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.
News
Fatal crash appeal after driver dies on A44 near Aberystwyth
POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a driver died in a crash on the A44.
Dyfed-Powys Police said the collision happened at around 6:10pm on Tuesday (May 5) on the A44 between Capel Bangor and Goginan, near Aberystwyth
The crash involved a single vehicle, a white Volkswagen Golf, which was travelling eastbound towards Goginan when it left the carriageway.
Sadly, the driver died at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
Police confirmed there were no other passengers in the vehicle.
Officers are now asking anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage from the area at the time, to come forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.
Charity
Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return
Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront
MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.
The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.
Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.
Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.
Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.
The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.
Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.
Community support
Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.
“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.
“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”
Ticket information
Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.
Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.
The event is strictly over-18s only.
Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.
Charity
Pembroke Dock charity shop expands to support hospice care
SHOP NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AFTER EXPANSION INTO ADJOINING UNIT
A CHARITY shop in Pembroke Dock has expanded into a neighbouring unit to help raise more money for local hospice care.
Paul Sartori Hospice at Home has completed a knock-through at its shop in Bierspool, London Road, creating a larger retail space and allowing the charity to offer a wider range of items, including furniture.
The expanded shop was officially opened on Friday (May 1) by the outgoing Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Cllr Michelle Wiggins.
The shop team, led by Kelly Elliot and supported by volunteers, worked for several weeks to prepare the new-look store for customers.
Head of Retail Julia Brady welcomed guests at the opening, while the charity also thanked staff, volunteers and supporters who helped decorate and prepare the premises.
Special thanks were given to Gill at Pembroke Dock Tesco for donating treats for customers and staff on the day.
Paul Sartori Hospice at Home operates nine retail shops and an eBay department. Income from donations and sales helps fund the charity’s clinical teams, who provide free specialist palliative care to patients and families across Pembrokeshire.
The charity says it costs £3,600 every day to deliver its free clinical services. Around 30% of that cost is funded through Hywel Dda Health Board, with the remainder raised through retail income, fundraising and community support.
The Pembroke Dock shop is now open seven days a week, giving people more opportunities to shop, donate and support local hospice care.
Paul Sartori Hospice at Home was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori, a much-loved local priest who recognised the need for hospice care before his death from cancer at the age of 39.
The charity provides care for people with any life-limiting condition, not only cancer, and supports patients of all faiths and none. It operates an open referral system, with referrals accepted from patients, families, friends and healthcare professionals.
Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd operates under the name Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. The charity was registered in 1982 and will celebrate its 45th anniversary during 2027/2028.
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