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Pembroke Town Council object to Phase 2 of the South Quay Development

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IN A PUBLIC meeting held at Pembroke Town Hall on Monday 22 May, representatives of Pembroke Town Council met with members of the public to discuss the planning application for Phase 2 of the South Quay development.

Chaired by the Mayor of Pembroke, those present at the meeting were unanimous in their opinion that this stage of the development was not in keeping with the historic character of the town. It was agreed that the proposal to locate a “Social Services” hub in a prominent quayside location was totally inappropriate and would not benefit the regeneration of the town.

There were various concerns and criticisms about the overall location of the “Hub”, as well the proposed height, the materials to be used and the fact that the new building could detract from and adversely dominate the existing historic focal points such as the Churches or the Castle.

A member of the public, Mr Richard Naylor, had concerns that “The proposal is a gross over-development of the constrained building site, resulting in a dense layout of accommodation with little natural light or ventilation. The over-height buildings are out of scale with the existing Royal George and the listed 7 Northgate Street.”

The Town Council had previously rejected the plans for a Social Services Hub, acknowledging that whilst this facility was needed – other existing sites were better suited – such as East End School and Riverside.

Cllr Linda Asman, said that that the Historic town of Pembroke was designated a Conservation Area in 1972, and, quoting from relevant documentation stated: “Where development or re-development is necessary, this should be carried out where possible, by adapting the existing buildings, in a manner that is in keeping with the scale and character of the area.”

The meeting also received written responses to the planning application from the Trustees of Pembroke Castle and The Pembroke Civic Trust – both echoing the comments and concerns of the Town Council. Pembroke Castle’s Trustees have particular concerns over the modern design aspects of the buildings in relation to the historic setting.

Cllr Jonathan Grimes, expressed his ongoing concerns for this stage of the project. “Pembroke is crying out for regeneration and whilst we welcome the eventual completion of Phase 1, the placement of a social services hub in such a prominent area is totally unacceptable.” He went on to say: “South Quay needs to be utilised as a recreational public space – somewhere that will attract visitors and ultimately increase footfall into other areas of the town.”

It was resolved that Pembroke Town Council as representatives of their community, have a different vision for this development. Their objections have been totally ignored and they will be responding to the planning application, along with Pembroke Castle, The Civic Trust and members of the public.

These strong objections state that this stage of the development is not appropriate and does not satisfy the aims of Levelling Up.

Crime

Haverfordwest retailer accused of Bounce Back Loan fraud

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A HAVERFORDWEST businessman has been accused of committing fraud by making false representations to multiple banks in applications for Government-backed Bounce Back Loans.

Zahid Afzal, 36, of Albert Street, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Feb 6), where he pleaded not guilty to three charges of fraud by false representation.

The court heard that Afzal, listed on Companies House as a director of Phone Bits Ltd and Phones Onn Ltd, allegedly made false statements to secure loans intended to support businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Phone Bits phone accessory and repair shop in Haverfordwest

Prosecutors claim that on May 12, 2020, he falsely stated to Barclays Bank that the application for a Bounce Back Loan was Phone Bits Ltd’s only application. It is further alleged that he made similar false claims to Starling Bank on July 23, 2020, and to Metro Bank on November 22, 2020, in relation to Phones Onn Ltd.

The alleged misrepresentations included inflating the company’s turnover to £200,000 and falsely claiming the loans would be used solely for business purposes.

Afzal’s case has been sent to Swansea Crown Court for trial, with a hearing scheduled for March 10. He was granted unconditional bail.

An interpreter will be required for the proceedings, as Afzal requires assistance in Urdu.

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Charity

Young fundraiser’s incredible efforts for RNLI

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THE CREW of Tenby RNLI have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to 5-year-old Archie Garland for his outstanding fundraising efforts in support of the station.

Archie took part in the Advent Challenge with the Tenby Aces over Christmas, running a minimum of one mile every day throughout Advent. His dedication saw him cover an impressive 47.3 miles, raising a remarkable £552.25 thanks to generous donations from the local community.

Archie is pictured with (L-R): Deputy Coxswain Gary Waring, his dad and Deputy Coxswain Rob Garland, Deputy Coxswain Dan Young, station full-time mechanic Will Horton, and his mum, Tenby Aces member Claire Thomas.

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Crime

Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn launches ambitious four-year policing plan

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Public trust at the heart of new strategy

DYFED-POWYS Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has unveiled his four-year Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029, outlining his vision to strengthen public trust and confidence in policing.

Plan to strengthen public’s trust in local police service: Dafydd Llywelyn

The plan, shaped by extensive public consultation, sets out priorities for policing, crime prevention, and the criminal justice system across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Powys. It follows feedback from surveys and focus groups, where residents highlighted their key concerns.

The three core priorities of the plan are:

  • Supporting victims and preventing victimisation
  • Preventing harm to ensure safer communities
  • Enhancing the effectiveness of the justice system

Llywelyn formally launched the plan on Tuesday (Feb 13) at an event attended by key partners and commissioned services. The event focused on collaboration, with discussions on how joint efforts can strengthen crime prevention, victim support, and justice delivery.

Victims at the centre

Commissioner Llywelyn emphasised the importance of ensuring victims receive the right support.

“This plan is built on the views of our communities, focusing on what truly matters to the people of Mid and West Wales,” he said. “Victims must be at the heart of our policing and justice system. It is essential that those affected by crime have access to timely, effective support to help them recover and seek justice. Strengthening services that prevent victimisation is just as important as responding to crime itself.”

Tackling root causes of crime

The plan also prioritises crime prevention by addressing underlying issues.

“By tackling antisocial behaviour and vulnerability, we can reduce harm and build a more resilient society,” Llywelyn said. “A proactive, problem-solving approach will ensure resources are used effectively to protect our communities.”

A joined-up approach to justice

Llywelyn stressed the need for stronger collaboration across the justice system.

“A fair and efficient justice system relies on agencies working together. I will continue to work closely with partners to ensure that policing, the courts, and support services deliver justice fairly and effectively for victims and communities alike.”

The Police and Crime Plan sets out a clear vision for Dyfed-Powys policing over the next four years, focusing on improving public safety, supporting victims, and delivering an efficient justice system.

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