Contractor Bouygues UK, which is building zone 1 of Llanelli’s Pentre Awel development known as ‘Canolfan’, has worked with sub-contractors and its supply chain to achieve net zero on the construction project.
This includes a more than 90% reduction on direct emissions of all fuels on the site as well as a 10% reduction in waste production, and energy and water consumption. Since the start of the project more than 450 tonnes of carbon emissions have been saved thanks to the initiative.
By implementing energy, waste and resource-saving initiatives, including adopting sustainably-certified hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as a fuel, as well as sourcing recycled and green materials, the project has reached the milestone of being net zero.
Canolfan Pentre Awel is a multi-million-pound development which will bring together life science and business innovation, community healthcare and modern leisure facilities at the 83-acre Delta Lakes site on the Llanelli coastline. It is part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal, which is contributing £40 million, and is the largest regeneration scheme in south west Wales.
Due to the reduction in emissions from the use of HVO at Pentre Awel, Bouygues UK has made the commitment that all of its building sites across the UK will be powered by HVO. Its procured HVO fuel has received ISCC certification due to its traceable and deforestation-free supply chain. Partners include Green4Wales, Watson Fuels, New Era and CSS.
The firm said the Canolfan Pentre Awel project team has “worked tirelessly” during the nearly two years on site to put carbon reduction at the heart of the development. It has targeted 24 specific initiatives to help reduce emissions, waste and energy on the project.
Early into the development, solar-powered site offices and cabins were installed on site and when not powered by the sun those buildings were run by a HVO-powered generator. The site’s CCTV cameras were also powered by solar. Such was the success of the HVO generator, that early into the project the whole site was converted to HVO.
Other initiatives such as working closely with its supply chain to source recycled building materials has also contributed to the project’s wider net zero journey. Such materials include using reinforced bars for the buildings’ foundations that are comprised of 98% recycling content, while the structural steel contained 80% recycled content.
When excavating to lay the foundations, soil from the surface of the site was also taken to a local recycling facility where the material was segregated, treated and reused – reducing the amount of waste going to landfill.
The team has partnered with Gaia, a Carmarthenshire-based company that helps to identify, monitor and reduce power consumption, using AI and a range of sensors. To date, the energy savings from using GAIA are around 47.9%. The project also benefits from a carbon consultant who advises on identifying low carbon solutions throughout the construction phase and monitors carbon, waste, deliveries as well as upskilling of the workforce on climate and environmental topics.
Peter Sharpe, Project Director at Pentre Awel, said:
“We are immensely proud of this achievement. As well as building a state of the art, top quality facility, as a project team we set our minds to reducing as much of our carbon emissions as possible. We set out a plan and I’m so pleased to say that we have achieved it.
“This would not have happened had it not been for the determination and support of not only the Bouygues UK staff here at Pentre Awel, but also our amazing sub-contractors and supply chain partners who came with us on this net zero journey.”
Phillipe Bernard, Chair and CEO of Bouygues UK, said:
“I commend the project team's efforts in significantly reducing carbon emissions at the Pentre Awel project. This achievement shows that sustainable construction can be achieved.
“We are very proud that due to the success achieved with the use of HVO at Pentre Awel, we are now mandating the use of sustainably-certified HVO at all our sites across the UK.”
and highly targeted distribution networks offers our clients a proven
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All About The Rock
so I took a trip to Deeside to catch the almighty Pentre Fest
If Facebook hasn’t plastered you with adverts for it
it is a two-day Rock and metal festival held at Mcleans Pub
one inside (for the heavier stuff) and one outside
so if you’ve got any mini moshers they’ll love being able to experience live music
Sporting some rather colorful leggings and some high heels for the duration of the entire 2 days the festival runs across
This paired with how friendly everyone is made for an amazing atmosphere full of laughter and headbanging
The festival had an amazing line-up this year with Saturday Headliners Collateral on the bill
The other bands are all worth a listen too but my personal favourites include; Bad Earth
I was only able to attend for a few hours on Saturday but here are the bands I did catch
Dxrk Winter photo courtesy of Charlotte Ford for All About The Rock
The first act I caught was Edd Case who I was expecting from the name to be a guy in a leather jacket with a big beard
he was in a bright pink princess dress and bubblegum pink wig
My stepdaughter has aptly named him “pink dress beard guy” and I can’t say she’s wrong
The music was a nice chilled acoustic indie/rock style which was a nice intro whilst we got wristbanded and waited for the main stage to open
Opening the main stage for the day was Dxrk Winter (and yes I spelled it wrong initially!) and for saying it was 2 pm on a Saturday they had some really good crowd participation
Including some sore heads banging along to their heavy sound
They don’t have a bassist but that didn’t stop their sound from shredding into the day and waking everyone up
For saying these guys haven’t been together that long they did an incredible job and kicked the day off to a good start
Next off Victim of Damp outside on the KeyMo Stage
I wasn’t quite expecting what I got when I saw this artist
Non-stop jokes and some well-thought-out songs and references which had me laughing for a solid 20 minutes
Most noticeable were the songs aimed at one of the organizers
Including “Fozzy’s van is full of shit” which I think means he has a very messy van
Bad Earth photo courtesy of Charlotte Ford for All About The Rock
The last band I managed to catch was Bad Earth
I’ve been lucky enough to see them a few times
They also definitely are not new to Pentre Fest & Mcleans as a venue – a point made clear by their introduction by Beany (who was in his second t-shirt of the day whilst still in the heels and leggings!)
Bad Earth is always an odd one for me as I always feel a bit like I’m watching a band with a similar sound to Clutch then they throw me a curveball and have the odd heavier song – which I of course have a little bop to
They’re always good fun to watch and honestly the nicest blokes
If I could I would’ve stayed all day to catch Stuntface & Collateral and the Bad Earth Acoustic set
It’s really reasonably priced too with a day ticket for Saturday being just £20 for 10 hours of music
They also have a food stall on-site & were giving out free jelly vodka shots at one point (not for the children!)
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The flag appears to be hanging from an electricity cable on Bailey Street in Ton Pentre
South Wales Police confirmed they were called to reports of the flag on Friday morning
had been arrested for racially aggravated public disorder
"We can confirm a 52-year-old local man has been arrested for racially aggravated public disorder and is in police custody
"We received a call about the flag just before 7 am today and can confirm it has now been removed."
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A festival focused on the future of digital construction
as early engagement with contractors like Quelfire highlights the project’s collaborative approach
represents one of Carmarthenshire County Council’s most significant undertakings
the project aims to integrate medical research
with projections to generate approximately 1,800 jobs and bolster the local economy by £467m over the next 15 years
Main contractor Bouygues UK has adopted an early engagement approach for zone one
which includes facilities such as an eight-court sports hall
particularly in coordinating service spacings
structural steelwork and limited available space
A detailed Builder’s Work in Connection (BWIC) schedule has become critical to managing these complexities. The schedule delineates responsibilities and requirements among all parties involved
Quelfire has been selected as the passive fire protection system manufacturer
Frequent workshops and meetings have proven essential to align expectations and share information
increased collaboration has reduced confusion and supported the delivery of compliant solutions
including tested firestopping solutions rather than relying on engineered judgements
noted that Quelfire has proactively supported the Golden Thread initiative through information management platforms and provided technical insights that have improved processes
The project underscores the value of early coordination and clear information management
The centre will contain buildings up to nine storeys in height Plans designed by Gensler for a £1bn cancer research and treatment centre in south London have been submitted for planning by developers Aviva Capital Partners and Socius
Proposed removal of medieval burial grounds said to harm setting of Roman Wall despite plans for public exhibit
Neighbouring schemes at Shaftesbury Avenue signed off last night
The firm has opened a new plasterboard manufacturing facility in Bristol
Building sat down with Bernard Delvaux and John Sinfield to discuss how the factory addresses market demand
the role of recycled materials in plasterboard and the challenges facing UK construction
Siloed teams and complex contractual structures hinder building renovations
Laura Rehlen explores how technology – such as reality capture and seamless data sharing – enhances collaboration
explores the current skills gap crisis in the flooring sector and how the industry can take action to ensure the future of flooring is resilient for years to come
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The eagerly awaited new SPAR store in Ton Pentre opened its doors on Thursday
Located just across the road from the old site
the new store promises a state-of-the-art shopping experience
featuring a larger space of 200 square metres and an extended range of fresh and local produce
There is also the exciting addition of a Greggs
the first 100 customers will receive goody bags containing a selection of great value products and household favourites
led by Local Councillor Norman Howell Morgan
marked the beginning of a new era for SPAR Ton Pentre
visitors could play the "Spin to Win" wheel where they could walk away with a selection of prizes including shopping vouchers and in-store products
Face painting was also available to add a splash of fun for families from 9:00am-12:00pm
The new SPAR Ton Pentre features a wide range of fresh food for now and food for later
The store also boasts a ‘Passion for Local’ by incorporating a range of Welsh products from local suppliers
customers can shop a wider range of fresh produce
expressed excitement about the reopening: “The new store will support Ton Pentre and our surrounding towns with food for now and later
“We can’t wait to welcome everyone to our new look store and to our Greggs outlet too.”
He went on to say: “SPAR Ton Pentre is more than just a convenience store
The new store offers greater variety and choice for our locals
supporting local producers and offering exceptional value to customers.”
The new store opening offered locals the opportunity to win fantastic prizes by playing SPAR’s new fun Scan-Match-Win game
Customers can scan QR codes available in-store and play an online game for a chance to win monetary and product vouchers and even a grand prize of £1000
SPAR will be giving away £1000 every week until 28 August
so don’t miss out on the opportunity to become a SPAR Champion
SPAR continues to support local communities through tailored product ranges and active involvement in local charitable partnerships
Join us on 15 August to celebrate the grand opening of the new SPAR Ton Pentre store and experience a new level of convenience and quality
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Henry Riley is Leading Britain's Conversation
Residents of the Welsh village of Ton Pentre awoke on Friday to find Hitler’s vile flag flying in their village
The flag was raised on telephone lines next to St John the Baptist Church overnight
Police promptly removed the fascist symbol earlier today
Read more: Fury as Elon Musk appears to do 'Nazi salute' at Trump inauguration rally
Read more: Letby lawyer says police have made 'huge mistake' as hospital staff open to gross negligence manslaughter charges
"We received a report about the flag just before 7am today - contact has been made with the utility company to ensure its immediate removal,” a spokesperson for South Wales Police said
"An investigation is now underway to identify who was responsible."
A later statement read: "We can confirm a 52 year-old local man has been arrested for racially aggravated public disorder and is in police custody
"The flag has now been removed."
Local MP Chris Bryant told the Daily Mirror: “God knows what gets into some people’s minds
Just when we’re coming up to the 80th anniversary of VE Day this is sick and perverted."
It comes as a wave of far-right support sweeps Western politics
with billionaire Trump ally Elon Musk appearing to perform two Nazi salutes at the president’s inauguration earlier this year and a number of hard-right parties experiencing success in European elections
See more Latest News
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Aspects on each remaining phases of the project will now be revealed in stages over the next five years
By Ian Lewis · 13 September 2024
Above: Construction on phase one of Pentre Awel (Image: Bouygues UK)
A further five years has been given to prepare detailed plans linked to the remaining three phases of work at Llanelli's multi-million pound Pentre Awel project
Pentre Awel will comprise four phases and is one of nine city deal projects for the Swansea Bay City Region
Outline planning permission for the entire £200m health
leisure and life science complex was approved in 2019
and the first phase includes a new Llanelli leisure centre
it will bring together life science and business innovation
community healthcare and modern leisure facilities at the 83-acre Delta Lakes site on the Llanelli coastline
However, opening of the first phase has been delayed by three months due to bad weather
which is spearheading and part-funding the project
has now approved a longer window of time in relation to what are known as reserved matters for the outstanding phases
Originally there was only a three-year window for reserved matters to be submitted
These are often details that are left out of an outline planning application and are considered later
in a dedicated reserved matters application
It means as the next construction phases of the scheme are nearly ready to start
their reserved matters can be lodged and considered by the council planning committee
The granted extension takes the deadline for reserved matters to 2029
To date only phase one reserved matters have been lodged and were approved two years ago
Phases two and three will include up to 370 assisted living units for people with differing care needs
while phase four will feature housing and a hotel
In a report presented to the council's planning committee by planning officer Robert Davies
he said: "The purpose of the application is to allow a further five years for the submission of reserved matters on future phases
The proposed development has already been established by virtue of the previous outline planning permission granted
The principle of development would remain unaltered and would continue to bring forward the comprehensive mixed use development in a four-phase programme
following the recent approval of phase one reserved matters."
He added: "Since the reserved matters for phase one were approved in June 2022
a start on site has subsequently been made showing a clear evidenced intent to progress with this welcomed scheme
Construction works on phase one are now significantly advanced."
Mr Davies said granting permission to extend the timeframe for reserved matters "would enable the reserved matters for future phases to come forward in a timely manner and would ensure the continued deliverability and comprehensive redevelopment of this strategic site."
Councillors on the planning committee voted unanimously to approve the revised time scale
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Wales Community and Business News from Need To See it
NEW SITE FEATURES GREGGS AND AN EXTENDED RANGE OF FRESH AND LOCAL PRODUCE
Hundreds of customers attended the opening
The eagerly awaited new SPAR Ton Pentre has opened its doors with a new state of the art shopping experience last week
local Welsh suppliers as well as the exciting addition of a Greggs
The new larger store has been designed to meet the needs of the local community offering value on the doorstep so you don’t have to travel elsewhere
The addition of a larger County Bridge meat range ensures that there is always a meal solution for tonight’s tea
and SPAR are proud to support local farmers and producers with BLAS
Village and Edwards products now available in store
Local Councillor Norman Howell Morgan officially opened the store
recognising SPAR’s contribution to the Ton Pentre community for almost 50 years
Store Manager Matthew Jones thanked the crowd of locals who gathered for the opening and welcomed them into the new store
the first 100 customers received a goodie bag containing a selection of great value SPAR brand products offering all round value for everyone
Many walked away with shopping vouchers and free product
Store Manager Matthew Jones said: “We are delighted to see so many people at the opening this morning
We offer exceptional value whether you shop with us a little bit
and we are proud to serve our neighbourhood with fresh
From the forgotten ingredients to tonight’s tea
“We are especially proud that our team is embedded in the heart of the community
making it particularly meaningful to recognise our colleague Ceri with an award
customers can browse a wider range of fresh produce
award winning SPAR brand wines and ensure they are always getting great value everyday store cupboard staples through the Tesco Price Match
The new store opening offered locals the opportunity to win fantastic prizes by playing SPAR’s new fun Scratch-Match-Win game
Customers can scan QR codes available in-store and play an online game for a chance to win money off
free product and SPAR will be giving away £1000 every week until 28 August
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by Darren | Wednesday, 6 November, 2024 | Pubs and Bars News
Many facilities within the former coal mining village have closed down in the last 20 years
Publicans Denise Roberts and Helen Roderick have run Pentre Comrades Club for 30 years
with an aim of tackling this lack of local services while helping to bring back those community connections.
The community shop provides local essentials at an affordable price
enabling people to make their money go further and tackle food poverty with the cost-of-living crisis.
Sustainability is a major ethos of the business
with the village store enabling people to refill their own containers by weight
cutting the use of plastic and helping the environment
The shop also offers eggs from a local farmer and there are plans to extend its offer of local produce.
the club provides a safe environment for customers to come together
to help tackle social isolation and engage with different people across the community.
Expert help and two Community Services Fund grants from Pub is The Hub were provided to help with the opening of both the community shop and café. Pub is the Hub has been supporting projects in rural areas across Wales after receiving a grant of £25,000 from The Royal Countryside Fund
“We know that people want to belong and we know that our community is still very close knit and connected
so we want to provide a resource for them which can replace those missing amenities
and provide a place for that community engagement,” said Denise
We have had great support from people living in the local community and we want to help educate them on the benefits of sustainable living as well as providing a space for them to socialise.”
added: “The Pentre Comrades Club is an example of great publicans focusing on what their local rural community needs
This is really the hub of its local area.”
but is open seven days a week offering the village store
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Two information sessions on the project are being held at the town's Antioch Centre
By Ian Lewis · 9 January 2025
The public will be able to ask questions about Llanelli's major new leisure and health project Pentre Awel at two drop-in sessions in the town on Wednesday
Two sessions will be held at the Antioch Centre in Copperworks Road
Carmarthenshire Council officers will be on hand to answer any questions and show some up-to-date images of the development work and what to expect in readiness for the first part of it opening in spring
The county-council-led project at Delta Lakes will comprise four different zones
Canolfan will consist of a new leisure centre
including a sports hall and fitness studios
and a health and well-being academy with a range of clinical rooms run by Swansea University
Later in the year Hywel Dda University Board will begin occupation of a clinical delivery centre
providing therapies such as speech and language
A clinical research hub will also be based there
Canolfan will have rental space for private
Canolfan has a £96m price tag and is being funded via the city deal for the Swansea Bay City Region by the council
Contractor Bouygues UK began piling work in early 2023 and has been onsite since
dealing with a run of extreme weather which set construction back by three months
Carmarthenshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration
Cllr Hazel Evans said: "Anyone who has a vested interest in Pentre Awel should attend one of the drop-in sessions and speak to the team
Engaging with the public is essential to the Pentre Awel project
to ensure that the local community continues to be at the heart of this innovative
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A debate is set to take place over the Welsh form of a village’s name amid concerns over its English translation
is known locally in Welsh as Pentre Cythraul
but the place-name has never been formally recognised
Residents launched a bid in 2019 to have it included on an official list of names published by the Welsh Language Commissioner
Concerns were raised by some villagers during a consultation on the plans as Pentre Cythraul roughly translates as “The Devil’s Village” in English
The village is believed to have originally been named Pentre Catherall after industrialist Josiah Catherall
who built the village’s first houses in the 19th Century
backbench councillors in Flintshire will be asked this week to support commissioner Efa Gruffudd Jones’s suggestion for it to be known as Pentre Cythrel in future
Flintshire Council’s chief officer for education and youth
said in a report this was due to the negative connotations associated with Pentre Cythraul
She said: “The commissioner has indicated support for the use of an official Welsh form of New Brighton
as the name is an oral development of ‘Catherall’ and reflects how the name is pronounced locally
“Using ‘cythraul’ would be a further step away from the original colloquial name
“Local residents who use the Welsh name Pentre Cythraul are supportive of the panel’s suggestion of Pentre Cythrel
“The Welsh name Pentre Cythrel will also address the objections raised in the consultation and the negative association of Pentre Cythraul (Devil’s Village).”
Pentre Cythraul has been used locally as the Welsh form of New Brighton for many years and is included on driving licences issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA)
It also features on several signs in the village
including one attached to New Brighton Community Centre
Ms Homard said the Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) would need to be updated to reflect any changes and notify bodies such as Ordnance Survey and Royal Mail
She added: “Formally recognising a Welsh form of New Brighton will support the council’s Welsh language promotion strategy by raising the visibility of the language
It also ensures Welsh is treated equal to English
“Adopting a Welsh name would not incur any additional costs as signage can be changed as and when it is renewed.”
Members of Flintshire’s corporate resources scrutiny committee will be asked to approve the new Welsh name for New Brighton at a meeting on Thursday (October 10
It will then go to the council’s cabinet for a final decision
before the commissioner can be informed to include it on the official list of place-names
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Beth am “Hofe mewn gwirionedd”
The saying ‘Cythraul o le’ in Welsh translates as ‘A monster of a place’ in English
I wonder if the village has a twin and where it might be and what it is called
I wonder if the village has a twin and where it might be and what it is called
This isn’t the only village in Flintshire with a debatably idiosyncratic name
When my other half and I first moved here in the north-east I was intrigued by the village named Lixwm – rendered
So I did a bit of delving and came across the theory that the name had arisen as a consequence of an influx of miners from south Derbyshire who arrived in the area in the early 19th century because their employer was opening up new pits in the area
Nothing ‘”improbable” about the the Welsh translation being ‘Licswm’
‘-cs’ is the standard equivalent of ‘-x’
Fair comment – my post was just prompted by the fact that Licswm clearly isn’t authentically a Welsh name
with ‘Wrecsam’ which just baptizes an old English placename with a Welsh spelling
Welsh has an interesting ability to borrow an English word or place name and to adapt it to Welsh orthography while keeping the same sound
with ‘cwm’ and ‘coombe’
and ‘craig’ and ‘crag’
where ancient associations seem to particularly persist
where there is a river called the Gowy and even a village still called ‘Bryn’
What’s the betting that those opposed to the official use of the name Pentre Cythraul
have no problem referring to Pontarfynach as Devil’s Bridge
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Plans to formally adopt a Welsh name for a Flintshire village have split the community
harking back to Northop Hall’s historic origins
Old maps show the village expanded from an area with several pig holdings
Since around 1530 it’s been referred to as Pentre-moch
The Anglicised version has also been around for a long time
emanating from the 13th-century manor house that was home to the Evans family
The preferred Welsh name has been put forward by Northop Hall Community Council for possible adoption following a local consultation
While some of its 1,500 residents like the distinctive name
others are appalled by the idea of their serene village being associated with porkers and grunters
the whole exercise has been labelled “bloody crazy” and “unbelievable wokeness”
Other options on the table include Neuadd Llaneurgain, the nearest literal translation of Northop Hall. Although in use by some organisations, including Flintshire Council
this idea has been rejected as it is a “recent translation with no historical basis”
Alternative suggestions range from Llyseurgain - a name also given to the mansion - and even Dre Mwnci (Monkey Town)
owing to occasional references to the village by this name
It’s not the first time the community council has been asked to adopt a Welsh name but previous attempts have come to nothing
Following consultation with the Welsh Language Commissioner
its place-names standardisation panel favours Pentre-moch and has already published this name in its directory
the community council said Pentre-moch is embedded culturally and is nationally recognised as the Welsh place name for the village
It added: “Many other settlements in Wales make reference to moch and they reflect their key status in the agricultural economy of the Middle Ages
“The name Pentre-moch is still used today, both in written form and in conversation. It is in current use as it has been put down on the home address on birth registrations in the same way it was recorded on birth registrations in the 1800s." Sign up now for the latest news on the North Wales Live Whatsapp community
Some older residents are not keen on the idea
“I was born and raised in Northop Hall 75 years (ago),” said one man on social media
why not now?" A woman added: “I am 95 and lived in the village for 66 years
The adopted Welsh name will not replace Northop Hall but will sit alongside and compliment the village’s commonly used name
Signage will include both names only when existing ones have expired
and residents will not need to update their addresses
“Why the hell would we want to be called Pig Village,” stormed one woman
“I know that a lot of the houses on the main road had kept pigs many moons ago but
“Not sure 'Pig Village' sounds an attractive name for our beautiful village,” she said
A man said the exercise was “ridiculous” and a “total waste of time and money”
He fumed: “Surely the village council needs to be disbanded if all they have left to do is worry about the village having a Welsh name?”
a name used by local people for generations
one woman said online: “Pentremoch was the name of the original settlement
The village grew and the people who lived in this special place
This is an opportunity to give them their name back
“I think in isolation pig village may sound unattractive
but it’s what the village was - as I understand it
The proposal does not ask us not make up a new name but to give the village a Welsh name that provides it with a bilingual identity
A Welsh translation of an imposed English name doesn’t quite do it.”
Northop Hall grew out of the need to house coal miners
expanding in a ribbon development from Pentremoch Farm
Until the early 2000s there were two pubs in the village with multiple names
locally known as the Top Monkey (Boars Head/Top House) and the now-closed Bottom Monkey (Black Lion/Bottom House)
The Boar’s Head was the coat of arms of the Evans family of Northop Hall
further cementing the village’s porcine links
These range from the pubs having pet monkeys to the name of breaking gears on mining wagons that once traversed the village
The name could also relate to old monkey tail window fasteners
the Top Monkey pub formally adopted the name in 2016
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Carmarthenshire Council and contractors were joined by St John Lloyd Catholic School
By Ian Lewis · 20 December 2024
It was a case of Awel in a manger as pupils from St John Lloyd Catholic School and Carmarthenshire Music Services performed carols for guests to spread some festive cheer at Llanelli’s multi-million pound Pentre Awel project
Pentre Awel will comprise four phases and is one of nine City Deal projects for the Swansea Bay City Region
Guests at the carol service included members of Carmarthenshire Council
its chair Cllr Handel Davies and local councillors Louvain Roberts and Sean Rees
as well as representatives from contractor Bouygues UK's local suppliers
They enjoyed performances of carols and festive treats
with all monies raised being donated to the Welsh children’s cancer charity Latch
Bouygues UK’s social advisor for Pentre Awel
said: "What better way to celebrate our collaborative approach with our partners and the community than singing some much-loved carols
On behalf of the whole Pentre Awel project team
said: "Thank you to Bouygues UK for organising the event this afternoon
I thoroughly enjoyed the performances and the opportunity to raise money for Latch Welsh Children’s Cancer charity
which will contribute to supporting children and their families through treatment."
To find out more or donate to Latch, visit the website here.
The opening of the first phase of a £200m health
leisure and life science complex will be delayed by three months
which is spearheading and part-funding the Pentre Awel project on the outskirts of Llanelli
Pentre Awel will comprise four phases – or zones – and is one of nine city deal projects for the Swansea Bay city region
The first zone will include a new Llanelli leisure centre
said: “We are eagerly looking forward to the phased opening of Pentre Awel to the public
which will start in the spring of next year and begin with its leisure facilities including hydrotherapy pool
café and Swansea University’s health and well-being academy
the construction on site has been delayed by three months
“This length of delay is minimal for a construction project of this size and scale and we are on track for the hand over of the site from Bouygues UK to the county council at the beginning of next year
we will be furnishing zone one in anticipation of its opening in the spring
“Further information will be communicated in the lead-up to the handover of the building and the official opening.”
said the company was on track to meet zone one’s 89-week completion target
but he stressed how bad the winter weather had been
He said cranes couldn’t operate for safety reasons when wind speeds exceeded 23mph and there had been 10 named storms all told
Zones two and three of Pentre Awel will include up to 370 assisted living units for people with differing care needs
Zone four will feature housing and a hotel
The complex is on a site the size of 40 rugby pitches and will also accommodate a nursing home
Funding for Pentre Awel is coming from the council
Plans to rename a small Welsh village ‘Pig Village’ have stirred up controversy amongst local residents
As part of an initiative to promote Welsh place names on road signs
residents are being urged to adopt the name Pentre-moch — which translates to 'Pig Village'
was once home to famed author George Eliot
the proposed name change has left residents divided
Proponents of the idea argue the name is historically accurate
noting that old maps show the Flintshire village grew from an area with several pig holdings
But while some of Northop Hall’s 1,500 residents appreciate the unique name
others are appalled at the thought of their tranquil village being linked to pigs
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The proposed name change by Northop Hall Community Council is comprised of pentre - meaning 'village’ - and moch - meaning ‘pig’
Residents are now being asked their views on the change under a council consultation
the village is referred to as Neuadd Llaneurgain - the nearest translation from Welsh being Northop Hall
Those who object to the proposals have labelled the renaming "bloody crazy" and "unbelievable wokeness"
The renaming follows a string of proposed name changes in a bid to reflect the Welsh language and history
Recent months have seen the controversial renaming of beauty spots Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons
branded "bonkers" by those opposing the idea
was praised by many Welsh language purists
It led some to claim English spellings reflected the "cultural oppression historically inflicted on Wales"
has built two multi-purpose pools at Llanelli’s Pentre Awel
The pools offer world-class leisure facilities for the local community
being delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council
houses a centrepiece 25-metre competition pool
featuring a full Ardex proprietary waterproof render and screed system
The world-class Olympic Aquatics Centre in Saint-Denis
Paris project was developed by Bouygues Bâtiment Ile-de-France and Bouygues Travaux Publics
due to the close similarity to the frame structure
advanced filtration systems and construction process for the Pentre Awel pools
Bouygues UK took lessons from the Paris build to enhance the quality of the multi-use pools in Llanelli
The Pentre Awel development’s main pool has eight lanes
along with top-edge markings and a designated non-swimmer area
It is designed with a double overflow channel system
which separates pool water from poolside water with tiled sectional pieces
It will also boast a state-of-the-art timing system
and the latest assisted access equipment from PoolPod
Adjacent to the main pool is the learner pool
designed to mirror the width of the competition pool
It will serve as an ideal space for swimming lessons for both juniors and adults
The learner pool features the same high-quality design finishes as the main pool
ensuring the look of the facility remains consistent
said: “These pools offer the local community a fantastic facility
Working collaboratively alongside Buckingham Pools means the community of Carmarthenshire County will have a world-class leisure centre on its doorstep
The project team visited the Paris Olympic pool
to ensure that we incorporated best practices
precise detailing and strong specifications
with a focus on delivering a competitive pool in a challenging environment.”
Contracts Manager at Buckingham Pools added: “Being appointed by Bouygues UK
reflects the trust in Buckingham Pools’ quality and reliability
Bouygues UK is renowned for its commitment to excellence
and sustainability—values that align closely with our own
The Pentre Awel project is more than just a construction initiative; it represents a vision of community wellness and engagement
each featuring high design specifications and different usage requirements
the project demanded meticulous attention to detail and time management
One of the main challenges has been adhering to the tight construction programme and adverse weather conditions have significantly impacted other trades
causing a domino effect on our work schedule
we have adapted and maintained progress through careful planning and flexibility.”
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration
Cllr Hazel Evans commented: “The new leisure facilities at Pentre Awel will significantly improve user experience
providing them with high quality swimming pools
These improvements have been made with the community in mind
and the Council is proud they can deliver on something that will positively impact local communities”
multi-million-pound Pentre Awel development will bring together life science and business innovation
It is part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal (£40million) and is the largest regeneration scheme in south west Wales
A new circular bus service will offer more travel times for passengers from January
By Ian Lewis · 27 December 2024
Llanelli town centre will benefit from an improved bus route and timetables from January 6
Changes will provide a more convenient and accessible public transport option for residents and visitors
service L1 runs four times a day between the town centre
and a stop near the railway station at Astoria
While the L2 service also operates four times daily
The changes will combine the existing L1 and L2 routes
allowing passengers to travel seamlessly between locations without needing to change buses at Llanelli bus station
Both services currently operate between 8.15am and 3.25pm
but under the new timetable, buses will run continuously from 8.20am to 5.57pm
A key feature of the enhanced service is its integration with the upcoming Pentre Awel development
which has been instrumental in funding the changes
the new route will include a dedicated stop at Pentre Awel
reflecting its role as a catalyst for improved public transport in the town
Carmarthenshire Council said extending the bus service operating hours will ensure residents can access key destinations more easily and reliably
welcomed the improvements and said: "The enhanced Llanelli town bus service is a great step forward in improving public transport for our residents and visitors
"By extending operating hours and connecting key locations
including the upcoming Pentre Awel development
we’re making it easier for people to travel sustainably and access essential services
This is a clear example of how we are investing in Llanelli’s future and ensuring that public transport plays a central role in connecting our communities."
Independent county councillor for Glanymor Ward said: "I've been working with council officers on developing this new circular bus service route which will now lead to an increase in services for the Seaside
It will give residents in Machynys access to public transport via a designated bus stop at the entrance of Pentre Awel once phase one of that project is completed shortly. The new service also provides a direct link for residents to be able to access the town centre
I know this positive news will be warmly welcomed by all in our community."
PCarmarthenshire
Christmas came early at Llanelli’s state-of-the-art Pentre Awel as a local school and Carmarthenshire Music Services performed carols for guests to spread some festive cheer ahead of the holidays
Guests included members of Carmarthenshire County Council Chair
Cllr Louvain Roberts and Cllr Sean Rees as well as Bouygues UK team members and local supply chain partners
Come All Ye Faithful in Pentre Awel’s atrium and festive treats with all monies raised being donated to LATCH Welsh Children’s Cancer Charity
“Social value is really important to us at Bouygues UK and what better way to celebrate our collaborative approach with our partners and the community than singing some much-loved carols
“Thank you to Bouygues UK for organising the event this afternoon
I thoroughly enjoyed the performances and the opportunity to raise money for LATCH Welsh Children’s Cancer charity
which will contribute to supporting children and their families through treatment.”
Pentre Awel is a collaborative scheme being delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council in partnership with Hywel Dda University Health Board
universities and colleges and is part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal (£40 million)
It aims to create around 1,800 jobs over 15 years and boost the local economy by more than £450 million
The development will include a new state-of-the-art leisure centre and hydrotherapy pool together with education
research and business development space; a clinical research and delivery centre; and a well-being skills centre
Pentre Awel will enjoy landscaped outdoor public spaces for recreation
To find out more or donate to LATCH Welsh Children’s Cancer Charity, please visit the website.
The company achieved more than a 90% reduction in direct emissions from all fuels used on-site
a construction and property development company
has achieved a net-zero milestone in the construction of building zone 1 of Canolfan
This achievement comes as a result of a significant reduction in emissions
and water consumption throughout the 24-month build period
working alongside subcontractors and its supply chain
has achieved more than a 90% reduction in direct emissions from all fuels used on-site and a 10% reduction in waste production
These efforts have resulted in saving more than 450 tonnes of carbon emissions since the project’s inception
Bouygues UK chair and CEO Phillipe Bernard said: “I commend the project team’s efforts in significantly reducing carbon emissions at the Pentre Awel project
This achievement shows that sustainable construction can be achieved
“We are very proud that due to the success achieved with the use of [hydrotreated vegetable oil] at Pentre Awel
we are now mandating the use of sustainably certified HVO at all our sites across the UK.”
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By adopting sustainable practices such as using HVO for fuel and sourcing recycled and green materials
the company claims that the Pentre Awel project has been able to reach this pivotal net-zero milestone
The HVO fuel used by Bouygues UK is International Sustainability and Carbon Certification certified
ensuring a traceable and deforestation-free supply chain
The project team has been targeting 24 specific initiatives to reduce emissions
supported by an HVO-powered generator when solar power was not available
In August 2024, Bouygues UK was appointed by the UK’s Department for Education as the lead contractor for the construction of Stanmore College in Harrow
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10 Sep 2024 By Charlotte Banks
“Unprecedented severe weather” has delayed a Bouygues health innovation campus by three months
The facility was due to be completed by this summer as the first phase of Carmarthenshire County Council’s Pentre Awel
a £200m health and wellbeing village in Llanelli
site progress has stalled by three months due to “unprecedented severe weather”
county councillor Hazel Evans said in a statement to Construction News
She added: “This length of delay is minimal for a construction project of this size and scale and we are on track for the handover of the site from Bouygues UK to the county council at the beginning of next year.”
The council is partnering with Hywel Dda University Health Board to regenerate 83 acres of former industrial land
The scheme is split into four zones that will be built in phases
Bouygues started building the first zone in March 2023
after it was plucked from the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework
brings together a £27m leisure centre with spaces to support healthcare innovation
The leisure centre features a 25 metre swimming pool
The first zone also includes incubation spaces for healthcare technology businesses
and a Swansea University training centre offering health and care courses
meeting areas and landscaped outdoor public space
assisted living accommodation and an extra-care facility
The site formerly hosted two tinplate mills
Bouygues contracted south Wales firms Dyfed Steels and Shufflebottom for the foundation reinforcement bar and structural steel respectively
The project is one of nine major programmes in the Swansea Bay City Deal
a public-private investment of up to £1.3bn for projects in Swansea and the surrounding region
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Bouygues UK and Acorn by Synergie’s Pentre Awel employment hub has created several career opportunities within construction on the landmark project in Carmarthenshire
is the largest regeneration scheme in South West Wales
The employment hub has provided local people the chance to find out about potential construction trade jobs at the site
as well as supporting them with training and skills
Client Development Director for Acorn by Synergie
allowing unemployed people from the local community to come along and find out more about Pentre Awel:
“The employment hub gives people out of work the chance to come and see what the site is like and see if there may be any opportunities that might interest them within the various trades present on site
“Pentre Awel is a huge site and coming here gives people a real taste of what a career in construction might look like
is very informal and relaxed and is the perfect opportunity for people who think they might enjoy working on site to come and see it for themselves.”
Lawrence added: “We run two-to-three-hour question and answer sessions which not only give people the chance to learn about all the different trades on a site
but also gives us an idea of what might suit that person too
so we can try and match the right people to the right trades
Llanelli is working as a site labourer for supply chain partners Massey Cladding Solutions at Pentre Awel and she has recently been awarded Operative of the Month for her efforts
She was interested in working in construction so attended the employment hub and found it very welcoming
which I like because I like to be busy and I enjoy working for Masseys and their site team (managers and operatives)
There is a really good working environment and everyone treats me with respect
It was also lovely to receive the health and safety award for the month which I’ve never had before.”
Bouygues UK social value advisor Nina Williams said of the hub: “The employment hub has been a crucial tool to help us engage with local people who are looking for work or those who are interested in entering the industry
Giving people the chance to come on site means they can really get a sense of how things work here and whether construction is something that appeals to them
It’s great to see how well Geraldine is doing and how she has integrated herself into the team.”
As well as supporting local employment opportunities through the employment hub
Bouygues UK is also supporting apprenticeship opportunities in partnership with the Coleg Sir Gar and Cyfle Building Skills Shared Apprenticeship Scheme
Bouygues UK and Whiteheads Building Services are supporting 10 electrical and plumbing apprenticeships
which will allow more apprentices to enter the industry and work with a number of different local employers
a Cyfle Technical apprentice who is currently on long-term placement with Bouygues UK at Pentre Awel said: “Doing an apprenticeship is an ideal way to get a start in the industry and it has been amazing working on such a prestigious scheme. I really love being part of the team on site and learning everything I can about how a site works and the work that goes into building a major project
I would encourage anyone thinking about a career in construction to consider an apprenticeship.”
Cllr Hazel Evans commented: “Increasing employment is a key objective of the County Council
and a significant driver for this phase of the Pentre Awel development
We are pleased that the Employment Hwb has been successful in engaging with local people who have interest in the industry and hope that this gives local people an idea of how Pentre Awel can benefit them in the future.”
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