Lesley Griffiths has also confirmed there will be some important changes to the measures that will apply within the new all-Wales Prevention Zone.

The current Prevention Zone requires all keepers of poultry and other captive birds to keep their birds indoors or take all appropriate steps to keep them separate from wild birds, and to enhance biosecurity. This follows a number of confirmed cases of Avian Flu across the UK, including in a backyard flock of chicken and ducks near Pontyberem, Carmarthenshire. 

Expert advice suggests it is unlikely the current level of risk will change before the current Prevention Zone is scheduled to end on 28 February. In view of this, and following consultation with industry and veterinary representatives, the Cabinet Secretary has decided to put in place a new Prevention Zone, that will take effect from midnight on 28 February.

The new Avian Influenza Prevention Zone requires all keepers to complete a self assessment of biosecurity measures on their premises. The objective being to keep domestic flocks totally separate from wild birds by continuing to keep birds housed or using other measures, which may include permitting controlled access to outside areas, subject to the introduction of additional risk mitigation measures. 

The Cabinet Secretary said:

“My decision to put in place a new Avian Influenza Prevention Zone until 30 April is based on sound expert and industry advice.  

“The risk of infection from wild birds is unlikely to decrease in the coming weeks. The changes I am announcing today are proportionate and place the onus on the keeper to select the best option for their circumstances to protect their birds. They must, however, ensure compliance with the additional risk mitigation measures”.

The Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Christianne Glossop added:

“Keepers of poultry and other captive birds must remain vigilant for signs of disease. Avian Influenza is a notifiable disease, and any suspicion should be reported immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency. Keepers should practice the highest levels of biosecurity if they are to minimise the risk of infection.

“I continue to strongly encourage all poultry keepers, even those with fewer than 50 birds, to provide their details to the Poultry Register. This will ensure they can be contacted immediately, via email or text update, in an avian disease outbreak enabling them to protect their flock at the earliest opportunity”.

The final phase saw the addition of 64 new luxury holiday lodges, a development which was supported by funding from the Welsh Government and has created 115 jobs in the local area. The holiday village’s total number of 5* lodges, cottages and studio apartments is now more than 300 and the resort welcomes 140,000 staying guests per year plus a further 120,000 day visitors to Blue Lagoon Waterpark.

The development was supported by £1.5 million of Tourism Investment Support Scheme funding through Visit Wales, the ambitious expansion programme took 18 months to complete at a cost of £8.5 million.

Bluestone is now one of Wales top 10 biggest private sector employers, and employs 700 people. 

The development comes against the backdrop of sustained growth for the 5* resort, which is set over 500 acres of national park near Narberth in Pembrokeshire. During a visit led by Chief Executive William McNamara, The Economy Secretary had a flavour of future plans which include the development of the nearby Black Pool Mill and a Skydome for the resort. 

Economy Secretary, Ken Skates, said: 

“I’d like to congratulate the team at Bluestone for the excellent, high quality product which they’ve developed – and which is proving so popular with new and returning guests, this is clearly evident by their high occupancy rates.  I’m delighted that the Welsh Government has been able to play a part in laying the foundations and supporting the growth of this business – which is such am important employer in rural Wales.  I wish the team every success with their innovative ideas for future development of the resort.”

Bluestone Chief Executive, William McNamara, said: 

“Pembrokeshire does tourism for a living and we’re incredibly proud of the way in which Bluestone has cemented itself as a unique jewel in the crown of the Welsh tourism offering. 

“Clearly, with a thriving industry, there are huge opportunities for the sector and for us as a business. Our research shows that 50% of our guests have never previously visited Pembrokeshire so there’s a real opportunity here to demonstrate our unique offering to new audiences. 

“I’m pleased to have the opportunity to showcase all that has been achieved at Bluestone to date and to share with the Cabinet Secretary our ambitious vision for the future.”

The 115 jobs at Bluestone are in addition to the 696 new and 787 safeguarded jobs that were announced by the Welsh Government last week following direct support.