of the motion’s aims.

“Our Independent-led Town Council takes its responsibilities to staff, councillors, and members of the public seriously,” he said. “That is why we believe any policy introduced by the Council must be legally robust, practical, and informed by appropriate professional guidance.

“We welcome the intent behind the motion, which seeks to protect the dignity, privacy and safety of councillors, staff, service users, and members of the public in an increasingly digital environment. These are objectives that we fully support.”

Cllr Rees said a formal policy raised “legal, governance and employment considerations that extend beyond the remit of Llanelli Town Council alone”, and that it was “entirely appropriate” to seek guidance from Carmarthenshire County Council and One Voice Wales — the membership body for Wales’ community and town councils — to ensure any policy reflected current legislation and recognised best practice.

“It is important to emphasise that deferring the motion was not a rejection of its aims,” he said. “Rather, it was a decision to undertake proper due diligence before adopting a policy that could have significant legal and operational implications for the Council.”

He also turned the criticism back on Labour, questioning why the group had not brought forward such a policy during its own years running the council. “If the need for such a policy was as pressing as is now being suggested, why was no action taken at that time?”

“Independent councillors remain committed to working constructively with all members to develop a clear, proportionate and legally sound policy once the appropriate professional advice has been received,” he added. “Our priority here is to ensure that any policy adopted is effective, enforceable and capable of protecting everyone who engages with the Council.”

It is not the first clash between the two sides this year — a row erupted in February over who deserved credit for freezing the town’s precept. Weeks later, the new administration axed councillor expenses, claiming a £15,000-a-year saving.

Cllr Rees said policy work would resume once the professional advice had been received.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Darkin claims credit for zero precept rise as political row erupts over Llanelli budget
The February clash between Labour and the Independent group over the town’s finances.

TAXPAYER WIN: New council bosses claim £15,000 a year saving as Llanelli councillor expenses axed
The Independent administration’s first big change after taking charge of the town council.

PRINCE PHILIP HOSPITAL: Town council calls for Llanelli stroke unit to become ‘centre of excellence’ amid shake-up fears
The town council’s intervention in the row over the future of stroke services.

LLANELLI: Town council welcomes Heol Goffa commitment but calls for faster delivery
Councillors press for a faster timetable on the town’s new special school.

LLANELLI: Residents wanted for board steering town’s £20m, 10-year transformation
How local people can help decide where £20m of regeneration funding goes.

PRINCE PHILIP HOSPITAL: Town council calls for Llanelli stroke unit to become ‘centre of excellence’ amid shake-up fears

Llanelli Town Council is calling for Prince Philip Hospital to be developed into a “centre of excellence” for stroke care — rather than see its specialist services scaled back.

The cross-party intervention comes as Hywel Dda University Health Board consults on plans that would change how stroke patients across west Wales are treated.

Under the proposals, Prince Philip would provide initial emergency stroke treatment before patients are transferred to Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen for specialist inpatient care — a “treat and transfer” model.

Glangwili would become the region’s only round-the-clock acute stroke unit, with Prince Philip, Withybush in Haverfordwest and Bronglais in Aberystwyth left as transfer sites.

The plan stems from a board decision in February to centralise emergency surgery, stroke and specialist critical care at Glangwili.

The health board argues change is needed on safety grounds. Stroke services are currently spread across four hospital sites with no specialist cover seven days a week, meaning patients do not always get the standard of care they should.

Lee Davies, the board’s executive director of strategy and planning, said: “We need to change our current service to ensure that people in our communities have the best possible outcomes and chance of recovery from a stroke.”

But councillors in Llanelli fear the changes could mean the gradual erosion of the specialist stroke services currently provided through Ward 9 at Prince Philip.

The issue was debated at the council’s full meeting on 3 June.

The council’s independent leader, Councillor Sean Rees, said stroke services were among the most important provided to the community, and that Ward 9 had built a strong reputation for high-quality specialist care.

“Local people are understandably concerned about what these proposals could mean for the future,” Councillor Rees said. “The health board must provide clear assurances about the long-term future of stroke services in Llanelli.”

He has submitted a series of questions to the health board as part of the consultation, asking whether Ward 9 will continue as a specialist stroke unit, what services will remain in Llanelli, and whether there are any plans to downgrade, relocate or remove specialist stroke provision from Prince Philip in future.

Councillor Rees has previously warned that the town “cannot afford to lose any more” services from the hospital.

During the debate, councillors argued the focus should be on enhancing Prince Philip’s role, not reducing it.

Councillor Sarah Evans, who represents the Lliedi ward, said the hospital should be developed as a centre of excellence for stroke care, building on the expertise, facilities and staff already at Ward 9.

Councillor Evans and her colleagues pointed to the hospital’s location and its accessibility for communities across Llanelli and Carmarthenshire, and the importance of keeping specialist care close to where patients and their families live.

Returning to the theme, Councillor Rees said: “Rather than transferring more services away from Llanelli, the health board should be exploring opportunities to strengthen and expand the excellent work already being carried out at Prince Philip Hospital.”

He argued there was “a strong case” for the centre-of-excellence approach: “The expertise already exists, the need clearly exists, and local people deserve access to specialist treatment as close to home as possible.”

The call comes weeks after Prince Philip became the first hospital in Wales to offer a pioneering cancer diagnosis technique — which the council points to as evidence of the expertise already on site.

Hywel Dda is holding a public drop-in event on the proposals from 2pm to 7pm on Monday 15 June at the Selwyn Samuel Centre in Llanelli.

The health board is encouraging residents, patients, carers and staff to take part in the consultation before any final decisions are made.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

HYWEL DDA: Stroke patients face major shake-up as Glangwili set to become region’s only 24-hour acute unit
The consultation now under way on the future of stroke services.

CARMARTHEN: Glangwili to become regional hub as health bosses centralise services
The February decision to centralise emergency surgery and stroke care.

LLANELLI: Prince Philip Hospital becomes first in Wales to offer pioneering cancer diagnosis technique
A sign of the specialist expertise already at the hospital.

Llanelli’s minor injuries unit to become 12-hour urgent care centre — no return to 24-hour service
An earlier service change at Prince Philip as part of the same plan.

LLANELLI: Town council welcomes Heol Goffa commitment but calls for faster delivery as families face wait until 2029

Llanelli Town Council’s new Independent-led administration has responded to news that plans for a new Ysgol Heol Goffa are moving forward — welcoming the commitment while saying serious concerns remain over the timescale.

Carmarthenshire Council’s education scrutiny committee unanimously recommended the £35 million project should proceed last week, with the new school now expected to open in September 2029 if all goes to plan.

Lliedi Ward Town Councillor Andrew Bragoli said the council recognised the importance of the project for children and families across the community.

“However, many parents and staff will understandably be disappointed and frustrated by the prospect of having to wait until at least 2029,” he said. “Families have already shown enormous patience over many years, and there is a clear need now for urgency and momentum behind the project.”

Fellow Lliedi Ward Town Councillor Sarah Evans said the school played an incredibly important role in the community, and that the children there deserved access to the very best learning environment and facilities.

“It is encouraging that plans are moving forward but concerns around delays and uncertainty have not gone away,” she said. “Parents, pupils and staff deserve greater clarity about the next steps and confidence that everything possible is being done to avoid further delays. This project is far too important for momentum to be lost.”

Leader of Llanelli Town Council, Councillor Sean Rees, said the people of Llanelli had consistently supported the campaign for a new school because everybody understood how important it was for current and future generations.

“A new school would help address increasing pressures on existing facilities while also creating a safe, modern and supportive learning environment for children with additional learning needs,” he said. “The community now wants to see a clear pathway towards construction and completion so that the promises made to pupils, parents and staff finally become reality.”

The new school will be built near Ysgol Pen Rhos — almost four miles from the existing Heol Goffa site — and will cater for 150 pupils aged three to 19 with severe or profound and multiple learning difficulties. That is 30 more places than the original 120-pupil scheme that Carmarthenshire Council scrapped in 2024 on cost grounds.

The £35 million cost would be split between the Welsh Government, contributing 75%, and Carmarthenshire Council paying the remaining 25%. Carmarthenshire cabinet member for education Cllr Glynog Davies has said he is confident the Welsh Government funding will be protected under the new Plaid Cymru administration.

The existing Heol Goffa site is currently oversubscribed — with 132 pupils despite a capacity of just 118. Inspection body Estyn has found that several parts of the school are no longer fit for purpose and that facilities are outdated.

The school has also faced a separate crisis over nursing provision, with a watchdog investigation demanded after concerns were raised that lives could be at risk. The Children’s Commissioner subsequently stepped in, demanding a meeting with the health board.

The new school would have access to the hydrotherapy pool at the nearby Pentre Awel health and leisure development — a significant benefit given the specialist needs of many of its pupils.

Following the scrutiny committee’s unanimous recommendation, a decision will be taken by Carmarthenshire cabinet. The subsequent process includes a public consultation, a statutory notice, an objection report and a final decision by full council — currently scheduled for March next year.

Carmarthenshire Council is also investing £4 million in a new autism unit at Ysgol Glan-y-Môr in Burry Port, due to open by September 2027.

Our Ysgol Heol Goffa coverage

£35m new Ysgol Heol Goffa to open in 2029 after years of uncertainty
The scrutiny committee decision and the funding question hanging over the project.

New school plans for Ysgol Heol Goffa move forward after years of uncertainty
How the council agreed to press ahead after the original plans were scrapped.

‘Lives may be at risk’: Watchdog probe demanded over Llanelli special school nurse crisis
The separate staffing crisis that raised serious safety concerns at the existing school.

Campaigners condemn ‘appalling scandal’ over autism provision in Llanelli
Community anger over the wider state of additional learning needs provision in the town.

TAXPAYER WIN: New council bosses claim £15,000 a year saving as Llanelli councillor expenses axed

The move delivers on a key election pledge made by the new administration, which seized control of the council recently.

At a meeting of the Full Council, members voted to remove the Attendance Allowance (£30 per meeting), the Mayoral Allowance (£1,500 per annum), and the Deputy Mayoral Allowance (£500 per annum).

These payments were introduced in 2022 under the previous Labour administration, then led by Councillor David Darkin.

The new administration states that unlike County Councillors, who receive salaries due to the scale and statutory responsibilities of their roles, serving as a Town Councillor has always been a voluntary position.

This long-standing principle has defined Llanelli Town Council and its operations for decades, according to the new leadership.

The Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales did not mandate these payments, simply giving councils the discretion to introduce payments of up to £30 per meeting if they wished.

Independent Council Leader Cllr Sean Rees, who also confirmed he would not be accepting the Leader’s Allowance, hailed the decision.

“We have been consistent on this issue,” Cllr Rees said. “For decades, the role of a Councillor at Llanelli Town Council has been recognised and respected as a voluntary public service position.”

He added: “We said that we would remove these expenses and we have now delivered this in our first meeting as a new Administration.”

Deputy Council Leader Cllr Michael Cranham stated that town councillors’ attendance and additional role-based expenses are “unnecessary, counterproductive and are an unjustifiable cost to the taxpayer.”

“At a time when households continue to face sustained financial pressure, this £15,000 annual saving represents a meaningful commitment to respecting every pound of public money and restoring trust in local government,” Cllr Cranham added.

The following Councillors voted in favour of removing the expenses: Cllr Sean Rees, Cllr Michael Cranham, Cllr Steve Williams, Cllr Louvain Roberts, Cllr Andrew Bragoli, Cllr Sarah Evans, Cllr Terry Davies, Cllr Lillith Fenris, Cllr John Jones, Cllr Amanda Carter, and Cllr Alan Cameron Williams.

Labour Town Councillors who were present at the meeting abstained from the vote, a move that is likely to fuel further political debate in the town.

The Council has confirmed that these payments will now cease with immediate effect, marking a significant shift in how Llanelli Town Council operates.

The new administration also stated it remains committed to supporting future councillors of all backgrounds through targeted discretionary support, which it claims does not drain the budget like the previous expenses system.

Darkin claims credit for zero precept rise as political row erupts over Llanelli budget

Cllr David Darkin, who is also standing as a Labour candidate in May’s Senedd elections, said he proposed the zero-change precept for 2026-27 at February’s Establishment Committee meeting, with new Independent leader Cllr Sean Rees seconding the motion.

The statement comes after the Independents took control of the council last week following a series of defections from Labour and the formation of a “confidence and supply agreement” under Rees’s leadership.

In a lengthy public statement, Darkin set out a detailed timeline of the budget process, claiming the new administration had suggested it would “work towards” a zero change after the decision had already been made and passed by councillors.

“For accuracy, the zero-change decision had already been proposed by me, seconded by Cllr Rees, and supported by councillors prior to that announcement,” Darkin said.

The former leader also defended Labour’s financial management of the council, arguing that a zero precept was only possible because his administration had stabilised the authority’s finances after what he described as deficit budgets run by earlier Independent administrations.

“Over the past term, Labour brought the budget back into balance after earlier Independent administrations ran deficit budgets that eroded the council’s financial security,” Darkin claimed. “The turnaround is evidenced in recent balanced budgets and year-end positions set out in the council’s published accounts.”

Darkin’s statement reveals the fraught political manoeuvring that took place in the weeks leading up to the budget being set. According to his account, neither Labour nor the Independents initially intended to table a budget, forcing the Town Clerk to seek guidance on the consequences of no budget being set.

He said he informed the Town Clerk in early January that Labour would not table a full budget it could not pass, and asked that Rees be invited to key meetings including the Parc Howard Collaboration and Llanelly House Trustees so he had the information needed to prepare a responsible budget.

“One week before budget day, Cllr Rees and I spoke,” Darkin explained. “We agreed that a standoff would be irresponsible. We therefore agreed a holding position so the council could operate normally and residents would not be caught in the middle.”

The political row comes at a sensitive time for Darkin, who is one of six Labour candidates standing for the new Carmarthenshire super-constituency in the Senedd elections. The loss of control at Llanelli Town Council represents a significant political setback just months before voters go to the polls.

When the Independents took control last week, they issued a statement saying the new administration had been formed following “a period in which councillors from across the chamber have expressed a loss of confidence in the direction and decision-making of the previous Labour administration and the need instead to have a more open, collaborative, and community-focused approach.”

At the time, Darkin questioned what the new Independent group stood for, saying they had “no shared manifesto, no unified programme and no clear commitments made to the public.”

In his latest statement, Darkin struck a more conciliatory tone while maintaining his challenge over the budget narrative.

“I congratulate the new administration on taking office,” he said. “I will continue to support measures that keep bills down and protect community services, and I will challenge any attempt to rewrite the public record. Residents deserve accuracy, stability and mature cooperation.”

He urged anyone with doubts about his account to watch the recording of the February meeting and check the official minutes when they are published next month.

“The facts are straightforward: the zero-change precept was proposed by me, seconded by Cllr Rees and passed with broad support,” he said.

The political battle over who deserves credit for the zero precept increase highlights the increasingly fractious atmosphere at Llanelli Town Council, which has been rocked by public rows over issues including a scaled-back skip-day plan and how to tackle fly-tipping.

Those tensions ultimately contributed to the loss of confidence in Darkin’s leadership that paved the way for the Independent takeover.

The new administration has yet to respond publicly to Darkin’s latest statement.

Independents seize control of Llanelli Town Council as Labour’s Senedd hopeful demands answers

Glanymor councillor Sean Rees is the new Leader, with Bigyn’s Michael Cranham as Deputy Leader, after a confidence and supply deal between non‑Labour councillors pushed Labour out of the top roles.

The move follows weeks of open rows in the chamber — including a bust‑up over a watered‑down skip‑day plan — and growing frustration over how the council was being run.

‘Residents want services, not party politics’

Rees said the new administration would strip out party politics and focus on the basics.

Cllr Sean Rees said:

“Residents want us to focus on local services, community facilities and value for money — not party politics. Our priority will be to listen and put our residents at the heart of every decision.”

Cranham said the agreement underpinning the new administration would be published in full.

Cllr Michael Cranham said:

“This is a fresh start. We’re ready to work with anyone who shares the goal of being responsible with public money. Decisions must be made on merit, not political allegiance.”

The Independents say their early priorities include recording and publishing meetings, proposing the removal of councillor expenses, working towards freezing the precept for 2026–27, and investing in parks, play areas and community facilities.

Labour’s Senedd candidate hits back: ‘What do they stand for?’

The takeover is a blow for Labour locally — and a political headache for outgoing leader David Darkin, who is standing as one of Labour’s six Senedd candidates under the new voting system.

Darkin congratulated Rees but questioned what the new administration actually represents.

David Darkin said:

“I must be honest — I do not know what this group of Independents stands for or what vision they have for Llanelli. They have no shared manifesto, no unified programme and no clear commitments made to the public.”

He said Labour had strengthened community facilities, improved parks and supported local groups during its time in charge, and vowed to hold the new administration to account.

Darkin added:

“Residents deserve transparency and clarity about the direction their council will now take.”

A council already split before the takeover

The leadership change comes after a string of public clashes inside the chamber. Councillors traded blows over a scaled‑back skip‑day plan and argued over how to tackle fly‑tipping — rows that exposed deep divisions and raised questions about Labour’s grip on the council.

Those tensions ultimately fuelled the loss of confidence that opened the door for the Independents.

What happens next

The Independents say they want a “stronger, brighter, fairer future for Llanelli”. Labour says it will scrutinise every decision and defend the priorities voters backed at the last election.

The publication of the confidence and supply agreement, the upcoming budget, and the 2026–27 precept will be the first major tests of the new regime — and the first chance for residents to see whether Llanelli’s political shake‑up delivers the stability both sides claim to offer.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Row erupts in Llanelli as councillors trade blows over watered‑down skip‑day plan
Tensions flared inside the chamber as councillors clashed over a scaled‑back proposal to tackle fly‑tipping.

Llanelli backs skip‑day plan to tackle fly‑tipping scourge
Councillors agreed a revised scheme after weeks of disagreement over how to deal with persistent fly‑tipping.

David Darkin launches Senedd bid for Carmarthenshire super‑constituency
The former Llanelli Town Council leader set out his case as one of Labour’s candidates under the new voting system.

Ammanford Deputy Mayor tops Labour’s Senedd list for Carmarthenshire
Labour confirmed its full slate of candidates as the new six‑member constituency takes shape.

Campaigners call for bleed control kits in every Carmarthenshire school

The military‑grade kits, which have saved lives on battlefields and in major trauma incidents, are already widespread across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot. Hundreds have been installed through an initiative led by former High Sheriff of West Glamorgan Melanie James and the Heartbeat Trust charity.

Llanelli town councillor Shaun Greaney says Carmarthenshire needs to catch up — and fast.

He said the kits could be rolled out across every primary school in the county for less than £10,000, adding that the price of a single kit is just £95.

“Llanelli and Carmarthenshire is lagging behind our neighbours,” he said. “The lives of adults and children here could be saved at a price of just £95 per kit. For less than £10,000 all 94 Carmarthenshire primary schools could get that extra protection.”

Thirteen secondary schools in the county have recently received kits thanks to sponsorship from Morgan Laroche solicitors. Several Llanelli businesses and residents have also bought kits for vehicles and private defibrillator cabinets.

Greaney said Llanelli Town Council had already installed kits in its nine defibrillator cabinets, most of them outside community centres and public buildings. He hopes other councils and community groups will follow.

‘These kits save lives’

The push for bleed control kits in Wales was inspired by the work of the Daniel Baird Foundation, set up after 26‑year‑old Daniel Baird was stabbed to death in Birmingham in 2017. It was later established that his life may have been saved if a publicly accessible kit had been available.

Melanie James, now a trustee of the Heartbeat Trust, said catastrophic bleeding can happen in many ways — not just violence.

She said: “Catastrophic bleeds can happen after a car accident, a work‑related injury or a fall. There are 30,000 bleed control kits in England and just hundreds in our part of Wales. I think they should be available in all secondary schools.”

James said the charity also provides awareness sessions to give people confidence in using the kits.

“In less than an hour people will be equipped with skills that could save a life,” she said.

Free training sessions announced

Free CPR, defibrillator and bleed control kit training will take place at:

• Wesleyan Community Hall, Campbell Street, Morfa – Tuesday 24 February, 6–7pm
• Paddock Street Hall, off Station Road, Llanelli – Monday 16 March

To book a place, residents can contact Llanelli Town Council on 01554 774352.

Row erupts in Llanelli as councillors trade blows over ‘watered‑down’ Skip Day plan

The dispute follows Llanelli Town Council’s decision to back a pilot “Skip Day” scheme aimed at helping residents dispose of bulky waste and cut down on illegal dumping. But behind the scenes, the debate has turned into a full‑blown political scrap over who is to blame for the town’s mounting rubbish problem — and who should pay to fix it.

Labour group leader David Darkin, who submitted the original motion, said fly‑tipping in Llanelli had reached “unacceptable levels” and accused the Plaid‑led Carmarthenshire County Council of failing to get a grip on waste and enforcement.

He said the motion only passed after being softened by Independent group leader Sean Rees, whose members outnumber Labour on the town council.

“Labour does not hold a majority,” he said. “The motion could not have passed without Councillor Rees, who insisted on weakening the language calling out county‑level failure. I accepted the amended wording because securing action was better than letting the motion fall — but the underlying problem hasn’t gone away.”

Darkin said residents were being “let down twice” — first by fly‑tipping, and then by a county system he says isn’t working.

Labour colleague Shaun Greaney went further, accusing Plaid of being “to blame” for the mess and branding the Independent amendment “ineffective” and “feeble”.

“Residents are sick of rubbish piling up,” he said. “Plaid are in power in County Hall and seem oblivious to the concerns of residents. Councillor Rees and former Labour councillor Sarah Evans backed a scaled‑back plan that lets the county council off the hook. It’s a betrayal of residents’ real concerns.”

But Independents Sean Rees and Sarah Evans hit back hard, accusing Labour of proposing a scheme that would have landed residents with higher bills during a cost‑of‑living crisis.

They said the unamended Skip Day plan could have cost “up to £100,000 a year”, calling it “financially reckless”.

“Either Labour have found a magic money tree, or they were prepared to push the Town Council to financial ruin,” they said in a joint statement.

They also accused Labour of political timing, saying the party had “years to address fly‑tipping” and was only now treating it as an emergency “with elections on the horizon”.

“Residents already pay enough council tax for waste collection,” they said. “We were not prepared to see them pay twice for the same service. Our amendment was responsible, evidence‑led and sustainable.”

The Skip Day pilot will now go ahead — but the political fallout shows no sign of being tidied away.

Llanelli backs ‘Skip Day’ plan to tackle fly‑tipping scourge — with councillors insisting: ‘Charge the offenders, not the community’

The plan, which will now be developed into a fully costed pilot, could see skips placed at key locations on set days to give people a simple, legal way to dispose of bulky waste. Councillors say the move could help cut down on the sofas, mattresses and household junk that regularly appear in hotspots across the town.

Town Council leader Cllr David Darkin, who brought the original motion forward ahead of this week’s meeting, said the scale of fly‑tipping had become impossible to ignore.

“Fly‑tipping and rubbish are blighting communities across Llanelli, and residents are rightly frustrated,” he said. “Waste services are a county council responsibility, but… we continue to see problems go unresolved locally.”

Cllr Darkin said the Town Council “cannot simply stand by”, adding that a Skip Day scheme “will not solve everything, but it provides a much‑needed outlet for residents and begins to tackle an issue that is being ignored at County level.”

His motion was co‑signed by Cllr Shaun Greaney, who said residents were being pushed into difficult situations.

“Residents want to do the right thing, but when services do not work properly, it leads to frustration and illegal dumping,” he said.

He added that councillors were “stepping up to try and bridge that gap and give communities some immediate relief.”

Cross‑party amendment tightens the plan

When the proposal reached the council meeting on Wednesday (4 February), Independent councillors backed the idea but pushed for a more tightly controlled pilot — one that is fully costed, time‑limited and evidence‑led before any long‑term commitment is made.

Their amendment, which secured support from across the chamber, also calls for safeguards to prevent commercial or illegal dumping and for officers to explore partnership working with enforcement teams.

Independent members said the principle was clear: “Charge the offenders — not the community.”

What happens next

Town Council officers will now draw up a detailed pilot scheme, including potential locations, costs, environmental considerations and enforcement measures. A report will return to councillors once the work is complete.

Shared frustration over fly‑tipping

Despite political differences over how the scheme should be developed, councillors from all groups agreed that fly‑tipping has become a serious and growing problem across Llanelli.

Members said residents deserve clean streets and fair treatment — and that those responsible for dumping rubbish should be the ones paying for it.

More stories on fly‑tipping

Bridgend man sentenced for two fly‑tipping offences
A repeat offender is punished after dumping waste in two separate incidents.

Neath man fined after ignoring £400 penalty
A resident pays the price after failing to comply with a fixed penalty notice.

Vehicles crushed in fly‑tipping crackdown
Enforcement teams seize and destroy vehicles linked to illegal dumping.

Man pays heavy price for dumping waste in woodland
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New defibrillator installed at Llanelli play area as council tackles ‘defib desert’

The device, now active at Nightingale Court play area, has been registered on The Circuit, a national database that helps ambulance crews locate the nearest defibrillator in the event of a cardiac emergency.

Town councillor Shaun Greaney, who represents Lliedi ward, said the area had previously been a “defibrillator desert” — with no publicly accessible devices nearby.

“Every minute without treatment reduces the chance of survival by around 10 per cent,” he said. “We’ve seen tragic cases where cardiac arrests or critical bleeds could potentially have been survivable if help had been available immediately.”

The council says the new device is part of a broader push to improve emergency readiness across Llanelli.

“This Labour-led town council is spearheading a lifesaving safety drive,” Cllr Greaney added. “Early defibrillation, combined with CPR, can increase survival rates to 50–70 per cent if delivered within five minutes.”

National figures show survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests remain below 10 per cent — but experts say bystander CPR and rapid access to an AED (automated external defibrillator) can dramatically improve outcomes.

Council leader Cllr David Darkin said the council will begin offering free public training in the coming months, covering both defibrillator use and Critical Bleed Control Kits — specialist equipment designed to stop catastrophic bleeding.

“These kits are army-grade and invaluable in emergencies,” he said. “We’ll be rolling out training in community centres across Llanelli next year.”

Cllr Darkin praised Cllr Greaney for introducing the bleed control initiative to the council, and said it complements the town’s wider Sports, Youth and Activities programme, aimed at improving health and wellbeing outcomes for residents of all ages.

Cllr Gareth Lloyd, who represents Bigyn ward, said the new defibrillator was already being welcomed by local families.

“It’s a vital addition to the play area,” he said. “We’re proud to be making lifesaving equipment more accessible to the community.”

#aed #automatedExternalDefibrillator #bigyn #cllrGarethLloyd #cllrShaunGreaney #cpr #criticalBleedControl #criticalBleedControlKit #davidDarkin #defibrillatorDesert #defibrillators #llanelli #llanelliTownCouncil #lleidi #nightingaleCourt

Ammanford deputy mayor tops Labour’s Senedd list for Carmarthenshire

Higgins brings legal and union background to the top of the list

Labour members in the new “super constituency” of Sir Gaerfyrddin, covering the Westminster seats of Caerfyrddin and Llanelli, have backed Higgins to head the party’s closed list under the expanded Senedd arrangements.

A fluent Welsh speaker, Higgins told members he wanted to “represent Sir Gaerfyrddin to make a difference on the ground, ensuring national policies deliver for our communities.” He pointed to his experience as a Citizens Advice lawyer during austerity and later as a manager for a health trade union representing members across Wales during the pandemic.

Currently deputy mayor of Ammanford, Higgins also sits on Ammanford Town Council and Lliedi Community Council. He has lived in Tycroes all his life, trained as a barrister, and worked for Citizens Advice Cymru before joining an NHS trade union as a policy officer. Away from politics he plays rugby for Tycroes RFC 2nds and is active in local groups including Tycroes Local Aid.

Teacher from Burry Port takes second place

Second on Labour’s list is Dawn Evans, a teacher from Burry Port. In her pitch she described herself as “a proud Welsh speaking woman, rooted in Carmarthenshire,” and spoke of her personal experience when her son Iwan was left with lifelong disabilities following ambulance delays.

“That experience shaped me,” she said. “I promised myself that if I ever had a chance to improve health and care services for others, I would.”

County councillor and consultant joins the slate

Third on the list is Martyn Palfreman, Labour County Councillor for the Hengoed ward. He is also a consultant specialising in improvement across social care, health and public services, with a career background in practice development and service transformation.

Llanelli architect and town council leader makes his bid

Fourth is David Darkin, an architect and leader of Llanelli Town Council, who launched his bid for the Senedd list in July. He has combined his professional expertise with civic leadership, and has been active in local politics and community design.

Advisor to Lee Waters MS takes fifth spot

Fifth is Lewis Eldred Davies, Labour County Councillor for Kidwelly & St Ishmael. He works as an advisor to Lee Waters MS, the controversial former transport minister who is not standing again at the next election.

Llanelli councillor and mental health campaigner completes the list

Sixth on the list is Andre McPherson, Labour County Councillor for Tyisha ward and a member of Llanelli Town Council. A qualified personal trainer, he also chairs the Board of Trustees for MIND’s Llanelli branch, supporting mental health services in the community.

Electoral outlook

While Higgins heads the slate, Labour’s prospects in Carmarthenshire are far from certain. Our previous poll reporting suggested the party is in line for just one seat in this constituency, with Plaid Cymru and Reform UK both gaining ground as Labour’s support edges back.

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#ammanford #ammanfordTownCouncil #andreMcpherson #caerfyrddin #calumHiggins #carmarthenshire #cllrMartynPalfreman #davidDarkin #dawnEvans #kidwelly #lewisEldredDavies #llanelli #llanelliTownCouncil #senedd #seneddElection #seneddElections2026 #welshLabour

Llanelli Town Mayor steps down due to ill‑health

In a statement issued following Tuesday evening’s meeting of the Ex‑Town Mayor’s Committee, members said: “Cllr Bragoli has been incredibly busy with Mayoral engagements throughout his time in office. The Ex‑Town Mayor’s Committee expressed its best wishes to Cllr Bragoli for a swift recovery to full health and expressed its thanks to him for his service throughout his time as Town Mayor, which has included raising a large sum of money for his chosen charities, LAMAS and the Llanelli Warriors Rugby Club.”

The committee added that arrangements will be made to enable Cllr Bragoli to present the donations to the charities in due course.

It was also agreed that the immediate past Town Mayor, Councillor John Prosser, will represent the Town Council at mayoral engagements for the forthcoming period.

The statement continued: “Future arrangements will be made to appoint an interim Town Mayor for the remainder of the current Civic Year at the December Town Council meeting. The Ex‑Town Mayor’s Committee also put forward a recommendation to be placed before the next Town Council meeting that Cllr Prosser be nominated for appointment as Town Mayor for the remainder of the current Civic Year.”

#cllrAndrewBragoli #cllrJohnProsser #llanelli #llanelliTownCouncil #mayorOfLlanelli

Anger as frail veterans left unable to access Llanelli Cenotaph

RAF veteran and Labour councillor Rob Evans has criticised what he described as “disgraceful inaction” by the Plaid Cymru‑led authority, after his request for a temporary access ramp at the Old Llanelli Town Hall was rejected.

The Cenotaph, which sits in the grounds of the former town hall, is currently only accessible via steps — leaving elderly and disabled veterans unable to take part in this year’s commemorations.

‘Basic dignity’

Cllr Evans said he had asked in early October for a temporary ramp with a handrail to be installed in time for the Week of Remembrance.

“They should put a temporary ramp in as soon as possible, and most definitely before this year’s Week of Remembrance,” he said. “And then install a permanent one before next year.”

The council turned down the request, citing short notice.

‘Disrespectful and shameful’

Labour town councillor Shaun Greaney backed the call, saying he could not understand the county council’s position:

“Surely it can’t be beyond their wit and ability to construct a ramp as soon as possible.

If they can’t do a permanent one in the timescale, then a temporary one with a rail for the week of Remembrance in November does not seem too much of an ask.

In my view, for them not to take action on this right now is disrespectful, shameful and an embarrassment.”

Armed Forces Covenant

Llanelli Town Council leader, David Darkin, also urged the county council to reconsider, arguing the refusal was at odds with its commitments under the Armed Forces Covenant and the Disability Act.

“This petty refusal of such a small demand, which would make a difference to a number of veterans, seems very mean‑spirited,” he said.

“Veterans have served our country with distinction. What’s more, the county council’s refusal seems to be disrespectful to the war dead themselves. This is not what they fought and gave their lives for.”

Carmarthenshire County Council has been approached for comment.

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#ArmedForcesCovenant #CarmarthenshireCouncil #CllrRobEvans #CllrShaunGreaney #DavidDarkin #disabilityAccess #Llanelli #LlanelliCenotaph #LlanelliTownCouncil #OldLlanelliTownHall #RemembranceDay #Veterans #veteransAccess

Safety boost for Llanelli’s ‘danger road’ after series of collisions

Station Road and New Dock Road, which run through densely populated residential areas between the town centre and the coast, have long been highlighted as accident hotspots.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s road safety team has confirmed that a programme of improvements will be rolled out during the current financial year. The measures include the installation of raised tables at key junctions and side road crossings, designed to slow vehicles and improve pedestrian safety.

Road safety engineer Martin Owen said the interventions aim to reduce vehicle speeds in areas of high risk, particularly near crossing points used by children and other vulnerable road users.

“By reducing speeds, these measures will enhance driver awareness and reaction times, while also encouraging active travel by creating a safer environment for walking and cycling,” he explained.

Local councillor Andre McPherson welcomed the move, saying:

“Sadly this action has come too late to prevent a string of casualties over recent years, some of which have been fatal. But hearing that improvements are now coming is very welcome, and we hope the safety programme will save lives in the future.”

The safety programme follows a number of serious incidents in recent years. In 2023, a fatal collision on Station Road prompted renewed calls for urgent improvements see our previous coverage here.

The works come as Llanelli prepares for wider transport investment, including proposals for a new multi‑modal transport hub at the town’s railway station read more here.

#AndreMcPherson #CarmarthenshireCouncil #Llanelli #LlanelliTownCouncil #RoadSafety #speedBumps #StationRoad #trafficCalming

Llanelli councillor clashes with Reform and Conservative figures over Nation of Sanctuary policy

Labour councillor Shaun Greaney said comments made by Reform’s Carmarthenshire chair Gareth Beer and former Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies calling for the policy to be scrapped were “morally indefensible”.

The Welsh Government’s Nation of Sanctuary programme was launched to support people seeking refuge, including those displaced by the war in Ukraine. Social Justice Minister Jane Hutt told the Senedd in January 2024 that more than 7,000 Ukrainians had found sanctuary in Wales, with funding used to help them move into longer‑term accommodation and integrate into communities.

At the time, Ms Hutt’s statement was welcomed across the chamber, with Conservative MS Darren Millar posting on X that his party stood “full square behind Ukraine”.

However, earlier this month Mr Davies said the £55 million scheme should be scrapped, while Mr Beer also called for its end during a BBC Wales interview.

“Hypocrisy” claim

Cllr Greaney said:

“The official record shows there was no criticism of the policy from Mr Davies or any other members of the Conservative group at the Senedd when Ms Hutt welcomed the Ukrainians and outlined the measures helping them settle here. It is hypocritical of them now to turn around and take the appalling view they have.”

He added that more than £45 million of the scheme’s cost had gone directly to supporting Ukrainian refugees, and accused opponents of “stirring things up” for political gain.

“What would they and Reform do? Turn away Ukrainians fleeing the horrors of the war inflicted upon them by Putin? Because ending the Nation of Sanctuary policy would mean just that,” he said.

Reform’s position

Reform’s Carmarthenshire chair Gareth Beer, who stood in Llanelli at the 2024 General Election, said the policy was unsustainable and unfair to local people struggling with housing and healthcare.

In a recent interview, he argued:

“If we advertise the fact that people will get free housing, free healthcare and all the rest of it, we’re basically putting up a flag to say come here when our own people can’t get housing, can’t get healthcare, and everything is at the bottom of the league tables.”

Mr Beer said Reform supported helping “genuine asylum seekers” but opposed what he described as “open‑door policies” that acted as a “pull factor” for migration.

Reform UK nationally has pledged to pursue “net zero immigration” and has made scrapping the Nation of Sanctuary one of its key policies in Wales.

Wider debate on refugees

The row comes as a new poll revealed that almost two‑thirds of people in Wales oppose plans to strip Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) from migrants already living here.

The survey found strong resistance to removing ILR from those who hold it, with campaigners pointing to Wales’ reliance on international workers in the NHS, care homes and universities. In Swansea Bay alone, more than 560 internationally educated nurses have been recruited in recent years to fill long‑standing vacancies.

Critics of Reform’s immigration stance say the findings show most people in Wales do not want to see families uprooted or vital staff driven away.

Welsh Government position

First Minister Eluned Morgan has defended the Nation of Sanctuary policy, saying she is “proud” Wales has “given full support to Ukraine, from the moment Ukraine was illegally and brutally invaded by Vladimir Putin”.

She said Wales had offered the “hand of friendship” to those who had lost their homes as a result of Russian aggression.

Conservative response

While Conservatives initially welcomed the policy, some members have since questioned its cost. Last week Mr Millar asked the First Minister to “scrap the wasteful policy and put the people of Wales first”.

The Welsh Conservatives and Reform UK have both argued that the money could be better spent on domestic priorities, though they continue to express support for Ukraine in principle.

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‘Save Our Scarlets’ march planned as WRU consultation sparks fears for region’s future

Town councillors have urged residents, supporters and businesses to join the demonstration on Saturday 27 September, which will start near the site of the old Stradey Park ground and finish at Parc y Scarlets.

It comes as the WRU consults on four possible models for the future of elite rugby in Wales — including its preferred option to cut the number of professional teams from four to two, each running a men’s and women’s side. The other options would see either three or four teams remain, with varying levels of funding.

Under the current structure, the Scarlets, Ospreys, Cardiff and Dragons all receive central funding. The WRU says its review aims to create a more sustainable and competitive system, strengthen the women’s game, improve academy pathways and close the gap between the professional and semi‑professional tiers.

A formal consultation began on 20 August and runs for four weeks, with recommendations due to go to the WRU Board in mid‑October. A final decision is expected before the end of that month.

‘Hands off our Scarlets’

Llanelli Town Council has already unanimously backed a motion recognising the Scarlets’ importance to the area’s economy and community life, and calling on the WRU to safeguard the region’s future.

Labour group spokesman Cllr Shaun Greaney said:

“Let’s all support the Scarlets and march for their survival to demonstrate the passion and pride we have in our club. It is vital that the people of Llanelli send out a loud and clear signal to the WRU that we will fight tooth and nail to ensure the Scarlets survive going forward.”

Deputy leader Cllr Andre McPherson, who brought the motion, said more than 400 jobs directly depend on the Scarlets, including those in the supply chain.

“We urge everyone to go on the march to show we are shoulder to shoulder with the Scarlets and send a loud and powerful signal to the WRU – hands off our Scarlets,” he said.

Council leader Cllr David Darkin added that the club’s home games bring millions of pounds into the local economy through spending in hotels, pubs, restaurants and shops.

Petition passes 5,000 signatures

An online petition titled Urge WRU to support Scarlets’ survival in West Wales has now passed 5,000 signatures.

As Swansea Bay News has previously reported, Llanelli MP Dame Nia Griffith has also called for Parc y Scarlets to remain central to Welsh rugby’s future, citing its facilities, transport links and track record in developing talent. Scarlets’ new majority investor, US‑based House of Luxury LLC, has pledged to protect the club’s identity and grow its commercial potential, while warning of the risks posed by uncertainty over the WRU’s plans.

#Llanelli #LlanelliTownCouncil #ParcYScarlets #protest #Rugby #Scarlets #StradeyPark #WRU

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Political leaders back regeneration — but urge caution

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Public reaction: divided, passionate and deeply personal

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

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

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

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

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

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

What’s next?

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

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

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Llanelli Town Council leader hits back at “lazy stereotyping” in national media

David Darkin, chair of Llanelli Town Council who is seeking selection to stand as Labour’s Senedd candidate for the new Caerfyrddin super-constituency, has issued a strongly worded response to a recent article in the Daily Mail that described Llanelli as a town “full of drug addicts and dereliction”.

In a press release titled Llanelli Deserves Better Than This Lazy Stereotyping, Darkin accused the newspaper of parachuting in to “snap a few photos of boarded-up shops” and ignoring the wider community. He said the article failed to recognise the town’s resilience, volunteer networks, and small businesses, and instead fed a narrative of hopelessness that “serves only those who profit from division and despair.”

“Llanelli is more than its town centre,” Darkin wrote. “It’s the artists, the athletes, the carers, the teachers. It’s the people who stay and fight for their town, not those who drop in to sneer at it.”

The Mail Online article quoted several residents expressing frustration with the town’s condition and claimed that Labour had failed to improve the area. But Darkin pushed back, clarifying that Plaid Cymru, not Labour, runs Carmarthenshire County Council, which oversees local services and infrastructure. Llanelli Town Council, he noted, has a budget of just £1.5 million, compared to the county’s £500 million, and is responsible for community-level initiatives.

“To blame Labour for the state of the town centre is not only misleading, it’s a deliberate distortion of how local government works,” he said.

Reform UK’s rise adds political pressure

Darkin’s response comes amid a period of political flux in Llanelli, where Reform UK has made significant gains. A recent MRP forecast by More in Common, modelling voting intentions for the next UK parliamentary election, projects Reform to win 290 seats nationally, with Labour trailing on 126 — and Llanelli now seen as a decisive Reform win by a 29-point margin.

Locally, Reform’s momentum has been reflected in recent election results. In 2024, Gareth Beer came within a few hundred votes of unseating Dame Nia Griffith MP, and in May 2025, his wife Michelle Beer won a county council seat on Carmarthenshire Council, defeating Labour in the Lliedi ward by over 250 votes.

However, projections for the Caerfyrddin Senedd constituency, where Darkin is seeking to stand, suggests a more fragmented contest. According to polling reported by Swansea Bay News, Reform UK is projected to win three of the six seats, with Plaid Cymru taking the other three — leaving Labour currently without a projected seat in the constituency.

While Reform’s rise reflects broader dissatisfaction with mainstream parties, Darkin argues that sensationalist media coverage only fuels disillusionment — and distracts from the real work being done to improve the town.

“We don’t need outsiders telling us who we are,” Darkin concluded. “We’re Llanelli. And we’re not done yet.”

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New defibrillator installed in Llanelli’s Bigyn ward to tackle cardiac arrest survival rates

A new defibrillator has been installed outside Glenalla Community Centre in Llanelli’s Bigyn ward, as part of a growing campaign to improve survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests.

Town councillor Shaun Greaney, who has personally part-funded two defibrillators in the town, said the latest unit was mounted on a post previously used for a community waste bin. “The council’s initiative to increase and improve defibrillators in our town will help combat the deadly disaster of what I think are appalling survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in Llanelli, which are similar to those across Wales – currently less than 5 per cent,” he said.

The rollout coincides with a major change in emergency response protocols across Wales. The Welsh Government has introduced a new ‘purple category’ for 999 calls involving suspected cardiac arrests, ensuring faster prioritisation for the most critical cases. Health Minister Jeremy Miles described the move as “decisive action to save more lives.”

Councillor Greaney, a member of the Save Our Services Prince Philip Action Network (SOSPPAN), said he welcomed the change. “It means those with cardiac arrests, who have the most urgent needs, are prioritised over people with less critical problems like breathing difficulties,” he said. “This helps ambulance teams reach people with the most urgent needs more quickly.”

Councillor Jan Williams said the new defibrillator at Glenalla Hall on Alban Road was “a vital aid in an emergency.” She added that it “makes the Bigyn area much safer and will give comfort for local residents.”

County and town councillor Phil Warlow said the device was “an item of First Aid should anyone in the area experience sudden cardiac arrest.” “Its purpose is to restore a normal heart rhythm,” he said. “The Town Council is working extremely hard to get all areas within the town covered by this extremely important lifesaving equipment.”

The defibrillator and its heated cabinet were donated by the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust, with the location approved by the county council.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

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Prince Philip Hospital minor injury unit to shut at night
Health board announces six-month overnight closure due to staffing pressures, prompting concerns over urgent care access in Llanelli.

Prince Philip Hospital MIU decision ‘final straw’
Llanelli Town Council condemns closure of overnight services, calling for urgent action to protect local healthcare provision.

Councillors call for Llanelli to join Swansea Bay Health Board
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#Bigyn #CllrShaunGreaney #defibrillators #GlenallaCommunityCentre #JanWilliams #Llanelli #LlanelliTownCouncil #PhilWarlow #SOSPAN #WelshAmbulanceServiceTrust

Cllr Andrew Bragoli becomes Llanelli’s 51st town mayor

Born and raised in the Lliedi ward, which he continues to represent on the town council, Bragoli recently retired from Tata Steel’s tinplate works in Trostre after more than 40 years — including over two decades as a senior union official representing a 600-strong workforce.

He succeeds Cllr John Prosser as the town’s 51st mayor.

Cllr Andrew Bragoli said: “It is a great honour to serve as town mayor, it gives me the opportunity to give something back to the town, as well as keeping active, and supporting the many organisations and charities doing such wonderful work here.”

Bragoli has selected two local charities to support during his mayoral year:

• Llanelli Warriors, a mixed ability rugby club offering disabled people the chance to play full-contact rugby alongside their peers.
• LLAMA (Llanelli Autism Mams Association), a community group supporting neurodiverse children, parents and carers.

A passionate Scarlets fan, Bragoli praised the Warriors’ inclusive ethos and recent success at the Mixed Ability Rugby World Cup in Spain, where their women’s team, Merched Cymru, won silver.

Cllr Andrew Bragoli said: “Both the men and the women at the Llanelli Warriors represent everything rugby should be about: fun, community, and inclusion. It’s great to see how they face and overcome challenges and support each other. I congratulate them on their achievements.”

Also a governor of Ysgol Penygaer and trustee of Llanelli Mind, Bragoli said he was proud to support LLAMA “because they are a local charity”.

Bragoli was first elected to Llanelli Town Council in May 2022. His mayoral consort for the year is his eldest daughter Jenna, with fellow Lliedi councillor Sarah Evans serving as deputy mayoress.

#CllrAndrewBragoli #Llanelli #LlanelliAutisticMamsAssociation #LlanelliTownCouncil #LlanelliWarriorsRFC #MayorOfLlanelli #TataSteel #Trostre

Naming row erupts over new community centre in Llanelli’s Penyfan area

The Bigyn Community Centre, located at Penyfan Park, was officially unveiled by Llanelli Town Council earlier this summer. The facility, described as a much-needed hub for meetings, parties and educational activities, was praised by council leaders and community figures for its potential to strengthen social cohesion.

Council leader Cllr David Darkin said he was “absolutely delighted” the centre was now open, thanking the Welsh Government and project partners for their support. “The project demonstrates the determination of the Labour administration to provide the best possible facilities for the residents of the town,” he said.

Fellow Labour councillors Phil Warlow and Janet Williams echoed the sentiment, highlighting the centre’s role in supporting local initiatives and providing a welcoming space for residents. Community activist Neville Gilasbey, who stood for Labour in the recent Bigyn ward by-election, also welcomed the completion of the hall and changing rooms, calling it a fulfilled promise.

However, controversy has emerged over the decision to name the facility the Bigyn Community Centre, with some Penyfan residents arguing that the name does not reflect the centre’s true location or identity.

At a full council meeting on Wednesday 2 July, Independent councillors Michael Cranham and Alan Cameron Williams proposed a motion calling for a public consultation on renaming the centre. They cited a petition from local residents requesting the name be changed to Penllwyn Community Centre, which they said better represents the communities of Penyfan and Llwynwhilwg.

The motion was defeated by 10 votes to 8, with Labour councillors—including those representing Bigyn ward—voting against the consultation.

Cllr Cranham said: “It is disappointing that again the Labour-led Town Council is not listening to what the community of Penyfan are saying. Residents feel the use of ‘Penllwyn’ better reflects the area. Changing the name at this early stage would cost the council nothing.”

Cllr Williams added that the issue had come up repeatedly during his by-election campaign, saying: “Everyone welcomes this new facility, but many residents feel they have not had their say.”

Penyfan resident Lisa Francis also criticised the council’s stance, questioning why the name had not been subject to public opinion. “Does our view—those who live in the area—not matter?” she asked.

Responding to the criticism, Cllr Darkin defended the council’s decision, stating that the name was “proposed and unanimously supported” by all members, including those now opposing it. He said the centre’s development had been publicly discussed for some time, with no objections raised during planning.

“The name ‘Bigyn Community Centre’ was chosen to reflect the centre’s role in serving the entire Bigyn Ward, including Penyfan,” he said. “It is not intended to exclude any part of the community but rather to unify and represent the ward as a whole.”

Cllr Darkin also noted that the petition contained around 70 signatures—representing a small fraction of the ward’s 4,500 residents—and warned that changing the name could cause confusion and administrative issues.

Despite the disagreement, the council says it remains committed to engaging with all parts of the community and welcomes ongoing dialogue about how the centre can best serve local needs.

#AlanCameronWilliams #Bigyn #BigynCommunityCentre #DavidDarkin #JanetWilliams #Llanelli #LlanelliTownCouncil #MichaelCranham #Penyfan #PhilWarlow

Town council leader’s Drug rehabilitation centre comments described as ‘disappointing’ and ‘reckless’

The comments came after Labour’s Llanelli Town Council Leader and County Councillor David Darkin hit back at proposals to relocate a drug rehabilitation service to a busy out-of-town shopping area.

Llanelli’s Drug & Alcohol Service (DDAS) was originally proposed to move to the former WRW Anchor Point office at North Dock. However, more than 200 people had protested against Hywel Dda University Health Board’s plans amid claims the centre would pose a danger to local residents, particularly with its proximity to a nearby playground.

The service currently provides support for over-18s from the first floor of Boots on Vaughan Street in Llanelli Town Centre. Carmarthenshire County Council was reported to be considering its Ty’r Nant property in Trostre as a new home for the service after it rejected proposals by supermarket Lidl to build a new store on the site.

The move to Trostre was supported by local independent councillors Sean Rees and Louvain Roberts, who were part of the campaign against the service being located in North Dock.

Cllr Darkin, however suggested that Cllr’s Rees and Roberts were “trying to offload a difficult matter to a different ward without giving careful consideration”.

The Glanymor Ward councillors have since hit back at Cllr Darkin’s comments saying he is compromising any public consultation before it even starts.

Sean Rees and Louvain Roberts, County Councillors for Glanymor Ward said: “The comments made by the Labour-led Town Council leader are disappointing and reckless to say the least.

“The Ty’r Nant building was suggested as it meets the ‘Area Planning Board’ criteria of being on a public transport network, having adequate parking facilities and has previously been used as a health facility.

“From the very start of this process, we have called for a full public consultation to take place. This will need to include a full risk and community impact assessment to be undertaken on any proposed site too.

“Given the Labour group have now stated they don’t want DDAS to be relocated to Ty’r Nant, they need to be clear with everyone about exactly where they would locate it.

“By going against the only alternative currently on the table, not only have they compromised any public consultation before it even starts but have also run the risk of the coastline being back on the agenda should another unit become available or the facility being kept in the Town Centre itself.

“The Labour group and Cllr Darkin as its Leader must be clear here – are they suggesting that the service should be relocated to a residential neighbourhood within Llanelli instead?

“A solution needs to be found but it must be one which works for clients who use the service but also considers the impact to our communities as a whole.”

#CllrLouvainRoberts #CllrSeanRees #DavidDarkin #drugAndAlcoholService #HywelDdaNHS #Llanelli #LlanelliTownCouncil #Trostre

Llanelli goes back to the 80s as popular retro festival returns

Organised by Ymlaen Llanelli Business Improvement District (BID), the annual event runs from 10am to 7pm and promises to be the best party of the year. The event is supported by Llanelli Town Council and Carmarthenshire County Council, and will see free parking in all council-owned town centre car parks.

Chair of Ymlaen Llanelli BID, Lesley Richards, can’t wait for the event: “Everyone’s favourite event of the year returns on Saturday and we are all so excited! This will be the sixth 80s Festival. It’s an amazing day and night in town and it creates such a fantastic vibe in town. There is so much negativity about town centres at the moment, this event is a real positive so let’s take this opportunity to celebrate it!”

Driving into Stepney Square in style at 10am will be the Back to the Future’s DeLorean accompanied  by Marty McFly and the Doc – a photo opportunity not to be missed! Music starts on the Vaughan Street stage at 1pm with Llanelli Amateur Musical Performers, who will be performing a mix of famous songs from 80s musicals.

The stage lineup continues with loads of 80s hits from local acts including the Wurlitzers, the Stray Pursuit, Phil Collins and Michael Jackson tributes with the incredible Reflex closing the show as headliner.

There’ll be hot street food vendors and bars ready to serve everyone getting into the groove, as well as market stalls for those who want to pick up a sweet treat to take home.

And of course, it wouldn’t be a festival without some after-parties – evening entertainment from town centre businesses includes live music, karaoke, drinks deals and more, with venues including the Tinhouse, Ruby’s Bar, EJs Dance Bar, and Coco Bay Beach and Café Bar. The old Lemon Tree will be re-opening as the Cross Keys on Friday, 27th June and will also be joining in the fun on Saturday night with Two Tone Pete from 8pm. The full event itinerary and the evening gig guide can be found on Ymlaen Llanelli’s social media.

Up next on the BID’s annual slate of events is the return of Llanelli Augustfest, the beer festival trialled by the BID last year. After a hugely successful first outing in 2023, the event will make a comeback on Saturday 2nd August from 12pm to 6pm, featuring stalls from Welsh beer and cider producers, street food, and live music on stage in Vaughan Street.

#80s #Festival #Llanelli #LlanelliBID #LlanelliBusinessImprovementDistrict #LlanelliTownCouncil #YmlaenLlanelli

Town Council Leader criticises proposals to move drug rehabilitation centre to popular Llanelli retail park

Llanelli’s Drug & Alcohol Service (DDAS) was originally proposed to move to the former WRW Anchor Point office at North Dock. However, more than 200 people had protested against Hywel Dda University Health Board’s plans amid claims the centre would pose a danger to local residents, particularly with its proximity to a nearby playground.

Carmarthenshire Council’s planning committee subsequently rejected the proposals, and despite the health board planning to appeal the decision, the building was leased to Threshold DAS, an organisation aimed at supporting people affected by domestic abuse.

The service, which provides support for over-18s from the first floor of Boots on Vaughan Street in Llanelli Town Centre, isn’t considered ideal due to the council’s town centre regeneration plans.

Still looking for a new home for the DDAS, the County Council was reported to be considering its Ty’r Nant property in Trostre after it rejected proposals by supermarket Lidl to build a new store on the site, along with a drive-through Tim Hortons coffee outlet.

The move to Trostre was supported by local independent councillors Sean Rees and Louvain Roberts, who were part of the campaign against the service being located in North Dock.

However the Labour Llanelli Town Council leader and County Councillor, David Darkin has claimed his fellow councillors were trying to “offload” the drug rehabilitation centre to a different ward, and said that he had to learn of the proposals through the media rather than being informed by Carmarthenshire Council – despite being the local elected member.

Mr Darkin said: “Trostre is a thriving retail hub, predominantly accessed by car, too far away from the population that need to access the service. A cynical person may suggest the Sean and Louvain were trying to offload a difficult matter to a different ward without giving careful consideration.

“We need DDAS, they provide an essential service and they do a fantastic job; Our community would be much poorer without them. Llanelli needs the service to be located somewhere that works for the service users and the community. For many years, I’ve suggested that the key stakeholders such as DDAS, CCC, LTC, Police and HDUHB meet and agree a location.

“Despite being an elected member for this ward, I learnt about this proposal through the media, not from CCC. This isn’t good enough; CCC should properly consult with the people of Llanelli, not just make decisions from Carmarthen.”

Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Director of Strategy and Planning Lee Davies said: “The area planning board is continuing the search for a suitable premises for our intended health improvement and wellbeing centre and the Ty’r Nant building is one of those under consideration.

“No decisions have been made yet as consideration of feasibility of this potential venue is at an early stage. However, we continue to believe a new health improvement and well-being centre in Llanelli is essential to the health board’s strategy of shifting services from treating illness, to promoting and supporting wellness, working with partners, patients and public to enable our community to enjoy a healthy lifestyle and tackle the leading causes of preventable ill health and early death.”

Swansea Bay News has asked Cllrs Sean Rees and Louvain Roberts.

#drugAndAlcoholService #featured #HywelDdaNHS #Llanelli #LlanelliTownCouncil #NorthDock #Trostre

Independent wins big in Llanelli’s Bigyn by-election

Mr Williams, an employee of Lloyds Bank for over 38 years and former Committee member of Llanelli RFC has a wide experience of working on a range of local issues and supporting community organisations.

The final result was:

Alan Cameron Williams, Independent (490 votes)
Neville Gilasbey, Labour (203 votes)

The by-election was called following the disqualification of a Labour Councillor as they had not attended any Council meeting over a period of 6 months. 

Mr Williams said: “I’d like to give my heartfelt thanks to the residents of Glenalla, Penyfan, Llwynwhilwg, Stebonheath, Coedcae and across the Bigyn Ward for their support and faith in me. I’m proud to have been part of a positive campaign with a clear message of putting our Community and not Party first.

“I’m looking forward to working with Independent County + Town Councillor Michael Cranham to secure a stronger, fairer and brighter future for Bigyn. Our priorities include fighting to protect all of our local health services at Prince Philip Hospital, keeping Bigyn tidy by taking action on fly-tipping and littering, raising residents’ concerns on speeding, traffic management and road safety as well as calling for investment to upgrade play equipment and surfaces at our parks.”

Councillor Michael Cranham added: “This result is a clear message to the Labour-led Town Council to reverse their decision to introduce ‘Attendance Allowance’ expenses for Town Councillors which has cost the taxpayer over £15,000 so far while also the UK Labour Government had previously withdrawn the Winter Fuel Allowance from pensioners affecting over 1,000 residents in Bigyn Ward”. 

“I have known Alan for many years, and he will be an excellent Councillor. He is someone who cares, works hard and will always put our community first. Together, we will make a strong team with a drive and determination to get things done while also being available to anyone who needs our assistance”

Independent Opposition Councillors on the Town Council have also labelled the victory in Bigyn as a ‘landslide’ and one which now shows that they offer a real alternative to the current Labour-led Town Council ahead of the next Council elections scheduled to take place in 2027. 

#byElection #IndependentCandidate #Llanelli #LlanelliTownCouncil #politics #WelshLabour