News

‘Important artefacts’ found at new £6.3m Haverfordwest town centre development site

Published

4 years ago

March 15, 2022

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL is beginning to outline the next steps to redevelop the Western Quayside in Haverfordwest, but not before a significant archaeological dig is complete.

Dyfed Archaeological Trust is working at the retail and hospitality redevelopment site for 18 weeks following the discovery of artefacts and human remains dating back to the 14^th Century AD.

The team and Council officers were surprised at how well-preserved remains survived across some of the site.

This work is a great opportunity for the dig team and residents to find out more about an area in the town that has significant historical value.

A former 19th to 20th century iron foundry once occupied the site but below that emerging evidence of a cemetery is coming to light, a cemetery believed to be associated with the medieval friary of St. Saviour’s, whose exact location has never been ascertained. It is hoped that remains of friary buildings will be identified.

The ambitious regeneration project will not only will help drive footfall to the town, it will also support business growth and create an additional community hub.

In addition, it is further evidence of Pembrokeshire County Council delivering on its commitment to support the regeneration of Pembrokeshire’s county town – and is an integral part of the Authority’s vision to revitalise Haverfordwest town centre.

The transformational development aims to create a vibrant, attractive environment on the quayside with plenty of space for pedestrians, a quality retail offering and opportunities for businesses to invest.

Rachel Moxey, Head of Economic Development and Regeneration at Pembrokeshire County Council, said: ‘This is a rare opportunity to carry out an archaeological excavation within the town.

‘The £6.3m project also complements the regeneration work we are undertaking to transform Haverfordwest town centre to ensure it is fit for the future.

‘I am grateful for the work of PCC’s development staff, John Weaver Contractors, and Dyfed Archaeological Trust to ensure that we document this for future generations.

‘By working together we can make the most of this wonderful opportunity to uncover some of Haverfordwest’s rich history.

‘I want to thank residents, and local heritage groups for their support during these archaeological works – and I was fascinated by the enthusiasm and what has been unearthed to date.

‘Haverfordwest is a great town – and I am looking forward to seeing the completed redevelopment which will showcase this Authority’s commitment to improve the environment for our communities.

‘The project we have planned will be transformational for the town and we are looking forward to starting work as soon as possible.

‘Supporting the businesses of this great town is a key part of our economic resilience and regeneration.

‘The people of Haverfordwest are proud of their town’s history – and the Western Quayside provides the perfect opportunity to celebrate that, and its flourishing future.’

The modern and stylish development includes a three-storey local food and beverage emporium with bar and roof-top terrace. It is part of the Authority’s wider plan to transform key town centres, offer a new type of built environment and ensure Pembrokeshire is a great place to visit, live and work.

Fran Murphy from Dyfed Archaeological Trust said: ‘This is the first major archaeological excavation to have taken place in the medieval town of Haverfordwest and will tell us so much about the continuous development of this thriving town through the ages, and its vital connection with the Western Cleddau River.

‘It will give us insights into how people lived and died, their occupations, what they ate and drank even, and prove a valuable source of information for years to come.’

Terry Edwards, JWC’s Managing Director said: ‘It’s a great privilege to have been selected as the contractor of choice to construct the proposed Western Quays Regeneration project and nothing gives us greater pleasure than to expose artefacts from the generations that came before us.

‘During the course of any conservation construction project, you have the potential to seriously impact / disturb the important archaeological remains that have been left behind, our conservation arm of the business are focused on ensuring existing landmarks and heritage buildings – which form the backbone of a significant portion of the Welsh tourism industry – are kept safe, usable and aesthetically correct.

‘Our dedicated team of experts and artisan tradesmen understand not only the finer technical details when it comes to conserving buildings, but also the heart and soul of the structures that are in our care.

‘Historical and cultural artefacts are a part of our Welsh heritage, and have an inherent value for education, research, leisure, tourism and the economy. They are a finite, non-renewable resource, and we have a responsibility to mitigate the potentially-damaging effects of any development we work upon.’

Cllr Thomas Tudor, County Councillor for the Castle Ward of Haverfordwest, added: ‘This important archaeological heritage excavation site of the Ocky White / Western Quay Development will enable us to provide an educated history of human activity over hundreds of years in the centre of Haverfordwest and it will be acknowledged as a resource of unique cultural and social value.

‘As the County Councillor for the Castle Ward I am pleased that the Work which is underway at Western Quayside in Haverfordwest (the former Ocky White building) as part of a major construction project to redevelop the site. Commenced earlier last year, the project will provide a modern and stylish three-storey development, including a food emporium, bar and roof-top terrace.

‘The Pembrokeshire County Council scheme incorporates public realm improvements including an attractive waterfront square with space for events which could extend its use into the early evening. The project is anticipated to be complete in early 2023 which is very exciting news for Haverfordwest, our County Town of Pembrokeshire.’

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

1 hour ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

Charity

Pembroke Dock charity shop expands to support hospice care

Published

1 hour ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SHOP NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AFTER EXPANSION INTO ADJOINING UNIT

A CHARITY shop in Pembroke Dock has expanded into a neighbouring unit to help raise more money for local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home has completed a knock-through at its shop in Bierspool, London Road, creating a larger retail space and allowing the charity to offer a wider range of items, including furniture.

The expanded shop was officially opened on Friday (May 1) by the outgoing Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Cllr Michelle Wiggins.

The shop team, led by Kelly Elliot and supported by volunteers, worked for several weeks to prepare the new-look store for customers.

Head of Retail Julia Brady welcomed guests at the opening, while the charity also thanked staff, volunteers and supporters who helped decorate and prepare the premises.

Special thanks were given to Gill at Pembroke Dock Tesco for donating treats for customers and staff on the day.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home operates nine retail shops and an eBay department. Income from donations and sales helps fund the charity’s clinical teams, who provide free specialist palliative care to patients and families across Pembrokeshire.

The charity says it costs £3,600 every day to deliver its free clinical services. Around 30% of that cost is funded through Hywel Dda Health Board, with the remainder raised through retail income, fundraising and community support.

The Pembroke Dock shop is now open seven days a week, giving people more opportunities to shop, donate and support local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori, a much-loved local priest who recognised the need for hospice care before his death from cancer at the age of 39.

The charity provides care for people with any life-limiting condition, not only cancer, and supports patients of all faiths and none. It operates an open referral system, with referrals accepted from patients, families, friends and healthcare professionals.

Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd operates under the name Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. The charity was registered in 1982 and will celebrate its 45th anniversary during 2027/2028.

News

Ysgol Bro Teifi celebrates national championship rugby success

Published

1 hour ago

May 6, 2026

Herald Sport

UNDER-18 SIDE LIFTS WRU PLATE AFTER HARD-FOUGHT FINAL AT RODNEY PARADE

YSGOL BRO TEIFI’S under-18 rugby team are celebrating national success after winning the WRU Schools and Colleges Plate Final at Rodney Parade.

The Ceredigion side travelled to Newport to face Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth in a fast, physical and closely contested final.

Bro Teifi made a strong start, with tries from Elis Evans, Llew Thomas and Jack Brown giving them an early advantage. Dafydd Nichols-Evans added the extras from the kicking tee as the team went into half-time 19-14 ahead.

The second half proved even tighter, with Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth applying sustained pressure and forcing Bro Teifi to defend with discipline and determination.

A late try gave Bro Teifi breathing space before Nichols-Evans held his nerve in the closing stages, landing a crucial penalty to seal a 27-19 victory.

The school said the win reflected the hard work, commitment and talent of the players, as well as the support of staff, parents and fans throughout the season.

Headteacher Gareth Evans said: “This game is the culmination of a tough season for the boys as they beat much bigger schools on the way to the final.

“It also builds on the school’s reputation in sport, with numerous successes this year across a range of sports and age groups.

“I would like to thank all the school staff for their tireless work in ensuring these experiences for our pupils, and the parents for their support.”

Photo caption: Plate winners: Ysgol Bro Teifi’s under-18 rugby team celebrate their national success at Rodney Parade.