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Fresh doubts over school development

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countyhallTHE FUTURE development of the Narberth School site has once again been thrown into question after Pembrokeshire County Council failed to reach an agreement with the developer.

Narberth Councillor Wynne Evans has revealed that both parties will not proceed with the plans and that a new scheme is being discussed which includes a small scale housing development.

A statement from the Council says that they do not feel that the proposal builds on the viability and vitality of the town centre.

The news comes just weeks after the council was criticised for what Cllr Jacob Williams described as their miss-management of the situation.

The Cabinet had previously made a loan to the preferred developer but this was called in by Cllr Williams who stressed that the council should have gone back out to tender in July.

At another Council meeting, in October, the Director of Development, Dr Stephen Jones, told council that the developers had said the ‘viability of the project remained marginal’.

Cllr Wynne Evans said: “The future development of the former Narberth primary school is again in question. The current developer was given until the end of the month to reach an agreement with Pembrokeshire County Council.

“I can confirm that both parties are not going to proceed. It is now apparent that the old school will be demolished in early spring, creating parking, while a new, possibly non-retail, scheme is being considered by the council asset strategy group, which may consist of a small scale housing development.

“It is clear that seven years after the school became vacant, it is back to the start process yet again, however I hope my successor in May’s election will support the great need for social housing to be considered on that site, administered by someone like Pembrokeshire Housing offering good affordable rental accommodation for young and old alike.”

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council told the Herald: “Pembrokeshire County Council and the proposed developers of the Old School, Narberth, have mutually agreed not to proceed with the scheme for which planning consent has been granted to develop the site.

“While the developers have established demand with a new tenant line-up, Pembrokeshire County Council does not feel that the proposal builds on the viability and vitality of the town centre or builds on the existing strengths of the town’s retail offer, as required in the original development brief.

“The proposals could be further varied in line with the Council’s and developer’s current discussions but cannot be implemented under the current Procurement Rules.

“Pembrokeshire County Council will now assess the future use of the site before deciding whether to, or how to, remarket the opportunity.”

Local Member, County Councillor Wynne Evans, said he hoped that the County Council considers the social housing element part of the scheme which has always been his priority.

He added: “We must make certain there is affordable provision for the young families of Narberth.”

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Charity

Young fundraiser’s incredible efforts for RNLI

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THE CREW of Tenby RNLI have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to 5-year-old Archie Garland for his outstanding fundraising efforts in support of the station.

Archie took part in the Advent Challenge with the Tenby Aces over Christmas, running a minimum of one mile every day throughout Advent. His dedication saw him cover an impressive 47.3 miles, raising a remarkable £552.25 thanks to generous donations from the local community.

Archie is pictured with (L-R): Deputy Coxswain Gary Waring, his dad and Deputy Coxswain Rob Garland, Deputy Coxswain Dan Young, station full-time mechanic Will Horton, and his mum, Tenby Aces member Claire Thomas.

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Crime

Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn launches ambitious four-year policing plan

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Public trust at the heart of new strategy

DYFED-POWYS Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has unveiled his four-year Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029, outlining his vision to strengthen public trust and confidence in policing.

Plan to strengthen public’s trust in local police service: Dafydd Llywelyn

The plan, shaped by extensive public consultation, sets out priorities for policing, crime prevention, and the criminal justice system across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Powys. It follows feedback from surveys and focus groups, where residents highlighted their key concerns.

The three core priorities of the plan are:

  • Supporting victims and preventing victimisation
  • Preventing harm to ensure safer communities
  • Enhancing the effectiveness of the justice system

Llywelyn formally launched the plan on Tuesday (Feb 13) at an event attended by key partners and commissioned services. The event focused on collaboration, with discussions on how joint efforts can strengthen crime prevention, victim support, and justice delivery.

Victims at the centre

Commissioner Llywelyn emphasised the importance of ensuring victims receive the right support.

“This plan is built on the views of our communities, focusing on what truly matters to the people of Mid and West Wales,” he said. “Victims must be at the heart of our policing and justice system. It is essential that those affected by crime have access to timely, effective support to help them recover and seek justice. Strengthening services that prevent victimisation is just as important as responding to crime itself.”

Tackling root causes of crime

The plan also prioritises crime prevention by addressing underlying issues.

“By tackling antisocial behaviour and vulnerability, we can reduce harm and build a more resilient society,” Llywelyn said. “A proactive, problem-solving approach will ensure resources are used effectively to protect our communities.”

A joined-up approach to justice

Llywelyn stressed the need for stronger collaboration across the justice system.

“A fair and efficient justice system relies on agencies working together. I will continue to work closely with partners to ensure that policing, the courts, and support services deliver justice fairly and effectively for victims and communities alike.”

The Police and Crime Plan sets out a clear vision for Dyfed-Powys policing over the next four years, focusing on improving public safety, supporting victims, and delivering an efficient justice system.

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News

Milford Haven holds service to remember lost fishermen

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A SERVICE in memory of fishermen who lost their lives at sea was held at Milford Haven Cemetery on Tuesday (Feb 13).

The event, organised by Milford Haven Town Council, saw members of the community come together to pay their respects to those who never returned home.

Father Paul Osunyikanmi led the service, which was described as “impeccably officiated,” providing a moment of reflection for those in attendance. Floral tributes, arranged by The Yellow Rose Florist Gift Shop, were laid in remembrance.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Our thoughts are with those fishermen who lost their lives at sea and their loved ones. We will remember them.”

The ceremony served as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who work at sea and the lasting impact on the local community.

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