News

Newgale ice cream parlour hopeful hits out at ‘call-in’ of scheme

Published

1 year ago

August 8, 2023

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

THE APPLICANT behind a scheme to turn surplus public toilets to a takeaway ice cream parlour/coffee bar has spoken out after a failed Welsh Government ‘call-in’ attempt by the National Trust.

At the June meeting of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s planning committee, members went against officer recommendations by narrowly backing the Newgale scheme, by Mike Harris, included a beach-themed small retail unit and a small rear extension for a kitchen at closed public toilets next to Newgale Campsite.

As the plan was a departure from officer recommendations, it was due to be heard at the July meeting, only for members to hear it had been subject to a potential ‘call-in’ to the Welsh Government after a request from a ‘third party,’ later revealed – following a Freedom of Information request by the applicant – to be the National Trust.

However, the Planning directorate said it did not feel the application should be called in, meaning it will be decided by national park planners at a later date.

Mr Harris feels the decision to delay the application was taken by national park officers and the committee chair, Dr Madeleine Harvard, a National Trust member.

“Dr Harvard was aware at the time that National Trust had called-in the application but did not consult with other members of the Development Management Committee.

“The source of the ‘call-in’ request, or reasons, were not known to members at the time, and fingers were being pointed at who or whom may have been responsible.”

He said the National Trust had “a clear commercial conflict of interest” in the application, with fears it is working alongside the national park “on plans to flood Newgale valley, create a lagoon on the existing campsite and remove the beachfront businesses to achieve their objectives”.

He added: “National Trust’s reasons for requesting a ‘call-in’ were extremely weak and I am aware that some members have raised concerns with the flawed process that allowed for the unnecessary delay in my application. The motives of National Trust were clearly malicious.”

A Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority spokesperson said: “The application was due to be determined at the Development Management Committee to be held on July 19.

“At the time the agenda was being finalised for that meeting the Authority was made aware of a ‘call-in’ request to the Welsh Government, which if granted would have removed the ability for the Authority to determine the application.

“The Welsh Government was consulted on timescales for their determination of the “call-in” request. The decision was made by the Chair, in consultation with officers, to defer the matter to allow Welsh Government time to consider the ‘call-in’ request.

“The identity of the person who made the ‘call-in’ request was not material to the decision to defer. The Welsh Government refused the ‘call-in’ request and advised the Authority of this on August 3.

“The application is currently proposed to be considered at the Development Management Committee meeting scheduled for September 6 and all members of the Authority have been advised of this.

“The Authority has no ‘plans to flood Newgale valley’ as is alleged but the site of the application is identified as being at increasing risk of flooding, as was reported to Members on June 7.”

A National Trust Cymru spokesperson said: “We believed that the application related to planning issues of more than local importance; the issue of flood risk and development within an area subject to coastal realignment required wider deliberation and consideration and should be determined by Welsh Ministers.”

Crime

Begelly man sentenced for carrying metal bar during nightclub fight

Published

3 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Sarah-Jane Absalom

A MAN has been sentenced after approaching a Pembrokeshire nightclub armed with a metre-long metal bar.

Just after 2:30am on July 21, police were called to Main Street, Pembroke, following reports of a large fight involving around 100 people outside ‘Out’ nightclub.

Crown Prosecutor Nia James told Haverfordwest magistrates this week: “Officers were told it was a large fight. They saw Walter Probert, 27, march purposefully towards a parked van.

“The van’s lights were on, and they saw the defendant pull out a long, green metal pole. He took ten steps back towards the nightclub and transferred the pole from one hand to the other.”

Another man approached Probert, removed the pole from his hands, and placed it inside the van.

“Because of the manner in which the pole was used by the defendant, it became an offensive weapon,” added Ms James.

CCTV footage of the incident was shown to magistrates.

Probation officer Julie Norman said Probert had no recollection of the incident.

“He doesn’t remember what he was doing, but he accepts everything that has been said. He was very drunk,” she said.

“He was brought up in the gypsy travelling community and doesn’t have an alcohol issue; he’s just a social drinker. He’s thankful to his friend who took the pole and placed it back inside the van.”

Probert, of the Caravan Site, Kingsmoor Common, Begelly, pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon in a public place. He was represented in court by Mr Tom Lloyd.

“No threats were made by the defendant when he picked it up, but it was a stupid decision,” said Mr Lloyd. “As soon as he was challenged and asked what he was doing, he ceased.”

Probert was sentenced to a 12-month community order, requiring him to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He was also ordered to pay £85 costs and a £114 court surcharge. Magistrates imposed a destruction order on the metal bar.

Charity

Set a New Year Challenge and explore Pembrokeshire for animals in 2025

Published

6 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ANIMAL lovers in Pembrokeshire looking to set an exciting goal for 2025 can now sign up for the RSPCA’s fundraising challenges, including the iconic Tour of Pembrokeshire on 24 May 2025.

From scenic bike rides to adrenaline-fueled adventures, the RSPCA is encouraging participants to embrace a challenge that not only benefits their health but also helps animals in need.

Abi Mustard, Events Manager at the RSPCA, said: “If you’re looking for a unique challenge for the New Year, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers a perfect blend of stunning coastal views, physical endurance, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.”

The Tour of Pembrokeshire is renowned for showcasing some of the most breathtaking routes in Wales, attracting cyclists of all abilities. Participants will navigate challenging climbs, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes, all while raising crucial funds for the RSPCA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Wales.

Abi added: “Every mile cycled and every pound raised makes a difference. You’ll not only experience the beauty of Pembrokeshire but also become part of a dedicated team working to stop animal cruelty and neglect.”

Why Join the RSPCA Tour of Pembrokeshire Challenge?

Personalised support from the RSPCA events team
RSPCA branded cycling jersey once fundraising reaches £50
Access to a dedicated events Facebook group for tips and encouragement
Cheering packs for family and friends on event day

More RSPCA Challenges Across Wales in 2025

Chepstow Half Marathon: 26 January
ABP Newport Wales Marathon: 13 April
Gower Peninsula Challenge: 19–20 July
Snowdon Triple: 18–19 August
Cardiff Half Marathon: 5 October

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a first-time fundraiser, the Tour of Pembrokeshire offers an unforgettable experience with a purpose.

To sign up or request a fundraising pack, visit the RSPCA website today and start your journey towards making a difference—for yourself and for animals in need.

Together, let’s make 2025 a year of action, compassion, and achievement.

News

Police close Westfield Pill Bridge over concerns for person’s welfare

Published

6 hours ago

December 23, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FEARS for a person’s safety led police to close Westfield Pill Bridge, near Neyland.

The bridge, on the A477 between Honeyborough roundabout and the Cleddau Bridge, was shut for just over an hour, with drivers advised to seek alternative routes.

The incident took place on Friday evening and was concluded when the person was located safe and well.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson said: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a call for a concern for the welfare of an individual on Westfield Pill Bridge at around 7:30pm on Friday, December 20.

“The road was closed and reopened at around 8:40pm.

“The individual was located safe and well.”

This is not the first time such an incident has led to a bridge closure.

There have been several previous similar incidents, including on Friday, October 4, 2024, the Cleddau Bridge was closed for about an hour following a call reporting a welfare concern. The closure occurred at around 4:45pm, and the bridge reopened at 5:45pm.

The person involved was taken to the hospital for treatment.

In June, a multi–agency rescue operation unfolded at Neyland Marina after a youth jumped approximately 40 metres from Westfield Bridge into the water below.

Emergency services, including crews from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) stations in Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke Dock, and Carmarthen, were swiftly dispatched to the scene.

According to a spokesperson for MAWWFRS, members of the public were instrumental in rescuing the youth before the arrival of the emergency crews.