A community drop-in meeting will be held on Monday 17 November

AFTER years of delays, foundations are finally being poured at the former Motor World site on Charles Street, Milford Haven — but the price tag continues to raise eyebrows.

Contractors W B Griffiths & Sons Ltd have begun groundworks overlooking the Haven, marking the first visible progress in years. The scheme will deliver 24 affordable flats for over-55s, funded through Pembrokeshire County Council and the Welsh Government.

The project was initially approved in 2019 as a £2.9 million scheme for 15 flats. It is now budgeted at £6.7 million — more than £270,000 per unit.

Critics say the cost is eye-watering. Councillor Mike Stoddart told The Herald: “Persimmon Homes would build you one, including the land, roads, and a profit.”

Industry comparisons also highlight how far the project has drifted from normal benchmarks. Recent analysis found the Charles Street flats will cost around £5,300 per square metre, more than double the Welsh Government’s mid-range standard of £2,513/m².

The revised design has added an extra floor, meaning the building will appear four storeys high from Charles Street — and five from the rear due to the slope of the site. The steep gradient has complicated construction and contributed to cost inflation, council officers say.

A community drop-in meeting will be held tomorrow (Monday 17 Nov) from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at The Lord Nelson Hotel, giving residents a chance to question the council and contractors directly.

Locals have long called for the derelict site to be redeveloped, but the project’s spiralling budget has become a symbol of a wider concern — that “affordable” housing in Pembrokeshire is becoming anything but.

Traders, lights and family entertainment to kick off Pembrokeshire’s Christmas season

THE FESTIVE spirit is coming to life in Milford Haven with markets, lights and family fun as the town gears up for a packed Christmas programme along the waterfront.

Milford Waterfront is preparing for a busy season of events, starting with an indoor Christmas market in the Link Building from November 21 to 23, featuring handcrafted local gifts and festive treats.

Lucy Wonnacott, head of communications and marketing at the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Every year the berth holder community, Milford Waterfront businesses and residents all get involved in making the whole place sparkle, so we encourage people to come and see their efforts and enjoy the lights, soak up the festive cheer, and visit the amazing businesses around Milford Waterfront.

“We’re delighted to host so many activities this festive season to support the independent business community here. There will definitely be something for everyone, and new to Milford Waterfront this year, the indoor Ice Rink at Sybil House will be very special – we’re looking forward to seeing everyone getting their skates on.”

The festive programme includes Santa by the Sea on December 6, when Father Christmas will arrive by RNLI lifeboat before heading to Milford Haven Town Hall for the town’s official Christmas lights switch-on.

The event, running from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, will feature live music, entertainment, face-painting and family activities.

Young artists aged three to twelve can take part in print-your-own Christmas card workshops at the Waterfront Gallery on November 22, 29 and 30. The sessions are free but must be booked in advance by calling 07949 763100.

From December 12 to 14, visitors can enjoy an indoor ice-skating experience at Sybil House, next to Phoenix Bowl. The synthetic rink will be open from 12:00pm to 8:00pm and is suitable for all ages.

The festive fun continues with Pure West Radio’s Purely Magical Christmas Grotto in the Link Building on December 7, 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21. Tickets must be booked in advance and include a visit with Santa and his elves, professional photography, chocolate gifts and more.

Throughout December, the waterfront will be illuminated by the annual Christmas Lights Competition, organised by Milford Waterfront, Milford Marina and Visit Milford Haven. The contest features decorated shopfronts, balconies and boats, creating a vibrant festive atmosphere across the area.

Visitors are encouraged to make the most of the season by staying overnight at the Tŷ Hotel Milford Waterfront, overlooking the marina, to enjoy the full Christmas experience.

More information about this year’s programme of events is available on the Milford Waterfront website.

Victim’s family informed as officers appeal for witnesses who were near the scene from Thursday night

POLICE have launched a murder investigation following the discovery of a woman’s body at a boatyard in Cardigan.

Dyfed-Powys Police said officers were called to Netpool Boatyard at around 12:35pm on Saturday (Nov 15) after the body of a woman was found.

A 29-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

The woman’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

There has been an increased police presence in the town since Saturday afternoon, with officers cordoning off the Netpool slipway and nearby access roads. Late on Saturday night, a boat covered in black plastic sheeting was removed from the scene as part of the ongoing forensic investigation.

Detectives are appealing for information from anyone who may have been at, or seen activity around, the boatyard from 9:00pm on Thursday, November 13 onwards.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police via the website https://orlo.uk/olxMg, email [email protected], or call 101, quoting reference 144 of November 15. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.