Bird flu confirmed in Pontyberem area

In response, the Welsh Government has declared a 3km Protection Zone and a wider 10km Surveillance Zone around the site. The Government says these restrictions are designed to stop the disease spreading and apply to anyone keeping poultry or other birds.

The council said its Animal Health Officers will visit homes, farms and businesses within the zones to check for birds and ensure biosecurity rules are being followed.

Officials stressed that the strain identified is dangerous for birds but presents a very low risk to people. The council added that residents who do not keep birds do not need to take any action.

Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability, said:

“The identification of avian influenza in the Pontyberem area is very sad news for the poultry keeper involved, however I want to reassure residents that this virus presents a very low risk to human health. I urge the keepers of poultry or other birds in the area to follow the enhanced biosecurity measures.”

He also noted that all bird keepers across Wales remain subject to national prevention rules introduced earlier this month.

Maps showing the zones and full guidance are available on the Welsh Government website.

The council has reminded residents that dead wild birds such as swans, geese, ducks, gulls or birds of prey should be reported to the Defra Helpline on 03459 33 55 77 (option 7).

#avianInfluenza #biosecurity #birdFlu #carmarthenshireCouncil #carmarthenshireCountyCouncil #ducks #farm #geese #hens #pontyberem #poultry #protectionZone

Welsh language campaigners prepare to fight ‘flawed’ Carmarthenshire school closures

The council’s Cabinet has agreed to publish a statutory notice to close Ysgol Llansteffan, while also launching consultations on the future of Ysgol Meidrim and Ysgol Y Fro, Llangyndeyrn.

Campaigners argue the decision is flawed, with Cymdeithas criticising councillors for pressing ahead despite admitting that the initial statutory stage of discussions with the schools — known as stage 0 — “did not happen properly.”

Ffred Ffransis, speaking on behalf of Cymdeithas yr Iaith in Carmarthenshire, said preparation work to mobilise responses and objections would begin immediately alongside the schools themselves:

“The cabinet should not have voted for a consultation after admitting that the initial statutory stage of discussion with the schools, known as stage 0, did not happen properly. The council officers’ reports say clearly that a consultation or a statutory notification to close should not be authorised unless councillors were sure that it was the best option. The preparation work to ensure responses to the consultations and objections to the statutory notice to close, together with the three schools, will start straight away.”

Four schools under review as viability questioned

As Swansea Bay News previously reported, Carmarthenshire councillors considered proposals last month to close four rural primaries under the county’s Modernising Education Programme. Reports highlighted falling rolls, high surplus places and financial pressures.

• Ysgol Llansteffan has just eight pupils on roll, with costs per pupil more than three times the county average.
• Ysgol Y Fro has 15 pupils and was placed in Special Measures by Estyn earlier this year.
• Ysgol Meidrim, with 31 pupils, is also in Special Measures following an inspection in 2024.
• Ysgol Pontyates has 24 pupils and more than 70% surplus places, with projections showing numbers continuing to fall.

Pontyates campaign continues despite reprieve

Although Pontyates was excluded from the immediate closure process, villagers have vowed to continue their fight. At a packed public meeting earlier this month, governors and parents insisted the threat remains and uncertainty continues.

“Of course it is a relief to hear that the consultation process is unlikely to proceed in the case of Ysgol Pontyates, but the anxiety and uncertainty will continue. For the benefit of the children and staff we must continue to fight, demand fairness for our families and our community, and ensure a future for a school – which has just celebrated its hundred and fifty years – for generations to come.”

Campaigners accused the council of rushing plans “in a thoughtless and unnecessary manner” and warned closures would mean upheaval and long journeys to larger schools. One pupil told the meeting:

“Our school is small but it is very special. We all know each other… We learn everything in Welsh and we are very proud of that. It is part of who we are and it helps keep our village and our language alive.”

Parents and supporters plan to protest outside County Hall in Carmarthen when the Cabinet meets on 17 November to decide whether to continue with the consultation.

Cabinet Member for Education, Cllr Glynog Davies said:

“We of course understand how difficult this is for the schools involved and wholeheartedly sympathise with the parents, staff, governors and local members.

“It is important to note that no decisions have been made with regards to Ysgol Meidrim and Ysgol y Fro and a consultation process will provide an opportunity for those school communities to have their say as part of the decision-making process.”

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• Pontyates villagers vow to continue fight to save school

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New community hub opens in Llwynhendy as old library gets fresh lease of life

The renovated facility, now named Canolfan Llwynhendy, is open to the public following completion of works funded by the Welsh Government, Carmarthenshire County Council, Llanelli Rural Council, and Our Llwynhendy. Furnishing costs were supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The centre includes meeting rooms, a café, an automated library service, housing and employment advice, training opportunities, and a programme of events delivered through Pro-Vision Llwynhendy and Our Llwynhendy. Ownership of the building has officially transferred from Carmarthenshire County Council to Llanelli Rural Council.

The venue will operate Monday to Friday, with facilities available for hire seven days a week. An official opening ceremony is being planned, subject to ministerial availability, and a series of community events will be held to mark the launch.

“A fantastic venue for the community”

Council Leader and Chairman, Cllr Sue Lewis, said:

“Canolfan Llwynhendy is a fantastic venue for the community. It’s a fresh, light and welcoming space that has completely transformed the old library building. We’re proud to offer a place where people can access vital services locally and enjoy a wide range of activities.”

She added that the centre’s integration with outdoor improvements at Parc Y Gwili — including new play areas and landscaping — creates a seamless environment that encourages wellbeing and community use.

Cllr Deryk Cundy, Chairman of the Recreation and Welfare Committee, said:

“This is a real asset for Llwynhendy. The automated library service means longer opening hours and greater accessibility — no more part-time library services. But it’s not just about books; Canolfan Llwynhendy brings together a range of vital services under one roof.”

“The addition of a café creates a welcoming social space for residents to meet, relax, and engage with others, helping to build a stronger sense of community. Combined with the new play provisions and landscaping at Parc Y Gwili, the centre offers a seamless indoor-outdoor experience that makes the area a true destination for all ages.”

#canolfanLlwynhendy #carmarthenshireCountyCouncil #cllrDerykCundy #cllrSueLewis #llanelli #llanelliRuralCouncil #llwynhendy #llwynhendyLibrary #ourLlwynhendy #proVisionLlwynhendy #sharedProsperityFund #welshGovernment

Swansea man handed record penalty for transporting waste without licence

Leon Medlam, of Long View Road, Clase, Swansea, was fined £1,760 and ordered to pay £4,500 in costs, £150 in compensation, and a £704 victim surcharge — totalling £7,114.

The case was heard at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 10 October 2025. Medlam did not attend and was found guilty in his absence.

Joint operation in Llanelli

The prosecution followed a joint day of action on 2 April 2025 in Bynea, Llanelli, where Natural Resources Wales (NRW) worked alongside Dyfed‑Powys Police, Carmarthenshire County Council, and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

The operation targeted vehicles carrying waste to ensure they were properly licensed, helping to prevent illegal dumping and protect the environment.

Medlam was stopped while transporting scrap metal and other controlled waste without a valid licence. He was cautioned and given 10 working days to register with NRW, but despite repeated follow‑ups he failed to comply.

“Clear message” on waste crime

Huwel Manley, NRW’s Head of Operations for South West Wales, said the record penalty underlined the seriousness of waste crime.

“This enforcement outcome sends a clear message: if you transport waste without a valid licence, you will be held accountable. Illegal waste activity harms our environment, undermines responsible businesses, and erodes public trust. Natural Resources Wales will continue to work with partners to crack down on waste crime and protect communities across Wales.”

NRW praised the strong partnership working that made the enforcement possible and reaffirmed its commitment to tackling waste crime.

“These joint operations help protect communities and the environment, while supporting legitimate businesses that follow the rules,” Mr Manley added.

Legal responsibilities

Under the Control of Pollution (Amendment) Act 1989, businesses that regularly transport waste must be registered as waste carriers. Even if waste is moved infrequently, if it is part of a business’s usual activity, a licence is legally required.

NRW stressed that registering as a waste carrier is a quick and simple process, and holding a valid licence ensures waste is taken to authorised disposal or recycling facilities rather than being fly‑tipped.

Members of the public are also legally required to check that anyone they pay to dispose of waste holds a valid licence. If illegally dumped waste is traced back to its source, the individual who arranged the disposal may also face prosecution and a fine.

#bynea #carmarthenshireCouncil #carmarthenshireCountyCouncil #clase #driverAndVehicleStandardsAgency #dvsa #dyfedPowysPolice #featured #licensedWasteCarrier #longViewRoad #naturalResourcesWales #nrw #recycling #scrap #scrapMetal #swansea #unlicensedWasteCarrier #wasteCarrier

Pontyates villagers vow to continue fight to save school

The school is one of four earmarked for closure by December 2026 under the council’s modernisation plans. A last‑minute decision means Pontyates is likely to be excluded from the immediate process, but campaigners insist the threat remains and uncertainty continues.

At a public meeting last week, villagers agreed to press ahead with their campaign.

A spokesperson said:

“Of course it is a relief to hear that the consultation process is unlikely to proceed in the case of Ysgol Pontyates, but the anxiety and uncertainty will continue. There is no clarity as to how long the delay will be. For the benefit of the children and staff we must continue to fight, demand fairness for our families and our community, and ensure a future for a school – which has just celebrated its hundred and fifty years – for generations to come.”

Campaigners accused the council of rushing plans “in a thoughtless and unnecessary manner” and described the consultation process as “fickle and inadequate.” They also raised concerns about the financial management of the county’s schools, pointing to a forecast overspend of £9 million.

The spokesperson added:

“This is nothing short of small village schools paying the price for others’ profligacy, because of a clear and unfounded prejudice against them.”

Parents also highlighted the impact on children, warning that closures would mean upheaval and long journeys to larger schools.

One pupil said:

“Our school is small but it is very special. We all know each other… We learn everything in Welsh and we are very proud of that. It is part of who we are and it helps keep our village and our language alive.”

Campaigners plan to protest outside County Hall in Carmarthen when the Cabinet meets on 17 November at 10am to decide whether to continue with the consultation.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

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#carmarthenshire #carmarthenshireCouncil #carmarthenshireCountyCouncil #education #pontyates #protest #schoolClosure #schoolModernisationPlan #ysgolPontiets

Carmarthenshire Council leader Darren Price resigns suddenly

Cllr Price, who represents the Gorslas ward for Plaid Cymru, had led the authority since 2022, when he succeeded Emlyn Dole after Plaid retained control of the council. He will continue to serve as a councillor but will no longer hold the leadership role.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the council said Deputy Leader Councillor Linda Evans will carry out the functions of the Leader until a new appointment is made. Councillors are expected to formally choose a new Leader at the full council meeting on 10 December 2025.

During his time in office, Cllr Price highlighted priorities including tackling climate change, supporting residents through the cost‑of‑living crisis, regenerating the local economy, improving housing and education, and strengthening public transport and council services.

His sudden resignation comes as Carmarthenshire continues to manage major regeneration projects and community services.

#carmarthenshireCouncil #carmarthenshireCountyCouncil #cllrDarrenPrice #councilLeader #featured #plaidCymru

Historic Kidwelly bridge and dam damaged as Carmarthenshire begins flood recovery

Damage to Kidwelly’s tinworks bridge and dam

The Kidwelly old tinplate works bridge and dam, a Scheduled Monument on the Afon Gwendraeth Fach, suffered visible structural loss during the severe flooding.

Carmarthenshire Council says survey work has not yet started due to high water levels, but from what can be observed at a safe distance there appears to be substantial loss to the upper section of the dam structure. Elevated water levels have been recorded across the scheduled area.

The authority says it will work with Cadw and Natural Resources Wales to agree next steps and secure permissions for clearance and stabilising works. The land around the dam and Gwenllian Pool has been closed for public safety, with residents advised to stay away.

The bridge and dam form part of the Kidwelly Tinplate Industrial Museum, which remains closed while restoration plans are developed.

Emergency works at Glangwili factory bridge

Carmarthenshire Council says emergency clearance and structural assessments are due to begin on Factory Bridge in Bronwydd from Monday 10 November.

Flood debris has built up around the bridge, forcing its closure. The council says specialist contractors and operational crews will remove the material and carry out safety checks, with work expected to last five days.

Overhead power and fibre optic cables will be temporarily adjusted to allow machinery access. The council has thanked residents for their patience while the work is carried out.

Countywide response and support

Carmarthenshire Council says highways crews handled more than 400 incident reports and tackled 175 separate flooding events during the peak of the flooding. Fourteen crews worked overnight with additional pumps deployed to manage rising water levels.

Support services were also stretched. The council says Delta Wellbeing, its arms‑length care provider, received 128 out‑of‑hours calls, while the contact centre answered 630 calls in a single day. Housing and social care teams arranged temporary accommodation and welfare checks, including support for more than 40 residents evacuated from St Davids Avenue in Whitland, with 20 given alternative housing.

In total, Carmarthenshire Council says 189 households and 32 businesses have reported being affected. A hardship emergency fund has been set up, offering £500 payments to households that have been internally flooded, and an additional £1,000 for those without insurance. Assistance is also available for removing damaged goods and furniture, though residents are urged to contact insurers first.

Council Leader Cllr Darren Price said:

“There is no doubt that the impact of this flooding has been significant for many, and I’m grateful to local communities throughout Carmarthenshire for coming together and showing such resilience. The Council continues to support those in need, with practical support and financial assistance available.”

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#Bronwydd #CADW #Carmarthenshire #CarmarthenshireCouncil #CarmarthenshireCountyCouncil #CllrDarrenPrice #Environment #FactoryBridge #flooding #Grade1ScheduledMonument #GwenllianPool #Kidwelly #KidwellyIndustrialMuseum #KidwellyTinworks #NaturalResourcesWales

Council issues warning after rise in dodgy landscape and roofing cold callers

Officials say cold callers have been knocking on doors across the county in recent weeks, persuading some residents to hand over large sums of money for jobs that were either left unfinished or carried out to a poor standard.

Residents urged to stay vigilant

The council says the increase in complaints has prompted a fresh warning to communities, with householders advised to take their time before agreeing to any work and to be wary of high‑pressure tactics.

Cllr Aled Vaughan Owen, Cabinet Member for Business and Consumer Affairs, said:

“We want to ensure our residents are fully aware of the risks posed by rogue traders and are equipped with the knowledge to protect themselves. If you are approached by cold callers or have concerns about work being carried out on your property, please contact us or Citizens Advice immediately.”

Trusted traders scheme

The authority is encouraging residents to use its Buy With Confidence scheme to find vetted local businesses, and to report any suspicious activity to the Citizens Advice Consumer Service.

Officials also reminded householders that contracts signed at home may carry a 14‑day cooling‑off period, giving people time to reconsider.

Community response

The council is asking residents to share the warning with family, friends and neighbours, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to doorstep scams.

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Landslide washes away section of Carmarthenshire cycle path

Path collapse near Tumble

The Walk Wheel Cycle Trust Cymru (formerly Sustrans) confirmed that a landslide has taken out part of the route linking Tumble and Pontyberem. The charity’s estates team has been on site to close the affected section and warn users not to approach the area.

A spokesperson said:

“Please do not approach the site as it is extremely dangerous and unstable. Our team are working to close the path and ensure route users are aware on the ground. We are working with local partners to secure the site and it will remain closed. A diversion will be put in place as soon as possible.”

Council urges public to stay away

Carmarthenshire County Council confirmed the landslide and said the area has been fenced off. A spokesperson added:

“There has been a significant landslide which has taken out a section of the Sustrans Cycle Route linking Tumble and Pontyberem. We urge the public to keep away from the area for safety reasons. The path is owned and maintained by Sustrans, now known as the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.”

Climate change warning

Local Member of the Senedd Lee Waters described the collapse as a stark reminder of the impact of extreme weather. Sharing an image of the damaged path, he said:

“The impact of flooding is being felt right across the local area today. This picture of the cycle path washed away near Tumble is a pretty stark illustration of how climate change is impacting us here and now – the experts are agreed that heavy rainfall and more intense storms are a direct consequence of man‑made climate change.”

He also thanked the emergency services, Carmarthenshire Council and local volunteers for their efforts in supporting communities affected by flooding over the past 24 hours.

Wider flooding impact

The landslide comes as Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident following more than 450 flooding‑related calls in 12 hours, with rescues carried out in Whitland, Ferryside, Kidwelly, Lampeter and St Clears. Swansea has also been hit, with Cwmbwrla roundabout once again submerged.

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Major incident declared as flooding triggers rescues across West Wales and Swansea

450 calls in 12 hours

The service said its Joint Fire Control Centre handled more than 450 flooding‑related calls in just 12 hours between Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Craig Flannery praised the “dedication and professionalism” of crews and control staff who worked through the night to respond to emergencies.

He said:

“Our crews have been truly exceptional in assisting and protecting our communities. We are extremely grateful to all partner agencies who have assisted in responding to incidents during a prolonged and challenging period.”

Whitland: retirement complex evacuated

One of the most serious incidents unfolded in Whitland, where floodwaters swept into a retirement housing complex in the early hours of Wednesday. Crews from Pembroke Dock, Tenby, Swansea Central, Carmarthen and Whitland stations evacuated 48 residents using rescue sleds and water rescue equipment. All were accounted for and temporarily sheltered at Whitland Town Hall.

Ferryside: homes evacuated with RNLI support

At Ferryside, crews from Ammanford, Tumble and Carmarthen worked with the RNLI after multiple homes were flooded. Residents were led to safety and taken to Ferryside RFC for shelter.

Kidwelly: 34 dogs rescued from sanctuary

At Glanrhyd Dog Sanctuary near Kidwelly, crews from Gorseinon and Cymmer stations rescued 34 dogs after floodwaters engulfed the kennels. The sanctuary’s owner described losing “everything” as bedding, food supplies and equipment were destroyed.

Lampeter: vehicle rescue in fast‑flowing water

In Lampeter, firefighters from Lampeter and Aberystwyth stations carried out a complex rescue after a vehicle became stranded in fast‑flowing water. Using ladders, they reached three people and two dogs trapped inside, bringing them to safety before handing the casualties to ambulance crews.

St Clears: 20 properties affected

In St Clears, crews from Morriston, Swansea Central, Haverfordwest, Narberth and Llandysul responded to flooding that hit around 20 homes and businesses. Approximately 42 people were assisted out of their properties and rescued using sleds.

Swansea: Cwmbwrla roundabout submerged again

In Swansea, heavy rain once again left Cwmbwrla roundabout completely submerged, with cars stranded and nearby businesses forced to evacuate. The Gatehouse pub had to be cleared after water surged up through drains, with the landlady describing it as the second such incident in just six weeks.

Swansea Council has since said a collapsed culvert is behind the repeated flooding at the busy junction, which has caused major disruption to traffic into the city centre.

Support and recovery underway

As the emergency response continued, local councillors Crisial Davies and Lewis Eldred Davies, who represent Ferryside and Kidwelly, confirmed they had been on the ground speaking with residents and liaising with Carmarthenshire County Council and Welsh Water. They said additional sandbags were being delivered to affected areas including Glanmorfa and Glan yr Ystrad, and highlighted the launch of an emergency flood fund offering £500 for households that have been internally flooded, an additional £1,000 for those without insurance, and grants of up to £5,000 for eligible businesses.

Carmarthenshire Council has also opened a rest centre at Carmarthen Leisure Centre to support people displaced by flooding in Whitland, St Clears and surrounding communities. The authority said its crews had been working throughout the night and remained on site in multiple locations across the county, urging residents not to drive through floodwater.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed it continues to work with the Dyfed‑Powys Local Resilience Forum and partner agencies to support ongoing incidents and coordinate what is expected to be a challenging and lengthy recovery effort.

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