Author: Rhys Gregory

His Excellency Dr Róbert Ondrejcsák, Ambassador of Slovakia to the United Kingdom, addressed Cardiff Business Club in the Club’s latest event, sponsored by Eversheds Sutherland, on 10 July. Róbert spoke about 30 years of remarkable journey since Slovakia became a sovereign state in 1993. His speech shed light on the successful transition of Slovakia into a modern democratic country, emphasizing the values of freedom, democracy, and human rights that form the foundation of the Slovak Republic. He shared inspiring stories of the resilience and determination of the Slovak people, their commitment to progress, and their contribution to the international community.…

Newport-based tax and accountancy specialists Kilsby Williams has strengthened its business services team again with another new senior appointment. Huw Sheppard has joined the firm as an Associate and will work with the senior management team to deliver astute accountancy, business and tax advice to a diverse range of clients. His appointment widens the firm’s management team as Kilsby Williams continues its expansion. Huw is a qualified Chartered Accountant and achieved an ICAEW prize for his professional exam results during his training with RSM. Since qualifying, Huw has honed a wide range of skills and technical expertise covering all aspects…

Bridgend is getting its first Japanese Restaurant with newly founded ‘Gin & Sake Bar & Restaurant’set to open its doors later this summer, after a successful pop-up takeaway trial has proven a hit with residents since launching in January. Local entrepreneurs Joan Tolentino and Steve Clarke have joined forces with the renowned Japanese Chef, husband and wife team, Fred and Mel Berganio and are taking over the old La Cocina venue on Derwen Road and adding an East Asian influence to the centre of town. The plush new venue – which will be fully refurbished over the next few months…

St David’s Cardiff has unveiled a new installation to kickstart a summer of fun, crafty bee-saving events designed to educate, engage and inspire guests during August. The new ‘Bee the Change’ campaign has been launched with the installation of a bumblebee-themed display adorning one of the city shopping centre’s malls. A specialist team was brought in after hours to intricately build the aerial display within The Hayes Arcade, which features more than 6,000 silk flowers and foliage stems and 200 giant bees flying through a honeycomb-inspired design. A new floral decorated arch, which boasts 1,000 colourful flowers, has also been…

Plans to accelerate the completion of the International Sports Village have taken a step forward following a Cardiff Council Cabinet meeting on the 13thJuly. Following the acquisition of all undeveloped land at the ISV peninsula, the Cabinet agreed in principle to enter into an option agreement with Cardiff Peninsula Consortium Ltd last December. Work to develop the legal agreements has been completed and Cabinet have now signed them off. A report published ahead of the meeting also revealed further details about the energy strategy for the site, which subject to successful funding applications, could see a low carbon heat exchange…

Swansea Council has teamed up with global design practice BDP to develop a masterplan for a new housing development at Brokesby Road in the Bonymaen community. The long term vision to create new energy efficient homes was initially unveiled earlier in 2023 and the public had a chance to give their views ahead of a masterplan being developed. The Council will be seeking to replicate the sustainable qualities already established at other locations across Swansea where new council homes have been created, including sites in Birchgrove, West Cross, Blaenymaes and Clase. The development will provide enhanced public green spaces, incorporating…

Over 320 businesses throughout Swansea are benefiting from a funding boost of more than £2.7m to improve their look and feel. The investment is part of Swansea Council’s economic recovery fund, which was set up to help businesses, communities and residents recover from the economic impact of the pandemic. As part of the business improvement grant scheme, which is now closed for applications, businesses were invited to apply for up to £10,000 to enhance the appearance of their properties. Cllr Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Investment and Tourism, said: “We very much recognise the impact of the…

Neath Port Talbot Council has approved a new Digital Data and Technology (DDaT) Strategy to ensure services are delivered to residents using the very latest digital approaches and technologies The new DDaT strategy – approved by council members at their meeting on Wednesday, July 12th, 2023 – will build on the foundations laid by the council’s previous digital strategy known as Smart and Connected. An officers’ report on the strategy said: “It sets out our strategic vision demonstrating how we will embrace new approaches and emerging technologies to provide our users with the best value, user-centred products and services. “Digital,…

A new walking and cycling route to Saundersfoot railway station is among £1.6m worth of new active travel schemes announced for Pembrokeshire. Funded by Welsh Government following a successful application by Pembrokeshire County Council, the new schemes will make it easier for people to use active travel in their day-to-day lives. Active travel is walking and cycling (including the use of mobility scooters and electric wheelchairs) for everyday journeys, such as going to work or the shops, or to access services. “We’re delighted that Welsh Government is once again investing in Pembrokeshire,” said Cllr Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member for Residents’…

A planning application to build 16 one-bedroomed homes in Ystradgynlais will be considered next week, the county council has said. Powys County Council’s Housing Service has submitted the plans which, if approved, would see the development of environmentally friendly flats at Ael Y Bryn and Pen Y Bryn in Ystradgynlais. The planning application will be considered by the council’s Planning, Taxi Licensing & Rights of Way Committee on Wednesday, July 19. As part of the development, four existing blocks of flats which do not meet current housing need will be demolished to make way for 16 new one-bedroomed council flats,…