News
Pembroke: Council appeals to Welsh Government over regeneration site
PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL is renewing its efforts to ensure the regeneration of a prime site near Pembroke Castle.
Many of the buildings in the area of South Quay, Northgate Street and Castle Terrace have fallen into serious disrepair over the last few years.
The problem the Council faces is that some of the structures are Listed Buildings within a Conservation Area and cannot be demolished whole scale.
It has been established that extensive stabilisation work now needs to be urgently carried out before the site can be re-marketed.
Several times the Authority has been close to selling the site to private sector developers for regeneration but, for a variety of reasons, a deal has never been signed.
Known as the South Quay site, the parcel of land is part of a joint venture development with the Welsh Government.
It was envisaged that any potential developer would – besides its own money – also have access to over £500,000 in funds from the sale of land at North Quay on the opposite side of the river.
But, with no deal on the horizon, Welsh Government is now asking for the repayment of the majority of that money.
This, the Council maintains, makes the prospect of attracting any future developers even more difficult and remote.
In a bid to reset the partnership with Welsh Government, the County Council has now written to the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport, Ken Skates.
“I am seeking a meeting with the Cabinet Secretary and his officials to discuss a way forward for what is, after all, a prime site within the town of Pembroke,” said Councillor Paul Miller, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, Tourism, Leisure and Culture.
“The site has been derelict for far too long, progress is overdue and I can assure Councillor Carey and the people of Pembroke that I see the delivery of a scheme on this site as a priority.”
The Council’s move comes after concerns were expressed by County Councillor Aaron Carey – in whose ward South Quay is located – and Councillor Pearl Llewellyn who represents nearby Monkton.
“It is the main topic of conversation in Pembroke” said Councillor Carey who was elected to the Authority in May.
“I realise that a lot has been going on behind the scenes but unfortunately the public perception is that nothing is happening and that the Council is dragging its feet.
“The truth is that we need the assistance of Welsh Government – our original partners – in order to access the necessary funds to make these buildings safe.
“Until that is done, we cannot move on and I don’t want the site deteriorating for a further 20 years.”
News
Multi-agency exercise at South Hook LNG Terminal
A MULTI-AGENCY exercise is scheduled to take place at the South Hook LNG Terminal tomorrow (Sunday), between 8:00am and 3:00pm.
Local residents in the vicinity of the terminal have already been informed about the event. However, authorities wish to reassure the wider public that an increase in traffic and activity near the terminal is part of this pre-planned exercise.
The exercise is a routine collaboration among emergency services and stakeholders to ensure preparedness for potential scenarios.
Residents and commuters are thanked in advance for their understanding and cooperation.
Crime
Police offer advice after 60 reports of stolen quad bikes from farms
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
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.
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