Author: Rhys Gregory

It is not the writing on the wall for Pontypridd’s Market Quarter but a bold new piece of art, giving the area a fresh look and setting the tone for an exciting 2026 in the heart of the historic town centre. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, Pontypridd Market Company, Pontypridd BID and Horan, the contractor leading the redevelopment of the former M&S site, worked together to fund, plan and deliver a shared vision for the town. That vision has been brought to life by local artist Tee2Sugars, whose new mural celebrates the Market Quarter and everything it offers, including the much…

After a successful first 12 months, the funding for the X48 service from Craven Arms to Builth Wells will continue for another year. Funded by Powys County Council and Transport for Wales, the X48 service is run by Celtic Travel and operates six-days a week (excluding Sundays and bank holidays), providing a vital link along the Heart of Wales line. Following a recent review of the service, including feedback from passengers, residents and businesses, a new and improved timetable is now available (from 15 December), and includes: Four bus journeys per day, six days per week A bus journey between…

The public will be asked to help shape the future of support for people with dementia and their families, as a new 10-year strategy is published today. The new Dementia Strategy builds on the achievements of Wales’s first Dementia Action Plan which has helped to improve services and remove the stigma of living with dementia. More than 400 people have already helped develop the priorities in the new strategy. Now a consultation is being launched to further refine the strategy. It focuses on seven key areas: Reducing the risk of and preventing dementia. Raising awareness and understanding of dementia. Improving…

The Welsh Government has published its Disabled People’s Rights Plan, a ten-year commitment to making sure disabled people can participate fully and equally in every part of life in Wales. The plan sets out practical actions and long-term goals to tackle barriers across employment, transport, education, healthcare, housing, independent living, digital access, and public services. Shaped from the outset by people with lived experience and expertise through the work of the Disability Rights Taskforce, the plan responds to real challenges faced by disabled people in daily life. Following a public consultation, it has been strengthened with new areas, including Parents…

Calico Dress Cymru, a Welsh community textile project led by textile artist, Menna Buss, will be one of the star attractions at the 20th Wonderwool Wales weekend show next year. Commissioned by the Museum of Wales and celebrating Welsh identity, heritage and creativity through embroidery, the project will occupy a large exhibition space at the show, held at the Royal Welsh Showground, Llanelwedd on April 25 and 26. The Calico Dress is the first daughter dress of the internationally-renowned Red Dress, a 14-year collaborative embroidery project by artist Kirstie Macleod with contributions from almost 400 countries worldwide. A collaborative, community project…

The Fratellis have confirmed a Cardiff date as part of a major UK tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album Costello Music. The Scottish indie rock band will play Cardiff’s Great Hall on Friday 6 February 2026, bringing one of the most recognisable British albums of the 2000s back to the stage almost two decades after its release. The Cardiff show will see fans hear Costello Music performed live, including crowd favourites Henrietta, Whistle for the Choir and the era defining Chelsea Dagger. Released in 2006, Costello Music launched The Fratellis into the spotlight with its sharp hooks,…

This article has been updated with several of the roads now reopened. Click for the latest information.  Several roads across Swansea have been closed following heavy overnight rainfall that caused localised flooding in parts of the city and county. Swansea Council said its highways teams have been working through the night after around two inches of rain fell in a short period, leading to rising river levels and waterlogged roads. A number of routes will remain closed until conditions improve and river levels drop. These include Ynyspenllwch Road in Clydach, Ynys Y Mond Road in Clydach, the A4067 outbound from…

A growing number of people across South Wales are turning to small group training as their preferred way to stay active, signalling a major shift away from traditional gym environments. Local coaches say the appeal lies in a mix of personalised support, structured sessions and a sense of community that many larger gyms struggle to offer. Back To Fitness has seen this rise first-hand, with demand increasing across all age groups as residents look for a more guided and sustainable approach to improving their health. A Move Away From the Big Gym Experience For years, many in Wales have struggled…

A road has been closed in both directions following reports of flooding, according to South Wales Police. The closure is in place between the junction of New Inn Road and the A48, and the junction of New Inn Road and Merthyr Mawr Road. Police have confirmed the road is expected to remain closed for some time. Motorists are being advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes where possible while the situation is dealt with. South Wales Police thanked drivers for their patience and cooperation as officers manage the closure and monitor conditions. Drivers are urged to take extra…

A busy roundabout in Swansea has been closed this morning due to heavy rain and rising water levels on the road surface. Swansea Council confirmed the closure of the roundabout at Cwmbwrla after water levels increased in and around the junction, making it unsafe for traffic to pass. The council said the situation is being monitored closely and updates will be shared once more information becomes available. Motorists are being urged to take extra care when travelling across Swansea this morning, with wet conditions and surface water affecting several routes. Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys,…