Author: Rhys Gregory

A technology business which provides adaptable app solutions to major car insurance companies has completed a six-figure round, supported by the Development Bank of Wales, Angels Invest Wales and high-profile Welsh investors. Driverly started life as a technology platform making it easier for young drivers to access car insurance, using data gathered on individual drivers to help bring down their insurance contributions. The business has since switched to a B2B model, providing its customisable platform to a number of insurers, who can use Driverly as a basis for their own apps to gather and provide data on drivers. Driverly’s system…

A man from Swansea has been jailed for his role in the supply of Class A drugs. 22-year-old Keiran Pugh, from the city centre, was arrested following a traffic stop in the Neath area, with officers noting a strong smell of cannabis coming from the vehicle. Two clear bags of cocaine were found in his wallet. A further four bags were later found in his underwear when searched by officers at a police station. Further substances were found at his address, as well as a significant quantity of cash. He has been sentenced to 30 months in prison, plus an…

A Flintshire man has been jailed for 16 years for sexually assaulting three girls. Adam Griffiths, of no fixed abode, carried out the offences over a seven-year period. Appearing at Mold Crown Court today, Monday, February 17th, he was jailed after being found guilty by a jury at Mold Crown Court in January. He was handed three consecutive sentences totalling 16 years in prison, as well as a year of additional licence. He will be registered as a sex offender indefinitely and was issued restraining orders to protect the victims and their families for the next 10 years. He was…

Over 150,000 rail customers have used the new Pay As You Go ticketing system in South Wales, three months since it launched – making it Transport for Wales’ (TfW) fastest growing ticketing product. TfW became the first train operator outside of London and the south-east of England to introduce this paying system last year. In November 2024, the tap in, tap out technology was made available at 95 railway stations throughout South Wales with fares starting at just £2.60. The new technology provides customers with automatic daily and weekly capping, offering a significant saving against standard anytime singles and 7-day…

THE LEADER OF Neath Port Talbot Council, Cllr Steve Hunt, has welcomed the UK Government’s proposed new strategy to inject £2.5bn into the country’s steel industry. The Department for Business and Trade announced on Sunday it is seeking urgent public feedback on a new Steel Strategy aimed at maintaining the British steel sector’s global competitiveness while addressing challenges posed by US tariffs on steel imports. According to the strategy, the UK Government will commit £2.5bn through the National Wealth Fund and other routes to the domestic steel industry while encouraging large infrastructure projects to prioritise steel made in Britain. The…

The Shared Rural Network (SRN) initiative has significantly enhanced mobile coverage from all four of the UK’s mobile network operators (MNOs) in Pembrokeshire, increasing it to an impressive 84%, according to the latest data from Ofcom’s Connected Nations 2024 report. The SRN, a collaborative effort between the UK Government and the mobile network operators, aims to extend mobile coverage across rural areas, ensuring that communities and businesses have access to reliable mobile connectivity. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to improve digital infrastructure and bridge the connectivity gap between urban and rural areas. The recent Ofcom Connected Nations…

Councillor Tina Leyshon and Councillor Mark Norris of Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council recently met with representatives from Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board and Vital Energi to celebrate the start of construction on the Coed Ely Solar Farm. The project involves the installation of 9,408 solar PV panels, which will contribute to a lifetime carbon saving of approximately 7,355 tonnes. Once completed, the solar farm will generate enough clean electricity to power around 8,000 homes in the local area. A key aspect of the initiative is an innovative power purchase agreement, enabling Royal Glamorgan Hospital to source electricity…

The Transporter Bridge transformation project has been boosted by confirmation of extra funding from the UK government. The £5m funding was announced by the previous UK government as part of their spring 2024 budget. It was allocated as part of £100m set aside for significant cultural projects through the levelling-up fund. As part of their autumn 2024 budget, the current UK government indicated that it was planning to review the proposed allocations. Following representations made to the UK government by council officers and elected members as to why Newport should be awarded its funding, the ministry of housing, communities and…

Performance Emissions Ltd, a pioneering company based in Abercarn, Caerphilly, has announced the launch of a groundbreaking fuel conditioner designed to significantly reduce CO2 emissions from internal combustion engines while enhancing fuel efficiency. In collaboration with Caerphilly Borough County Council, the product aims to transform the environmental performance of the county’s vehicle Internal Combustible Engine fleet. The innovative fuel conditioner, made from complex hydrocarbons, has been rigorously tested and proven to increase miles per gallon (MPG) by up to 47%. Regular use of this single, affordable product not only treats combustion engines but also stabilises fuel, cleans the entire fuel…

The next stage of consultation on proposals for significant investment in enhancing Brecon town centre’s streetscape is set to be launched. The plans prioritise the pedestrian experience, improve connections and biodiversity, and create safe, accessible public spaces that enhance the town’s unique character. The improvements will extend along the length of the High Street, including the Struet, High Street Superior, High Street Inferior, and the Bulwark. Feedback from previous consultations has been considered in shaping these ambitious proposals. The latest plans will be on display at Y Gaer, Brecon, from 24 February until 16 March 2025. Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet…