Volunteers say the River Taff looks like a "sea of plastic" and swans make nests out of plastic bottles.
A vision nearly 20 years in the making is realised as a facility of "national significance" is complete.
The SNP leader was speaking as the party's two-day conference in Aberdeen drew to a close.
Data shows 1.15m households are waiting for social housing as England fails to build new homes.
With one in 10 posts on governing bodies empty, skilled professionals are being urged to step in.
Northampton may have an "embarrassing" litter problem but a plan is unveiled to entice tourists.
An inquiry into claims of a campaign against a school was closed when no evidence was handed over.
Kenny Dalglish leads the Queen's Birthday honours and President Trump sows dissent at the G7 summit.
The Sikh soldier took part in Trooping the Colour, which marks the Queen's official birthday.
