PLANS for a development of 76 homes in a Pembrokeshire seaside village have formally been submitted to the national park.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Millbay Homes, through agent Asbri Planning, seeks permission for the development of 76 homes and associated works on land East of Marine Parade, Broad Haven, near Haverfordwest.

The proposal seeks to build 10 one-bed properties; 20 two-bed, 32 three-bed, 10 four-bed, and four five-bed properties, with Millbay Homes have been liaising with the authority`s housing department about the requirement for affordable housing at the site, the authority favouring a rate of some 34 per cent affordable.

The site itself is allocated for up to 87 residential dwellings.

The applicants say the scheme will “lead to the creation of a high-quality and attractive place to live and will contribute to creating a distinct sense of place”.

A supporting statement adds: “Rather than imposing a rigid, flat layout, the homes are arranged to follow the natural contours of the land, stepping up and down in response to the site’s slopes.

“This approach minimizes the need for extensive excavation and preserves much of the natural landscape. It also ensures that each home has a unique relationship with its surroundings, with most properties benefiting from stunning sea views due to their elevated positions.

“By embracing the site’s topography, the development not only minimises its environmental impact but also creates a visually appealing and varied streetscape that feels integrated into the natural landscape rather than imposed upon it.”

The scheme has been subject to revisions following discussions with planners, moving from an initial increase from 62 to 77 homes, now dropped to 76 to provide an ‘informal open space’ “designed to meet the planners’ request and to offer a communal area where residents can enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation in a natural setting”.

The formal pre-application consultation ran up to late January of this year.

The statement stresses: “The proposed residential housing scheme represents a carefully considered response to the village’s architectural heritage, challenging topography, and coastal environment.

“Through a thoughtful, collaborative design process, incorporating comments and feedback from the planning officers and public, the development will create a vibrant, sustainable community that offers diverse housing options, maximises sea views, and integrates seamlessly with its surroundings.”

The application concludes: “The ambition for the site is to create a contemporary development of liveable, affordable homes within Broad Haven which takes advantage of the site’s seaside location, in accordance with the council’s housing allocation within the Local Development Plan. 

“In light of the above, it is concluded that the proposal fully accords with both national and local policies and there are no material considerations which should prevent the planning application from being determined in accordance with the relevant planning policy framework.”

The application will be considered by national park planners at a later date.

THE FORMER Chief Constable of Dyfed-Powys Police, Richard Lewis, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

Mr Lewis, who also led Cleveland Police and held national portfolios for the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), will take up his new role on 16 June 2025. He succeeds Dr Jenny Stewart, who has served as interim Chief Executive since July last year.

The APHA is responsible for safeguarding animal and plant health across the UK, working to protect the environment, support the rural economy, and ensure the UK meets international biosecurity standards.

Mr Lewis said: “It’s a real honour to be appointed Chief Executive of APHA. Now more than ever, the UK needs a strong, science-led Animal and Plant Health Agency.

“From protecting our borders against animal and plant threats to unlocking opportunities for trade and growth, I’m excited to champion APHA’s vital work — and to lead alongside the world-class scientists and experts who make it possible.”

During his policing career, Mr Lewis was awarded a commendation for distinguished service and was widely respected for his leadership on rural affairs in Wales. He has worked on issues including habitat protection, tackling rural crime, and addressing mental health challenges in agricultural communities.

The APHA is an executive agency sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, the Welsh Government and the Scottish Government.

A WIDE-RANGING agenda will be debated by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet on Monday (Apr 28), with major decisions expected on housing development, children’s play provision, education plans, and town regeneration.

Among the most significant items is the proposed construction of 24 new flats at ‘Haven View’, Milford Haven. The scheme, located on Charles Street, includes communal facilities and is aimed at boosting local affordable housing provision.

Also under the spotlight is the Play Sufficiency Assessment, which lays out extensive findings from a county-wide consultation. The assessment highlights strong demand for improved and accessible play areas, especially in deprived wards like Milford East and Pembroke Monkton. The Cabinet is expected to approve a new action plan which includes investing in inclusive play facilities, supporting young carers, and better maintenance of parks and playgrounds.

In education, councillors will discuss a proposal to federate St Florence and Penrhyn Church in Wales schools, aiming to improve management efficiency and maintain sustainability in rural education. The Cabinet will also review a new Welsh in Education Strategic Plan (WESP) and an update to the National Teachers’ Pay Policy for 2024-2025.

A report on Haverfordwest regeneration is also on the table, with schemes designed to breathe new life into the town centre. Linked to this is a discussion on the freehold transfer of the public toilets on Bryn Road to St Davids City Council, allowing localised management of key community assets.

Environmental policy is set to be a major theme, with councillors to consider the Environmental Services Strategy for 2025-2030, covering waste, biodiversity, and sustainability. Meanwhile, the outcome of the 2025-26 UK Shared Prosperity Fund open call will be presented, showing where grants are to be allocated for local growth projects.

The Cabinet will consider allocating financial support to PACTO, a key organisation that helps deliver community transport services across the county. These services are crucial for rural and isolated communities, helping people without access to private cars get to medical appointments, shops, and social activities.

The report highlights the importance of ongoing funding to support PACTO’s operations, and the role it plays in reducing social isolation, particularly among the elderly and disabled. The proposal suggests continued financial backing, although the exact figures and terms will be discussed during the session.

The Cabinet will also examine a new Transformation and Innovation Board, intended to drive service improvement across departments, and a report on equality in employment within the council for 2023-2024.

The meeting is being held as a hybrid session and will be streamed live via the council’s webcast portal.