News

Victorian-style development planned to replace Tenby sorting office

Published

2 years ago

March 6, 2023

PLANS to demolish and replace Tenby’s “austere modernist” former Royal Mail sorting office with a larger 19th century-style development are expected to get the go-ahead.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners, meeting on Wednesday, are recommended to back an application for the demolition of the sorting office in the conservation area, replacing it with a four-storey mixed development of 34 residential units and ground-level commercial properties.

The application, made by Trillium (RMF) Ltd, includes five affordable housing units, four of which would be socially rented.

The proposed demolition of site buildings on the vacant site also requires conservation area consent, which will also be discussed on the day.

Tenby Town Council has made no objection to the demolition of the building itself, but has recommended the main scheme be refused due to what it sees as a lack of affordable housing and – along with similar concerns from Tenby Civic Society – impact on the surrounding area.

Six letters of objection have been received, raising concerns including over-development, a lack of affordable housing, and a lack of parking.

A report for the March 8 development management committee states: “Whilst the somewhat austere modernism of the complex offers a contrast to the Victorian chapels to either side, the post office complex is not of high architectural or historical merit.”

It later adds: “In the opinion of the report’s author, the demolition of the existing low level late 20th century industrial utilitarianism style building and its replacement with a much taller building, in a 19th century-style reminiscent of buildings on High Street but not in the South Parade area would have a positive effect on the setting of the Town Walls.

“The design captures the Victorian character of the town well and responds both to the topography and adjacent listed buildings in terms of stepped heights. A high level of detail will be required under appropriate conditions of typical joinery details, render, slate, retail windows etc.

“As stated above, the main block is of four storeys with attic, but the ridge does not exceed that of the chapels either side, the latter remaining pre-eminent in the streetscape, as their architects and congregations intended.

“As such, it is considered that the character and appearance of the conservation area is retained.”

If the development management committee approves the plans on March 8, they would then be delegated to senior officers for final approval, subject to legal agreements on the affordable housing aspect.

Crime

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

Published

4 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

18 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

18 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.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!