Community
AM supports National Park’s contribution to local economy
THE PEMBROKESHIRE Coast National Park, along with the other two National Parks in Wales, plays a critical role in supporting the Welsh economy, an independent report published today has revealed.
The report – Valuing Wales’ National Parks – examines the economic contribution of our National Parks and the extent to which they impact on the lives of people in Wales and beyond.
The report found that the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the surrounding area attracts 4.2million visitors a year, supports over 7000 jobs and contributes £187million Gross Value Added to the Welsh economy.
Paul Davies the Assembly Member for Preseli Pembrokeshire said: “I consider myself very lucky to both live and work in such a beautiful part of the country. Our National Parks very much symbolize the character and essence of Wales and in many respects they are Wales’ window to the world.
“Understanding their economic value is crucial on so many levels. The findings of the report, Valuing Wales’ National Parks, are very positive indeed, highlighting their significant contribution to the Welsh economy.”
In a Statement of Opinion raised at the National Assembly – AMs including Paul Davies paid tribute to the work of the Pembrokeshire Coast, Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia National Parks.
The Statement of Opinion reads: ‘This National Assembly commends the work of our three National Park Authorities and recognises their significant contribution to the Welsh economy – estimated to be in the region of £1billion. We further acknowledge that the National Parks of Wales play a pivotal role in the economic development of their respective regions that extends far beyond their physical boundaries. The specialised and consistent approach to the management of these natural assets ensures their protection and sustainability for the enjoyment of both residents and the 12 million annual visitors’.
The report found that together Wales’ National Parks attracted over 12 million visitors each year spending an estimated £1billion on goods and services, outperforming their English and Scottish counterparts in terms of visitor nights – with a higher proportion of visitors staying in the Welsh countryside.
The findings of the report not only highlight the fundamental role the National Parks play in underpinning our economy, but also recognise the recreation, wellbeing and cultural benefits they bring and their wider tourism value as high-profile international brands.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority Chairman Cllr Mike James added: “The results are revealing. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park attracts over 4million visitors each year, supporting over 7,000 local jobs.
“Their conservation and social wellbeing value of the National Park has long been recognised, but this report has given us a real insight into the tangible economic benefits and I’m naturally pleased with its findings. I’m also delighted with the cross-party support we’ve received at the National Assembly for Wales.”
The findings of the report have been endorsed by Assembly Members from across the political spectrum, who have come together to show their support for the work of Wales’ three National Park Authorities.
The report, produced by Arup, Consulting, was commissioned by National Parks Wales, the Welsh Local Government Association and Natural Resources Wales.
Community
Pembrokeshire crowned the dog beach capital of the UK

IF YOU’VE ever wondered where the best beaches for your furry friends are, then look no further than our very own Pembrokeshire! New research has shown that our county is leading the UK when it comes to dog-friendly shorelines.
As the sun fades on another summer, the trend for ‘staycations’ shows no signs of slowing. Recent data indicates a 20% rise in searches for ‘winter breaks’ across Britain, and an impressive 75% of the populace planning a UK overnight trip within the coming year. But it’s not just humans who benefit from these local retreats – our canine companions are joining in on the fun too.
A detailed study conducted by Dream Cottages, a holiday cottage provider, has dug up data about where you should whisk your whiskered friend for a relaxing break. By measuring the number of dog-friendly beaches, expansive open spaces, convenient vets, and accessible pet stores, they’ve charted the best spots in the UK for a delightful doggy vacation.
And the result? Pembrokeshire proudly tops the list for the highest number of dog-friendly beaches! With a staggering count of 81 dog-friendly beaches, Pembrokeshire has edged out Devon, which sits comfortably in second place with 76 beaches.
Yorkshire, despite coming in 10th place for beaches, took the overall crown as the best place for a dog-friendly holiday considering its abundant open spaces. However, when it’s sandy shores you’re after, Pembrokeshire stands unmatched.
Pembrokeshire’s love for its canine visitors isn’t just about beaches. The entire community has embraced the ethos of making every visitor, on two legs or four, feel entirely at home.
Aislinn Peters, a spokesperson for Dream Cottages, emphasised the growing trend of inclusive holidays. “We understand people’s desire to bring their pets on holiday. Exploring new terrains, especially in areas as beautiful as Pembrokeshire, becomes even more special with your loyal companion by your side,” she stated.
It’s clear that more Brits are opting for home soil adventures, recognising the unmatched beauty and hospitality the UK has to offer. And for those with a wagging tail by their side, Pembrokeshire remains the beach paradise of choice.
With winter around the corner and an evident love for staycations, Pembrokeshire’s pristine beaches are poised to witness both human and canine footprints, come rain or shine!
Community
RAF St Davids airfield honours the past with 80th anniversary celebration

IT WAS a scene reminiscent of yesteryears at the RAF St Davids Airfield this past Friday, 15th September. The echoes of wartime reverberated around the venue as a fitting tribute was unveiled on the 80th anniversary of the airfield’s establishment.
The poignant ceremony culminated with a nostalgic flypast by an Avro Anson, a wartime-era aircraft, honouring the memory of those who tragically lost their lives serving at the airfield. In addition, the event was an ode to all military and civilian personnel who rendered their services during both war and peaceful times.

Masterminded by Malcolm Gray – the artisan behind the three slate plaques that now form the memorial – along with stalwarts Ian Panton and John James, the ceremony drew inspiration from an initiative set forth by the late Alun James of Carnhedryn, a fervent local historian.
The memorial, ingeniously crafted using a section of a wall from a wartime edifice, was gracefully unveiled by Councillor Emma Evans, the Mayor of St Davids, with Councillor Bira Sehmi, the Deputy Mayor, by her side.
Adding to the occasion’s gravitas was the Chief guest, Air Commodore Adrian Williams, the RAF’s Air Officer Wales, who honoured the memory of the fallen by laying a wreath at the memorial. The ceremony was further sanctified by the Rev William Owen of Caerfachell. Morgan Price’s rendition of The Last Post and Reveille, along with the standards paraded by the Royal British Legion’s Solva and St Davids branches and the Air Cadets of the 948 (Haverfordwest and City of St David’s) Squadron, added to the solemnity of the occasion.
John Evans of the Pembrokeshire Aviation Group took attendees on a journey through the airfield’s illustrious 50-year active history, starting in 1943. The commemoration saw many with a familial bond to RAF St Davids, including Mr Bryan John of Solva, whose affiliation with the RAF led him to work with the Airwork company based in St Davids and later at Brawdy.
From Cawdor Barracks, Captain Shane Murphy and Warrant Officer (RAF) Greg Moodie were also in attendance.

Following the formal proceedings, guests reconvened at the St Davids RAFA Club, where they were greeted by Chairman Malcolm Clift, indulging in some well-deserved refreshments. Notably, the RAF Ensign proudly flew over Cross Square, St Davids that day.
The day’s ceremonies saw the twin-engined Anson, piloted by owner Glenn James from Shropshire, using the Haverfordwest Airport as its base. A later rendezvous took place between Air Commodore Williams and the Anson crew at Withybush.

Community
Fire-ravaged Haverfordwest Dunlop Motors gets demolition go-ahead

PEMBROKESHIRE planners have approved the demolition of fire-ravaged garage buildings in Haverfordwest’s conservation area, which saw crews from as far afield as Ammanford tackling the blaze.
The fire broke out around 7.18am on Saturday, April 22 on Dew Street, Haverfordwest. It took place at a single-storey commercial car engineering garage.
Crews from Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Narberth, Fishguard, Tenby, Carmarthen and Ammanford were called to the scene, and Dyfed-Powys Police were in attendance.
Chris Dungey has sought permission for the demolition of fire-damaged Dunlop Motors commercial garage buildings in the town’s Dew Street, including an associated site clearance and decontamination, along with a subsequent restoration and remediation of the site.
Agent Pembroke Design Limited in its supporting statement said the damage was extensive; the intense heat of the fire broke down the buildings’ asbestos cladding, most of which has fallen to the ground.
“It is also likely that the fire has compromised the structural frames of the building, although this cannot be fully assessed at this time, due to access restrictions prior to decontamination of the site,” the statement said, adding: “Due to the extent of damage, the buildings are beyond economic repair and must be demolished. It is therefore proposed to demolish the buildings and clear the site.
“The floors of the building and the surrounding external area are contaminated, both by particles of ACMs and also petrochemicals and other hazardous substances due to the use of the building as a commercial garage and workshop (full extent of contamination to be confirmed when safe access is available to the site).
“It is proposed to remove existing concrete slabs and contaminated ground surfaces down to a suitable level and backfill with inert compacted hardcore/gravel to provide a clean and permeable surface, until any future redevelopment (subject to the necessary separate consents) is undertaken. Existing vegetation to boundary walls will be cleared to provide a neat and tidy appearance.”
The report said the historic fabric of the site was lost when the original car dealership building was constructed in the second half of 20th century; the workshop buildings to be demolished are presumed to have been constructed at a slightly later date, being added to in a piecemeal fashion over the years.
“The fire damaged buildings do not contribute positively to the Conservation Area or relate well to the surrounding historical fabric or listed buildings. Their demolition, whilst being necessary from and health & safety and public welfare perspective, will allow for a replacement to be constructed in a more sympathetic style, to better relate to the context of the Conservation Area, subject to approval of a separate, future planning application.”
The application was conditionally approved earlier this month.
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