News

Project viability remains marginal

Published

8 years ago

November 4, 2016

THE PREFERRED developer of the old Narberth School site has said that the viability of the project remains marginal, councillors heard at a meeting of council on Thursday, October 20.

That was the response to a question from Cllr Jacob Williams, who asked if the developer had requested further funding to help with the project.

A loan offer has been made by the council, but the council have not yet received a formal request for further funding.

The developer has a cut-off date of December 31 to start the work, but Council Leader Jamie Adams said the contract would be withdrawn and re-marketed should work not begin by that date.

Cllr Jacob Williams asked: “Please would the Leader provide an update on the latest with regard to the proposed redevelopment of the Authority’s former Narberth school site, and his Cabinet’s decision to slash the sale price and offer a substantial loan to the developers?

“If the loan offer has been accepted, what actions are the council aware of that the developers have taken to meet any terms and conditions of the loan?”

Council Leader Jamie Adams said: “Cabinet reviewed the position r egarding the former Narberth School site at its meeting on July 4, giving consideration to the reduced viability of the scheme and an independent valuation provided by the Valuation Office Agency.

“This resulted in a number of decisions: first, to continue to work with the preferred developer with a cut-off date of the end of December if the development has not commenced.

“Second, to reduce the price in-keeping with the independent valuation from the Valuation Office Agency.

“Third, to make a loan available to the developer and fourth, to consider the demolition of the buildings to create a temporary car park.

“Following a call in of this decision, it was considered by the former Economy Overview and Scrutiny Committee on July 18 and returned to Cabinet on September 12.

“Since the Cabinet decision on September 12, negotiations have continued with the preferred developer with respect in particular to the tenant line-up and the identity of the anchor tenant, considerable work has been undertaken by officers to provide supporting information to help make the scheme, and particularly the location in Narberth, more attractive to prospective tenants.

“The developer is in detailed negotiations with prospective tenants and has agreed heads of terms issued to others. As yet, detailed discussions have not commenced regarding the terms of any loan so no loan has been agreed or implemented and Cabinet has approved that we continue to work with the preferred developer until the cut-off date of December 31.

“If the development does not materially commence by this date, the contract will be withdrawn and the opportunity will be re-marketed.”

Cllr Jacob Williams responded: “Will the Leader confirm that no further financial support has been requested from or offered by this council in any way related to this project and, if he can’t, please could he tell us about it, and will he also give a commitment that no further taxpayers money will be stumped up by this council on this project by way of a loan, gift or any other arrangement?”

Dr Stephen Jones answered: “There are ongoing discussions with the preferred developer and, in our discussions, they have indicated that the viability of the project remains marginal and is therefore exploring a range of opportunities and options in addition to the loan to bring forward the scheme.

“We haven’t had a formal request for any further funding as yet.”

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Williams said: “I called the decision in back in July and my view was that the council, rather than agreeing to make a loan, should put the land back on the open market and invite bids and award it to the best.

“I would be appalled if they made a bigger loan or reduced the sale price further.

“It looks unlikely that this company will make a go of it and it will go back out onto the open market, which is what I suggested in July. If they had listened to what I had said, they could have started by now.”

Crime

Begelly man sentenced for carrying metal bar during nightclub fight

Published

2 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A MAN has been sentenced after approaching a Pembrokeshire nightclub armed with a metre-long metal bar.

Just after 2:30am on July 21, police were called to Main Street, Pembroke, following reports of a large fight involving around 100 people outside ‘Out’ nightclub.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week: “Officers were told it was a large fight. They saw Walter Probert, 27, march purposefully towards a parked van.

“The van’s lights were on, and they saw the defendant pull out a long, green metal pole. He took ten steps back towards the nightclub and transferred the pole from one hand to the other.”

Another man approached Probert, removed the pole from his hands, and placed it inside the van.

“Because of the manner in which the pole was used by the defendant, it became an offensive weapon,” added Ms James.

CCTV footage of the incident was shown to magistrates.

Probation officer Julie Norman said Probert had no recollection of the incident.

“He doesn’t remember what he was doing, but he accepts everything that has been said. He was very drunk,” she said.

“He was brought up in the gypsy travelling community and doesn’t have an alcohol issue; he’s just a social drinker. He’s thankful to his friend who took the pole and placed it back inside the van.”

Probert, of the Caravan Site, Kingsmoor Common, Begelly, pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. He was represented in court by Mr Tom Lloyd.

“No threats were made by the defendant when he picked it up, but it was a stupid decision,” said Mr Lloyd. “As soon as he was challenged and asked what he was doing, he ceased.”

Probert was sentenced to a 12-month community order, requiring him to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 court surcharge. Magistrates imposed a destruction order on the metal bar.

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

4 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

4 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.