The National Library of Wales has today launched a new Culture and Climate Cymru website and networking platform to help the country’s culture and heritage sector respond to the climate crisis.
 
The new resource - https://cultureandclimate.cymru/ - has been developed as part of the library’s Climate Action Programme in partnership with Welsh Government.
 


​It was unveiled at a network event hosted on the Welsh Government stand on the National Eisteddfod maes in Pembrokeshire.
 
Culture and Climate Cymru aims to support individuals and organisations across the sector to collaborate on tackling climate and nature emergencies. It also provides access to resources, events, case studies, training information and an online forum to share ideas and collaborate.
 
Responding to a research report into the Welsh culture sector and climate and nature emergencies, the website supporting delivery of Ambition 16 of the Welsh Government’s Priorities for Culture.
 
Rhodri Llwyd Morgan, library chief executive, said: “The National Library of Wales has an important role to play in helping people to access accurate information that they can trust about climate change. 

“There is also so much information, history and intangible heritage in our collections that can help us tackle the climate and nature crises. Taking climate action therefore aligns with our core mission to protect, expand and develop the collections and enable people to enjoy and appreciate the content.”
 
Judith Musker Turner, Climate Action Programme lead, said the new resource makes collective action easier to protect Wales’s culture and heritage from climate change, whilst highlighting the outstanding work that is already being done.
 
“The culture sector has a unique power to inspire change and to bring people together, and it is important that this is more widely recognised,” she added.
 
With financial support from Welsh Government, the library is a leading organisation in environmental sustainability as it works towards becoming carbon neutral by 2028, eliminating gas use and reducing carbon emissions. 
 
The library has recently transformed its historic estate through an ambitious retrofit programme, significantly reducing its carbon footprint while securing a more sustainable future.
 
Measures include installing air and ground heat pumps, 1,622 solar panels and implementing an intelligent building management system to improve energy efficiency.
 
The Climate Action Programme is also supporting a pilot project to help three cultural organisations based in historic buildings to develop decarbonisation plans and a training programme to support the cultural workforce to develop the skills they need to take climate action.
 
In addition, people working in culture and heritage in Wales now have a chance to share learning and best practice on climate with colleagues from across the UK.
 
Visit the website to find out more, join the forum and sign up to the newsletter to hear about the latest developments. 

​Tourism leaders have welcomed the Welsh Government’s 12-week consultation on proposed changes to the tax rules for self-catering properties, including a review of the controversial 182-day letting threshold.
 
Mid Wales Tourism (MWT Cymru), which represents more than 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Meirionnydd, and the Wales Tourism Alliance (WTA), representing the tourism industry across Wales, say the review is an important and long-awaited opportunity to address concerns about the current policy.
 
The consultation began on Friday, July 31 and will run until October 23.
​
Self-catering properties in Wales may be classified for non-domestic rates rather than Council Tax if they meet specific letting criteria.
 
Since April 2023, properties must be available to let for at least 252 days a year and actually let for a minimum of 182 days to qualify for non-domestic rates.
 
The consultation will consider whether the 182-day threshold is set at the right level and what impact a modest reduction could have.
 
It also proposes five new exemptions for self-catering properties that could not reasonably be used as permanent homes.
 
The exemptions could apply to properties that form part of a wider business, large multi-unit developments, properties subject to relevant planning restrictions, accommodation within the curtilage of the owner’s home and properties located on the owner’s farm.
 
Zoë Hawkins, MWT Cymru’s chief executive, said: “We welcome this consultation and the speed with which the new Welsh Government has brought it forward. We are pleased to see this recognised as an early priority and hope it signals a clear commitment to supporting a sector that makes a vital contribution to the rural economy.
 
“The policy in its current form has resulted in genuine tourism businesses being treated in the same way as second homes. Many are purpose-built units, farm diversification businesses or properties that form part of a family home and could not reasonably be used as permanent residences.
 
“The proposed exemptions are therefore hugely important. If introduced, we hope they will help ease the considerable financial pressures and uncertainty facing many families, businesses and communities across rural Wales.
 
“MWT Cymru is ready to work constructively with the Welsh Government to help achieve its policy aims while protecting and supporting the rural businesses, economies and communities affected by the current policy.”
 
WTA chairman Rowland Rees-Evans has also urged all self-catering businesses to respond to the consultation.
 
“We know there are many self-catering businesses struggling because they have been unable to reach the 182-day threshold for a range of reasons,” he said. “As a result, they have been faced with large Council Tax bills that they can ill afford.
 
“Welsh Government figures show that 40% of these businesses are not achieving 182 days, but what the figures do not show is how many of the remaining 60% are heavily discounting their prices simply to reach the target.
 
“This reduces profitability and threatens the future viability of those businesses. We also welcome the proposed exemptions included in the consultation and believe they could relieve significant pressure on small businesses if implemented.”
 
Welsh Government Cabinet Minister for Finance Elin Jones MS said: “Our manifesto included a commitment to keep the 182-day letting threshold under review and create clear and reasonable new exemptions where self-catering accommodation would not qualify as a private home.
 
“I have heard representations from a number of businesses that are making meaningful contributions to their local economies but are unable to meet the current threshold.
 
“This consultation will help us find a solution that works better for everyone, including businesses, local authorities and local areas. I am committed to getting the balance right, keeping homes in our communities while giving tourism the support it needs to thrive.”

​​The Tour de France’s visit to Wales next summer has moved a step closer after the Grand Départ Trophy was officially presented to Great Britain in Paris following the final stage of this year's race.
 
The handover from 2026 host Barcelona, confirms Britain as hosts of both the men's and women's Grands Départs in 2027 – the first time both have started from the same country outside France.
 
Stage three of the men’s race will travel from Welshpool to Cardiff on Sunday, July 4 next year, taking in Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells and Brecon along the way.
The women’s race will not be visiting Wales.
 
Community across Wales are now preparing to welcome the world's male riders, with more than one million spectators expected to line the route of the men’s race next summer.
 
Confirmation of a free-to-air broadcast deal for the UK stages via Channel 5 means fans will be able to follow every moment from home as well as at the roadside.
 
Recruitment continues for the thousands of volunteers needed to deliver the 2027 Grands Départs. Applications are open until September 1, for anyone aged 16 and over, from all backgrounds and levels of experience, at letourgb.com/volunteer
 
British cycling great Sir Mark Cavendish Mark Cavendish said: “I built my whole career around Le Tour de France. It’s not simply a bike race, it’s an event that captivates everyone that both participates and spectates. A street party over many kilometres of colour, noise and speed.
 
“Having raced in 2007 and 2014 in the UK, I know first hand how amazing the British public are at Le Tour and can’t wait to see it on an even bigger scale with both races next year. Taking this trophy back to Britain tonight means a lot.”
 
Paul Bush, managing director of Grand Départ GB 2027, added: “As of now, Great Britain formally steps forward as the next host of the Tour de France – and we couldn’t be more excited and proud.
 
“We are determined to make 2027 a moment the whole nation can be proud of.”
 
For more information on all the stages, the JOY social impact programme and to sign up for the Grand Départ GB newsletter for all of the latest news, visit letourgb.com .

Thousands of visitors gathered at Llanelwedd yesterday (Monday) for the opening of the 2026 Royal Welsh Show, a four-day celebration of the best of Welsh agriculture, food, countryside and rural life.
 
Major Andrew Butcher MBE, senior training safety officer at Sennybridge Defence Training Camp, officially opened the show, joined by Royal Welsh Agricultural Society (RWAS) chair of council Nicola Davies, president Gethin Havard and invited guests from across the agricultural industry, government and rural organisations.
 
Senior political figures from the Welsh and UK Governments, including the newly elected First Minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, were also there, reflecting the show's status as one of the nation's most significant annual events.
 
Nicola described the show as "an important national occasion" and "one of the largest agricultural shows in Europe", highlighting its role in showcasing "the very best of Wales" through its food, farming, culture, language and innovation.
 
This year marks the fifth time that Brecknock has served as the RWAS Feature County, having previously held the honour in 1964, 1980, 1997 and 2012.
 
President Mr Havard and his family, county advisory committee chair Rob Powell, honorary secretary Shelley Hughes, ambassador Teleri Haf Thomas and the many volunteers were thanked for their hard work and dedication.
 
Last month's successful Grassland Event at Cwmbrynich, hosted by the Havard family, was one of the highlights of the county's feature year.
 
Major Butcher praised the strength of Welsh agriculture and the rural communities that underpin it.
 
"In a rapidly changing world, the importance of agriculture has never been clearer,” he said. “It is central to our economy, to our environment and to our food security. But beyond all that, it is central to our identity.
 
"The Royal Welsh Show stands as a powerful reminder of that truth. It showcases excellence, encourages innovation and strengthens the bonds between us. It brings town and country together, offering a space where understanding can grow and where traditions can be celebrated and shared."
 
A special tribute was also paid to the families of Epynt, who were displaced from their homes in 1940 to make way for a military training area. Their sacrifice, made in a time of national need, was remembered with gratitude and respect.
 
Major Butcher opened the show to a fanfare from the Regimental Band of The Royal Welsh.
 
Among the show’s major highlights is the launch of Cynefin, the new Welsh Sheep Village, delivered in partnership between the RWAS and the National Sheep Association (NSA).
 
The village was opened by Margaret Dalton OBE and Alun Evans CBE, both longstanding champions of the Welsh and UK sheep industry.
 
The dedicated area celebrates the people, breeds, products and traditions that have shaped sheep farming in Wales, while showcasing innovation and best practice across the sector.
 
Throughout the show, visitors can enjoy a varied programme of educational displays, live demonstrations, discussions and interactive activities, helping to deepen understanding of the vital role sheep farming plays in Wales' landscape, rural economy and heritage.
 
The popular Horticulture Village has returned with a packed programme of expert talks, demonstrations and hands-on activities.
BBC Gardeners' World presenter Adam Frost joined the opening day as special guest judge for the Micro Show Garden Competition, before taking part in a question-and-answer session with visitors.
 
Elsewhere, the main ring programme began with a packed programme of entertainment, including the show debut of the Shetland Pony Grand National, the return of the Paul Hannam Quad Bike Stunt Show and spectacular displays from Hawkeye Falconry and the RAF Falcons.
 
Visitors also enjoyed a special performance by Britain’s Got Talent winners, the Hawkstone Farmers' Choir and a colourful display celebrating the 90th anniversary of Wales YFC.

​Launching The Friends of the Heart of Wales Line Trail Passport at the Royal Welsh Show yesterday.

The Friends of the Heart of Wales Line Trail have launched a new passport designed to enhance the experience of walking a long-distance, railway-inspired trail while supporting small businesses along the way.
 
The ‘Trail Passport’ was unveiled on the Transport for Wales stand at the Royal Welsh Show yesterday (Monday) and is now available to walkers looking to discover the 141-mile trail, which follows the Heart of Wales Line from Craven Arms to Llanelli.
 
The passport has been developed and is managed by the Friends of the Heart of Wales Line Trail, with support from the Community Rail Network, Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership (CRP) and Transport for Wales.
 
Proceeds from the Trail Passport will fund the ongoing maintenance and development of the trail.
 
Designed to be used whether walkers complete the route in one journey or over several visits, the passport allows individuals to collect stamps from participating businesses that serve as official ‘Stamping Stops’ to drive footfall into rural communities along the route.
 
Walkers who collect 10 or more stamps can apply for a free trail gift and certificate as a memento of their journey on the trail.
 
Lisa Denison, Friends of the Heart of Wales Line Trail chair, said: “The friends of the trail are very excited about the launch of the trail passport and grateful to our funders and partners who have helped to bring it to fruition.
 
“As well as benefitting walkers and local businesses, it also provides the charity with a sustainable income, which in turn will help us to maintain the trail for future walkers.”
 
Owen Griffkin, Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership community rail development officer, said: “We are delighted to support this brilliant idea to encourage more people to use the Heart of Wales Line Trail.
 
“Getting outdoors in our lush countryside is one of the best ways to improve mental and physical wellbeing and now people can record and be rewarded for their walks. I also love how this project will connect the many people using the trail with wonderful, local businesses that are vital to our rural communities.”
 
Rhiannon-Jane Raftery, Community Rail Network community rail development co-ordinator for Wales and Borders, added: “This project is an excellent example of how CRPs can drive social and economic development.
 
“Connecting rail users and walkers to local businesses increases awareness of the variety of independent artisans and traders available to visit and spend locally within these very rural areas.”
 
Melanie Lawton, Transport for Wales community rail strategic lead, said: "Walking in nature is well known to help wellbeing, mental health and mood. The passport will bring greater opportunity to support local economic development, sustainable tourism and better connect communities to their railway."
 
The Heart of Wales Line Trail launched in 2019 and links stations along one of Britain’s most scenic rural railway lines, making it possible to enjoy the route in manageable sections using public transport. The trail was created to encourage sustainable travel while bringing economic benefits to communities along the line.
 
The passport can be purchased online and has no expiry date, allowing walkers to collect stamps over months or even years as they explore different sections of the route. Trail Passports can be purchased for £10 at: https://fhwlt.sumupstore.com/products .

Cambrian Railway Partnership chair Neil Scott (left) and community rail development officer, Deb Justice (right)

Cambrian Railway Partnership has engaged with 40 plus community groups and organisations and shared more than £7,400 through the Railway 200 Community Grant Fund in the past year, the annual meeting was told.
 
Neil Scott and Graham Davis were re-elected chair and vice chair, respectively, following a year of significant progress for the partnership, which has strengthened its presence across communities served by the Cambrian Railway Line.
 
The partnership has expanded community engagement, appointed a new community rail officer, secured funding for 16 local projects celebrating Railway 200 and continued to promote sustainable travel, rail safety and access to the railway across Powys, Ceredigion, Gwynedd and Shropshire.
 
The partnership works with communities along the rail network from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth and up the Wales coast to Pwllheli, spanning 120 miles and 34 stations.
 
Hosted by Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO) and funded primarily by Transport for Wales, the partnership works with local authorities, community organisations, station adopters, tourism partners and volunteers to connect communities with their railway and encourage greater use of trains across the region.
 
The partnership’s 2025-26 Impact Report highlights a year focused on building relationships and increasing visibility along the line.
 
More than 33 community blogs were published and 16 organisations received grants totalling in excess of £7,400 to support creative projects celebrating 200 years of the modern railway.
 
Mr Scott said he was delighted that he and Mr Davies have been re-elected.
​
“Together we have overseen a significant period of change for the partnership that has focused on engaging with our communities, delivering projects, such as our Railway 200 Community Grant Fund and recruiting a new community rail development officer in 2025,” he added.
 
“We look forward to another two years of leading and supporting the partnership and delivering new projects for communities and the railway."
 
Deb Justice, community rail development officer, said: “This year has provided valuable opportunities to be visible along the Cambrian Line, engaging directly with the communities who live and work beside it. Collaborating with such dedicated and passionate groups has been a privilege.
 
“The Railway 200 Community Grant Fund has enabled the development of several outstanding projects, each reflecting the creativity, commitment and pride that characterise the communities along the Cambrian Line.”

Winner of this year’s prestigious Sir Bryner Jones Memorial Award, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society’s highest hour, is Brian Davies, Garthbrengy, Brecknock.
 
Presented annually, the award recognises individuals who have reached the highest level of achievement within a chosen sector of the agricultural industry.
 
This year's award celebrated an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the success of a local or regional agricultural show in Wales.
 
Mr Davies has dedicated 59 years of service to Brecknock Agricultural Society, helping to sustain one of the UK's oldest agricultural shows.
 
A former chairman, vice chairman and president, he has played a pivotal role in encouraging young people and local families to become involved, helping to secure the long-term future of Brecon County Show.
 
Judges Mr Harry Fetherstonhaugh OBE and Mrs Susan Jones said: "We unanimously agree that the winner exemplifies the very highest standards of leadership, commitment and dedication, leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit the show for years to come. A truly deserving recipient of this award.
 
"Brian's contribution ensures Brecon County Show remains relevant, inclusive and capable of evolving in a changing world and changing agricultural landscape.
 
"His understanding of how the event works, together with his unwavering commitment to its volunteers and his ability to inspire the next generation is most impressive and will help ensure the long-term future of the show."
 
Mr Davies received the honour at the Royal Welsh Show Awards Ceremony yesterday. Gareth Roberts, a member of the RWAS Board of Directors, sponsored the winner’s medal.
 
The other shortlisted finalists were Edward Morris, Pembrokeshire and Enid Williams, Anglesey.
 
The award commemorates Sir Bryner Jones, one of the most influential figures in the history of Welsh agriculture and the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society. He helped shape the direction of the RWAS for more than 50 years, serving as honorary show director from 1908-‘10, chairman of council from 1944-‘53 and president in the society's 50th year in 1954.
 
Sir Bryner was head of the department of agriculture at Aberystwyth College and became one of Wales' leading agricultural education figures. He later served as commissioner and chairman of the Agricultural Council for Wales before becoming Welsh Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture.
 
Knighted in 1947, his legacy continues through an award first presented in 1957.

Newtown Textile Museum has developed new and improved, free activities for children, as well as the young at heart.
 
Families are being encouraged to visit the museum, located in Commercial Street,  for an enjoyable day out and opportunity to learn about Newtown.
 
Every Tuesday in the summer holidays, the museum, situated in Commercial Street, is running drop-in tapestry weaving sessions for adults to enjoy with their children from 2-4pm.
 
Other highlights include Siân the sheep mascot trail, Tomos the Mouse children’s guidebook, a number spinning challenge, story books to read in fairy tale parts of the museum, dress up like a Victorian weaver, Victorian toy selection and post a card to Siân the Sheep.
 
The museum has developed new activities thanks to a grant from the Family Friendly Museum Support Programme run by Kids in Museums and supported by the Welsh Government.
 
New product lines sourced from local craftspeople and producers are now stocked in the museum shop, which has proved very successful in recent years.
 
The museum is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, from 12 noon  to 4pm. For more information, visit https://newtowntextilemuseum.co.uk/ or check Facebook and Instagram.
 
The museum is a member of Mid Wales Tourism (MWT Cymru), an independent organisation representing more than 600 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Eryri (Snowdonia).
 
Housed in an original handloom weaving factory, built in the 1830s, volunteer-run museum brings to life the town’s industrial heritage, showing how people lived and worked in the building and the processes involved in turning fleece into flannel.
 
In addition, industries linked to wool – tanning, clog making and drapers’ shops, including the Pryce Jones family who pioneered mail order – are also featured.
 
Newtown was the centre for handloom weaving in the 1830s and the museum is the last of 82 such buildings remaining in anything like its original condition.
 
The original handloom weaving factory comprised six back-to-back cottages with each having one room each on the ground and first floors to house up to 10 people. The two floors above, which ran the whole length of the building, housed the looms.

Local Authorities and National Park Authorities across Wales are being invited to apply for a new capital fund designed to improve cycling infrastructure and facilities ahead of the Tour de France's historic visit to Wales in 2027.

​The Welsh Government's new Croeso i Feicwyr Fund aims to create a lasting legacy from the world's biggest cycling event by investing in projects that make Wales more welcoming to cyclists, encourage year round cycling tourism and support local economies.

The fund is open to Local Authorities and National Park Authorities, which are encouraged to work with third sector and other not for profit organisations when developing projects.

Successful projects will help enhance visitor experiences for both dedicated cyclists and visitors who choose to cycle as part of their holiday. The fund is intended to strengthen Wales' reputation as a leading cycling destination while delivering long term benefits for local communities and tourism businesses.

Funding of up to £100,000 per application is available, with a maximum intervention rate of 80%. There is no minimum grant amount and applicants may submit more than one Expression of Interest. This is a capital fund and revenue costs are not eligible.

Projects must support economic growth through cycling tourism and meet the Welsh Government's primary priority of driving productivity and economic growth, alongside at least two additional priorities, including:

• Delivering high quality cycling experiences.
• Showcasing Wales' culture, heritage and landscapes.
• Encouraging collaboration and partnership.
• Supporting healthier communities and inclusive participation through cycling.

Expressions of Interest must be submitted by 1.00pm on Friday 7 August 2026. Successful applicants will then be invited to submit a full application, with funding available for projects delivered during 2026 to 2027, or over two financial years where justified.

Further information, guidance notes and Expression of Interest forms are available on the Visit Wales industry website.
​
Find out more: https://industry.visitwales.com/supporting-you/croeso-i-feicwyr-industry

​Newly elected Plaid Cymru Members of the Senedd for Gwynedd Maldwyn visited the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) near Machynlleth on Friday to learn more about the organisation’s work and future.
 
During the visit, which took place during the new Welsh Government's first 100 days in office, CAT staff gave Siân Gwenllian MS, Elwyn Vaughan MS and Mabon ap Gwynfor MS an overview of the organisation's work.
 
They highlighted CAT’s role as an environmental education charity, sustainability education provision and community engagement in Wales.Discussions explored opportunities to strengthen relationships with the newly elected MSs.
 
The politicians also heard how CAT's expertise, educational programmes and on-the-ground experience could support the Welsh Government's ambitions to tackle the climate and nature emergencies while creating opportunities for skills development, green jobs and sustainable economic growth.
 
They wre also updated on Troi'r Llanw / Turning the Tide, CAT's new community-led climate action project funded by £1.5 million from the National Lottery Community Fund.
 
The project supports communities across Wales to take practical action on climate change and build resilience through locally led solutions.
 
Discussions also covered recent milestones in CAT's flagship redevelopment project, Cynefin: Green Heart of Wales, which aims to transform CAT's facilities and strengthen its role as a nationally significant centre for sustainability education, innovation and community action for generations to come.
For more than 50 years, CAT has provided inspiration, education and training in practical climate solutions from its Llwyngwern Quarry home, which the MSs had the opportunity to tour.
 
They visited CAT’s gardens to meet current residential volunteers and observed live student build projects being undertaken by students on CAT’s Masters in Sustainable Architecture, viewing the breadth of CAT’s work in action.
 
Rhiannon Turner, CAT trustee, said: “The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the exciting progress we are making with our development plans and demonstrate how CAT is helping to develop practical solutions, build skills and support sustainable economic development across Wales.
 
“As Wales works to meet the challenges of the climate and nature emergencies, CAT has an essential role to play in supporting communities, businesses and policymakers through education, innovation and collaboration.
 
“Continued engagement with elected representatives is vital as we work to deliver projects that will benefit Mid Wales and beyond.”
 
Siân Gwenllian MS said “It was a pleasure to visit the Centre for Alternative Technology and learn more about its pioneering work to tackle the climate and nature emergencies.
 
“It's a real source of pride that Gwynedd Maldwyn is home to an organisation with an international reputation for sustainability, innovation and green skills, and I look forward to supporting its work in the years ahead.”
 
Mabon ap Gwynfor MS said: "Seeing how CAT combines education, innovation and community engagement to develop practical solutions to the climate and nature emergencies was incredibly encouraging.
 
“It shows the important role organisations like this can play in building a more sustainable future for Wales."
 
Elwyn Vaughan MS said: “Having previously served as a councillor in Powys, I have long been aware of the pioneering work carried out by the Centre for Alternative Technology and the positive contribution it makes to our communities.
 
“Its Troi'r Llanw / Turning the Tide project is a fantastic example of how meaningful climate action must be rooted in local communities, empowering people to develop solutions from the ground up and ensuring that everyone has a role to play in tackling the climate and nature emergencies."