News

Pembroke regeneration plans are well underway

Published

8 years ago

October 21, 2016

PLANS to regenerate Pembroke were further discussed in the latest meeting of Pembroke Town Council’s Regeneration Committee on Monday (Oct 17).

In light of a series of ‘masterplans across the county’, including Haverfordwest’s multi-million pound riverside and town centre development, Pembroke would appear to be next in line to undergo the regeneration process.

The plans for the project are still very much in preliminary stages. A draft plan has been formulated; however, no specific improvements to the town have been firmly established.

Throughout the meeting, councillors emphasised the need for a consultation process which will engage the ‘whole of the town’ and embrace public discussion, with Cllr Jonathan Nutting adding that decisions could not be made ‘without talking to everyone’.

The draft plans state: “Pembroke Town Centre requires a holistic vision looking at its retail and commercial function, its transport and parking systems, its cultural importance, landscape setting and historic built heritage, its public realm and its role as a workplace.”

Making reference to a previous presentation regarding the proposed masterplan for Pembroke, Mayor of Pembroke, Cllr Dennis Evans, said: “It did inspire a lot of us to think that maybe this is the time for Pembroke.”

Echoing Mayor Evans’ comment, Cllr Pauline Waters added: “It’s our turn out of the major towns in Pembrokeshire.”

While many councillors raised concern over the draft, given that it fails to address Pembroke specifically, and in turn, drew many similarities with the plans used for the regeneration of Haverfordwest, Mayor Dennis Evans emphasised: “This is a plan. This is an opportunity for us to move forward.”

Although the draft is not modelled to Pembroke specifically, there is still a clear set of ‘deliverables’ laid out within it. These include the identification of major development opportunities; early stage projects for immediate delivery and a spatial framework which included measures to focus on retail and town centre activity.

Many councillors used Haverfordwest’s efforts in developing its town centre as a positive point of reference, with some calling for Pembroke to adopt the ‘cultural centre’ approach and using terms such as ‘ideal’ to describe the development of the riverside market. Museums and galleries featured prominently in the discussion, as well as more general ‘cultural areas’.

While Cllr Blackburn acknowledged that Haverfordwest is ‘way down the line’ in its regeneration phase, Cllr Waters emphasised that ‘Haverfordwest didn’t happen overnight’.

With reference to St Michaels Church and St Michaels School, Cllr Waters added: “We have to make the best of what we’ve got, we’ve got some great buildings.”

Other members of the meeting emphasised the need to preserve the town’s heritage and raised the prospect of restoring historic sites, such as the old workhouse.

Cllr Nutting added: “We must protect what we’ve got. We have to say in our plan; these things are important and must be protected.”

Cllr Nutting also stressed that the plan should be presented to Pembrokeshire County Council ‘without emphasis on individual buildings’, and instead present a wide range of thoughts and proposals for Pembroke.

Mayor Dennis Evans subsequently suggested that members of the committee should each comprise a list of key buildings around the town and propose what should be done with them.

While the regeneration of Haverfordwest and the efforts of Pembrokeshire County Council in pushing forward with the plan for Pembroke were praised by many – Cllr Wyn Jenkins emphasised the importance of having ‘the authority in Haverfordwest on our side’ – this viewpoint was not shared unanimously.

Cllr Nutting said: “Pembrokeshire County Council has one thing in mind and that is Haverfordwest… a parochial, provincial market town.”

He added: “Pembroke Dock should not be languishing where it is – the money should have gone there.”

Backtracking on his previous remark, Cllr Nutting stated: “Don’t get me wrong, I love Haverfordwest.

“The more we shout, the more we make ourselves prominent and get what we want.”

Also present at the meeting was local architect Alan Collie, who issued words of warning to those present in the meeting.

Mr Collie warned: “Don’t get tied up with these posh consultancy plans. A lot of it is telling you what you already know but in a much longer form.”

Mr Collie also made reference to the amount of derelict buildings in the town, calling it ‘a disgrace’, something many councillors agreed with.

During the meeting, Cllr Jenkins called for original plans of a Pembroke regeneration, formulated some 30 years ago, to be revisited.

This development, named the Pembroke Maritime Village, would have seen a luxury hotel built on the waterfront of Castle Quarry. By dredging the Pembroke River and constructing lock gates and inlets into the quarry, boats travelling from all over the world would have been able to moor up having come through the main haven in Pennar.

The project would have also included the construction of chalets along the waterfront, as well as minor industry to support the river.

After four years of planning, Pembrokeshire County Council rejected the plans due to a local resident who raised concerns over ‘big industrial works’ being developed. Cllr Jenkins said no such industry was ever planned.

Cllr Jenkins said: “It would have made Pembroke and put it back on the map.”

Reflecting on the failed development, Cllr Jenkins described the situation as a ‘Pembroke problem’, adding ‘we can’t seem to get off the ground’.

Many councillors showed their support for the original plans to be ‘resurrected’, with Cllr Waters adding: “We need to capitalise on the waterways around our town.”

Throughout the meeting, the issue of timescales were also raised. Despite Mayor Dennis Evans having pointed out ‘this is not a quick process’, he, along with other members of the council, emphasised the looming nature of deadlines.

Former Pembroke Town Councillor Jan Gigler also raised the point that minutes for the regeneration meetings were not freely available to the public, something that the committee proved eager to address.

A public meeting was scheduled for 7pm on November 8 at Pembroke Town Hall. All local residents are encouraged to attend.

Crime

Police offer advice after 60 reports of stolen quad bikes from farms

Published

4 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is advising the rural community to make sure security measures are in place to protect quad bikes and other farm equipment, in response to a spate of thefts.

There have been over 60 reports of stolen quad bikes across the force in 2024.

Farmers and other owners of quad bikes are reminded to be vigilant of suspicious vehicles and people in their community and to report any concerns to police.

Dyfed-Powys Police has acquired 150 SelectaDNA Rural Kits to support their efforts in combating rural crime. These advanced DNA asset-marking kits will be used to offer free property marking services to farmers, helping them protect their valuable equipment and machinery.

In addition to property marking, our Rural Crime Team officers, who are also qualified Crime Prevention Tactical Advisors (CPTAC), will visit farms to conduct comprehensive crime prevention audits. These audits are designed to ensure farms have the best security measures in place to deter criminal activity and safeguard their livelihoods.

The SelectaDNA Rural Kits use a unique DNA solution that can be applied to tools, vehicles, machinery, and other valuable assets. This marking is virtually invisible but can be detected under UV light, providing an indisputable link between stolen property and its rightful owner. This has proven to be a powerful deterrent against theft and an invaluable tool in recovering stolen items.

Rural communities are often targeted by criminals due to their remote locations and the high value of farming equipment.By offering free property marking and crime prevention visits, Dyfed-Powys Police aim to empower farmers with effective tools and advice to protect their assets and reduce the risk of crime.

Sergeant Paul Roberts from our Rural Crime Team, said: “I ask that local farmers and other quad bike owners take appropriate action to minimise the opportunities of these thefts occurring. This includes removing keys from ignitions after use and locking barns or outbuildings wherever the vehicles may be kept.

“I’m aware that thefts of quad bikes and farming machinery causes disruption to farmers’ work, as well as the financial implications, and I would like to reassure the public that police are thoroughly investigating these matters.

“I encourage anyone living in rural communities to remain vigilant to this type of theft, and to report any suspicious vehicles or behaviour to police either online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101. Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”

The Rural Crime Team will be attending marts across the force, where community members can bring items such as tools, machinery, and bikes to be marked.

Farmers can also arrange a visit from our Rural Crime Team to mark equipment and conduct a security audit by emailing [email protected]

Visit our website for more information and advice about rural crime and what prevention measure you can take – https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rc/rural-crime/

News

Family pays tribute to ‘budding artist’ after tragic loss

Published

4 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE FAMILY of a 14-year-old girl who died on Friday (Nov 15) has paid tribute to a “budding artist, rugby player and social media lover.”

Seren Jenkins, from Tycroes, Ammanford, tragically passed away following a medical emergency at Ammanford Rugby Club.

In a heartfelt statement, her family said: “We as a family are devastated by the loss of Seren.

“She was a loving daughter, big and little sister.

“Seren lived her short life to the full and was a budding artist, rugby player and social media lover.

“Seren was loved by all who knew her and no doubt will also be remembered for her sense of humour.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the emergency services at the scene and everybody for the GoFundMe page donations for Seren, where proceeds will likely be donated to various asthma services, the Wales Air Ambulance, and a possible memorial for her friends to remember her.

“We would also like to thank people for their kind words and support at this horrific time, but would now like to ask for this time to grieve in private.”

A GoFundMe page set up in Seren’s memory has received widespread support, reflecting the community’s shock and sadness at her loss.

Seren’s family described her as someone who brought joy to all who knew her, with a zest for life and a talent for art and rugby. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of love and laughter.

News

Teenager’s death not linked to bullying or social media, says coroner

Published

4 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A “KIND, strong” teenager who tragically took her own life was not driven to her actions by bullying or social media, the Pembrokeshire Coroner has concluded following a five-day inquest.

Megan Evans, aged 14, was found in her home in Milford Haven on February 7, 2017. Described by her family as “a kind and beautiful soul,” Megan was remembered for her intelligence, thoughtfulness, and the love and laughter she brought to her home.

Her death prompted a significant examination of the pressures faced by teenagers today, particularly concerning bullying and the influence of social media. However, Pembrokeshire Coroner Paul Bennett stated there was no evidence to suggest these factors played a role in Megan’s death.

Coroner’s findings

Dyfed-Powys Police’s digital crime investigation unit analyzed Megan’s social media activity and found “no evidence of targeted abuse or bullying directed at Megan.” The coroner also reviewed the school’s anti-bullying measures, which included assemblies, PSE lessons, and an intranet reporting tool.

“Pupils knew what route they could take should bullying arise,” said Mr. Bennett. “That does not mean that pupils did avail themselves of those options.” He added that perceptions of bullying could vary widely, stating that “bullying to one may be banter to another.”

The inquest heard that Megan had been upset by incidents at school, including one five days before her death. However, Mr. Bennett found no link between these events and her decision to take her own life. He also ruled out other factors such as reprimands about her uniform or concerns about her father’s health as contributing to her actions.

“Megan Catherine Evans died as a result of self-suspension, having intended to take her own life. The decision to do so was not influenced by bullying or social media,” Mr. Bennett concluded.

Family’s heartbreak

Megan’s family expressed profound sadness over the coroner’s findings. Earlier in the week, they pledged to honor her legacy by continuing to fight for kindness and love.

“She is missed more than we could ever express,” they said. “She made the world a better place just by being in it.”

However, Megan’s mother, Nicola Harteveld, took to social media to voice her anger and frustration with the coroner’s conclusions.

“It’s utterly heartbreaking and beyond disgusting to see a conclusion that tries to blur the lines between bullying and banter,” she wrote. “Megan is dead—she clearly did not take it as banter. How is it acceptable to claim that such words don’t amount to targeted bullying or abuse?”

Her comments have sparked widespread support online, with many echoing her concerns. One local woman commented: “Banter—it most certainly is not. Those words kill. What has this life become when so-called professionals see no wrong in this type of behavior?” Others called for accountability, suggesting the case should be subject to judicial review.

Megan’s death sent shockwaves through the Milford Haven community. Tributes poured in after her passing, and her story became a rallying point for discussions on mental health, bullying, and the pressures faced by young people. Milford Haven School has since emphasized its commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for pupils.

Headteacher Jane Smith said in a statement: “Megan’s death was a tragedy that deeply affected everyone at our school. We continue to work tirelessly to ensure all students feel supported and to address any concerns they may have.”

Local organizations have also stepped in, launching campaigns to promote mental health awareness and kindness. A vigil held in Megan’s memory shortly after her death drew hundreds of attendees, many of whom highlighted the urgent need for change.

Expert perspectives on bullying and banter

The distinction between bullying and banter, highlighted by the coroner, has drawn criticism from experts and advocates. Child psychologist Dr. Sarah Davies noted: “For some young people, what may seem like lighthearted jokes can have devastating emotional impacts. We must listen to their experiences and validate their feelings rather than dismissing them as misunderstandings.”

Mental health charity Mind Cymru echoed these concerns, urging schools and communities to take every report of harmful behavior seriously. “Words have power, and the way we address this issue has consequences for how young people perceive support systems around them.”

The tragedy of Megan Evans has reignited conversations about how to protect young people from harm and foster kindness both online and offline. Megan’s family remains steadfast in their commitment to honoring her memory, calling for accountability and cultural change.

“She deserved so much more,” said Nicola Harteveld. “We will continue to fight for her and for others who are struggling.”