News
New funding for Pembroke regeneration scheme welcomed
PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has said it is proud to announce the success of its bid to the UK Government Levelling Up Fund for its regeneration project at South Quay in Pembroke.
This £4.1million LUF award will enable the Council to develop phase 2 of the South Quay plans.
“The announcement has given us a welcome opportunity for a progress update on phase 1, and to share our plans for phase 2 of the project,” said Rachel Moxey, Head of Economic Development and Regeneration.
As part of its wider regeneration work across Pembrokeshire, the County Council embarked on an ambitious programme earlier this year to redevelop the historic and prominent South Quay site next to Pembroke Castle.
The work involves the restoration and re-use of three dilapidated Grade II listed buildings on the site, as well as enhancing the surrounding environment and improving access between the town centre, castle and the waterfront.
The first phase of work aims to create a new attraction celebrating the town’s legacy as the birthplace of the Tudor dynasty. The second phase will provide a new community hub for social care, continued education and supported employment. Together, the developments will provide a diverse and sustainable mix of new uses in the town.
Phase 1:
The first phase of works is taking place at numbers 4, 5 and 6 Castle Terrace (the road between Pembroke Castle and the junction to Main Street).
The scheme will provide:
- a new Henry Tudor visitor centre, library and café
- landscaping of the medieval ‘burgage’ gardens to provide tranquil and restful areas in the historic heart of the town
- major improvements to the public realm
“We were under no illusions that this was a very complex scheme, and as is often the case with such projects, a number of challenging issues have arisen as the preparatory works continue,” said Steve Jardine, Regeneration Manager.
Issues have included a roof collapse and clearance of contaminated debris, providing additional support to the existing structure and designing for additional demolition works identified during the enabling stage.
Recent work has included providing a protection system to the vaulted medieval cellars of No.4 Castle Terrace and strengthening the property at basement level, to allow for a safer working area within the front third of the building.
The next stage will attempt to make the building safer, in order to allow further investigation and inspection works to finalise the design of the regeneration scheme. This will include the installation of scaffolding to support the front façade during demolition of some of the walls.
A revised timeline will see the remaining demolition and re-build completed by the end of August next year, followed immediately by the start of the construction of the new heritage centre, café and library, with completion planned for early 2024.
In common with many other schemes taking place at the current time, Brexit and the unforeseen impact of Covid have created time and financial implications for the project. The Council is nonetheless committed to staying on track to deliver on the overall scheme as an essential element of its strategy to breathe new life into Pembrokeshire’s towns.
Phase 1 has benefited from Welsh Government ‘Transforming Towns’ funding and investment from Pembrokeshire County Council.
Cllr Paul Miller, Cabinet Member for Economy, Tourism, Leisure and Culture, said: “Repurposing and transforming our key town centres is one of the core elements of our economic development strategy. We are committed to regenerating the South Quay site into an attractive, sustainable and thriving development, of which Pembroke and Pembrokeshire will be very proud.”
Phase 2:
The second phase of development involves the completion of South Quay’s regeneration scheme and is centred on numbers 7 and 8 Northgate Street. It will provide:
- a community hub over three storeys, including a space for day opportunities , space for digital media, art and heritage craft activities, and learning and skills areas to support independent living for people of all ages
- environmental enhancements, including the restoration of the buildings, a new sunken garden and improvements to the parking area at South Quay
- improved access between the Henry Tudor visitor centre and the waterfront
The development would enable the consolidation of adult social care in South Pembrokeshire, providing a modern, better-integrated, community focussed and more sustainable, inclusive day opportunities model in the heart of the town, and yielding savings to the public sector through the closure of existing, poorer quality facilities.
It will also support employment opportunities, which will be integrated within the operation of the new facility.
Jason Bennett, Head of Adult Social Care, said: “This innovative project is representative of our ambition to modernise social care, by offering inclusive services in the heart of our communities, helping people and families remain connected to their local area.”
Cabinet member for Social Care, Cllr Tessa Hodgson said it was ‘fantastic to see this substantial investment in Pembroke’.
“South Quay is a really innovative scheme designed to benefit all members of the community and is a result of the ambition and drive of Cabinet and the hard work and vision of the regeneration and social care teams at Pembrokeshire County Council,” she said.
Cllr Aaron Carey, County Councillor for Pembroke St Mary South which includes the South Quay site, added: “By introducing an additional offering to the town we can move towards our full potential and offer people, local and visitors alike, reasons to stay in our beautiful town for longer.”
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.
News
Teenager’s death not linked to bullying or social media, says coroner
A “KIND, strong” teenager who tragically took her own life was not driven to her actions by bullying or social media, the Pembrokeshire Coroner has concluded following a five-day inquest.
Megan Evans, aged 14, was found in her home in Milford Haven on February 7, 2017. Described by her family as “a kind and beautiful soul,” Megan was remembered for her intelligence, thoughtfulness, and the love and laughter she brought to her home.
Her death prompted a significant examination of the pressures faced by teenagers today, particularly concerning bullying and the influence of social media. However, Pembrokeshire Coroner Paul Bennett stated there was no evidence to suggest these factors played a role in Megan’s death.
Coroner’s findings
Dyfed-Powys Police’s digital crime investigation unit analyzed Megan’s social media activity and found “no evidence of targeted abuse or bullying directed at Megan.” The coroner also reviewed the school’s anti-bullying measures, which included assemblies, PSE lessons, and an intranet reporting tool.
“Pupils knew what route they could take should bullying arise,” said Mr. Bennett. “That does not mean that pupils did avail themselves of those options.” He added that perceptions of bullying could vary widely, stating that “bullying to one may be banter to another.”
The inquest heard that Megan had been upset by incidents at school, including one five days before her death. However, Mr. Bennett found no link between these events and her decision to take her own life. He also ruled out other factors such as reprimands about her uniform or concerns about her father’s health as contributing to her actions.
“Megan Catherine Evans died as a result of self-suspension, having intended to take her own life. The decision to do so was not influenced by bullying or social media,” Mr. Bennett concluded.
Family’s heartbreak
Megan’s family expressed profound sadness over the coroner’s findings. Earlier in the week, they pledged to honor her legacy by continuing to fight for kindness and love.
“She is missed more than we could ever express,” they said. “She made the world a better place just by being in it.”
However, Megan’s mother, Nicola Harteveld, took to social media to voice her anger and frustration with the coroner’s conclusions.
“It’s utterly heartbreaking and beyond disgusting to see a conclusion that tries to blur the lines between bullying and banter,” she wrote. “Megan is dead—she clearly did not take it as banter. How is it acceptable to claim that such words don’t amount to targeted bullying or abuse?”
Her comments have sparked widespread support online, with many echoing her concerns. One local woman commented: “Banter—it most certainly is not. Those words kill. What has this life become when so-called professionals see no wrong in this type of behavior?” Others called for accountability, suggesting the case should be subject to judicial review.
Megan’s death sent shockwaves through the Milford Haven community. Tributes poured in after her passing, and her story became a rallying point for discussions on mental health, bullying, and the pressures faced by young people. Milford Haven School has since emphasized its commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for pupils.
Headteacher Jane Smith said in a statement: “Megan’s death was a tragedy that deeply affected everyone at our school. We continue to work tirelessly to ensure all students feel supported and to address any concerns they may have.”
Local organizations have also stepped in, launching campaigns to promote mental health awareness and kindness. A vigil held in Megan’s memory shortly after her death drew hundreds of attendees, many of whom highlighted the urgent need for change.
Expert perspectives on bullying and banter
The distinction between bullying and banter, highlighted by the coroner, has drawn criticism from experts and advocates. Child psychologist Dr. Sarah Davies noted: “For some young people, what may seem like lighthearted jokes can have devastating emotional impacts. We must listen to their experiences and validate their feelings rather than dismissing them as misunderstandings.”
Mental health charity Mind Cymru echoed these concerns, urging schools and communities to take every report of harmful behavior seriously. “Words have power, and the way we address this issue has consequences for how young people perceive support systems around them.”
The tragedy of Megan Evans has reignited conversations about how to protect young people from harm and foster kindness both online and offline. Megan’s family remains steadfast in their commitment to honoring her memory, calling for accountability and cultural change.
“She deserved so much more,” said Nicola Harteveld. “We will continue to fight for her and for others who are struggling.”
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