News

Council considers moving pupils from Ysgol Dewi Sant

Published

8 years ago

March 22, 2017

THE COUNTY COUNCIL is considering moving pupils from Ysgol Dewi Sant to other schools in Pembrokeshire after what has been described to councillors as ‘a health and safety issue’ was identified.

The issue, the Herald can confirm, is the presence of asbestos in existing classrooms.

The Council has acted promptly to form a contingency plan to deal with the need to close part of Ysgol Dewi Sant and one of the measures under consideration is decanting students away from the school.

Asbestos, which was used as a cheap fire retardant in the past, is stable in the form usually used in construction.

There is no suggestion either students or teachers at YDS are at risk at the present time. However, when asbestos is broken up, as it would be during renovation work, the particles can be inhaled and cause lethal lung and respiratory diseases in later life.

As the school building will be substantially ‘knocked around’ during planned changes under the Council’s ambitious 21st Century Schools scheme, the Council is considering its options to ensure students and staff are safe during the works.

A spokesperson for the Council told us: ‘Most schools of a similar type and age as Ysgol Dewi Sant tend to have asbestos. This is rigorously monitored, and schools are fully aware of the location and type. Governing bodies hold a school health and safety policy, which specifically covers the management of asbestos.”

The presence of asbestos is not the only consideration for the Council, however. The other matters to be considered are the implications of noise and disruption to pupils during the work programme and lack of sufficient play areas.

The Council told us: ‘We are in very early stages of design with regard to the new 3-16 school in St Davids and Solva.

‘The County Council fully appraises all risks during design stage and refurbishment works in accordance with relevant health and safety guidelines. It will implement safety measures to mitigate against these risks prior to commencement of any project, and in relation to any re-location issues if and when they arise’.

At a meeting of Ysgol Dewi Sant’s governors on Tuesday night (Mar 21), Cabinet member for Education and St Davids County Councillor delivered a prepared statement regarding the County Council’s plans.

Cllr Lloyd told his fellow governors: “As part of its 21st Century Schools Programme, the Council is in the process of developing a scheme which would result in a part redevelopment of the Ysgol Dewi Sant site. A preferred scheme has been identified which would result in the demolition of an existing school block to be replaced by new accommodation; this would result in the rationalisation of capacity identified as part of the original case for change for St David’s, i.e. the removal of surplus places.

“However, in order to carry out the above there is a need to consider how to operate the school during the demolition and construction phases. As you are aware the school occupies a constrained site which offers little flexibility; consequently, the Council is considering various pupil decanting options, including a temporary re-location to another school site.

“In considering such options, the Council is mindful of the need to minimise disruption and to ensure the safety of pupils and staff alike.

“Currently, the Council is discussing the possibility of utilising part of the Tasker Milward school site in Haverfordwest for this purpose – some preliminary discussions are taking place with the Trustees of the Tasker Milward and Picton Trust and the Headteacher. A number of practical issues have been identified and these will need to be resolved before a decision is made. “

Community

Pembrokeshire beaches among the best for winter walks

Published

17 hours ago

December 17, 2024

Tom Sinclair

NEW research has revealed that two of the top five beaches to visit in Wales this winter are right here in Pembrokeshire.

The outdoor experts at GO Outdoors rated and ranked Wales’ best winter beach walks based on average rainfall, temperature, daylight hours, popularity, and visitor reviews. The results highlight Whitesands Bay and Marloes Sands as standout destinations for a festive season stroll.

WHITESANDS BAY Ranked second overall, Whitesands Bay near St David’s scored an impressive 8.50 out of 10. The beach is celebrated for its fine white sands and stunning views of the Welsh peninsula. During the winter months, the beach becomes a haven for dog walkers as restrictions are lifted, and visitors can take advantage of facilities including toilets and an on-site cafe.

MARLOES SANDS Coming in third place, Marloes Sands earned a score of 7.50 out of 10. Known for its breathtaking beauty and dramatic views of Skokholm and Gateholm Island, the beach offers a quieter alternative during the winter months. Visitors can explore the Marloes Peninsula Beach Walk, a 4-mile circular route that highlights the best of the area’s natural scenery. The surrounding area also boasts cosy accommodation options, such as Gupton Farm Surf Lodge.

Calum Jones, outdoor expert at GO Outdoors, said: “Although the cold weather may cause people to stay inside, there is no better time to explore the UK than the winter months. As crowds disperse, visitors to beaches often find themselves with miles of coastline to themselves. Some beaches remove car parking charges, and local eateries offer discounts during the off-season months.

“I would recommend wrapping up in the colder months, wearing base layers, and investing in a good waterproof jacket to ensure you can enjoy these beaches no matter the weather.”

THE TOP FIVE BEACHES

Rhossili Bay, Glamorgan – 9.26/10
Whitesands Bay, Pembrokeshire – 8.50/10
Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire – 7.50/10
Three Cliffs Bay, Glamorgan – 7.31/10
Dunraven Bay, Glamorgan – 6.93/10

With Pembrokeshire featuring twice in the rankings, it’s clear that the county’s stunning coastline continues to draw visitors year-round. For those looking to enjoy a Boxing Day beach walk or a peaceful winter escape, Whitesands and Marloes Sands are two perfect options.

Crime

Soldier caught drink-driving nearly three times over the limit

Published

17 hours ago

December 17, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A SERVING soldier has admitted driving when he was almost three times over the legal drink-drive limit.

Alfred Kempton, 26, was observed by officers ‘swerving all over the road’ as he drove a white Renault Kangoo at Pelcomb Bridge, Haverfordwest, just after 10:30pm on November 30.

When officers stopped the vehicle, they discovered Kempton’s eyes were glazed and there was a strong smell of alcohol. A roadside breath test proved positive, and subsequent tests at the police station revealed he had 102 mcg of alcohol in 100 ml of breath. The legal limit is 35.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James described the reading as “very high.”

Kempton’s solicitor, David Williams, urged magistrates to refrain from imposing a community order, warning that it would result in Kempton’s dismissal from the army.

“He is one of only four people in his entire squadron with expertise in electronic warfare and signal intelligence,” said Mr Williams, adding that Kempton’s position was supported by two senior army officers who attended court.

Magistrates fined Kempton £1,141, ordered him to pay a £456 court surcharge and £85 costs, and disqualified him from driving for 24 months.

“This is a very high reading, and if it happens again, you will not be so lucky,” said the presiding magistrate. “You are now classified as a high-risk offender.”

Crime

Man jailed for stalking ex-partner with unwanted letters

Published

17 hours ago

December 17, 2024

Sarah Jane Absalom

A MAN who repeatedly contacted his ex-partner, despite being told their relationship was over, has been sentenced for stalking.

John McMichael, 36, pleaded guilty before Haverfordwest magistrates to stalking his ex-partner over a six-month period.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James told the court that McMichael’s relationship with his ex ended in February due to violent behaviour and substance abuse issues.

Despite being told not to contact her, McMichael sent handwritten letters to her from prison between May and November. In a victim impact statement, the woman said: “Knowing that he is out is really frightening me… I just want him to leave me alone.”

McMichael’s solicitor, Jess Hill, argued the letters were not threatening but admitted his actions caused distress.

Magistrates sentenced McMichael to a 24-month Community Order with 30 rehabilitation activity days and 150 hours of unpaid work. He must also pay a £114 court surcharge and £85 costs. A two-year restraining order was imposed, prohibiting him from any direct or indirect contact with his ex-partner.