Bridgend kitchen firm expands production after securing council-backed funding

Sigma 3 Kitchens, which has been designing and manufacturing bespoke kitchens for more than 50 years, has invested in new machinery at its Bridgend Industrial Estate site after receiving a Business Development Grant. The funding helped the company purchase a CNC drilling machine, allowing it to bring work previously outsourced to third parties back in‑house.

The firm employs 220 full‑time and eight part‑time staff, and says the new equipment will support a fresh manufacturing line and help safeguard jobs at the site.

Senior councillors, including Mayor Cllr Huw David, council leader Cllr John Spanswick and cabinet member for regeneration Cllr Neelo Farr, visited the factory to see the new investment in action.

Brian Lakin, chairman of Sigma 3 Kitchens, said the support had accelerated plans that would otherwise have been delayed for more than a year. “The funding has been a huge boost to our business and productivity,” he said. “Without the grant, the purchase would have been postponed for at least 12 to 18 months due to financial constraints. The support ensured we could move ahead without compromising growth.

“As a result of the new investment, we’ve been able to create new jobs at our Bridgend facility, making it a more capable and competitive site. Despite the challenging economic climate, we’ve had a strong year and have big plans for the coming years.”

Cllr Farr said the company’s progress was “a massive boost for the local economy”, adding that it was “remarkable to see the new machinery in action”.

Council leader Cllr Spanswick said the visit showed how grant support could help businesses grow. “This machinery is cutting edge, and they are so passionate about the products they deliver,” he said. “I would highly recommend any businesses in the county borough to get in touch about the grants we have to offer.”

The project was funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

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Sarah Murphy tops Labour’s Senedd candidate list for Pen‑y‑Bont Bro Morgannwg

Latest polling suggests Labour are likely to secure two of the six seats in this constituency at the 2026 Senedd election.

Sitting Bridgend MS heads the slate

First on the list is Sarah Murphy, who has represented Bridgend in the Senedd since 2021. She previously worked as Head of Events for Welsh Labour, Research Analyst for Lee Waters AM, and Communications Manager for Anna McMorrin MP. Before her election she chaired Sustainable Wales, a Porthcawl‑based charity supporting community‑led sustainable development.

Former council leader takes second place

Second is Huw David OBE, the former leader of Bridgend County Borough Council between 2016 and 2024. He was awarded an OBE for public service and his contribution to local government in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 2022.

Vale deputy mayor ranked third

Third on the list is Carys Stallard, a former BBC journalist who now serves as Labour councillor for St Brides Major on the Vale of Glamorgan Council. She is currently Deputy Mayor of the Vale of Glamorgan, chairs the Glamorgan Heritage Coast Advisory Group, and sits on the Place Scrutiny and Planning Committees.

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Trade union organiser joins the slate

Fourth is Jonathan Cox, a trade unionist and community organiser who founded Citizens Cymru Wales. A former adviser to David Miliband MP, he says he has worked with Mark Drakeford MS on the Real Living Wage in social care, with Jane Hutt MS to welcome Syrian refugees to the Vale, and with Carwyn Jones MS to introduce the Real Living Wage in Welsh Government.

Bridgend councillor takes fifth spot

Fifth is Jon‑Paul Blundell, a Bridgend councillor for the Cefn‑Glas ward. He chairs the Communities, Environment and Housing Overview and Scrutiny Committee and was previously Cabinet Member for Education.

Barry councillor and wellbeing champion ranked sixth

Sixth on the list is Helen Payne, a Vale of Glamorgan councillor for the Cadoc ward in Barry. She was previously Projects Manager for Llamau, supporting vulnerable young people. Payne is the council’s Mental Wellbeing Champion, chairs the Investigating Committee, and serves as Vice Chair of the Start Well Scrutiny Committee.

Former cabinet member joins at seven

Seventh is Rhys Goode, a councillor for the Nant‑y‑moel ward on Bridgend Council. He has served as Cabinet Member for Housing, Planning & Regeneration (2023–24) and Cabinet Member for Wellbeing & Future Generations (2022–23). Goode was Head of Terrence Higgins Trust Cymru from 2022 to 2024, and has held senior communications roles at Klana and JustGiving.

Porthcawl councillor completes the list

Eighth is Neelo Farr, a trade unionist and councillor for Porthcawl on Bridgend Council. She is Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, with a professional background as a mental health social worker.

Constituency boundaries

Pen‑y‑Bont Bro Morgannwg is one of 16 new Senedd “super constituencies” created for the 2026 election. It combines the Bridgend and Vale of Glamorgan parliamentary areas, covering major towns including Bridgend, Barry, Cowbridge, Llantwit Major, Pencoed and Porthcawl. The constituency will elect six Members of the Senedd under the new proportional voting system.

Electoral outlook

While Murphy heads the slate, Labour’s prospects in Pen‑y‑Bont Bro Morgannwg are limited. Polling suggests the party is in line for just two seats in this constituency, with Plaid Cymru and Reform UK also competing strongly as Labour’s support edges back.

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Bus service to return through Mawdlam and Kenfig Pool

Hourly service planned

The new Service 63B, operated by First Cymru Buses Ltd, will run as part of the council’s supported bus routes contract. One journey per hour will be diverted through Mawdlam and Kenfig Pool between approximately 9.41am and 3.39pm, Monday to Saturday.

The route was last served by a public bus in August 2019. Funding for the reinstated service has been secured through the Welsh Government’s Bus Network Grant, meaning there will be no additional cost to the council.

Final arrangements underway

Work is now taking place to finalise arrangements with First Cymru, with a start date to be confirmed once the operator has completed the statutory registration process with the Traffic Commissioner.

Cllr Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said:

“I’d like to thank everyone who worked together to make this possible, including council staff, residents, ward members, First Cymru and Welsh Government.

Reliable and accessible public transport is vital for connecting local people with jobs, education, healthcare, local shops and other parts of everyday life. We look forward to providing further updates very soon in relation to the start date of this new service.”

What it means for residents

The reinstatement of the service will reconnect Mawdlam and Kenfig Pool with key destinations in Bridgend and Porthcawl, improving access to jobs, education, healthcare and shopping.

The council says the move reflects its commitment to supporting sustainable transport and tackling isolation in rural communities.

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Council warns public over ‘fake’ Porthcawl regeneration images

The authority says the mocked‑up visuals are not genuine, and risk “causing confusion, misleading the public and spreading misinformation.”

‘They do not represent our plans’

Cllr Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said:

“They may have been put together with the best of intentions, but the mocked‑up, fake images do not represent what we are trying to achieve in Porthcawl, nor are they based upon the latest proposals that we are in the process of updating.

Unfortunately, based on emails I have received and some of the comments made directly on the fake image posts, many people appear to believe that they are genuine, so I have to again stress that they are nothing of the sort.”

⚠️Disclaimer: These images are AI‑generated mock‑ups circulating online. Bridgend County Borough Council has confirmed they are not official and do not represent the authority’s regeneration proposals.

The council says official images illustrating the final proposals will be released later this autumn.

Nearly 1,000 new homes planned

The regeneration scheme is expected to deliver just under 1,000 new homes across the site, with up to half classed as affordable housing.

Cllr Farr said the homes would be “community‑focused properties suitable for a mix of families, people who live alone, couples just starting out, older residents and more,” and would be supported by new infrastructure and evenly distributed parking.

Shops, leisure and green space

Alongside housing, the plans include:

• New shops, cafés, restaurants and kiosks
• Pump tracks, skate parks and multi‑use games areas
• Pocket parks, play areas and flexible open space for seasonal events
• A landscaped green corridor linking the town back to the waterfront
• An expanded Griffin Park with new facilities such as a climbing wall and fitness trail
• Coastal defences at Sandy Bay with stepped revetments and new promenade retail units

The proposals are intended to complement projects already completed, such as the Metro Link and Cosy Corner.

Public engagement

The council says it has held more than ten consultation events over the past five years, and that many of the ideas suggested by residents have been incorporated into the final plans.

Cllr Farr added:

“I would ask anyone who views the fake images in the meantime to remember that they do not reflect the reality of our regeneration proposals, and to reserve judgement until later this autumn when you will have ample opportunity to view accurate, official images of what we have planned.”

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First steps agreed towards extending access in Bridgend town centre

The Cabinet of Bridgend County Borough Council has approved an experimental traffic order that will run for 18 months, marking the first stage in reintroducing some forms of vehicular and cycle access to the pedestrianised streets.

The decision follows a public consultation which attracted more than 700 responses. A majority of participants supported extending loading and unloading hours, allowing cycling within the pedestrian zone, and creating more parking spaces for Blue Badge holders.

As part of the trial, loading and unloading will be permitted before 11am and after 4pm, while underused taxi bays on Derwen Road will be converted into additional disabled parking. Cycling will also be permitted in the pedestrianised area, subject to safety assessments, and arrangements will be simplified for large‑scale events or emergencies.

Councillor Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said the council had listened carefully to public feedback and endorsed a motion to explore how traffic could be partially reintroduced.

“Public safety remains our primary concern, and this represents the first step towards restoring elements of vehicular and bicycle access within Bridgend town centre.”

The changes form part of the Bridgend Town Centre Masterplan, which recommended exploring new access options in light of updated national policy and guidance. The council will now monitor the impact of the experimental order closely over the coming months before deciding whether to make the changes permanent.

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£41.8m housing and retail scheme to transform former Maesteg industrial estate

Bridgend County Borough Council has confirmed the deal with Avant Homes for the purchase of land at the 16‑acre site on behalf of Bridgend‑based housing association Valleys to Coast. The £41.8 million scheme — the housing association’s largest development to date — will deliver up to 200 new properties alongside retail units, landscaped public space, improved transport links and other facilities.

The homes will offer a mix of low‑cost home ownership, open market sale, and affordable and social rent. Planning permission is already in place, with preparatory work to remove redundant industrial infrastructure due for completion by late 2025. Avant will then begin construction in early 2026, with the full development expected to be complete by 2030.

The council says the scheme forms a key part of its Local Development Plan and has been a decade in the making. Funding of £3.5 million from the Cardiff Capital Region has helped unlock the brownfield site, once home to the Revlon/Cosi factory and automotive parts manufacturer Cooper Standard.

Councillor Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said the multimillion‑pound investment would “completely transform our largest valleys brownfield site” and deliver “huge economic and social benefits” for the Llynfi Valley and Bridgend County Borough.

Valleys to Coast has also pledged £20,000 to support local projects during construction, underlining its social value commitments.

The wider scheme will introduce retail opportunities, green spaces and a modern transport interchange to better connect the community. Key partners include Clowes Developments, law firm Hugh James, and Cardiff Capital Region.

The redevelopment marks the latest milestone in a regeneration journey first reported by Swansea Bay News in 2022, when City Deal funding was confirmed to prepare the former industrial park for transformation.

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Record-breaking Women’s Open hailed a triumph for Porthcawl

Held over the weekend at the iconic links course in Porthcawl, the championship became the largest women’s sporting event ever staged in Wales, with fans flocking to the coast despite challenging weather conditions.

Broadcast live on Sky Sports, the tournament achieved its highest-ever average audience for the first two rounds, while YouTube views surged by 144%, and Instagram engagement hit an all-time high on Saturday. Organisers also reported a 316% increase in followers on the event’s social channels.

The dramatic coastal setting proved a hit with viewers and players alike, with tournament winner Miyu Yamashita praising the natural beauty of the venue:

“To be able to be here, in the nature and in the countryside, was something that I was looking forward to, and something that was great to experience.”

The event also made a strong impression on younger fans, with 2,500 children attending — around 5% of the total audience — contributing to a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.

Cllr Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Planning and Housing, said:

“The 2025 AIG Women’s Open has been another resounding success, and has brought in thousands of visitors to help boost the local economy while showcasing Porthcawl to an international audience. It joins the likes of the Elvis Festival, the Seniors Open and Porthcawl 10K in showing what the town and the wider county borough have to offer.”

She added:

“An immense amount of planning goes into the staging of an event like this, and I would like to thank everyone who has helped to make it such a big success, especially all of the volunteers.”

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Main contractor appointed for Grand Pavilion restoration as landmark project enters next phase

The long-awaited redevelopment of the Grand Pavilion in Porthcawl has taken a major step forward, with Andrew Scott Ltd appointed as the main contractor to deliver the restoration and enhancement of the Grade II listed building.

The announcement follows enabling works carried out by Prichard’s Demolition, who stripped the building back to its original concrete shell, and Severn Insulation Ltd, who removed external asbestos from the 92-year-old structure. With the site now prepared, Andrew Scott Ltd will begin the main construction phase this summer, with work scheduled to continue until 2027.

The project, led by Bridgend County Borough Council in partnership with Awen Cultural Trust, aims to restore the Pavilion’s historic features while introducing new facilities to support arts, culture and heritage services. Plans include improved accessibility, new studio spaces, and the sensitive refurbishment of the building’s Art Deco architecture.

Cllr Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said:

“This truly iconic building holds a special place in the hearts of many people. We’re delighted to appoint Andrew Scott Ltd, whose expertise will be vital in bringing the Grand Pavilion back into use with enhanced features for our communities.”

Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, added:

“The appointment of Andrew Scott marks a key milestone. As we’ve seen with Maesteg Town Hall, heritage-led regeneration can transform town centres and support the local economy.”

During the redevelopment, Awen Cultural Trust is keeping the Pavilion’s spirit alive through a series of ‘pop-up Pavilion’ events at Awel-y-Mor Community Centre and other venues in Porthcawl. These monthly events include jazz, comedy, tea dances, cinema, lunchtime theatre and family shows.

The Grand Pavilion project is funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, Bridgend County Borough Council, and the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns Wales programme. It follows years of planning, consultation and design work, with the final proposals unveiled in 20232.

Andrew Scott Ltd, established in 1870, brings extensive experience in heritage restoration, having worked on Tintern Abbey, Insole Court, and Dyffryn Gardens. The company’s involvement is expected to ensure the Pavilion’s legacy is preserved while adapting the venue for future generations.

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Bridgend to Aberdare bus connection saved in last-minute funding deal

Earlier this year, Stagecoach South Wales announced plans to withdraw part of the 172 service, which runs from Hendreforgan to Bridgend Bus Station, citing declining passenger numbers. The proposed changes would have impacted residents in Evanstown, Gilfach Goch, Glynogwr, and the eastern side of Blackmill, potentially leaving them without direct public transport links to Bridgend town centre.

Following the announcement, council officers and elected members from both Rhondda Cynon Taf and Bridgend County Borough Councils worked swiftly to explore funding options and safeguard the route. Their efforts have now resulted in a successful bid for Welsh Government support, allowing the service to continue in its current format.

Councillor Andrew Morgan OBE, Leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and cabinet member for transport, said:

“We know that residents will be pleased that this route has been saved. This cross-valley route is vital for people to access employment, health, and leisure opportunities across the region, and it was important that we worked with partners to secure the route for the future.”

Cllr Neelo Farr, Bridgend’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, added:

“The number 172 bus service currently connects Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil, Tonyrefail, and Bridgend — its removal would have represented a significant change to cross-valley travel. The determination and perseverance of council officers and elected members have proven successful. We are all very grateful for their tenacity in protecting this essential service.”

Cllr Hywel Williams, Cabinet Member for Finance and Performance, echoed the sentiment:

“It is a great relief that the bus network connections, so vital for so many people, remain intact. We are thankful to the council officers who secured the necessary funding to ensure the longevity of the service number 172 in its entirety.”

The 172 service plays a crucial role in connecting towns including Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil, Tonyrefail, and Bridgend, offering access to jobs, healthcare, and education. The funding announcement comes amid wider concerns about bus service reductions across Wales, as passenger numbers remain below pre-pandemic levels and operators face rising costs.

Stagecoach South Wales has confirmed that the service will continue to operate in its current format, and thanked its partners for their collaboration in safeguarding the route.

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Shipping Containers set to ‘transform Porthcawl’s seaside economy’

Located in Hillsboro South Car Park, Porthcawl, the development consists of five shipping containers that have been converted for retail use. The units will provide a low-risk opportunity for small businesses to take their first step into the commercial rental market.

The council says that business owners who are interested in renting the pop-up space must meet selective criteria including providing evidence that their business can act as an attractor throughout the year for visitors from outside Porthcawl to support its role as a tourist destination.

Councillor Neelo Farr, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development and Housing, said: “This innovative enterprise is a fantastic opportunity to support business owners to establish and grow their business, with flexible terms that will eventually allow them to move into permanent premises elsewhere in Porthcawl.

“With over 30 Expressions of Interest received so far, this is an exciting way to boost the profile of Porthcawl as a tourist destination and enhance the area for residents and visitors alike.”

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