Latest news with #CardiffCapitalRegion
Wales Online
2 days ago
- Business
- Wales Online
Regional body's bungled handling of contract will cost the taxpayer £5.25m
Regional body's bungled handling of contract will cost the taxpayer £5.25m An independent investigation has been launched how the Cardiff Capital Region handed the process Aberthaw Power Station (Image: John Myers ) Taxpayers will have to pay £5.25m bill after a regional body responsible for handling the Cardiff City Deal bungled the awarding of a demolition contract for Aberthaw power station. The Cardiff Capital Region, a public body which was set up to invest more than £500m in the south Wales as part of the 2016 City Deal, was taken to court over how it awarded a demolition contract for Aberthaw power station, the disused power station it controversially bought from energy giant RWE. The body, which represents 10 councils, lost a high-court legal challenge brought by a losing bidder, Brown and Mason Group, which concluded in February. The former coal-powered station was acquired for £8m by the city region in 2022, with contractors Erith beginning demolition work last year. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here Today, the region's chair Mary Ann Brocklesby gave an update to the Senedd, telling the economy committee that a settlement of £5.25m had been agreed. Brown and Mason had previously said they were seeking £10m. "I'm not able to say much more at this point because we are undergoing an independent review which we commissioned as political leaders to set in train precisely at the point that we knew we were going through a legal process," she said. Article continues below Cllr Brocklesby said: "We had to wait until that legal process was over before that independent review could start. "We are awaiting the findings which – subject to legal caveats – we will be making public." Kellie Beirne, chief executive of the south-east Wales c orporate joint committee and Cardiff Capital Region, said: "We're taking this extremely seriously, we recognise the gravity of it and again yes, [it's] something that we don't come and report. "Apologies again for the short notice but we had clearance, we briefed our internal stakeholders and we felt it important to be as transparent as we possibly could by conveying that this morning at this committee." She said a full independent review has been ordered. "When that review concludes and we have findings, we'll be able to be much more open about what happened and take steps to ensure that this can't happen again," she said. Asked whether the court case has impinged on work at the 500-acre site, Cllr Brocklesby insisted: "No, it continues at pace." Conservative MS Andrew RT Davies said: "When you came before this committee in September 2023, Kellie you said that £40m is but a drop in the ocean. "I think the words you used were hundreds of millions of pounds will be required. Obviously, this court case has not helped instil confidence in the private sector in coming on board as partners… so, how are you progressing in that goal?" Cllr Brocklesby replied: "Let's look at the wider ecosystem of CCR: one of the absolute strengths of it is that we have people across the region who are highly valued within their own sectors… who are highly respected not just in Wales but globally." "In terms of the future of Aberthaw, it does actually look very bright and we're not feeling any effects from the impacts of this highly regrettable procurement issue." Article continues below Ms Beirne said Cardiff Capital Region does not have deep enough pockets for what Aberthawr requires following the initial demolition and remediation phase.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Anger and worries over plans for battery gigafactory near Newport
Plans to turn the old Uskmouth B power station in Newport into a major battery storage site have sparked heated debate among residents. The former coal-fired station, located south of the city near Nash, is set for a major transformation. Developers Simec Atlantis Energy and the Cardiff Capital Region announced an £8.5 million loan on top of £56.5 million private investment. They say the battery site could create more than 500 jobs and boost Newport's economy, while helping the city meet climate targets. Read more New £100 million centre could create 750 jobs in city Business to expand after successful first year in Caerphilly Construction firm helps save 20 tonnes of carbon by donating surplus materials But many local people are far from convinced. The project has faced a strong backlash online, with concerns about jobs, environmental impact, and safety risks dominating the discussion. On Facebook, Karen Fulker said: "They will be jobs for European workers as the energy companies bring them over. Fires are a serious concern with these facilities and becoming more and more common . Sadly all of the green land surrounding this , writhing cabling distance, will be covered in solar power stations. "There are many applications already in on the Gwent Levels and SSSI , destroying wildlife and habitat forever . We need renewable energy but not at these huge costs , the right thing in the right places . "The hundreds of jobs that COULD be created will not be for local people . This government is hell bent on trying to meet net zero at any cost , Welsh Government legislation recently released states that SSSI , arable land and the Gwent Levels must be protected so which is it?" Others are worried about the risks of battery technology. One person said: "Battery energy storage systems can pose significant risks, including: "1. Toxic Emissions: Fires can release harmful gases and pollutants, endangering the health of nearby residents and first responders. "2. Environmental Contamination: The materials in batteries can leak into the environment, contaminating soil and water sources and causing long-term ecological damage. "3. Thermal Runaway: A failure in one battery cell can lead to thermal runaway, potentially igniting nearby cells and resulting in uncontrollable fires. "4. Infrastructure Damage: Fires can cause extensive damage to the facility and surrounding infrastructure, leading to costly repairs and disruptions in energy supply. "These risks highlight the need for stringent safety measures in the operation of battery energy storage systems" Flood risk was another concern. One person noted: "Since Newport is going to become one of the largest BESS [Battery Energy Storage System] companies in the UK, it sounds as though we're the experiment for the overall safety of these systems. "Also, it's based near the sea, on flood plains! Water moisture can enter a BESS (Battery Energy Storage System), and it can pose significant risks, including corrosion, increased fire hazard, and reduced battery lifespan. "BESS containers are designed to be water-resistant, but complete waterproofing is not always achievable, and certain conditions can allow moisture to penetrate." "Personally, I wouldn't feel comfortable living nearby, as the challenges involved in extinguishing a battery storage fire is very difficult." Not everyone is against the idea. Stephen Christopher Bush said: "If we don't invest in technology like this, the Gwent levels we be destroyed by global warming." Boy Neath echoed environmental concerns, saying protecting wildlife should come first. However, some remain deeply sceptical about the technology. Another said: "It is technically impossible to store meaningful amounts of electricity in batteries. "Thus, the entire project is mainstream window dressing to make people believe that switching off all carbon-based power sources would be feasible without serious human casualties. "In short, this project is more madness of the 'green' agenda." The debate shows no sign of cooling, as the city weighs the future of its industrial past and its green ambitions.
South Wales Argus
28-05-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Newport: Uskmouth B power station battery project debate
The former coal-fired station, located south of the city near Nash, is set for a major transformation. Developers Simec Atlantis Energy and the Cardiff Capital Region announced an £8.5 million loan on top of £56.5 million private investment. They say the battery site could create more than 500 jobs and boost Newport's economy, while helping the city meet climate targets. But many local people are far from convinced. The project has faced a strong backlash online, with concerns about jobs, environmental impact, and safety risks dominating the discussion. On Facebook, Karen Fulker said: "They will be jobs for European workers as the energy companies bring them over. Fires are a serious concern with these facilities and becoming more and more common . Sadly all of the green land surrounding this , writhing cabling distance, will be covered in solar power stations. "There are many applications already in on the Gwent Levels and SSSI , destroying wildlife and habitat forever . We need renewable energy but not at these huge costs , the right thing in the right places . "The hundreds of jobs that COULD be created will not be for local people . This government is hell bent on trying to meet net zero at any cost , Welsh Government legislation recently released states that SSSI , arable land and the Gwent Levels must be protected so which is it?" Others are worried about the risks of battery technology. One person said: "Battery energy storage systems can pose significant risks, including: "1. Toxic Emissions: Fires can release harmful gases and pollutants, endangering the health of nearby residents and first responders. "2. Environmental Contamination: The materials in batteries can leak into the environment, contaminating soil and water sources and causing long-term ecological damage. "3. Thermal Runaway: A failure in one battery cell can lead to thermal runaway, potentially igniting nearby cells and resulting in uncontrollable fires. "4. Infrastructure Damage: Fires can cause extensive damage to the facility and surrounding infrastructure, leading to costly repairs and disruptions in energy supply. "These risks highlight the need for stringent safety measures in the operation of battery energy storage systems" Flood risk was another concern. One person noted: "Since Newport is going to become one of the largest BESS [Battery Energy Storage System] companies in the UK, it sounds as though we're the experiment for the overall safety of these systems. "Also, it's based near the sea, on flood plains! Water moisture can enter a BESS (Battery Energy Storage System), and it can pose significant risks, including corrosion, increased fire hazard, and reduced battery lifespan. "BESS containers are designed to be water-resistant, but complete waterproofing is not always achievable, and certain conditions can allow moisture to penetrate." "Personally, I wouldn't feel comfortable living nearby, as the challenges involved in extinguishing a battery storage fire is very difficult." Not everyone is against the idea. Stephen Christopher Bush said: "If we don't invest in technology like this, the Gwent levels we be destroyed by global warming." Boy Neath echoed environmental concerns, saying protecting wildlife should come first. However, some remain deeply sceptical about the technology. Another said: "It is technically impossible to store meaningful amounts of electricity in batteries. "Thus, the entire project is mainstream window dressing to make people believe that switching off all carbon-based power sources would be feasible without serious human casualties. "In short, this project is more madness of the 'green' agenda." The debate shows no sign of cooling, as the city weighs the future of its industrial past and its green ambitions.
Wales Online
24-05-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Campaign for Severn tidal lagoon continues despite losing UK Government funding
Campaign for Severn tidal lagoon continues despite losing UK Government funding A report in March called for the UK and Welsh Governments to support the new scheme The M48 Severn Bridge (Image: Local Democracy Reporting Service ) A campaign in support of a tidal lagoon to generate energy from the Severn Estuary will continue despite the organisation behind it losing its UK Government funding. The Severn Estuary Commission published a document in March advocating for a tidal lagoon. The report urged both the UK and Welsh governments to back the project, which would be smaller than a previously rejected barrage spanning the Severn. The Cardiff Capital Region, representing the 10 local authorities in South East Wales, and the West of England Combined Authority will now collaborate on the proposal. The commission was previously hosted by the Western Gateway Partnership, which united 28 councils from Pembrokeshire to Swindon and Salisbury with businesses to focus on economic development. However, this partnership is set to formally disband in June. Initially formed as a collaboration between Cardiff, Newport and Bristol councils in 2016, the partnership expanded and received UK Government support from 2019. However, the Labour government announced in its October budget that it would withdraw core funding for what were known as pan regional partnerships. Instead, it wants the new system of elected mayors in England to take up their work. Article continues below Monmouthshire County Council leader Mary Ann Brocklesby stated that while the council wasn't directly involved in the partnership, it was represented through the Cardiff Capital Region, which she chairs. She informed councillors that collaboration with English councils on economic development, including initiatives proposed by the Severn Estuary Commission, will persist. She remarked: "While the decision can be seen as disappointing it has not impacted the commitment of local authorities or other bodies on both sides of the border to continue to work together on projects that jointly benefit all our communities and businesses. "Particularly, the Severn Estuary Commission's suggestion, under the auspices of the Western Gateway Partnership, to capitalise on the tidal energy of the Severn, will be pursued in partnership by the Cardiff Capital Region and the West of England Combined Authority." She mentioned that a memorandum of understanding is being prepared for a formal partnership between the West of England Combined Authority and the Cardiff Capital Region, with shared goals of enhancing transport connections and seeking avenues for "green, sustainable growth." Labour Councillor Brocklesby revealed she has reached out to Helen Godwin, who was recently elected Labour's West of England mayor, and looks forward to meeting her. She also has engagements lined up with Jo Stevens, the UK Government's Welsh Secretary, as well as discussions with the Welsh Government and plans to meet Monmouth Labour MP Catherine Fookes. Article continues below She highlighted that the council engages with both governments to ensure Monmouthshire reaps the benefits from their respective "growth agendas", while she has also presented evidence before a Westminster select committee. Conservative councillor for Llanfoist and Govilon, Tomos Davies, questioning the UK Government's move to cut funding for a key partnership, inquired whether Cllr Brocklesby would "use her position to hold her Labour UK Government colleagues to account and ensure its devolution and growth agenda benefits the whole of the UK and doesn't abruptly stop at the Severn Bridge." He further pressed Cllr Brocklesby on how she intended to champion "further and deeper cross-border economic partnerships."
South Wales Argus
23-05-2025
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Tidal lagoon support from Cardiff Capital Region and WECA
A document calling for a tidal lagoon was published in March by the Severn Estuary Commission in a report that called for the UK and Welsh governments to support the project which would be smaller than a barrage spanning the Severn which it rejected. The Cardiff Capital Region, that represents the 10 local authorities in South East Wales, and the West of England Combined Authority will now work together on the proposal. The commission had been hosted by the Western Gateway Partnership, that brought together 28 councils from Pembrokeshire to Swindon and Salisbury with businesses, to work together on economic development but is formally disbanding in June. The partnership was first formed as a collaboration between Cardiff, Newport and Bristol councils in 2016 before expanding and receiving UK Government support from 2019. But the Labour government announced in its October budget it would withdraw core funding for what were known as pan regional partnerships and wanted the new system of elected mayors in England to take up their work instead. Monmouthshire County Council leader Mary Ann Brocklesby said the council wasn't directly involved in the partnership but represented through the Cardiff Capital Region that she chairs. She told councillors work with English councils on economic development, including the proposals put forward by the Severn Estuary Commission, will continue. She said: 'While the decision can be seen as disappointing it has not impacted the commitment of local authorities or other bodies on both sides of the border to continue to work together on projects that jointly benefit all our communities and businesses. 'Notably the recommendation of the Severn Estuary Commission, hosted by the Western Gateway Partnership, to harness the tidal power of the Severn will be taken forward jointly by the Cardiff Capital Region and the West of England Combined Authority.' She said a memorandum of understanding for a formal partnership between the West of England Combined Authority and the Cardiff Capital Region is being drafted and they share interests of improving transport links and exploring opportunities of 'green, sustainable growth.' Labour's Cllr Brocklesby said she has already written to Helen Godwin, who was elected as Labour's West of England mayor earlier this month, and is due to meet with her and also has a meeting planned with the UK Government's Welsh Secretary, Jo Stevens, as well as with the Welsh Government and meets with Monmouth Labour MP Catherine Fookes. She said the council works with both governments so Monmouthshire can benefit from their 'growth agendas' while she has also given evidence to a Westminster select committee. Conservative councillor for Llanfoist and Govilon Tomos Davies, who had asked for a statement on the UK Government's decision to withdraw the partnership's funding, asked if Cllr Brocklesby would 'use her position to hold her Labour UK Government colleagues to account and ensure its devolution and growth agenda benefits the whole of the UK and doesn't abruptly stop at the Severn Bridge.' He also wanted to know how Cllr Brocklesby would advocate for 'further and deeper cross-border economic partnerships.'
