The UK Government recently made a number of announcements regarding the status of the Welsh Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). The UK Government has proposed an exclusion via the Internal Market Act (IMA), subject to the following: Wales commences its DRS for plastic and metal drinks containers as planned on 1 October 2027 Plastic and metal drinks containers must meet key criteria for integrating with a UK-wide scheme (this includes ensuring that schemes have a single registration and reporting system, processes for reciprocal takeback of material – for example, material can be returned in any nation, consistent logos and the same deposit level) The proposed transitional period for single-use glass is […]
In September 2023, the default speed limit for residential and unrestricted roads changed to 20mph. The change affected some trunk roads. In July 2024, WG published guidance to help highway authorities review 20mph and 30mph speed limits on roads they are responsible for. For trunk roads, this was Welsh Government, North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agent (NMWTRA) and South Wales Trunk Road Agent (SWTRA). The public was also invited to have their say. The outcome of this review has now been published. People can object to planned changes when the draft Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) are published. The legal process for TROs can take 9 months. Speed limits may not change […]
The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has updated the rateable values of all commercial, and other non-domestic, properties in Wales and England. Anyone who pays business rates, and thinks their current valuation is wrong, is being encouraged to sign up for a business rates valuation account. If you do not have an account already, or have not used yours for some time, it can take 15 working days to register and claim your property. You have until 31 March to request changes to your current valuation by: checking the details the VOA holds about your property telling the VOA if anything is wrong. From 1 April 2026, a new rating list […]
The North Wales Regional Skills Partnership, funded by Welsh Government, is inviting employers to help shape skills policy and provision across the region. The Partnership is undertaking research to better understand current workforce challenges, skills issues and future workforce needs. The findings will inform the next North Wales Skills and Employment Plan (2026-28) and help shape future skills and training provision in North Wales. Please follow the link below to complete a short online survey, which should take no more than 10 minutes to complete. Your contribution will help the Partnership identify regional priorities and key areas for development that meet your organisation’s needs. Link to survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Q2KQQPG 📆 Closing date: 12pm, […]