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Wales Online
3 hours ago
- General
- Wales Online
Popular garden centre targeted by thieves in repeated break-ins
Popular garden centre targeted by thieves in repeated break-ins Officers believe that the same group of people have broken into the garden centre on multiple occasions There have been three thefts from Pugh's Garden Village in recent weeks (Image: Richard Swingler ) A popular garden centre has been targeted by a string of break-ins in which hundreds of pounds worth of goods have been stolen, police have said. Officers are investigating three thefts from Pugh's Garden Village in Radyr, Cardiff, in the last four weeks. Police believe that the same group of people are responsible for the thefts. Items taken from the garden centre include plants, compost, and hosepipes. As well as the Radyr store Pugh's Garden Village has a site in Wenvoe in the Vale of Glamorgan. Never miss a Cardiff story by signing up to our daily newsletter here. The garden centres have become famous for their Christmas shops which get more popular year on year. A statement from South Wales Police reads: "South Wales Police is investigating three thefts from Pugh's Garden Centre in the last four weeks. Article continues below "The same group of people are believed to be responsible for stealing hundreds of pounds worth of items including plants, compost, and hosepipes. "We recognise that being a victim of burglary is traumatic, whether it's your home, business, or workplace, and we are making extensive inquiries to identify the thieves. "We also people to be vigilant of anyone seen hanging around businesses or retail premises during the early hours of the morning. Article continues below "If anyone is seen acting suspiciously please call police immediately on 999."
Wales Online
3 days ago
- Wales Online
Homes evacuated as bomb squad called to estate
Homes evacuated as bomb squad called to estate Specialist personnel were called after a 'suspicious device' was found in a garden Police and the army both attended the scene (Image: Richard Swingler ) Residents were evacuated in a Welsh estate as a bomb disposal unit was called in to deal with a "suspicious device" found in a garden. Specialist trained personnel from the army's explosive ordnance disposal unit attended the scene near Rhys Road in Blackwood. They were joined at the scene by Gwent Police at around 11.50am on Sunday, June 1. The device was examined and destroyed near the scene by the army. Police say a cordon was put in place as a precaution. Images from the scene show police vehicles and officers on a back lane near the garden where the device was found, as well as police tape in the area. An area was cordoned off (Image: Richard Swingler ) A spokeswoman for Gwent Police said: "We were called at around 11.50am on Sunday, June 1 after a suspicious device was found in a garden near Rhys Road, Blackwood. "Specialist trained personnel from the army's explosive ordnance disposal unit (EOD) attended to assist our officers with the examination and disposal of the object. "Nearby houses were evacuated and cordon put in place as a preliminary caution. "The suspicious device was destroyed near the scene by the army's explosive ordnance disposal unit." Article continues below
Wales Online
3 days ago
- Sport
- Wales Online
England flags and hats spotted in Cardiff as hundreds flock to city
England flags and hats spotted in Cardiff as hundreds flock to city Merchandise is being sold in the city centre with hundreds seen waiting in queues Merchandise is sold at Cathedral Road in Cardiff as the English flag waves in the air (Image: Richard Swingler ) Seeing English flags waving in the air in Wales is a rare sight. But that is the scene in Cardiff today as England take on the West Indies in the men's one day international cricket series. Hundreds were pictured flocking to Sophia Gardens this afternoon to watch the second ODI. Merchandise is being sold on Cathedral Road outside the cricket ground, including England hats and flags as fans make their way in to watch the game. The game marks the first time that West Indies have headed to England and Wales for a white-ball series since 2017. Fans could earlier be seen queuing outside the ground with some still waiting to get in as of the 11am start time, though the crowds have since dispersed. Fans queue to get into the game (Image: Richard Swingler ) Speaking ahead of the event, chief executive officer at Glamorgan Cricket, Dan Cherry, said: 'We always look forward to announcing our International fixtures each year and are proud to be hosting South Africa and West Indies in 2025. Article continues below 'It will be fantastic to welcome the West Indies back to Sophia Gardens after eight years and will allow us to continue our excellent relationship which strengthened in the 1990s due to the great Viv Richards representing Glamorgan with great distinction." There was a significant wait (Image: Richard Swingler )
Wales Online
26-05-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Wales' most expensive and cheapest seaside towns named
Wales' most expensive and cheapest seaside towns named Britain's most expensive seaside locations have been named with house prices under half a million, new research from Lloyds bank has found Bracelet Bay beach in Mumbles provides for the perfect weekend getaway (Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne ) With its several beautiful beaches that provide ample opportunities, for nice day of relaxation, Mumbles has been named as the most expensive seaside location in the whole of Wales. Analysis by the Lloyds Bank has put forward a list of most expensive seaside locations throughout the UK, and while it is Sandbanks in Dorset that has taken the top spot, there are some Welsh contenders to the title. It is important to note, however, that even though Mumbles is the most expensive coastal town in Wales, average house prices in the area are not even half of what it costs in the most expensive location across the UK, which is Sandbanks. Across the UK, the average cost of a seaside home was £295,991 last year – a 1% decrease compared to 2023, according to Lloyds. The Langland Bay beach in Mumbles is frequent visit for locals (Image: Richard Swingler ) The Lloyds Coastal Homes Review monitored house price trends in 197 coastal areas. Despite the slight dip, prices in coastal towns have risen nearly a fifth (18%) over the five years from 2019, the bank reported. Homebuyers could snap up about nine properties in the most affordable seaside spot listed by Lloyds, with average house prices, for the price of a single home in Sandbanks. Love dreamy Welsh homes? Sign up to our newsletter here Article continues below Lloyds based their research on data from the Land Registry and the Registers of Scotland. The most expensive seaside locations across Wales, with their average house prices, are Mumbles at £417,043 and Prestatyn is the cheapest at £192,331, according to the Llyods Bank. With its golden sands and reputation for luxury living, Sandbanks in Dorset was named as the UK's priciest seaside spot. Those looking to relocate to Sandbanks will typically find little change from £1 million, with the average house price standing at £965,708 last year, according to Lloyds Bank. Locals make full use of the Sandbanks beach in the summer (Image: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire ) Despite a 3% decrease, or £33,595, compared to 2023, Sandbanks still tops Lloyds' coastal property league, which is predominantly made up of locations in the South West of England. Sandbanks is famed for its celebrity residents, high-end dining options and vibrant nightlife. Salcombe in Devon, known for its art galleries and boutique shops, ranks second on Lloyds' list, with an average house price of £826,159 in 2024. Cornwall's culinary haven, Padstow, comes in third, with buyers shelling out an average of £715,974 to reside there and savour the allure of its harbour and seafood offerings daily. Aldeburgh in Suffolk, celebrated for its arts scene and architecture, is fourth, with an average house price of £619,693. Here are the UK's priciest seaside spots, complete with average house prices for 2024:. Sandbanks, South West, £965,708 Salcombe, South West, £826,159 Padstow, South West, £715,974 Aldeburgh, East of England, £619,693 Lymington, South East, £608,253 St Mawes, South West, £552,198 Lyme Regis, South West, £531,815 Budleigh Salterton, South West, £496,998. Dartmouth, South West, £495,643 Kingsbridge, South West, £484,986 Those in search of an affordable seaside abode might consider Campbeltown, located on the picturesque Kintyre Peninsula in Argyll and Bute, which boasts an average house price of £103,078. Newcomers to the area can savour a glass of the local whisky to celebrate their property purchase. Other coastal regions ranking on the more budget-friendly side for property buyers include Rothesay on the Isle of Bute (with an average house price of £111,764), Millport on Great Cumbrae (£114,008), and Port Bannatyne, also on Bute (£115,421). Amanda Bryden, Lloyds' mortgage chief, commented: "Coastal living continues to hold a special appeal – whether it's the lure of sea views, sandy beaches, or a slower pace of life. "Our latest research shows the most exclusive seaside spots – like Sandbanks – still command premium prices. "In some of the UK's most desirable coastal towns, average prices have dipped slightly over the past year. But, over the longer term, values remain significantly higher – especially in the South West, where demand from lifestyle movers continues to shape the market. "At the other end of the scale, there are still pockets of real affordability – particularly in Scotland, where buyers can find coastal homes for a fraction of the price. For those willing to look beyond the traditional hotspots, there are some hidden gems offering great value and a strong sense of community. "It's also important to recognise that not all coastal areas share the same fortunes. Some seaside towns face significant challenges, from seasonal economies to a lack of affordable housing for local people." Here's the roundup of Britain's most affordable seaside locations for 2024, as listed by Lloyds: Campbeltown, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, £103,078. Rothesay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, £111,764. Millport, North Ayrshire, Scotland, £114,008. Port Bannatyne, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, £115,421. Girvan, South Ayrshire, Scotland, £116,211. Greenock, Inverclyde, Scotland, £117,751. Ardrossan, North Ayrshire Scotland, £124,532. Wick, Highlands, Scotland, £126,708. Stranraer, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, £128,888. Saltcoats, North Ayrshire, Scotland, £129,194. Here are the least expensive coastal locations in England and Wales, according to Lloyds, with average house prices in 2024: Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, North East, £132,863. Fleetwood, North West, £146,338. Blackpool, North West, £146,764. Withernsea, Yorkshire and the Humber, £148,402. Maryport, North West, £153,243. Seaham, North East, £157,100. Blyth, North East, £158,265. Hartlepool, North East, £158,271. Cleethorpes, Yorkshire and the Humber, £166,909. Whitehaven, North West, £170,673. Here are the most and least expensive coastal locations in each region or nation, according to Lloyds, with average house prices in 2024: East Midlands Chapel St Leonards, £214,802. Skegness, £202,559. East of England Aldeburgh, £619,693 Lowestoft, £238,372 North East Whitley Bay, £310,918 Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, £132,863 North West Grange-over-Sands, £308,419 Fleetwood, £146,338 Scotland St Andrews, Fife, £458,381. Campbeltown, Argyll and Bute, £103,078. South East Lymington, £608,253 East Cowes, £239,605 South West Sandbanks, £965,708. Plymouth, £248,668. Article continues below Yorkshire and the Humber Whitby/Robin Hood's Bay, £299,161 Withernsea, £148,402
Wales Online
21-05-2025
- Wales Online
Landmark former hotel 'most at risk' building in Wales
Landmark former hotel 'most at risk' building in Wales The Victorian Society have released their most endangered buildings of 2025 and this semi-derelict former beauty is on it Marine Building, former Marine Hotel at the end of Penarth Marina (Image: Richard Swingler ) One of Wales' most historic buildings listed has been added to The Victorian Society's "most at risk" buildings register for 2025. The former Marine Building also known as the Marine Hotel, which is Cadw listed is located in a prime position overlooking Cardiff Bay and adjacent to the barrage lock gates, at the very end of Penarth Marina. Every year the heritage preservation society produces a list of the buildings in England and Wales it considers most in need of rescuing, chosen because they are at high risk of being demolished, falling into disrepair or suffering significant damage. The Marine Hotel has been rightly added to the list as it is an extremely run down state. It has lain empty for over 40 years and is now in serious need of attention. For more property stories sent to your inbox twice a week sign up to the property newsletter here. READ MORE: Stunning designer home with incredible sea views and a brilliant surprise in the garden YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The 18-year epic renovation project by Griff Rhys Jones that turned a derelict farm into dream properties Article continues below Dating back to around 1865 and boasting a grand French-renaissance style façade possibly designed by architect Samuel Dobson. The building was awarded its Grade II listed status by Cadw in 1986 for its group value with the next door Custom House. With the construction of Penarth docks from 1865, Penarth flourished not only as a centre for coal exportation but as a popular and genteel Victorian seaside town, resulting in numerous grand buildings appearing including the Marine Hotel and Customs Office, which formed part of the Mercantile Marine Offices. Redevelopment of Penarth docks began in the 1980s (Image: Seabreeze Homes, Penarth ) Likely constructed by the Taff Vale Railway - its monogram is still visible - the Marine Hotel was among several grand establishments serving both dock workers and tourists and included the Esplanade Hotel, Royal Hotel, Washington Hotel, Glendale, and Lansdowne. The building is said to have played a pivotal role in the town's industrial and social history and likely served in WWII when the docks became an American naval base supporting the D-Day landings. The building went on to be used as apartments and offices during its later use. But while the disused dock was redeveloped from 1987 into Penarth Marina boasting docks, moorings and homes, the Marine Building remained empty and now, decades later, is only home to foliage, birds and wildlife, with numerous floors collapsing as a result of the state of the roof - all of which can be seen just be strolling past it. The rundown building is owned by the family who own and operate The Custom House restaurant next door (Image: Google street view ) In 2001 the Marine Building was acquired by Cardiff restaurateur the late Martin Martinez who owned the adjoining Custom House and restaurant. In 2015 WalesOnline reported that the family had submitted restoration plans worth £6m to Vale of Glamorgan Council in a bid to transform the empty building, creating a boutique hotel with 55 four-star rooms and a 100-seater cafeteria-wine bar overlooking the marina. Nataniel Martinez, Director of The Custom House, commented at the time: "Now the plan is to develop the adjoining site. With planning permission due to expire in 2017 we would work to commence in 2016 but at the moment we require extra funding which we hope will be in place by then. The development will take two years and be completed by 2018." Read more of that 2015 article here. At that time Vale of Glamorgan County Council had granted planning for the building to be including a rear extension and retaining the historic façade and a catch up of progress in 2023 saw both sides of the story keen for the building to be saved but with funding the main challenge. The building has been empty for over 40 years and for sale for four with E J Hales for £2,250,000 (Image: Mirrorpix ) A Vale of Glamorgan Council spokesperson said at the time the local authority was "keen to get the building back into use" and officers had been working with the owners towards that aim. But fast forward to 2025 and there's only one change to the façade - the addition of a for sale sign because the building has been on the market for over four years and is currently for sale with E J Hales for £2,250,000 with a member of staff telling WalesOnline there had been "little interest" so far. Now The Victorian Society has added its voice to the call to save the historic building as it deteriorates further. Griff Rhys Jones, Victorian Society President said: "What? In posh and sought-after Penarth? This handsome hotel seeks care and attention? After failed schemes and stop- start suggestions, buildings do start to look tired, and developers start looking for excuses, but some enterprise must surely recognise the value in this elegant building and its amenities. Griff Rhys Jones, president of The Victorian Society, in Pembrokeshire where he has restored and saved a hamlet of historic buildings (Image: Griff Rhys Jones ) "A classic case of added value in the heritage building itself, with history and glamour thrown in. We are pleased to help advertise its availability for a sensitive restoration to its former glory." James Hughes, director at The Victorian Society, said: "The Marine Hotel is an irreplaceable link to Penarth's proud dockside past. After four decades of decay, this sale is a last chance to bring the building back from the brink and give it the future it deserves." Griff adds an extra layer of reasons why buildings, such as the Marine Hotel should be saved for everyone's benefit. He says: "I also think that it's really important for people to realise putting up a new building is a hugely carbon dense operation and recycling our rubbish, putting things into five different bags and boxes, is at the top of our every day agenda, it should be at the top of the agenda in buildings too. "It's not about the past, it is entirely about the future. We don't want generations to come to say 'what happened to that beautiful building or town?' - we want to make our towns and cities places worthwhile to visit, to be in, to live in - that's the future and saving buildings like Marine Hotel is at the core of it. "Of course it is about investment but it's investment for the future, so what I'd also say is the more that we can say as a group the more is achieved, so I'd say j oin The Victorian Society, join your local amenities society - we particularly need more young people expressing their beliefs in the qualities of the character of these heritage buildings because it gives it a voice for the future, one that can't be ignored by politicians as a voice that doesn't count." The Victorian Society's Top 10 Endangered Buildings 2025 Marine Hotel, Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan Bosworth Park Water Tower, Market Bosworth, Leicestershire Torquay Pavilion, Torquay, Devon Birley Spa, Hackenthorpe, Sheffield 33 – 39 St James Street, King's Lynn, Norfolk Former Methodist Central Hall, Corporation St, Birmingham Gibson Street Baths, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Aldermaston Court, Aldermaston, Berkshire Edgerton Cemetery Chapel, Huddersfield Gwalia Villa, West Derby, Liverpool The Victorian Society is not the only heritage charity keen to see the Marine Building be rescued and restored, as it is also currently featured on the Save Britain's Heritage website. Liz Fuller, buildings at risk officer, told WalesOnline in December 2024 that the charity is also trying to raise the building's profile because it is "incredibly important and worthwhile". She said: "Even in its currently dilapidated state Penarth's Marine Building has unmistakable architectural elegance and drama. Buildings of this history, quality, and design give places identity and interest for both locals and visitors alike. Their sensitive and imaginative rescue has the potential to spark exponential benefits, restoring to use an important element of the community's history and bringing new visitors and new revenue to the area." For more homes and property television stories join our Amazing Welsh Homes Facebook group here. Article continues below Find your own property, maybe even a big renovation project, for sale here:
