News

Fears over the future of our Town Centres

Published

11 years ago

August 30, 2013

The controversy and debate over town centre regeneration has been re-ignited by Michael Hughes, proprietor of soon to be closed Haverfordwest outlet, ‘Tom Hughes’, who criticised the local County Council for failing to support local businesses in Haverfordwest Town Centre. When speaking to Mr Hughes, he explained how local businesses are struggling,

“There is a lack of planning and vision for Haverfordwest (by Pembrokeshire County Council). Little has been done to help regenerate the town centre. Nice streets and flowers aren’t going to bring people to Haverfordwest. Tourists will not simply come just for Marks and Spencer, Next and Debenhams. They come (to towns like Haverfordwest) for different shops.”

According to Mr Hughes, the retail trade journal ‘Draper’, has claimed there is actually a rise in high street shopping. He also made reference to the rates, which he sees as very high; indeed, he believes they are more expensive per square metre than they are in Carmarthen and he criticised the rating policy set by The Welsh Assembly, complaining that the threshold for rate relief is far too low.

The Herald spoke with a number of shops in Haverfordwest Town centre with recurring themes of complaint about parking facilities in the town, the cost of rates and the closure of Ocky Whites and its effect on trade.

Indeed, only this week comes the announcement that J and G Bland (Motors) Limited, are to close their doors on September 6th. Speaking with another local paper, the owner, Alan Bland, cited high overheads, especially the rates, as the reason for closure. This demise of yet another established Haverfordwest company, one that has been trading in the town for over 130 years, having been established in 1875, will come as a further blow to those that wish to see more independant traders within the Town. The loss of this family business also sees the loss of another twenty jobs in the Town centre.

Jackie Westrup, Haverfordwest Town Mayor, stated,

“I will not run my town down or blame others for its plight but I do recognise the difficulties it is facing. My (Town) Council recognises the plight of our town centre but it also recognises that this is mainly due to the new shopping habits of people.”

She went on to say,

“We have great difficulty in understanding why the County Council wishes to develop a whole line of new shops by Bridge Street where the (current) businesses are struggling under high rates and rents. We consider it complete folly”.

Councillor David Howlett, leader of the Conservative Group on the County Council, commented upon the problem of perceived high rates in Haverfordwest.

“Business rates are the second largest expense (for a business) after wages, and this is set by the Welsh Government. The Welsh (Labour) Government could and should do more with that.”

He continued by explaining that a hardship fund is available to councils but that his worry is that, if a council started down that route, it might be difficult to know where to stop. He also pointed out that the Conservative Party have an Assembly policy for high street regeneration which, amongst other things, aims to tackle the problems with issues surrounding parking and rates, and would use Town Centre Managers to bring cohesion to the running of these centres. He finished by saying that,

“No one element will work by itself. It has to be a collaboration of local councils and the policies of Welsh Assembly Government and UK Government”.

Paul Davies, Welsh Assembly Member for Preseli Pembrokeshire, commented by saying,

“Small businesses play such an important role in Pembrokeshire and by regenerating our local high streets, we can take a significant step forward in nurturing growth in our local economy, creating jobs and making Wales a more prosperous nation. The Welsh Government needs to make our high streets more accessible and more attractive, as well as tackling high vacancy rates before our high streets disappear altogether”

Councillor Paul Miller, leader of the Labour Group, takes a very different view when searching for a solution to the problem. As he explained,

“In 2010 Marks and Spencer moved to Pembrokeshire, opening a new store on the Withybush Retail Park. The Pembrokeshire Independent Group of councillors facilitated and welcomed this move. The reality is that Marks and Spencer moving to Haverfordwest was great news for shoppers, but, in allowing the store to locate outside of the town centre, Pembrokeshire County Council effectively called time on a vibrant and viable Haverfordwest. “

He went on to point out that, as he sees it, in the UK there are only a handful of ‘destination’ retail outlets, the likes of John Lewis and Marks and Spencer, for example, and that in a well planned venture such stores are used as ‘anchor stores’, generating, as he says, “footfall which can support and sustain neighbouring local retailers”.

He went on to lay out his, and Labour’s, vision for Haverfordwest.

“A Labour Council would engage directly with the major retailers still to develop a footprint in Pembrokeshire. We’d get from them just what it is they want- parking, floor area and adjacent facilities – and we’d produce one single master plan for Haverfordwest Town Centre. With pre-lets in place with retailers, we’d acquire the required real estate and provide the up-front capital funds to get construction underway”.

Asked whether he was concerned about the Welsh Labour Government’s business rate setting, he responded by claiming that business rates were a ‘smoke screen that the Council and its allies were using to cover up their failings’.

However, Councillor David Pugh, Cabinet Member for the Economy, poured scorn on Mr Miller’s viewpoint pointing out that Withybush Retail Park is privately owned and thus can allow any retailer to trade from its property as it so wishes; inferring that Labour’s plans would be impossible to impose. As well as this, he cited the cutbacks the County Council faces and doubted the electorate would support the use of Council funds in this way. On the subject of seemingly high rents, he explained that the County Council had no influence on rent set by private landlords. He also said that the business rates are set by the Welsh Assembly Government. He made reference to the business rate review document, published by Professor Brian Morgan in 2012, saying ‘it was a good report that called for the need for adjustment to business rates’, but stated that,

“Unfortunately the (Welsh) Assembly has decided to postpone this review until 2017”.

Councillor Pugh made it clear that he felt there should be an adjustment to the rates but that the Welsh Assembly Government had decided not to make that adjustment.

When asked whether his Independent Group may suffer from having no political voice within the Assembly, lacking, it would appear, a party manifesto, (as in past election literature the Independent Group has claimed to be ‘above’ party politics), Councillor Pugh simply stated that his Group had influence as a ‘political party’ and spoke often with the (Welsh) Assembly. He finished by saying that the regeneration of Pembrokeshire’s town centres was ‘at the top of the list’ and that the County Council would “engage with all aspects of Town to work in partnership to see what we can do”.

Finally, The Herald spoke exclusively with Preseli Pembrokeshire MP, Stephen Crabb, who offered an alternative vision of how Haverfordwest, or indeed any town centre, could face this uncertain future.

“It is clear that every town centre, up and down the country, faces challenges. Somehow our town centres need to be developed and managed in a way that responds to those trends. In some towns the shopping area could be smaller with perhaps more residential and cultural facilities, for example, galleries and restaurants, replacing some retail outlets.”

He pointed out that a ‘one size fits all’ approach to town centres would not succeed and that policy should reflect this, with each individual town requiring individual solutions and continued by saying that,

“In future, County Councils need to work far more closely with Town Councils. When I go around Pembrokeshire it would be easy to be depressed, but there are people in our communities setting up new shops and trying to bring new retail to their communities.”

To this, he cited the new shops in Milford Haven and Haverfordwest, and the raised quality of their retail produce. Mr Crabb pointed out that those people willing to take risks are the people who need every bit of backing they can get from all aspects of Government. He finished by stating that,

“The future of town centres will not be in the hands of big business but in those of local entrepreneurs”.

Whatever may be the future of Haverfordwest, it may take a little bit more than the encumbant County Council’s ‘streetscape paint scheme’ or a lowering of business rates to regenerate these historic and essential community centres and, as Stephen Crabb suggests, a new approach may be necessary to restore our prestigious market town to its former glory.

News

A tribute to Honey Arteya Foxx French, written by her family

Published

1 hour ago

November 20, 2024

Staff Writer

MILFORD HAVEN turned into a sea of yellow on Tuesday, 12th November, as the community gathered to bid farewell to Honey, who tragically passed away at her home on Saturday, 19th October, aged just 12 years old.

Honey was the cherished daughter of Alan and Jess, a beloved sister to Travis and Felix, and a deeply adored granddaughter, great-granddaughter, niece, and cousin. She was a bright, intelligent young girl who attended St. Davids School, leaving an unforgettable impression on all who knew her.

The funeral cortege left her home led by a convoy of bikes, passing her favourite play park, Gellyswick Beach—where she spent countless joyful hours—and her former primary school, where staff stood to pay their respects as the hearse passed.

Before arriving at St. Katharine & St. Peter’s Church, the cortege paused on the Rath for a moving tribute. Tugboats flew yellow flags and released a spectacular display of water, followed by 12 blasts of their horns to honour Honey’s age.

At the church, her yellow coffin, engraved with her name and adorned with honeybee carvings, was carried in to the song I Can’t Help Myself by The Four Tops, a nod to her name. The congregation sang All Things Bright and Beautiful, a favourite from Honey’s primary school days. As the service concluded, Little Bitty Pretty One by Thurston Harris, from her favourite film Matilda, played alongside a touching visual tribute.

At Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Honey’s personality shone through in the music choices, with Rock Superstar by Cypress Hill, her favourite song, and Sail Away by David Gray playing as the service ended.

Honey’s floral tributes were later placed at Milford Haven Cemetery on the graves of loved ones. Flowers from her coffin spray were sent out to sea from Gellyswick Bay that evening, a poignant final farewell.

Her heartbroken parents, Alan and Jess, wrote this loving tribute:

“Once upon a time, oh best beloved, there was a little girl called Honey-bee.

Honey-bee was the most loved of all little girls—before her and after her. She filled every inch of space around her with her presence. Her laugh was husky, cheeky, and contagious. Even if her jokes crossed a line, you couldn’t help but laugh—she was hilarious.

Honey loved to sing, much to her mama’s pride. Whether in the car, the garden, or pottering in the kitchen, she memorised songs with ease, belting out her favourites for all to hear. She danced too—many hours were spent grooving to James Brown or Biggie Smalls in the kitchen. Dramatic and bold, she was destined for the stage.

Honey was her Nana’s girl, and their bond was unbreakable. Sleepovers at Nana’s house meant scary movies, silly photos, and endless laughs. One unforgettable day at Scolton Manor spa, Honey, Mum, and Nana found themselves laughing like children in the rain, with Honey unknowingly pulling a rope that dumped a bucket of icy water over her. Chaos followed, but it was legendary.

Honey had a knack for mischief. She once tried to disprove the Tooth Fairy by hiding a tooth for three days, only to pen a threatening letter to the Easter Bunny demanding payment. When her dad tried to play along, she caught him red-handed, sitting upright with a grin and her hand out, saying, ‘I’ll take that.’

Her adventurous spirit extended to animals—she had a pet duck that followed her everywhere. One morning, her dad replaced the duck’s egg with a Cadbury’s Creme Egg. Honey’s delight at finding ‘chocolate-pooping ducks’ was unmatched.

On her third birthday, she was gifted a Shetland pony dressed as a unicorn, which she proudly rode to school. She even tried to save a live rat from the neighbour’s cat, much to her family’s horror.

In school, Honey shone on stage and in sports. She led a petition for a girls’ rugby team, represented Pembrokeshire in shot put, and played the Evil Queen in a school production, dazzling everyone with her confidence and talent. She was a natural leader and a cherished friend to many.

Honey’s love of life and her fearless, mischievous spirit will forever be remembered. She was, and always will be, the most loved little girl.”

Rest in peace, Honey-bee. Your light will never dim, and your memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.

Community

New art trail is afoot in Fishguard and Goodwick!

Published

3 hours ago

November 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A NEW sculpture trail Art Afoot / Celf ar Droed linking Fishguard and Goodwick is due to be launched December 15th 2024.

Commissioned by Pembrokeshire County Council with UK Government funding, the trail has been designed and delivered by local creative organisation Small World Theatre, based in nearby Cardigan.

Local artists from the region have designed and fabricated the artworks in their studios. The trail also includes augmented reality artworks that the viewer can see in the landscape using their phone.

The trails make use of existing and maintained pathways such as the boardwalk on Goodwick Moor, a wildlife reserve and the Marine Walk which is an accessible coastal path.

The new artworks will also be interspersed with existing artworks and heritage monuments and tell the twin towns heritage stories while celebrating the unique biodiversity and wildlife of the area.

A hand drawn and illustrated map will guide walkers along the various route options and website will give further details about the artworks, the artists and a digital version of the map.

Six new sculptures and eight augmented reality artworks have been commissioned as well as a series of decorated waymarkers. Sculptural archways created by Bill Hamblett will mark key route directions and celebrate local wildlife and heritage.

The launch event begins 2pm at Ocean Lab, Goodwick Sunday, December 15th and the artists will lead a guided walk along one of the trail routes.

Everyone is welcome, this is a free family friendly event and the route taken will be accessible to wheelchair users.

Pembrokeshire County Council Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, Cllr Rhys Sinnett, said: “This innovative project will bring the rich history of Fishguard and Goodwick to life through both physical and virtual art for us all to enjoy. It promises to be a really interesting experience, not just for those visiting the area but also those who already live in this beautiful part of Pembrokeshire.”

A stunning five metre stainless steel seahorse created by Pembrokeshire-based artist Gideon Peterson will sit at the entrance to the Marine Walk, overlooking Goodwick beach and Fishguard Harbour.

Many of the artworks are interactive or kinetic such as a wind-powered shoal of fish and a giant kaleidoscope showcasing local children’s drawings at Goodwick Parrog, made using reclaimed materials by artist duo Toby Downing and Ben Cramp.

A playful hand painted sculpture of Jemima Nicholas, created by Ann Shrosbree with painting by Sarah Hope, was originally inspired by a young person’s drawing and an augmented reality immersive experience awaits viewers with artworks by Seán Vicary and Steve Knight.

The area is known for its focus on arts and culture and these trails are the latest manifestation of this. For those who love culture as well as stunning coastal scenery and wildlife, this is an ideal combination.

Education

Pupils wear wellies to back farmers: Council says schools can’t promote protest

Published

12 hours ago

November 19, 2024

Jon Coles

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has denied trying to stop pupils from wearing Wellington boots to school in support of local farmers.

However, following a request, the Council refused to promote the wearing of the boots on its website or to allow schools to do so on theirs.

The Council communicated its decision on Monday, November 18, ahead of the national farmers’ protest in London on Tuesday, November 19.

Regardless, pupils across Pembrokeshire wore Wellington boots to school on Tuesday to show their support.

At Ysgol Bro Preseli many pupils had wellies on, and three older pupils reportedly drove to school in tractors.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council said: “The Education Act 1996 clearly prohibits practitioners from promoting partisan political views, and therefore, our schools are not permitted to promote the farmers’ protest taking place in London today.”

Dyfed-Powys Neighbourhood Watch said: “It’s is very upsetting to learn that Pembrokeshire County Council has pressured all schools across Pembrokeshire to withdraw their communications to parents and guardians, showing support to farmers regarding wellies day.

“Farmers are the cornerstone of our country. If there are no farmers, there is no food. If there is no food, there is no way to survive, meaning no Future. It really is as simple as that. Farmers deserve to be recognised.”

A local farmer was unimpressed: “Of course, Pembrokeshire County Council would roll over for their Labour paymasters in London.

“They’ve been rolling over for Labour in Cardiff Bay for years.

“It’s as if the Council doesn’t understand just how important agriculture is to the county’s economy, our identity, and our culture.

“Regardless of your political persuasion, a serious threat looms over the industry, and a show of solidarity would’ve been gratefully received by Pembrokeshire’s farmers.”

Another said: “The support for farmers is wide-ranging, and we owe much to those in London exercising their democratic right to represent rural Britain.

“It felt like a real community in London, and I’m proud to be a part of it.

“Even Londoners supported the farmers and loved the good-natured atmosphere: they said it was so much different than the usual protests they have there.”

(Image: File)