News

New town library safe despite costs increase, say developers

Published

1 year ago

June 27, 2023

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A COMMUNITY library being built as part of the redevelopment of the former community school in Narberth is safe despite a huge increase in costs, planners heard.

Back in 2020, an application from local businessman Andrew Rees, on behalf of a local consortium for the transformation of the “eyesore” former Narberth CP school site was given the green light by councillors.

The proposal included the conversion and redevelopment for two retail units, and a new library for the town, along with eight three-bedroom houses and three one-bedroom apartments.

The library itself is subject to a 125-year lease at a peppercorn rate, listed as £20.

Earlier this year, an application to remove an affordable housing element of the scheme was submitted to planners due to increased costs on the site.

An authority commissioned District Valuer’s Office (DVO) report said the residual land value of the site, which it lists at -£202,759 is substantially below the benchmark land value, listed at £248,001, to make the scheme become viable.

“Evidence has been presented that clearly indicates that the development, that includes commercial space that would be of benefit to the town, a new library and much-needed housing provision, could not proceed if the required affordable housing provision were to be pursued.”

It was recommended to be approved at the April meeting of Pembrokeshire County council’s planning committee, but was deferred in the hope a compromise could be reached on the affordable housing issue.

The application came back before the June 27 meeting of the planning committee, again recommended for approval.

Members heard from joint developer Charles Salmon, who stressed the provision of the library was secure – the initial foundations having been laid – despite a major increase in costs of the development, including some £280,000 towards the library.

“We feel we have carried out our side of the bargain; we can’t pull out anyway, it’s been built,” he said.

He also said the developers were “sensitive to the second homes issue,” the open market housing on what was previously “an eyesore on the gateway to Narberth” being first offered for local over-55s.

Councillor Brian Hall moved the application – which has a long string of conditions including delivery of a scheme of affordable housing provision or a further development viability assessment after two years should no houses be occupied – be approved.

The recommendation was backed by nine votes to one, with one member abstaining.

Crime

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

Published

12 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

1 day 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

1 day 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!