News

West Angle Bay: Brand new high-tech car park payment machine ‘vandalised’

Published

4 years ago

March 14, 2021

THE BIG day for the first use of the new ‘PayByPhone’ car park machines is tomorrow (Mar 15) – officially the start of the tourist season for the Pembrokeshire coast.

But in a setback for the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, one of the new cashless payment terminals, this one located at West Angle Bay car park, is out of action – seemingly destroyed by vandals.

On Saturday (Mar 13) photos started emerging on social media of the new payment machine out of action.

The high-tech solar powered system allows for carpark users to pay for their stay using a phone or card payment system rather than coins.

The machine at West Angle Bay, one of several installed recently by The Park, will now need to be repaired or replaced

Speaking earlier this year National Park Authority Director of Countryside, Community and Visitor Services, James Parkin, said: “Introducing cashless payment methods has been a challenge due to the remote location of some of our car parks, but we believe the PayByPhone solution will give motorists greater flexibility and will be particularly useful as we all look to take extra precautions in light of the coronavirus pandemic.

“The coin machines will remain in place for those that need them but PayByPhone provides a whole range of alternative options. It is already used in numerous locations across the UK and by organisations including the National Trust.

“Motorists will need to be aware that using PayByPhone from our car parks will depend on network coverage, which will vary depending on the location and your provider. While you may wish to pay for a ticket before travelling to the car park, this does not guarantee a space will be available.

“We understand most people are not allowed to drive to exercise at this time but our car parks are open to those that are permitted to use them under the current Welsh Government restrictions, such as people with specific health or mobility issues.”

The National Park Authority manages 14 car parks that operate charges between 9 am and 7 pm from March 15 to November 7 each year. The income is used to help maintain the car parks and paths in the National Park.

The charging car parks are located at – Amroth, Saundersfoot Regency, Penally, Manorbier, Freshwater East, West Angle Bay, Little Haven, Nolton Haven, Newgale (Pebbles), Solva, Oriel y Parc (St Davids), Newport Sands and Poppit Sands.

Despite the machine being vandalised, payments can still be made by calling 0330 060 6203 or by texting 65565.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Dyfed Powys Police have been asked to comment.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

8 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

22 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

22 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.