Cemlyn Davies

Wales First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth said it was too early to know whether Prime Minister Andy Burnham would support transferring powers over policing, justice, rail infrastructure and the Crown Estate to Wales. After their first face-to-face meeting, ap Iorwerth described Burnham as serious and open to further discussions, while Downing Street said the prime minister supported ongoing cooperation on issues affecting Wales. Welsh Secretary Stephen Kinnock remains unconvinced by the case for additional powers. The leaders agreed to continue talks on devolution, growth and investment, while ap Iorwerth also reiterated his long-term support for Welsh independence.

A long‑running debate over the Cardiff Bay barrage resurfaced as campaigner Gaynor Legall argued that the project has brought no tangible benefits to nearby communities such as Butetown, where residents feel disconnected from the redeveloped waterfront. Economists and local voices echoed the view that economically challenged areas around the bay have seen limited improvements. The article revisits the political divisions the project caused within Labour, including internal conflicts involving Alun Michael, Rhodri Morgan, Jane Hutt and others who opposed the plan on environmental and flooding grounds. Supporters, including former council leader Huw Thomas, credit the barrage with transforming Cardiff’s global image but acknowledge further redevelopment and community inclusion are needed.