News
Application submitted to rebuild weather-damaged wall at historic Blackpool Mill

AN APPLICATION has been submitted to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners to rebuild a weather-damaged riverside wall at the historic Blackpool Mill, now a restaurant.
Bluestone Resorts Ltd is seeking permission to replace a collapsed riverside retaining wall at the Grade II*-listed Blackpool Mill, located at Blackpool Bridge near Narberth.
A supporting statement from agent Graham Frecknall Architects states: “Blackpool Mill is a Grade II*-protected heritage asset located on the south bank of the Cleddau River at Blackpool Bridge.
“The property was granted formal planning and listed building consent in 2020 to convert the former museum into a restaurant with ancillary on-site facilities, and it opened to the public in July 2023.
“In October 2023, following a period of heavy rainfall and high tides, a large section of the existing stone-faced riverside retaining wall—situated immediately adjacent to the main mill building and the rear gable of the store—collapsed into the Cleddau River. In November 2023, after discussions with conservation and NRW officers, temporary works were installed to prevent further collapse and erosion while a permanent solution was sought.
“The proposals for the new retaining wall aim to recreate the coursed stone façade of the pre-collapse structure using modern, structural materials, designed and coloured to match the basement stone façade of the main mill building.”
The restaurant opened in 2023 after Bluestone CEO William McNamara secured permission in 2020 to restore the historic mill. A total of £3 million was spent on preserving, restoring, and transforming the Georgian building and its grounds.
The 210-year-old mill was renovated by skilled craftspeople and engineers, who worked to preserve its historical character. The restoration included the installation of 53 traditional sash windows in keeping with Georgian architecture, as well as custom-made staircases. Original milling equipment, including connecting rods and braces, was also restored to reflect the mill’s industrial heritage.
The restaurant’s opening created 35 new jobs across both front and back of house.
The latest application will be considered by park planners at a later date.
Entertainment
Welsh crime thriller filmed in Pembroke Dock set for BBC debut

A NEW Welsh crime thriller, The One That Got Away—previously shown on S4C as Cleddau—is set to premiere on BBC One Wales and BBC Four later this month.
The gripping six-part series, featuring an all-Welsh cast, will debut on BBC One Wales at 9:10pm on Tuesday, February 25. A double-bill of the first two episodes will air on BBC Four on St David’s Day, March 1, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer.
The series stars Elen Rhys (The Mallorca Files, Craith/Hidden) as DI Ffion Lloyd, who is forced to team up with her former lover, DS Rick Sheldon, played by Richard Harrington (Y Gwyll/Hinterland), to investigate the murder of a nurse in a Welsh seaside town.
Written by Catherine Tregenna (Law & Order UK, Lewis, DCI Banks) and directed by Sion Ifan (Y Goleudy), the drama explores the unresolved past between the two detectives while a disturbing murder case unfolds. The killing shakes the small community, raising doubts about a historic conviction and suggesting the terrifying possibility of a copycat at large.
Actor Elen Rhys, who returned to Wales to film the series, said: “Coming home to Wales to film was a joy—immersing myself in everything Welsh. The talented, close-knit crew worked together so well, making it a truly lovely and extraordinary experience. I felt so lucky.”
The series promises a gripping mix of psychological depth, crime investigation, and the emotional entanglements of its lead characters, set against the atmospheric backdrop of Pembrokeshire.
Community
Plans submitted for disability-friendly bridge at Tenby train station

TENBY railway station could soon see a new accessible footbridge, with Network Rail submitting plans to the National Park for the installation of an ‘Access for All’ bridge at the Grade-II-listed Victorian station.
The proposal aims to improve accessibility, providing an unobstructed route from at least one station entrance to all platforms via the new footbridge. A supporting statement from Network Rail explains that the scheme is designed to ensure step-free access between platforms, replacing the current barrow crossing, which is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
A Network Rail spokesperson said: “At Tenby Station, there is currently no obstacle-free accessible route between platforms 1 and 2. The existing barrow crossing does not provide suitable step-free access, and the proposed footbridge will address this issue.”
The plans, which include associated works to integrate the bridge with the historic station infrastructure, are now under consideration by the National Park authority. If approved, the scheme will mark a significant improvement in accessibility for passengers at the popular seaside station.
Crime
Shoplifting concerns spread to Narberth as High Street pharmacy issues warning

BUSINESSES in Narberth are facing mounting challenges as concerns over shoplifting spread beyond Tenby. Narberth High Street Pharmacy has issued a stark warning to local traders after a suspected theft incident, urging vigilance among businesses and the public.
In a statement posted online, the pharmacy said: “Warning to Narberth High Street. Another case of suspected theft. Please watch the video carefully. Items were not left behind after inspecting the shelves. It is extremely difficult for businesses to remain viable when this sort of thing happens.”
The pharmacy, which remains open seven days a week, highlighted the growing difficulties in maintaining a presence in the town due to ongoing retail crime.
Rising shoplifting across Pembrokeshire
The incident in Narberth follows widespread national coverage of shoplifting issues in Tenby, where local businesses have reported thousands of pounds in losses due to theft. The situation has drawn attention to a concerning trend across Pembrokeshire, where independent shops and pharmacies—already struggling with rising costs—are finding it increasingly difficult to operate.
According to the latest crime data, shoplifting offences have been rising in Wales, mirroring a nationwide trend. The Office for National Statistics reported a 23% increase in retail thefts across England and Wales in the past year. In Dyfed-Powys, shoplifting cases have surged by 12%, with many small businesses feeling the pressure.
Call for action
Narberth traders are now calling for more proactive policing and stronger deterrents to tackle the issue. While CCTV and security measures have been introduced by some businesses, many feel they are left to handle the problem themselves, with limited police resources available.
The pharmacy urged the community to assist in identifying the individual involved in the latest suspected theft, stating:
“If anyone has any info on this individual, please share so we can follow up with the police.”
With the problem now affecting multiple towns in Pembrokeshire, there is growing pressure for authorities to implement stronger measures to support businesses and protect livelihoods.
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