News
Town council objection to South Quay redevelopment

PEMBROKE TOWN COUNCIL has objected to the second phase of Pembrokeshire County Council’s South Quay regeneration scheme in the town.
Led by Pembrokeshire County Council, the South Quay project centres on the rebuild of formerly derelict properties on Castle Terrace to create a new public visitor centre, library and café.
Asbri Planning Ltd was recently commissioned by the county council to undertake a pre-application consultation for the second phase of the project.
That relates to the proposed demolition of the existing public toilet at South Quay, and refurbishment and extension of the listed building 7 Northgate Street for a community hub which would provide a service for older people, learning and skills areas to support independent living, and continued education for people with disability, and supported employment opportunities.
The council’s proposals also include environmental enhancements.
In a public meeting held at Pembroke Town Hall on Monday, May 22, representatives of Pembroke Town Council met with members of the public to discuss the planning application for Phase 2.
Chaired by Pembroke Mayor Cllr Aden Brinn, those present felt 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 at the quayside was totally inappropriate and would not benefit the regeneration of the town, a statement from the town council said.
There were various concerns and criticisms about the overall location of the ‘Hub,’ as well the proposed height, the materials to be used and fears the new building could detract from and adversely dominate the existing historic focal points, such as the churches or the castle.
Richard Naylor, a member of the public present said: “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 favoured other locations for a Social Services Hub, such as the town’s East End School and Riverside.
Town Councillor Linda Asman, said that that the historic town of Pembroke was designated a Conservation Area in 1972, calling for any redevelopment to be “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 town and local county councillor Jonathan Grimes said: “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 would voice its strong objections to the current plans.
Community
Police assist as loose horses cause concern near Pembroke Leisure Centre

A GROUP of loose horses caused alarm near Pembroke Leisure Centre on Sunday (March 30), prompting a police response and reigniting concerns over the ongoing issue of fly-grazing in Pembrokeshire.
Officers from Dyfed-Powys Police attended the scene to ensure public safety and attempt to secure the animals, which had been spotted wandering in the area.
This latest incident comes amid growing frustrations over repeated occurrences of horses roaming freely on roads and public land, or on private land without the landowner’s permission.
The problem of fly-grazing—where horses are left to graze on land without consent—has become a serious issue across the county, with multiple cases reported in recent months including at St Daniels Hill in Pembroke. In that case, horses were eventually removed following a long struggle by landowner Paul Hay, who said the situation had caused significant distress and called for new legislation to protect the public.
Last month, one local resident reported her father suffered head injuries and wrote off his car after hitting a loose horse on the A477 in the dark. Despite the severity of the incident, no further police action was taken, fuelling anger among residents.

County Councillor Jonathan Grimes has been liaising with local authorities and police in a bid to address the issue, while members of the public have also come forward to share experiences of property damage and road closures.
The Herald has contacted Dyfed-Powys Police for a statement about the latest incident.
Anyone with concerns about loose horses which may cause a danger to traffic or pedestrians can call the police on 101. In an emergency, always call 999.
Community
Funeral arrangements confirmed for popular local entertainer, Matt Baker

THE FUNERAL arrangements have been announced for Matt Baker, affectionately known as ‘Mr Good Times’ of Haverfordwest.
Matt passed away on March 15 aged 49. He was the much-loved son of Phyllis and stepson to Aad, and son to the late Paul. He was a devoted brother to Reuben, his wife Cath, and Simeon, and a beloved uncle to Aston, Dylan and Axel.
Matt was well known in the local community for his cheerful nature, positive outlook and ability to bring people together. His presence will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
His funeral service will take place on Saturday, April 12 at 11:00am at Pembrokeshire College Theatre. This will be followed by interment at Freystrop Cemetery.
Family flowers only. Donations in memory of Matt, in aid of mental health causes, can be made via a donation box at the wake following the interment.
All enquiries should be directed to Roy Folland & Son Funeral Directors on (01437) 763821.
Charity
Emergency services unite for charity at Pembroke Dock Fire Station

A CHARITY car wash at Pembroke Dock Fire Station drew crowds on Saturday (Mar 29), raising money in support of The Firefighters Charity.
The event, organised by Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, ran from 10:00am to 4:00pm and saw a steady stream of local residents turning out to support the cause. Visitors were able to get their vehicles washed by firefighters, with all proceeds going towards helping fire service personnel and their families.
Among those showing support were local police officers, with PCSOs 8020 and 8112 from Pembroke Dock and Pembroke Police making an appearance. The officers not only lent their encouragement to their emergency service colleagues but also had their police vehicle given a good hosing down.
“It was very busy with lots of local people supporting such a good cause,” a police spokesperson said. “Well done to Phil and the team, and a special thank you for hosing down our police vehicle whilst we were there.”
The event highlighted the strong sense of camaraderie between emergency services in the area and the ongoing support from the community for their efforts.
For more information on future events and ways to support The Firefighters Charity, visit tancgc.gov.uk or mawwfire.gov.uk.
-
Health4 days ago
Pembrokeshire man’s shock diagnosis sparks call for awareness
-
News4 days ago
Workman injured in Pembroke road roller incident
-
Community2 days ago
Final closures begin as long-awaited A40 bypass nears completion
-
Charity2 days ago
The Dizzy Bear to open soon at Milford Waterfront
-
News3 days ago
Park issues clarification on campsite restrictions following backlash
-
News3 days ago
Police appeal after fatal crash on A477 involving two vehicles
-
Crime3 days ago
Goodwick man jailed for stealing prescription tablets from partner
-
News2 days ago
Crisis deepens at Parc Prison as six officers arrested