#porttalbot — Public Fediverse posts

https://www.europesays.com/videos/18193/ Transport is high on the agenda ahead of the Senedd election | ITV News Cymru Wales #boccia #itv #ItvNews #ITVNewsInFull #Maesteg #PortTalbot #senedd #Transport

Roman Villa Uncovered in Wales Signals Major Historical Find

Largest Roman villa ever found in Wales discovered in Margam Country Park. Find out what this means for history and local tourism.

#RomanWales, #MargamPark, #PortTalbot, #Archaeology, #HistoryFind

https://newsletter.tf/largest-roman-villa-in-wales-found-margam/

The largest Roman villa in Wales, measuring 141 feet long, has been found. This is much bigger than other Roman sites found before.

#RomanWales, #MargamPark, #PortTalbot, #Archaeology, #HistoryFind
https://newsletter.tf/largest-roman-villa-in-wales-found-margam/

PORT TALBOT: Steel plan sparks cautious hope — but big questions remain for Welsh jobs

At the heart of the strategy is a push to rebuild domestic steelmaking, including new tariffs on imports, a target for half of UK steel demand to be met at home, and billions in funding to support the industry’s transition.

For communities built around steel, the announcement lands at a critical moment.

In Port Talbot, the shift away from traditional blast furnaces is already under way, while in Llanelli, the Trostre works continues to play a key role in Welsh production. Together, they form part of an industry now facing one of the biggest changes in its history.

Local Labour MP Dame Nia Griffith has backed the plan, arguing it signals a more serious commitment to the sector after years of uncertainty.

Dame Nia Griffith, MP for Llanelli, said:
“The steel industry is a vital core element of our economy here in Wales, generating growth and providing thousands of jobs, including hundreds in my own constituency.

“This is a clear, well thought-out, long-term strategy for our steel industry that will help deliver the high-quality steel our country needs for our key infrastructure, our national security and for the wider economy.”

Her support reflects the Government’s central message — that the strategy will not only protect jobs, but put the industry on a more stable footing for the future.

But that optimism is far from universal.

Opposition figures say the plan raises as many questions as it answers, particularly around how much of the promised investment will reach Wales and what role UK steel will play in major future projects.

David Chadwick MP, Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Wales, said:
“It is welcome that the Government has finally acted, but this looks like a panicked move after months of delay.

“Since the blast furnaces were switched off, Welsh steel has been left on life support.”

There are also concerns about the UK’s trading position, with warnings that being outside key European arrangements could leave exporters at a disadvantage in one of their biggest markets.

Industry voices have struck a similarly measured tone — welcoming steps to tackle cheap imports while warning that deeper issues remain unresolved.

Unite, which represents many steelworkers across Wales, says the new tariff regime is a positive step, but argues the industry needs a clearer long-term direction.

Sharon Graham, General Secretary of Unite, said:
“Unite welcomes the strengthening of the UK’s tariff regime to prevent the dumping of cheap foreign steel onto the domestic market.

“But this last minute situation is just another reminder that the reactive approach to UK steel that sees it lurch from crisis to crisis needs to be overhauled.”

One of the biggest sticking points is the industry’s shift towards electric arc furnaces — a cleaner form of steelmaking that relies heavily on recycled materials.

While central to the Government’s net zero ambitions, unions have warned that relying too heavily on this approach could limit the UK’s ability to produce certain types of steel.

Peter Hughes, Unite regional secretary, said:
“The government must also back the production of virgin green steel as we can’t simply rely on electric arc furnaces to produce all the steel we need.”

Alongside the strategy, ministers have also unveiled a new funding stream aimed at helping areas like Port Talbot adapt to the changes.

The Economic Growth & Investment Fund will offer grants of up to £1.5 million to businesses across Neath Port Talbot, Swansea and Bridgend, targeting sectors such as advanced manufacturing, green energy and digital industries.

Local leaders say it could help soften the economic impact of the transition — if it delivers.

Cllr Steve Hunt, Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, said:
“This fund provides an important opportunity to support businesses that are ready to invest, grow and create new jobs across the region.”

For now, the strategy marks a significant moment for Welsh steel — but not a settled one.

With major changes already under way and more still to come, the focus is quickly shifting from what has been promised to what will actually be delivered.

And for communities across South West Wales, that will ultimately be the measure that matters most.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

One year on: resilience after blast furnace closure
Council leaders reflect on a turbulent year for the steel town.

Work begins on Port Talbot electric arc furnace
A major step in the steelworks’ transition to new technology.

Farage promises “reindustrialisation of Wales”
A headline‑grabbing pledge to revive coal and steel sparks debate.

Government criticised over treatment of steelworkers
Unions and politicians condemn support offered during the transition.

Dramatic video shows final push at Morfa coke plant
Striking footage captures the last days before shutdown.

PORT TALBOT: Government vows to “do whatever it takes” to protect steel jobs — but critics warn over end of traditional steelmaking

A major new Steel Strategy has been unveiled during a visit to Port Talbot, with ministers promising tougher trade rules, billions in investment and a push to increase the amount of steel made in Britain.

At the centre of the plan is a target for 50% of all steel used in the UK to be made domestically — up from around 30% — with the Government saying Welsh producers are expected to play a major role.

That includes Tata Steel operations in Port Talbot, Llanelli, Shotton and Newport, as well as 7Steel in Cardiff.

The UK Government says it will also crack down on cheap imports.

From July, steel import quotas would be cut by 60%, with anything above those limits facing a 50% tariff.

Ministers argue the move will stop British steel being undercut — a long-standing complaint from workers and industry leaders in South Wales.

But the strategy has already sparked debate about what kind of steel industry the UK is actually protecting.

While ministers are backing domestic production, the plans also confirm a continued shift away from traditional blast furnaces towards electric arc furnaces, like the one being built in Port Talbot.

These use recycled scrap metal rather than raw materials — a move the Government says is key to cutting emissions and modernising the industry.

However, critics warn that transition could come at a cost.

They argue electric arc furnaces cannot always produce the same specialist grades of steel needed for defence and major infrastructure, raising concerns about long-term capability.

There are also fears the UK could become more reliant on imported materials — even as ministers move to restrict finished steel imports.

Peter Kyle, Business and Trade Secretary, said steelmaking was “vital” to the UK’s future.

He said: “Making steel in the UK is vital for national security, critical infrastructure and the wider economy.

“With this strategy we are closing the decades-long chapter of destructive de-industrialisation and committing instead to strengthening and sustaining Britain as a steel-making nation.”

The Government says the strategy is backed by major investment, including £5.8 billion through the National Wealth Fund for priority industries such as steel.

That builds on more than £600 million already committed to Port Talbot, alongside plans to unlock up to £2.5 billion in further funding during this Parliament.

Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, said the plans showed ministers were standing firmly behind Welsh industry.

She said: “The UK Government is standing up for Welsh steelmaking and showing that we will do whatever it takes to boost domestic steel production and protect the thousands of steelmaking jobs in our communities.

“Welsh steel is expected to account for half of future UK steelmaking… Welsh steelmaking now has a secure and bright future.”

The strategy also includes measures to lower energy costs, prioritise UK-made steel in public projects and strengthen links with sectors like offshore wind, defence and infrastructure.

A new working group will also look at securing long-term supplies of scrap metal — a key part of the shift towards electric arc production.

The move comes after years of uncertainty for the industry, with global competition, rising costs and the transition to greener production putting pressure on steelmaking communities across South Wales.

Ministers insist imports will still play a role, but say the new rules are designed to strike a balance between protecting domestic producers and maintaining supply.

However, with the industry undergoing one of its biggest transformations in decades, questions remain over whether the strategy will truly secure the long-term future of steelmaking in Wales — or simply reshape it.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

One year on: resilience after blast furnace closure
Council leaders reflect on a turbulent year for the steel town.

Work begins on Port Talbot electric arc furnace
A major step in the steelworks’ transition to new technology.

Farage promises “reindustrialisation of Wales”
A headline‑grabbing pledge to revive coal and steel sparks debate.

Government criticised over treatment of steelworkers
Unions and politicians condemn support offered during the transition.

Dramatic video shows final push at Morfa coke plant
Striking footage captures the last days before shutdown.

Welsh star Michael Sheen to host BBC quiz show in surprise career move

Welsh actor Michael Sheen is swapping Hollywood scripts for quiz questions after landing a surprise new role hosting a popular BBC show.

The Port Talbot-born star has been announced as the new presenter of Richard Osman’s House of Games, taking over after creator and long-time host Richard Osman confirmed he was stepping down.

The hit programme, which airs on BBC channels BBC Two and BBC iPlayer, has become a staple of early evening television since launching in 2017.

Sheen will now take over hosting duties when new episodes are filmed and broadcast later this year.

The award-winning actor admitted he has “very large shoes to fill” but said he was thrilled to be joining the show.

“I’m a huge fan of the programme and incredibly excited to be able to move into the House,” he said.

Writing on Instagram, Richard promised to clean the place before the Michael arrived.

He said: “Beyond thrilled to be handing the House Of Games keys over to the one and only Michael Sheen. I promise to put the hoover round before he arrives.

“Best of luck Michael, you’re such a great choice, and I know you, and the viewers, will have an amazing time.”

The move marks Sheen’s first ever quiz show hosting role, in what many fans see as an unexpected turn in the star’s career.

Sheen has built an international reputation through acclaimed roles in film, television and theatre, including portraying former Prime Minister Tony Blair in multiple productions and appearing in films such as Tron: Legacy and Midnight in Paris.

But despite his Hollywood credentials, the actor has remained closely tied to Wales.

In recent years he has funded major cultural projects, including launching a new Welsh theatre company aimed at developing talent across the country.

Now he is set to become the new face of one of the BBC’s most popular quiz formats.

Each week on House of Games, four celebrities compete across five episodes in a series of quirky trivia and puzzle rounds, battling it out for daily prizes and the chance to be crowned the weekly champion.

Osman, who has hosted the show since it began nearly a decade ago, said it had been a “great pleasure” presenting the programme but that it was time for someone else to take over.

For fans of the show, that someone will now be a familiar Welsh face.

And for Sheen, it means stepping into the living rooms of millions of viewers every evening — not as a character, but as the man asking the questions.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

Michael Sheen steps into Ospreys spotlight
The actor calls on the WRU to rethink the region’s future.

Sheen fronts explosive new BBC series
A hard‑hitting investigation into chemical contamination in South Wales.

Sheen’s Welsh National Theatre opens with powerful debut
A striking first production lands at Swansea Grand Theatre.

Welsh National Theatre sets up home in Swansea
Sheen’s new cultural venture establishes its base in the city.

New Port Talbot mural pays tribute to Meyrick Sheen
A vibrant artwork honours the actor’s father and local legacy.

PORT TALBOT: Drug-driver jailed after killing much-loved ex-council leader

Zack Mason, an unaccompanied learner driver, was over the legal cannabis limit when he struck 85-year-old Thomas Noel Crowley in Port Talbot.

The tragic incident happened on Water Street in Sandfields at around 5.45pm on Saturday, December 7, 2024.

Mr Crowley, a former leader of Neath Port Talbot Council, was crossing the road when he was hit by Mason’s blue Skoda Fabia.

He was rushed to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff with severe head injuries, a fractured rib, and a fractured pelvis.

Sadly, Mr Crowley, described as a “much loved and much respected” man, died three days later on December 10.

Swansea Crown Court heard that Mason, then aged 20, had pulled out of the Blanco’s hotel car park where he worked and driven just 25 metres before the collision.

Prosecutor Hannah George stated that Mr Crowley was “established on the road crossing” and “there to be seen by vehicles using the road.”

Mason, now 22, was arrested at the scene. A blood test later revealed he had 2.3mg of cannabis in 100ml of blood, exceeding the legal limit of two.

In his police interview, Mason claimed a motorist had “flashed” him out of the car park, distracting him as he thanked them.

He admitted consuming cannabis two days prior and acknowledged it was a “stupid” mistake to drive unaccompanied on a provisional licence.

Mr Crowley’s family described him in a moving statement as a man of “fairness and compassion” and a “champion of social equality.”

Known as Noel, he was a well-known community stalwart and a devout Catholic who lived his entire life in Port Talbot.

He had been with his wife Anne for 70 years, and the court heard she now sleeps each night with the hat he was wearing when he was knocked down.

A bricklayer by trade, he rose to become deputy manager for American contracting company Hecketts at the local steelworks.

He was awarded a CBE by Queen Elizabeth II for his community service and was also a Deputy Lieutenant and Freeman of the Borough.

His family said he “greeted everyone with a smile, had a wonderful ability to make you laugh and was a great storyteller.”

He was also a key carer for his grandson Sam, who has autism, and was “missed in every tiny detail of the day.”

Mason, of Lorraine Close, Sandfields, Port Talbot, pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving while over the drug limit and driving without a licence.

The court heard his provisional licence had been revoked the previous year after he was caught driving without insurance.

David Singh, defending, said Mason took full responsibility and had stopped using cannabis since the incident.

He argued it was not a case of speeding or mobile phone use, but Mason had “clearly not been concentrating” with “devastating consequences.”

Judge Huw Rees said no sentence could mark the value of a life lost, describing Mr Crowley as “held in high esteem by all.”

PC Luis Tobenas from South Wales Police said: “Zack Mason took the decision to drive uninsured, without a licence and when he had recently consumed cannabis to a level exceeding the legal limit for driving. As a result, he cost Noel Crowley his life, and left his family and the wider community completely devastated.

“Mason will now have to live with what he has done for the rest of his life.

“Our thoughts remain with Mr. Crowley’s family, and we hope that this verdict gives them some comfort.”

Mason received a one-third discount for his guilty pleas and was sentenced to four years in prison.

He will serve half of the sentence in custody before being released on licence.

Mason has also been banned from driving for seven years and must pass an extended test to regain his licence.

Port Talbot and Llanelli workers among most worried in Wales about AI taking their jobs, new study finds

Fears that AI could replace human workers are highest in Port Talbot, Llanelli and Ammanford, which all feature in the top five Welsh towns searching for answers about the risk to their employment.

The research, by efficiency experts at Ailsa, analysed how often people search for terms like ‘will AI take my job’ and ‘will I be replaced by AI’.

The research, by efficiency experts at Ailsa, analysed how often people search for terms like ‘will AI take my job’ and ‘will I be replaced by AI’.

The study found that Port Talbot was the third most anxious town in Wales, with 279 searches per 10,000 people each month. The finding comes despite recent efforts to position Port Talbot as Wales’ AI capital and schemes to help former steelworkers retrain in AI.

Llanelli and Ammanford ranked fourth and fifth, with 194 and 177 searches respectively.

Bridgend was the second most concerned town in the country, with 309 searches per 10,000 people, despite being at the heart of a new South Wales AI growth zone and plans for greater use of AI by the local council.

Swansea and Neath also featured in the top ten, with 152 and 137 searches respectively. The anxiety in Swansea exists alongside the city’s growing reputation as a centre for AI research, with Swansea University set to host a prestigious Google DeepMind programme.

In Neath Port Talbot, meanwhile, an award-winning AI project is already being used to save social workers 15 hours a week.

Across the UK, Wales was the second most concerned nation about the rise of AI, with an average of 23 searches per 10,000 people, second only to Northern Ireland. The findings come as Transport for Wales begins using AI to improve the country’s bus networks.

However, the efficiency experts behind the study have urged workers not to panic, arguing that AI is more likely to make jobs more enjoyable than to replace them entirely.

“I think it’s a big question on a lot of people’s minds at the moment, and a bit of fear, is this going to affect my job? Is this going to take my job?” said Kane Taylor from Ailsa.

“But I think we can twist this in a positive way. If AI can do all the remedial tasks in the background, it means we can upskill our workforces to do more interesting, or more complex things, that we can focus our time on.”

His colleague Jamie Burns agreed, adding that the so-called ‘robot revolution’ should be seen as a business enabler rather than a risk.

“I think a lot of people are scared and worried about AI taking their job, but companies can use AI to streamline their processes and enable them to become a better business,” he said.

“You’re always going to need people. We deal with data day in and day out, we deal with AI day in and day out, but it’s never going to replace a person. Everything still needs a person, every interaction still needs someone there, because the whole personality and personal touch is what makes business operate.”

The experts advised workers to learn how to use AI to their advantage, lean into the human skills that technology can’t replicate, and focus on building a reputation that people trust.

SEISMIC SHOWDOWN: 51 Welsh rugby clubs move to AXE WRU chairman as crisis deepens

Leaked documents have revealed the scale of the growing rebellion, with nearly a fifth of all member clubs now demanding an Emergency General Meeting (EGM) to “save the soul” of the national game.

The move, led by the Central Glamorgan Rugby Union, targets WRU chairman Richard Collier-Keywood and Professional Rugby Board boss Malcolm Wall in a bid to halt controversial plans to cut the number of professional teams from four to three.

It follows weeks of mounting pressure from clubs and intense political criticism over the WRU’s “stitch-up” of the professional game in the west.

Clubs from across our core coverage areas of Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, and Carmarthenshire have dominated the list of rebels, with 23 teams from the Ospreys’ heartland leading the charge.

Local giants such as Bonymaen, Morriston, Swansea, and Gowerton have all put their names to the move, alongside Neath Athletic, Taibach, Baglan, and Aberavon Green Stars.

The revolt has also spread deep into Carmarthenshire, with clubs like Llandybie, Llanybydder, and Laugharne joining the fight as the seismic showdown over the union’s leadership reaches boiling point.

The rebels have put forward three key motions for the EGM, including a vote of no confidence in the leadership and a demand for fresh elections for the four elected WRU council member board positions.

It comes as Swansea Council seeks an urgent High Court injunction to stop the WRU’s deal with Y11 Sports & Media, which many fear would signal the end of the Ospreys as a professional outfit.

In a scathing letter sent to the governing body, the rebels accused the WRU executive board of causing “reputational damage” to the sport through “extortionate” spending on outside consultants.

“If people are paid to do a job and have to use consultants to guide them, then it begs the question if we have the right personnel in those roles,” the letter blasted.

The rebellion has also taken a personal turn, with claims that a “small minority” of the WRU leadership have been “disrespectful” and shared “misinformation” at local meetings.

The clubs are also demanding that any future WRU chair be “immersed in Welsh culture,” have a strong understanding of Welsh rugby values, and ideally be a Welsh speaker living in Wales.

Despite the growing pressure, the WRU boss has insisted the Ospreys are “not doomed yet”, even as the battle for the West Wales rugby licence looms.

For the EGM to go ahead and be valid, at least 94 clubs—one third of the total membership—must be present for the showdown.

REVEALED: Swansea named worst for commuters in Wales as gridlock hits home

Shocking new analysis has revealed that the city has the toughest commute in the country, topping the rankings for average journey times, congestion, and slow traffic speeds across Welsh towns and cities.

The research, conducted by office infrastructure experts Co-space, shows that Swansea workers face a gruelling 26-minute average commute each way.

When combined with a 15% congestion level and average peak speeds of just 25 km/h, Swansea hits a chart-topping “commuter pressure score” of 19.7.

Over a full year, that 26-minute journey adds up to more than 215 hours spent travelling to and from work—the same as sitting in a car or on a bus for nine entire days.

The findings highlight a massive divide in travel experiences across the region, with Port Talbot motorists already feeling the pinch from a year of major roadworks. Motorists on Mumbles Road are also facing three months of lane closures for vital gas pipe upgrades.

Perhaps surprisingly, Cardiff didn’t take the top spot, despite having the highest congestion rate at 16%. The capital’s shorter 22-minute average commute kept its pressure score down at 9.7, ranking it well outside the top ten.

In our area, Neath and Ammanford both saw smoother runs with average commutes of 22 minutes, while Llanelli recorded a 24-minute average journey and a pressure score of 12.1.

William Sokes, CEO of Co-space, has warned that even small differences in commute times can have a “knock-on effect” on employee wellbeing and productivity.

“What’s striking about this data is how clearly Swansea stands apart from the rest of Wales,” Mr Sokes stated, adding that infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with growth.

The news comes as Swansea-based research programmes continue to look into smarter, greener ways for the region to move forward amid the ongoing climate challenge.

Wales’ 12 best Italian restaurants are revealed https://www.diningandcooking.com/2521113/wales-12-best-italian-restaurants-are-revealed/ #Abergavenny #cardiff #Ceredigion #Cwmbran #dinner #Italia #Italian #ItalianDinner #italiano #italy #newport #PortTalbot #Restaurants #Rhyl #Swansea

Rail chaos hits Swansea as 12‑day shutdown begins — passengers warned to expect long delays

The closure — running from Monday 26 January to Friday 6 February, with an additional full shutdown on Sunday 8 February — has been confirmed by Network Rail, which says engineers will be working “around the clock” on the Landore Viaduct and the surrounding track.

Network Rail says the work involves renewing rails, sleepers, switches, crossings and points, as well as refurbishing the viaduct structure that carries trains over the River Tawe. The organisation describes the upgrades as “vital” to keeping services safe and reliable.

Nick Millington, Network Rail’s Wales & Borders Route Director, said the closure was unavoidable:

“We’re carrying out vital track renewal work and refurbishing Landore Viaduct to improve the reliability of the railway for passenger and freight services. To complete this work safely, we need to close the railway between Port Talbot Parkway and Swansea. We’re sorry for the disruption this will cause.”

The history of Landore Viaduct

Landore Viaduct first opened in 1850 as part of the South Wales Railway engineered by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The original structure was built largely from timber and carried trains across the River Tawe into Swansea.

The viaduct was rebuilt in the late 19th century as rail traffic increased, replacing the timber superstructure with stronger materials. Further modernisation took place in the 1970s, leaving only a handful of Brunel’s original masonry piers still visible today.

For more than 170 years, the viaduct has remained a key route for passenger and freight services travelling in and out of Swansea, linking the city to the wider South Wales Main Line.

The shutdown means no trains at all between Port Talbot Parkway and Swansea for most of the next 12 days. Both Transport for Wales and Great Western Railway say their services will be heavily affected, with replacement buses running throughout the closure.

TfW says passengers should expect longer journeys and changes to connections, with some early‑morning and late‑evening services diverted or curtailed. Services to West Wales will continue to run, but many will start or finish at different stations than usual.

Colin Lea, TfW’s Planning and Performance Director, said:

“These essential works are an important investment in making the railway more reliable for years to come. We know disruption is frustrating and we’re grateful to customers for bearing with us.”

GWR has confirmed that its London Paddington services will now start and finish at Port Talbot instead of Swansea for most of the closure period. Some trains will not run at all on Friday 6 February because rolling stock will be out of position.

Passengers travelling through Gowerton face additional disruption because a low bridge prevents full‑size coaches from serving the station. Smaller buses are being used, meaning passengers heading beyond Swansea will need to change vehicles at the station before continuing their journey.

The disruption will intensify again this coming weekend, with buses replacing trains between Cardiff, Bridgend and Swansea on Saturday 31 January and Sunday 1 February, and further changes on Sunday 8 February.

Despite the upheaval, Swansea Station itself remains open, with ticketing, toilets and refreshments available as normal.

With the closure now underway, thousands of commuters are bracing for delays, packed buses and longer journeys — and hoping the promised improvements will justify the disruption.

Cwtch Mawr multibank begins pilot expansion into Neath Port Talbot

Faith in Families says the expansion marks a significant step for the Swansea‑based project, which has been battling rising need by redistributing new, surplus goods from businesses to families struggling to afford the basics. The charity says it is now moving at speed to support more households across the county.

Five hubs have been chosen for the rollout — in Port Talbot, the Afan Valley, Neath, the Dulais Valley and Pontardawe. Faith in Families says each hub will receive clothing, toiletries, nappies and household essentials, ready to be passed on through trusted local organisations.

The charity says its vans are already being loaded, with deliveries expected to begin as soon as each hub gives the green light.

A rapid response to rising need

Faith in Families says the pilot will test how fast large volumes of essential goods can be moved across a wider area while keeping support rooted in local communities. The charity says the work forms part of a wider partnership known as NPT United, bringing together public services, charities and businesses to support families under pressure.

Jon Waite, Facilities and Development Manager at Faith in Families, said:

“This pilot is about working at pace while keeping things local and practical. We know there is real need across Neath Port Talbot, and by working with established community hubs we can get essential items to families quickly, through people they already know and trust. This trial will help us understand what works best on the ground and how we can build strong, joined‑up approaches going forward.”

Expanding a model built on speed and dignity

Faith in Families says the multibank model is designed to get essential goods to families without delay, paperwork or stigma. The charity says working through schools, community groups and frontline services ensures support reaches people through organisations they already trust.

Faith in Families says the Neath Port Talbot pilot will help shape how the model can be expanded further across Wales, with the aim of making sure no family goes without the basics.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

New and expanded Cwtch Mawr Multibank opens in Swansea
A major expansion of the Swansea hub, boosting capacity to support families across the region.

Local multibank helping over 120,000 people each year gets £30K cash boost
Funding support to help the multibank meet rising demand for essential goods.

New charity initiative already supporting thousands
Early coverage of the multibank model as it began delivering essentials to families in need.

Virgin Media O2 donates hundreds of smartphones and free data to Swansea’s Cwtch Mawr Multibank
A major tech donation helping families stay connected during rising cost pressures.

Roman villa discovered near Port Talbot:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgk8j1gkxelo
#archaeology #Roman #Wales #PortTalbot #MargamPark

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

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

“I fed eight for £27!” – Port Talbot dad’s Christmas dinner bargain https://www.diningandcooking.com/2428907/i-fed-eight-for-27-port-talbot-dads-christmas-dinner-bargain/ #BudgetCooking #christmas #ChristmasDinner #FairForYou #FamilyMeals #FestiveSavings #Food&Drink #francais #france #French #FrenchFamilyMeals #groceries #GroceryShopping #iceland #MichaelSheen #PortTalbot #SimonJones

https://www.europesays.com/uk/567967/ Shop sold vape to child and had illegal products seized in sting operation #Britain #Crime #GreatBritain #Neath #NeathPortTalbot #PortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice #UK #UnitedKingdom #Wales

https://www.cyclingeu.com/770349/briton-ferry-to-hawtrhorn/ Briton Ferry to Hawtrhorn #A465 #A48 #Bicycling #BicyclingUK #BicyclingUnitedKingdom #Biking #BikingUK #BikingUnitedKingdom #Bridgend #BritonFerry #Cardiff #CardiffBay #carmarthen #Clydach #Cowbridge #Cwmbran #Cycling #CyclingSwanseaUnitedKingdom #CyclingUk #CyclingUnitedKingdom #Drives #Fforestfach #Llanelli #Llansawel #M4 #Neath #Pentwyn #Pontardawe #Pontypool #PortTalbot #Porthcawl #rides #SA1 #Swansea #UK #UnitedKingdom #Wales #walks

https://www.cyclingeu.com/708887/briton-ferry-to-llansamlet-by-bike/ Briton Ferry to Llansamlet by bike #A465 #A48 #Bicycling #Biking #BikingUK #Bridgend #BritonFerry #Cardiff #CardiffBay #carmarthen #Clydach #Cowbridge #Cwmbran #Cycling #Drives #Fforestfach #Llanelli #Llansawel #M4 #Neath #Pentwyn #Pontardawe #Pontypool #PortTalbot #Porthcawl #rides #SA1 #Swansea #UK #UnitedKingdom #Wales #walks

https://www.cyclingeu.com/699991/cwmbran-to-briton-ferry-2/ Cwmbran to Briton Ferry #A465 #A48 #Bicycling #BicyclingUK #BicyclingUnitedKingdom #Biking #BikingUK #BikingUnitedKingdom #Bridgend #BritonFerry #Cardiff #CardiffBay #carmarthen #Clydach #Cowbridge #Cwmbran #Cycling #CyclingNewportUK #CyclingUk #CyclingUnitedKingdom #Drives #Fforestfach #Llanelli #Llansawel #M4 #Neath #Pentwyn #Pontardawe #Pontypool #PortTalbot #Porthcawl #rides #SA1 #Swansea #UK #UnitedKingdom #Wales #walks

https://www.cyclingeu.com/698735/briton-ferry-to-cwmbran/ Briton Ferry to Cwmbran #A465 #A48 #Bicycling #Biking #BikingUnitedKingdom #Bridgend #BritonFerry #Cardiff #CardiffBay #carmarthen #Clydach #Cowbridge #Cwmbran #Cycling #Drives #Fforestfach #Llanelli #Llansawel #M4 #Neath #Pentwyn #Pontardawe #Pontypool #PortTalbot #Porthcawl #rides #SA1 #Swansea #UK #UnitedKingdom #Wales #walks

https://www.cyclingeu.com/694168/cwmbran-to-briton-ferry/ Cwmbran to Briton Ferry #A465 #A48 #Bicycling #BicyclingUK #BicyclingUnitedKingdom #Biking #BikingUK #BikingUnitedKingdom #Bridgend #BritonFerry #Cardiff #CardiffBay #carmarthen #Clydach #Cowbridge #Cwmbran #Cycling #CyclingSwanseaUnitedKingdom #CyclingUk #CyclingUnitedKingdom #Drives #Fforestfach #Llanelli #Llansawel #M4 #Neath #Pentwyn #Pontardawe #Pontypool #PortTalbot #Porthcawl #rides #SA1 #Swansea #UK #UnitedKingdom #Wales #walks

https://www.cyclingeu.com/629732/briton-ferry-to-the-quays-by-bike/ Briton Ferry to The Quays (By Bike) #A465 #A48 #Bicycling #BicyclingIreland #Biking #Bridgend #BritonFerry #Cardiff #CardiffBay #carmarthen #Clydach #Cowbridge #Cwmbran #Cycling #Drives #Fforestfach #Ireland #Llanelli #Llansawel #M4 #Neath #Pentwyn #Pontardawe #Pontypool #PortTalbot #Porthcawl #rides #SA1 #Swansea #Wales #walks

Ymlacio ar ôl diwrnod gwlyb iawn yn #Eisteddfod Yr #Urdd.

Da iawn i'r trefnwyr a'r cystadleuwyr - cyfle ardderchog i bobl ifainc.

#PortTalbot #ParcMargam #EisteddfodYrUrdd

Plans revealed for Port Talbot eco-school

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Lead image: Asbri Planning)

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

In #PortTalbot wurden 2024 die zwei Hochöfen zur Eisenproduktion von #Tata stillgelegt. Sie sollen später durch Lichtbogenöfen ersetzt werden, um Schrott wieder einzuschmelzen.
Damit verbleiben in #UK noch die beiden Hochöfen in #Scunthorpe von #BritishSteel, die auch bald stillgelegt und möglicherweise durch Lichtbogenöfen ersetzt werden sollen.
In #Teesside könnte auch ein Lichtbogenofen gebaut werden.
#Stahl
https://www.bbc.com/news/live/cj6e863nxn8t

The blast furnaces of Port Talbot blow hot and cold for rail freight http://dlvr.it/TD7g2B #DBCargoUK #freeport #InDepth #PortTalbot

Swansea and Cardiff are now connected via verified Slow Ways after I completed Port Talbot to Swansea today. Quite an urban and industrial route but lots to see while walking. It took me to places I never knew existed! #SlowWays #Walking #Cerdded #Hiking #InterCityNetwork #Swansea #Abertawe #Caerdydd #Cardiff #PortTalbot #Wales #Cymru #Glamorgan

I’m creeping closer to joining up Abertawe and Caerdydd with another 5 ⭐️ Slow Ways route from Y Pil to Port Talbot. Perfect route for wheels with a cycle path and Wales Coast Path running between the two settlements via Margam Park. #Abertawe #Swansea #Caerdydd #Cardiff #YPil #Pyle #PortTalbot #Margam #MargamPark #SlowWays #Bridgend #PenybontYrOgwr #Wales #Cymru #CoastPath #Cerdded #Cymraeg

I’m creeping closer to joining up Abertawe and Caerdydd with another 5 ⭐️ Slow Ways route from Y Pil to Port Talbot. Perfect route for wheels with a cycle path and Wales Coast Path running between the two settlements via Margam Park. #Abertawe #Swansea #Caerdydd #Cardiff #YPil #Pyle #PortTalbot #Margam #MargamPark #SlowWays #Bridgend #PenybontYrOgwr #Wales #Cymru #CoastPath #Cerdded #Cymraeg

I’m creeping closer to joining up Abertawe and Caerdydd with another 5 ⭐️ Slow Ways route from Y Pil to Port Talbot. Perfect route for wheels with a cycle path and Wales Coast Path running between the two settlements via Margam Park. #Abertawe #Swansea #Caerdydd #Cardiff #YPil #Pyle #PortTalbot #Margam #MargamPark #SlowWays #Bridgend #PenybontYrOgwr #Wales #Cymru #CoastPath #Cerdded #Cymraeg

I’m creeping closer to joining up Abertawe and Caerdydd with another 5 ⭐️ Slow Ways route from Y Pil to Port Talbot. Perfect route for wheels with a cycle path and Wales Coast Path running between the two settlements via Margam Park. #Abertawe #Swansea #Caerdydd #Cardiff #YPil #Pyle #PortTalbot #Margam #MargamPark #SlowWays #Bridgend #PenybontYrOgwr #Wales #Cymru #CoastPath #Cerdded #Cymraeg

"It’s a tale of civil war and family strife, a series that installs a militarised hard border between England and Wales and effectively turns all the Celts into outlaws. It used to be that people visited border town Hay-on-Wye to buy books. Now they come seeking shelter and a secret route into England."

https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2024/feb/02/destroying-your-home-town-is-quite-satisfying-inside-michael-sheens-explosive-welsh-revolution-thriller

#MichaelSheen #AdamCurtis #PortTalbot #TheWay #BBCDrama

Spent some time yesterday at the very soggy #KenfigPool in #KenfigNationalNatureReserve. Love this place and it sums up South #Wales for me, where the beauty of #Nature bumps up against the brutal (and beautiful in it's own way) man made industrial landscape of #TATASteel in #PortTalbot

You can see more of my photos at:
https://aimlesswelshwanderer.picfair.com

#Cymru #Landscape #LandscapePhotography

@CarolineLucas with Port Talbot set to shut its blast furnace down, what is the point of the proposed Woodhouse Colliery? No UK customers that I can see. Are they going to export coal? #woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot

@CarolineLucas with Port Talbot set to shut its blast furnace down, what is the point of the proposed Woodhouse Colliery? No UK customers that I can see. Are they going to export coal? #woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot

@CarolineLucas with Port Talbot set to shut its blast furnace down, what is the point of the proposed Woodhouse Colliery? No UK customers that I can see. Are they going to export coal? #woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot

@CarolineLucas with Port Talbot set to shut its blast furnace down, what is the point of the proposed Woodhouse Colliery? No UK customers that I can see. Are they going to export coal? #woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot

@CarolineLucas with Port Talbot set to shut its blast furnace down, what is the point of the proposed Woodhouse Colliery? No UK customers that I can see. Are they going to export coal? #woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot

So Port Talbot steelworks to close. That means no blast furnaces to smelt iron by reduction with coke in the UK. Now, when the Tories proposed the Woodhouse coal mine in Cumbria, it was to produce coking coal. With no demand for coke in the UK, who's going to buy any coal that the mine produces? Am I the only person to have noticed this?
https://www.westcumbriamining.com/woodhouse-colliery/
#woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot #scunthorpe #SaveOurSteel

So Port Talbot steelworks to close. That means no blast furnaces to smelt iron by reduction with coke in the UK. Now, when the Tories proposed the Woodhouse coal mine in Cumbria, it was to produce coking coal. With no demand for coke in the UK, who's going to buy any coal that the mine produces? Am I the only person to have noticed this?
https://www.westcumbriamining.com/woodhouse-colliery/
#woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot #scunthorpe #SaveOurSteel

So Port Talbot steelworks to close. That means no blast furnaces to smelt iron by reduction with coke in the UK. Now, when the Tories proposed the Woodhouse coal mine in Cumbria, it was to produce coking coal. With no demand for coke in the UK, who's going to buy any coal that the mine produces? Am I the only person to have noticed this?
https://www.westcumbriamining.com/woodhouse-colliery/
#woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot #scunthorpe #SaveOurSteel

So Port Talbot steelworks to close. That means no blast furnaces to smelt iron by reduction with coke in the UK. Now, when the Tories proposed the Woodhouse coal mine in Cumbria, it was to produce coking coal. With no demand for coke in the UK, who's going to buy any coal that the mine produces? Am I the only person to have noticed this?
https://www.westcumbriamining.com/woodhouse-colliery/
#woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot #scunthorpe #SaveOurSteel

So Port Talbot steelworks to close. That means no blast furnaces to smelt iron by reduction with coke in the UK. Now, when the Tories proposed the Woodhouse coal mine in Cumbria, it was to produce coking coal. With no demand for coke in the UK, who's going to buy any coal that the mine produces? Am I the only person to have noticed this?
https://www.westcumbriamining.com/woodhouse-colliery/
#woodhousecolliery #westcumbriamining #porttalbot #scunthorpe #SaveOurSteel

Took another #Wander in the hills above #PortTalbot today, following the #WalesCoastPath (alternative route) from #Brombil to #Taibach before heading for #Goytre and then back over the hill and passed #BrombilReservoir. Some great views over #Aberavon and #SwanseBay. Met some impressive looking Rams and a friendly #Goat...and a bonus (very small) #waterfall to finish off the walk.

#Defaidodon #Cymru #Wales

A #Wander in the hills and #woods today, with a circular walk along (the alternative route of) the #WalesCoastPath between #MargamPark and #Brombil and back again.

Met a very obliging #GreySquirrel on the way to the picturesque ruin of the 14th Century #CapelMair.

The last picture is a panoramic shot (so click, zoom and pan), showing part of the #PortTalbot #TataSteel plant, which is prominent in the UK news at the moment

#Cymru #Wales #Landscape #Trees #Wildlife #Squirrel

South Wales Police have issued a dispersal notice preventing groups congregating on the beach at Mariners Quay in Port Talbot after reports of antisocial behaviour.

https://swanseabaynews.com/2023/06/08/police-issue-dispersal-notice-after-antisocial-behaviour-on-a-port-talbot-beach/ #PortTalbot #NeathPortTalbot #SouthWalesPolice

Today's #DailyPhoto is another one from my visit to #PwllCynffig / #KenfigPool on Monday. This one shows the juxtaposition of the natural beauty of Kenfig Nature Reserve with the heavy industry of close by #PortTalbot

#Landscape #Cymru #Wales

This is the early morning sky above Mumbles Lighthouse.The brightest star is Vega, a pulsating double star that is 25 light years away. Light pollution from Port Talbot and Swansea is visible on the horizon. The higher concentration of stars on the left is a faint Milky Way.

You can buy this photo here: https://www.dansantillo.com/gallery/gower/?photo=DS_300972

#photography #mumbles #swansea #wales #cymru #porttalbot #mumbleslighthouse #lighthouse #astrophotography #stars #nighttime #night #nightsky

Todays walk took me up into the hills above #MargamPark .Great views including this Panorama, looking over industrial #PortTalbot with The #Gower in the far distance. Also got an obligatory #Defaidodon pic, A flowering #Rhododendron (In November!?!) and some funky #Fungi

#Wales #Cymru