Police search Bramble Hall Farm in major operation
HOUSE prices in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion have seen sharp fall in the first quarter of 2025.
The figures have been released by Principality Building Society in its Wales House Price Index for Q1 2025 (January – March), which demonstrates the rise and fall in house prices in each of the 22 local authorities in Wales.
Principality's report shows that Pembrokeshire has recorded the largest annual drop in house prices in the region, decreasing by 4.8% to an average price of £238,730, though this figure is still higher than the national average.
In Ceredigion house prices saw a double-digit quarterly drop of 10.1% and 3.2% annual fall to an average price of £241,321. Despite a quarterly dip of 2.3%, the report presents a positive picture for Carmarthenshire with house prices up 2.7% from last year's price to an average of £221,370.
On a national level, the average price of a home sold in Wales increased to £238,413 in the first quarter of 2025, up 2.2% on the previous quarter and 4.0% higher than the same period last year.
While affordability challenges remain, the steady rise in both prices and the number of transactions – which reached 10,000 in Q1 (up 20% on last year) – suggests buyer confidence is still growing, despite households continue to navigate cost-of-living pressures, an elevated rates environment and global economic uncertainty.
Overall, Principality Building Society research, based on HM Land Registry data, reveals that price declines in regional areas have eased over the past three quarters compared to the same period last year, offering some signs of stability for buyers and sellers in a shifting market.
Speaking about the Q1 House Price Index, Iain Mansfield, Chief Financial Officer at Principality Building Society, said:
'The housing market in Wales has had a positive start to 2025, with prices rising quarter on quarter at their fastest pace in over two years.
Despite a challenging economic backdrop, we're seeing a year-on-year growth of transactions, spurred on by supply challenges and falling rates. Meanwhile, affordability remains a key factor shaping the market landscape.'
A key driver of the year-on-year transaction growth could be the ongoing supply issues with the last 25 years seeing a notable decline in house building in Wales.
Significant policy changes such as the extension of the Welsh Government's Help to Buy scheme, second home tax adjustments, and plans to build more affordable housing aim to combat this challenge and curb investor activity.
Iain continues: 'Across Westminster and Wales, housing is high on the agenda. Looking ahead, the UK Government remains publicly committed to extensive planning reforms – setting out an ambitious target to build 1.5 million homes over the next 5 years, representing a significant shift in the UK's housing landscape.
'This, paired with the Welsh Government's Help to Buy Wales extension and additional £10 million investment allocated to kickstart housing schemes across Wales signals a clear message that policymakers recognise the importance of housing to families and individuals across the country.
'Despite external pressures such as cost of living, inflation, and global economic pressures, the housing market in Wales is moving forward in a positive direction, with increased consumer confidence and areas of strong regional performance.
Principality Building Society is dedicated to working with housing associations and other developers to deliver sustainable housing solutions for communities across Wales as part of the solution; providing affordable, quality homes.'
Principality Building Society, a mutual organisation which is owned by Members, and not shareholders, aims to support and build a society of savers where everyone has a place to call home. For more information go to: www.principality.co.uk/mortgages/house-price-index.
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Wales Online
15 hours ago
- Wales Online
Jobs paying more than £30,000 you can apply for right now
Jobs paying more than £30,000 you can apply for right now If you're looking for a new role as we reach the midway point of the year there are plenty of options out there Employers across Wales are looking to fill a wide range of jobs that offer an annual salary of more than £30,000. Roles being advertised vary from a DPD driver paying £50,000 per year to a c riminal justice department analyst for Dyfed-Powys Police paying £39,000 per year. One role being advertised is for a chief executive at Bro Myrddin Housing Association earning £117,000-£123,000 per year. Last month the BBC reported that based on data released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) "the UK's job market has continued to weaken with the number of workers on payrolls falling in the first few months of the year and job vacancies declining again". The unemployment rate increased to 4.5% in the January to March period, the ONS said, up from the previous figure of 4.4%. Other ONS figures showing the number of employees on companies' payrolls found the total fell by 47,000 in March and by an estimated 33,000 in April. Job vacancy numbers fell again. The estimated number of vacancies in the UK fell by 42,000 over the quarter to 761,000 in February to April 2025. Pay is still rising faster than the rate of inflation despite ONS figures showing that wage growth slowed. Regular earnings, which exclude bonuses, grew at an annual pace of 5.6% in the first three months of the year. We have compiled a list of 15 jobs in Wales offering salaries of more than £30,000 a year. For each job we have listed the title, description, salary range or exact salary, location, and any information provided on hours. You can find out more about the jobs by clicking on the Indeed link included for each. Chief executive at Job description: "Bro Myrddin Housing Association (BMHA) is seeking an inspiring Chief Executive to lead our resident-focused organisation into its next chapter of growth and innovation. "BMHA provides high-quality, sustainable homes and services to over 2,000 residents in over 1000 properties across Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, delivered by a workforce of 35 colleagues. We are proud of our deep community roots and our mission to enrich lives by providing housing which people are proud to call home. "As CEO, you will: Lead strategic direction, champion resident engagement and community investment, ensure operational excellence and financial sustainability, represent BMHA with key stakeholders including Welsh Government, drive innovation and continuous improvement across the organisation, undertake the role of Company Secretary "We're seeking a values-driven leader with: Senior board-level experience, ideally in housing or public services, strong financial and governance acumen, a collaborative, transparent leadership style, commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, strategic thinking and a passion for community impact, understanding of Welsh Government frameworks (desirable), welsh language skills (advantageous, with support to learn)." Salary and other details: "Competitive salary" of £117,000-£123,000 for this full-time permanent role. Applications close at 10am on June 11. Click here to see job advert. Criminal justice department analyst at Dyfed-Powys Police Job description: "To provide support, advice and guidance on criminal justice matters to Force personnel and criminal justice partners as well as being a point of contact for all issues in relation to criminal justice specific IT systems. To undertake research, prepare and circulate reports/updates both internally and externally and to contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures. Analytically review internal and external performance in relation to Criminal Justice. "To be responsible for the collation and analysis of complex information in order to produce accurate performance reports to deliver improved outcomes, including recommendations for change. "To assist with the development and maintenance of departmental IT requirements to accommodate changes in working practices, liaising with service providers and other systems users to ensure that the best use of available technology is made. Salary and other details: £31,296-£39,813 a year, full-time, permanent role. Find the official advert here. Centre manager at Protyre Autocare based in Aberystwyth Job description: "Protyre Autocare are a fast-growing national automotive company offering superb training and development opportunities. We are currently seeking an experienced and technical Centre Manager to join our growing team. The Centre Manager will be responsible for delivering the company business objectives through effective management and co-ordination of the Centre. To be directed to the job advert click here. Salary and other details: £35,000 OTE £44,000 per annum with full-time hours. Assistant store manager at Oak Furniture Lane in Haverfordwest Job description: "Our Assistant Store Managers are at the heart of our business acting as our biggest brand ambassadors. Often the first point of contact for customers visiting our network of showrooms, they are both inspired and empowered to support our customers in growing their homes by assisting them in choosing the perfect pieces of furniture and accessories from our broad range of products. "They achieve this with every customer by being commercially minded and adopting a consultative sales approach using their expert knowledge of our comprehensive product range to deliver an exceptional experience on every occasion. In addition, they work closely with the Store Manager to support the store's overall success and step up to manage in their absence." Salary and other details: £39,750-£44,850 a year. This is a full-time hybrid role. More here. Senior automotive sales advisor at Garden City Garage in Neath Job description: "Urgently needed. Are you a confident, organised Automotive Sales Advisor who can translate technical issues into clear, customer-friendly communication and consistently convert enquiries into sales? If you've got the experience, resilience, and personality to thrive in a high-performing garage environment, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for." Salary and other details: From £30,000 per year. Full-time role with no weekends. To be directed to the job advert click here. Construction development manager at the Acorn Property Group in Cardiff Job description: "The Development Manager will report to the Senior Development Manager and be responsible for taking bespoke, exciting, unique projects through the entire development process including planning, design and construction, from inception to completion and handover." Salary and other details: £35,000-£42,000 a year. Requires a minimum of two years development management experience and relevant qualifications. Click here for the full advert. Store director at the new Sephora coming to Cardiff Job description: "Reporting directly to the Retail Director, you will drive sales and champion excellence across all aspects of store performance. You'll set the benchmark for exceptional customer experiences, ensuring our store presentation and product curation reflect the high standards Sephora is renowned for. You'll also oversee budget management, ensuring we meet our financial targets with the precision and dedication that define our team. "Your primary goal? To unlock the full potential of your management team while consistently achieving and exceeding commercial objectives. If you thrive on innovation, are committed to accuracy, and possess the ability to inspire greatness in others, we'd love to hear from you!" Salary and other details: This is a full-time role at 40 hours per week. The estimated average salary for a Sephora store director in the UK is around £79,677 per year with a typical pay range between £58,610 and £109,988 annually, according to Glassdoor. Salary will be dependant on experience. Find out more here. Catering team leader at Wales & West Housing in Aberystwyth Job description: "As the Catering Team Leader, you'll be at the heart of our five Extra Care schemes, where we support residents to live independently. Each scheme boasts its own on-site restaurant, providing top-quality lunchtime catering. You'll play a crucial role in ensuring our residents enjoy delicious meals and excellent service every day. "We're seeking a dynamic and hands-on leader to support our Contracts Manager (Catering Services) in delivering exceptional lunchtime catering services. Your role will be to work with the teams across all five Extra Care schemes, either cooking or overseeing the kitchens to ensure food quality, service excellence, business continuity, and resident satisfaction. You'll be the driving force behind operational improvements and strong team relationships to deliver what matters to our residents." Salary and other details: £32,091-£35,543 a year. This is a permanent, full-time role. Click here for the full advert. Investigators for the Legal Ombudsman in Job description: "On a day-to-day basis as an Investigator, you will help us investigate cases where people feel they have been unfairly treated or received an improper service by the legal profession. "As the organisation that handles complaints about regulated legal services and professionals we tackle the most interesting variety of cases impacting on all aspects of legal service, from solicitors and lawyers to conveyancing. With these situations being central to everyday life, we are the teams that help resolve these complaints, ensuring a fair outcome for all, from an impartial ombudsman. "Understanding the complexities of each case, you will look for resolutions where suitable, and make recommendations on next steps. With the support of a Team Leader and your peers you will manage your caseloads. Reviewing evidence from each party, you will document your reasoning to explain how you have come to your conclusions, and you will refer cases to the Ombudsman where an informal agreement has not been reached. "You will combine excellent communication skills with the capacity to handle people when they are highly emotional, and you will be able to translate your findings into comprehensive insights. You will therefore be an articulate individual, with the confidence to come to succinct conclusions. "It is essential that you are an excellent planner and able to manage a large case holding of cases, a high level of IT skills using for example Word, Excel, Outlook and have clear communication skills both written and verbal, whilst being able to remain unbiased. "If you feel that your skills and experience match what we are looking for we would love to hear from you." Salary and other details: Pay is starting from £33,967 plus holiday allowance and pension scheme. This is a hybrid role that operates Monday to Friday. Timber sales and marketing officer at Natural Resources Wales, based in mid Wales Job description: "As a Timber Sales and Marketing Officer, you'll be at the forefront of a vital national programme that delivers sustainable timber from the Welsh Government Woodland Estate to the heart of the forest industry. "Focused on the Mid Wales region, this role combines commercial acumen with environmental stewardship. You'll lead on valuing timber parcels, preparing them for market, and managing the sales process through to contract award, all while ensuring health, safety and environmental standards are upheld. With around 750,000m³ of timber brought to market annually, your contribution will directly support the long-term resilience of Wales' woodland economy. "You'll work closely with the team and collaborate with forest operations colleagues, harvesting planners, and external customers to shape and deliver the timber sales programme. A key part of your role will involve engaging with timber processors, building strong, professional relationships to support successful contract delivery and championing compliance with protocols and governance. "This is a hands-on, field-based role that offers real variety - from inspecting timber on forest sites, to hosting customer meetings and contributing to strategic planning sessions. You'll represent Natural Resources Wales at stakeholder meetings and play a visible role in both shaping and delivering our marketing ambitions. "We're looking for someone who brings forestry knowledge, commercial awareness and excellent communication skills. Whether you're already working in timber sales or looking to step into a leadership role, this is your opportunity to make a tangible impact in a nationally significant programme - supporting both nature and industry across Wales. "As an organisation we support flexible working. You will be contracted to the nearest NRW office to your home and a suitable hybrid working pattern will be agreed on appointment. Any regular face to face meetings or training will be planned in advance." Salary and other details: £41,132-£44,988 a year for this role which is full-time and 37 hours per week (part-time, annualised hours, compressed hours, or term-time working considered with discussions at interview stage welcome). Find the full ad here. Team manager (p revention and resilient communities) at Newport City Council Job description: "Newport City Council has an exciting opportunity for an energetic and committed part time Team Manager to manage and lead the Preventions team alongside the current team manager 2 days a week contributing to the development and delivery of early intervention and preventative services. "Prevention and Inclusion is part of the social services directorate and a social work qualification is essential. "The post holder will need to work in partnership with external and internal providers and utilise citizen feedback to shape and contribute to wider service developments to create a joined up and seamless provision for the citizens of Newport. "You will have a proven track record in developing services, be passionate about supporting individuals early to prevent escalation of support needs, and believe that familes have strengths and resources to enable them to make positive choices. Applicants with experience or skills in managing change and who are keen to develop their management skills and abilities are sought. "We welcome applications from individuals with creativity in their work, some experience of managing a budget, applying for grants and an understanding and experience of how performance management and use of data can contribute to the success of a service. Safeguarding knowledge and utilisation of this is also vital. "The post will provide excellent opportunities for personal development and will join an experienced manager and management team in working towards making a difference for the people supported "You must be willing to work flexible hours and largely from community venues as the team provides support, when it is required to fulfil the objective of the plan even if this is outside traditional office hours." Salary and other details: £50,788-£54,069 a year pro rata but this is a part-time role across two days per week. You can find the full advert on the council's website. Wedding sales consultant at Plas Maenan Wedding venue in Conwy Job description: "Plas Maenan, a beautiful Edwardian Country House, set in the heart of the stunning Conwy Valley in picturesque North Wales, are looking for someone bright, bubbly, energetic and friendly to join our team as a Wedding Sales consultant. "We're proud to be one of the best exclusive use Wedding Venues in all of North Wales, reflected in our recent success at The Wedding Industry Awards, and our team are at the heart of everything we do - if you're looking to join our family and be a part of something great then we have the role for you! "As our Wedding Sales Consultant, you'll be the Cupid of Sales, charming couples and helping them say -'I do' to our venue. Your mission? To convert our leads into confirmed bookings, achieve sales targets, and establish lasting relationships with engaged couples." Salary and other details: Up to £60,000 a year based on commission pay and performance bonus, working either eight- or 10-hour shifts, with overtime opportunities available. The advert is here. Store manager at Superdrug Carmarthen Job description: "Our Store Managers go beyond just great management skills, they share their expertise and support their team to grow and develop. A strong focus on delivering a great customer experience whilst meeting targets and increasing sales (it doesn't hurt to beat the competition either). A passion for Beauty and Health products, Retail and Customer satisfaction alongside a sense of pride for every member of your team will be the foundation for all the success you and your team achieve. "If you like the sound of this, can see yourself managing and motivating others, then this job is for you." Salary and other details: Up to £33,475 per annum with a 39-hour working week. This is a full-time permanent role. Find the full advert here. Security team leader for the Welsh Parliament in Cardiff Job description: "The Senedd Security Service is committed to safeguarding everyone who visits or works at the Welsh Parliament, ensuring a secure and welcoming environment at all times. "As a Security Team Leader, you will play a vital role in supervising a dedicated team of security officers, maintaining the integrity and safety of the Senedd estate. Your professionalism will be key in delivering an exceptional customer experience, engaging diplomatically with staff and visitors from diverse backgrounds. Your responsibilities will include managing all access points to the Senedd Estate—conducting searches and screenings of visitors, vehicles, and designated areas to prevent or detect prohibited items. Additionally, you will oversee and participate in special events and operations to ensure the safety of VIP visitors. "You will also be tasked with planning and leading security patrols and operations, continuously monitoring and assessing their effectiveness to uphold the highest standards of security. "You will lead and oversee a team of security officers, providing guidance, support, motivation, and strong leadership to ensure operational excellence. "The ideal candidate will demonstrate a proactive willingness to learn, sound judgment, and exceptional teamwork and interpersonal skills. This is a uniformed position, and you will be required to wear body armor as part of your duties. Salary and other details: £30,870-£35,736 per year and a civil service pension with an employer contribution of 28.97%. This is a full-time post working a five-day week of 37 hours between 7am and 10pm. The days of work will vary and will include regular weekend and public and privilege holiday duties. Click here to apply. Fundraising manager for St Kentigern Hospice in St Asaph Job description: "To increase income by developing, managing and leading the Fundraising element of the Income Generation Department and contribute to the marketing and promotion of Income Generation activities as required. "To maximise Income Generation potential through fundraising activities across all income streams including corporate giving, gift aid, events, community and support groups, legacy giving and trusts. To increase representation and participation of donors within a defined geographical area. To maximise Income Generation in order to provide funds to maintain sustain and develop Hospice services. Article continues below "To generate income from all potential sources including: charitable trusts, the corporate sector, large scale events and major donors. Salary and other details: £33,000 per annum. Job based at the main St Kentigern Hospice site in St Asaph, Denbighshire. Click here to apply.
Powys County Times
a day ago
- Powys County Times
Powys: Fletcher Homes plan for 25 properties near Welshpool
An update may help to bring a new housing development near Welshpool to fruition, more than seven years since the original application was approved. The proposal for 25 homes on the outskirts of Middletown received outline planning permission in 2018, while reserved matters, which detail how the development might look, were submitted in February 2021. However, questions were raised over the second part of the proposal by officials in public rights of way, water drainage, highways, and the Welsh Government. In particular, there were concerns about the impact the site, adjacent to The Fron, would have on the A458, with the potential that traffic could back up from the site onto the trunk road. Earlier this year, Nigel Thorns Planning Consultancy, submitted an updated planning statement on behalf of applicants Fletcher Homes Ltd and E M & A R Paddock that "seeks to resolve any outstanding planning issues". Nigel Thorns noted that the update was "a significant amount of information to digest." He added: "It is our view that there are no outstanding issues raised by any of the internal or external consultees and all detailed matters are deemed acceptable. "In addition, there have been no objections from any members of the public. "If there is any concern regarding the layout or design of the scheme in planning terms, or there are any other issues raised, then we would appreciate an opportunity to review these points in line with Planning Policy Wales." Since then, responses have come back from the Welsh Government, which removed its holding direction for the proposal, while the local county councillor, Amanda Jenner, has cancelled her request to call in the application. If approved, the development will feature two, three, four and five-bedroom homes, and would include an attenuation pond in the centre. It would also create off-road parking and a pedestrian footpath for the neighbouring All Saints Church.
Pembrokeshire Herald
a day ago
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Cabinet approves transport strategy wish list
PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL'S Cabinet has endorsed a Regional Transport Strategy that relies on Welsh Government funding of £125m over the next five years. However, the plan also relies on the Council spending other money allocated to it by the Welsh Government to pay for the delivery of Welsh Government as well as local priorities. Based on comparisons between similar projects, the low end of the cost of delivering the Pembrokeshire-only projects will be at least £66m. That suggests that not only will all the projects not come to fruition in the plan period but also indicates that the Welsh Government funding allocation to them underestimates the cost of delivering the majority, if not all, of the projects. If the strategy's budget is fantasy, the prospects of delivering all of it are even more fanciful. The projects in the strategy read like a Guardian reader's wishlist instead of something grounded in local needs. ACTIVE TRAVEL SCHEMES DOMINATE The thirty-plus projects located solely in Pembrokeshire include fifteen schemes solely dedicated to active travel or which incorporate active travel as part of them. In context, and based on the cost of delivering similar schemes, the low-end estimate for 'active travel' schemes alone is around £22m. 'Active Travel' under the Welsh Government's Active Travel Act refers to efforts to reduce the use of cars for everyday journeys, such as commuting and education. Active travel schemes create infrastructure which supports walking, cycling, and wheeling (e.g., wheelchairs, mobility scooters). Those schemes work well in urban areas. However, in rural areas with dispersed working populations, such as Pembrokeshire, their impact is less beneficial. The now-former Welsh Government minister Lee Waters got an earful from Plaid Cymru and fringe environmental groups (mostly funded by the Welsh Government) when he dared say that cars would continue to be the primary mode of transportation in rural Wales. If an MS from Dolgellau can use an e-scooter to get the mile and a half from their taxpayer-funded flat in Cardiff to the Senedd, there's evidently no reason why commuters between Fishguard and Haverfordwest can't do the same. The active travel schemes planned for Pembrokeshire include a Multi-User Route from Narberth to Haverfordwest, an active travel route from Pembroke Dock to Pennar, one from Pembroke to Angle, six schemes in and around Tenby, and an expansion of the County Council's e-bike scheme. BIG TICKET SPENDING The big spending item is the relocation of the A487 at Newgale. That project has been on the cards for fourteen years, if not longer. It forms part of the Welsh Government's regional transport strategy as a permanent solution to the challenge of coastal erosion and the increased risks of tidal and pluvial flooding, standing against less certain and temporary interventions to hold the existing line. As it is part of the Regional Strategy, it will be predominantly funded by the Welsh Government through project-specific grants, in the same way as the preliminary investigations and public engagement. The plan will funnel transport funding towards supporting the Celtic Sea Freeport. Its backers hope the Freeport's economic impact will be positive and spread across the Freeport area. However, the existing transport infrastructure for it is a bad joke. Addressing its shortcomings is a major component of the Regional Transport Strategy. Setting aside projects scheduled for Neath Port Talbot, millions of pounds are projected to be spent on hydrogen fuel infrastructure and green/blue energy grid improvements. However, one project guaranteed to cause controversy seeks to increase road capacity and flow through Pembroke to support increased traffic from the Celtic Freeport development in the Angle Peninsula. Bearing in mind obvious geographical and logistical constraints and its need to cross conservation areas and sensitive landscapes within the National Park, any road expansion (there's also an active travel route planned) will likely cause uproar and cost tens of millions to deliver. That is, however, a long-term project. MORE TRANSPORT HUBS In the medium term, the Regional Strategy looks at a multi-million-pound project to improve roads between Haverfordwest and Milford Haven. That scheme looks to address congestion between the county town and the centre of Freeport operations in Pembrokeshire. Again, geographical and logistical issues suggest that the project will find it difficult to do much more than put lipstick on a pig. If, however, the scheme manages to resolve the congestion hotspots at Cartlett, Salutation Square (subject to a separate congestion-easing plan), Freemen's Way, and Johnston as far as the Sunnycroft Roundabout, it will doubtless be welcomed by commuters. And, if you thought one transport hub was a bad idea, there's more to come – from the Milford Haven transport interchange to one planned for Pembroke Dock, improved access to Fishguard's ferry port, and a host of other projects that will connect Pembrokeshire's public transport network, as the plan puts it poetically 'ensuring better multimodal connectivity'. Given the almost certain budget problems which these projects will encounter and, therefore, cause the County Council when it comes to setting its budgets, ensuring Pembrokeshire gets what it needs to improve the local economy instead of what the Welsh Government thinks it ought to have will be a major source of tension and contention. If half of the plan is delivered on time, on budget, and within the Welsh Government's funding envelope, its effects will be limited – as we will all have pigs to fly around on.
