Latest news with #ShaunJones
Otago Daily Times
26-06-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
‘Kremlin' councils need to go
Shaun Jones. PHOTO: ODT FILES Resource Minister Shane Jones has called the Otago Regional Council "the Kremlin of the South Island" after an application to expand the Macraes gold mine ran into trouble. Mr Jones, who is also the regional development minister, said the council was full of "KGB green zealots" and the episode showed why regional councils needed to be scrapped. The Otago council's assessment of environmental effects — which recommended Oceana-Gold's application to expand its mine be declined in full — was "ideological scribbling". Any other investor or miner in New Zealand would now quickly conclude they had to join the fast-track application process, "which will enable these economic saboteurs to be marginalised", he said. Council chairwoman Cr Gretchen Robertson said "name-calling" was unhelpful and the council's views were evidence-based, not ideological. OceanaGold has been granted more time to prepare for a hearing for its proposed expansion at Macraes after the regional council said its application should be declined and the Waitaki district and Dunedin city councils also raised concerns. The regional council's view of the company's Macraes Phase 4 (MP4) Project was troubling, Mr Jones said. "It confirms the worst of my prejudices, that the regional council in the South Island, that the Otago Regional Council is the Kremlin of the South Island," he said. "These are the reasons why people should be backing me to disestablish regional councils in New Zealand. "Their role is as catchment boards and looking at the discharge and the allocation of water, water take. "I am astounded at a time where the economy is still recovering from the Covid experience, a record number of New Zealanders are moving to Australia, and we have these Politburo apparatchiks destroying hundreds of jobs, undermining scores of millions of dollars in the local economy. "For a dead moth. "It's an ideological attempt to defeat mining. "It truly is unbelievable. "This is a part of New Zealand where no-one goes. "There are some easy mitigative steps that can be taken, but the Kremlin and its KGB green zealots completely and utterly show me why regional councils need to be disestablished." The "nationally vulnerable" moth Orocrambus sophistes, which lives in short tussock grasslands, was found at Golden Bar, one of three open pits about 55km north of Dunedin that OceanaGold has applied to expand. The regional council's recommending report highlighted the moth alongside the proposed expansion's actual and potential effects on surface water quality, aquatic ecology, natural inland and ephemeral wetlands, and lizard habitat. The effects would be "significantly adverse" and could not be avoided, minimised, remedied, offset or compensated for. It would also have significant adverse cumulative effects on cultural values, "and it is not yet known if these can be managed by conditions", the report said. Cr Robertson said the report was prepared by qualified professionals under the Resource Management Act. "It is a technical, evidence-based assessment — not a political statement. "Our staff are simply doing their jobs within the law as it stands. "Name-calling only undermines confidence in both central and local government." Regional councils across New Zealand welcomed "meaningful dialogue" on how to best deliver the services they were intended to — flood protection, biosecurity, civil defence, environmental management and public transport, she said. "Here in Otago, we remain focused on our responsibility to protect the environment while supporting sustainable economic development. "That balance is not ideological — it reflects the law, and we believe it reflects the values of our region: caring for both our environment and our livelihoods." A minute issued by independent commissioner Rob van Voorthuysen this week said the hearing for OceanaGold's proposed expansion had been postponed from next month to December at the mining company's request. The company's lawyers advised more time was required to consider the recommendations from the councils, he said. OceanaGold senior vice-president Alison Paul said adjourning the MP4 hearing, originally scheduled for next month, would give the company more time to prepare its evidence, including addressing all three councils' reports and recommendations.
South Wales Argus
23-05-2025
- Climate
- South Wales Argus
AA warn M4 in South Wales expected to be congestion hotspot
The AA has issued an amber traffic warning, predicting millions of journeys each day. The roads are expected to be busy despite the mixed weather forecast for the long weekend. Two major games in Cardiff over the weekend are also expected to add to the congestion. Bath Rugby is taking on Lyon on Friday night at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff in the final of the 2024/25 EPCR Challenge Cup. There is expected to be heavy congestion on the M4. GWR has also advised rail passengers to expect busy trains. The firm is also warning of disruption on Saturday when Northampton Saints take on Union Bordeaux-Bègles in the Investec Champions Cup Final at the Principality. Rain is forecast for Bank Holiday Monday with mixed weather for the rest of the weekend. According to an AA survey, more than 20 million journeys are expected on Friday, May 3, with over 19 million each day from Saturday, May 4, to Monday, May 6. Half of these trips are set to be under 50 miles, indicating traffic will be concentrated around local destinations and attractions such as retail parks and town centres. Shaun Jones from the AA said: "Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. "Let's make sure we all get there safely and enjoy the time with our loved ones." The AA advises drivers to plan their journeys in advance, stay updated with congestion and roadworks, and ensure vehicles are roadworthy before setting off. Mr Jones added: "By following these tips, we can all contribute to a safer and more pleasant travel experience during the bank holiday weekend." With the recent sun and warm weather, over seven million people plan to embark on trips to the coast, sporting events, and garden centres on Saturday, May 4, while 3.5 million indicated they intend to take a long weekend break away from home. However, the Met Office has warned of more unsettled conditions with rain or showers in many areas in the UK, ending the prolonged dry spell. Mark Sidaway, deputy chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: "Whilst the bank holiday won't be a complete washout, with some sunshine expected, this weekend represents a notable shift from the fine and settled weather pattern that has dominated so far this month." The AA anticipates that routes to popular coastal destinations will be busier than usual, if the previous good weather continues. These include roads heading towards the east coast such as Skegness as well as the south west and Cornwall, including the A303, M5 and A38, and those leading to Wales such as the M4.
The Independent
21-05-2025
- The Independent
Bank holiday traffic warning issued by AA – here's how to avoid the queues
The AA has warned drivers to expect heavy congestion across the upcoming bank holiday weekend with millions of journeys predicted each day. A survey released by AA shows that over 20 million journeys will be made on Friday 23 May, while over 19 million will be taken on each of the following days to Monday 26 May. As a result, the AA has issued an amber traffic warning to alert drivers to expect extra congestion on the roads. Half of the trips will be under 50 miles suggesting traffic will be focussed around local destinations and attractions such as retail parks and town centres. "Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Let's make sure we all get there safely and enjoy the time with our loved ones," Shaun Jones, from AA said. Due to the expected significant increase in traffic over the weekend, AA is advising drivers to plan their journeys in advance, stay updated with congestion and roadworks, and ensure vehicles are roadworthy before setting off. 'By following these tips, we can all contribute to a safer and more pleasant travel experience during the bank holiday weekend,' Jones added. One in 10 of those surveyed said they are not driving over the long weekend, while 30 per cent were unsure of their plans. With the recent sun and warm weather, over seven million plan to embark on trips to the coast, sporting events and garden centres on Saturday 24 May, while 3.5 million indicated they intend to take a long weekend break away from home. The Met Office has said to expect more unsettled conditions with rain or showers in many areas in the UK, ending the prolonged dry spell. Mark Sidaway, deputy chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: 'Whilst the bank holiday won't be a complete washout, with some sunshine expected, this weekend represents a notable shift from the fine and settled weather pattern that has dominated so far this month.' While the AA reported that fewer respondents than they expected were planning to head to the coast, it anticipates that routes to popular coastal destinations to be busier than usual, if the previous good weather continues. These include roads heading towards the east coast such as Skegness as well as the south west and Cornwall, including the A303, M5 and A38, and those leading to Wales such as the M4.
Yahoo
13-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
The warning issued to drivers as millions set to travel over Easter
Drivers are being warned over long queues over Easter, with 19.1 million people expected to hit the road on Good Friday alone. The AA said Easter weekend being three weeks later than in 2024 will 'bump up bank holiday traffic by 15 per cent' as many people hope for warmer weather this year. It advised motorists to prepare for congestion around town and city centres, retail parks and major routes such as the A303 in Wiltshire, the M6 at Birmingham and around the Blackpool area, the south and western section of the M25 between the M23 and M40, and the M5 at Bristol. The AA anticipated 19.1 million people will drive on Good Friday, 18.5 million on Easter Saturday and 18.2 million on each of Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, based on responses to a survey of 11,233 AA members. AA patrol of the year Shaun Jones advised drivers to carry out 'simple checks' such as ensuring tyres are properly inflated, and levels of oil and coolant are correct. He said: 'With so many people planning to travel this Easter, it is crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top condition.' After a period of settled and warmer weather, forecasters expected a return to unsettled conditions next weekend with some rain. Flash sale alert🌟 Dive deeper into the stories that shape Swindon with Swindon Advertiser Unlimited local news, an ad-free app, and a digital replica of our print edition—all with 80% fewer ads on our site Subscribe now for a faster news experience - — Swindon Advertiser (@swindonadver) April 11, 2025 National Highways has deployed traffic management system Operation Brock in Kent ahead of the Easter getaway period. The scheme involves narrow lanes and a reduced 50mph speed limit. It is designed to manage traffic flows on the M20 motorway in the event of delays at Channel ports, which are seeing high demand from holidaymakers. Operation Brock is in place on a 13-mile stretch of the motorway between Junction 8 for Maidstone and Junction 9 for Ashford. Lorries heading for the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel are being directed to follow signs to join a specific lane at Junction 8. All other traffic for the coast crosses over to enter the contraflow on the London-bound carriageway. Tourism authority VisitEngland said around 10.6 million British adults are planning to take a holiday in the UK over the bank holiday period. That is expected to provide an estimated £3.9 billion boost to the economy. A further 3.4 million people are undecided about whether to book an overnight domestic Easter trip, with the most common reasons being waiting to see what the weather will be and if they can afford it. VisitEngland chief executive Patricia Yates said: 'Tourism businesses and destinations will be looking to the critical Easter weekend for much-needed cash flow after the lean winter months, so it's encouraging to see many of us are planning a holiday at home. 'The cost of living remains a concern, and while people are still keen to take a break, many are booking late, taking shorter breaks, and wanting to save on accommodation, activities and eating out, making it difficult for businesses to plan in advance.' Thousands of Easter train journeys will be disrupted as Network Rail is carrying out engineering work. The most significant impact will be at London Euston – the UK's 10th busiest railway station – which will have no services to or from Milton Keynes on Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday, with a reduced timetable on Good Friday and Easter Monday. That is because of work including renewals of overhead electric lines and drainage improvements. Services on the West Coast Main Line will start and terminate at Carlisle, with replacement buses serving stations to the north. Aviation analytics company Cirium said 11,282 flights are scheduled to depart UK airports between Good Friday and Easter Monday. The most common international destinations for UK departures this Easter are Dublin, Amsterdam, Malaga, Alicante and Mallorca.
Yahoo
11-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Millions to take to road for busiest Easter bank holiday in years
Up to 20 million people are expected to take to the roads a day over the Easter holiday, the AA has warned. Long queues are expected over the bank holiday weekend, with 19.8 million people anticipated to travel on Maundy Thursday (April 17) alone. The AA said Easter weekend being three weeks later than in 2024 will 'bump up bank holiday traffic by 15 per cent'. Combined with warmer temperatures than 2024, with forecasts predicting weekend highs of 18C or 19C across the country, this means more drivers are likely to get behind the wheel, the motor insurer said. Tony Rich, the AA's head of road safety, said: 'The AA is predicting the busiest Easter on the roads since the pandemic, with Maundy Thursday being the single busiest day with 19.8 million people expected to be travelling. 'Easter falls later this year than it has for the previous two years, so this could be a factor in people deciding to head out. 'AA research shows that around 50 per cent of journeys will be under 50 miles, though – so the longer journey, for now at least, seems to be a thing of the past.' A further 19.1 million motorists will be taking to the tarmac on Good Friday, he added. The traffic estimates are based on responses to a survey of 11,233 AA members. Congestion is expected around town and city centres, retail parks and major highways such as the M6 at Birmingham and around the Blackpool area, the south and western section of the M25 between the M23 and M40, the M5 at Bristol and the A303 in Wiltshire. AA patrol of the year, Shaun Jones, advised drivers to carry out 'simple checks' such as ensuring tyres are properly inflated, and levels of oil and coolant are correct. He said: 'With so many people planning to travel this Easter, it is crucial to ensure your vehicle is in top condition.' After a period of settled and warmer weather, forecasters expected a return to unsettled conditions next weekend with some rain. National Highways has deployed traffic management system Operation Brock in Kent ahead of the Easter getaway period. The scheme involves narrow lanes and a reduced 50mph speed limit. It is designed to manage traffic flows on the M20 motorway in the event of delays at Channel ports, which are seeing high demand from holidaymakers. Operation Brock is in place on a 13-mile stretch of the motorway between Junction 8 for Maidstone and Junction 9 for Ashford. Lorries heading for the Port of Dover or Eurotunnel are being directed to follow signs to join a specific lane at Junction 8. All other traffic for the coast crosses over to enter the contraflow on the London-bound carriageway. Tourism authority VisitEngland said around 10.6 million British adults are planning to take a holiday in the UK over the bank holiday period. That is expected to provide an estimated £3.9 billion boost to the economy. A further 3.4 million people are undecided about whether to book an overnight domestic Easter trip, with the most common reasons being waiting to see what the weather will be and if they can afford it. Patricia Yates, the chief executive of VisitEngland, said: 'Tourism businesses and destinations will be looking to the critical Easter weekend for much-needed cash flow after the lean winter months, so it's encouraging to see many of us are planning a holiday at home. 'The cost of living remains a concern, and while people are still keen to take a break, many are booking late, taking shorter breaks, and wanting to save on accommodation, activities and eating out, making it difficult for businesses to plan in advance.' Thousands of Easter train journeys will be disrupted as Network Rail is carrying out engineering work. The most significant impact will be at London Euston – the UK's 10th busiest railway station – which will have no services to or from destinations north of Milton Keynes on Easter Saturday and Easter Sunday. A reduced timetable is in force on Good Friday and Easter Monday. Disruption is necessary because of work including renewals of overhead electric lines and drainage improvements. Services on the West Coast Main Line will start and terminate at Carlisle, with replacement buses serving stations to the north. Aviation analytics company Cirium said 11,282 flights are scheduled to depart UK airports between Good Friday and Easter Monday. That is 6 per cent more than last year's Easter, but remains 4 per cent down from Easter 2019. The most common international destinations for UK departures this Easter are Dublin, Amsterdam, Malaga, Alicante and Mallorca. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
