News
5,346 empty homes: Pembrokeshire’s growing empty property crisis
In the wake of an alarming 5.1% hike in UK rents in the last 12 months and a spiralling demand for homes, recent findings shed light on a concerning number of vacant properties dotted across the nation. Despite the fierce battle for housing, a surprising total of 760,821 properties remain uninhabited in England, Scotland, and Wales.
In a recent study conducted by Alan Boswell Landlord Building Insurance, the hotspots for such vacant properties have been mapped out. Pembrokeshire sadly is third in the ranking of regions with the most unoccupied homes.
Pembrokeshire boasts 4,331 empty properties for every 100,000 inhabitants, translating to a total of 5,346 deserted homes. The area, renowned for its captivating beauty and heritage, has seen a significant portion (74%) of its vacant properties belonging to individuals who own them as second or holiday homes. Such trends have not only prevented locals from securing a property in their hometown but have also inflated the median property price to £153,402.
Leading the list is Gwynedd in north-west Wales, recording an astounding 5,286 vacant properties per 100k residents. The surge in holiday homes in this picturesque county means a staggering 77% of these vacant homes are seldom occupied. In second place stands Argyll and Bute, offering stunning historical vistas but housing 4,887 empty homes for every 100k people.
Though the full dataset reveals a broader issue spanning the entire country, the spotlight today is on Pembrokeshire’s concerning position in this list. The influx of holiday homeowners has undeniably impacted the local housing market, leaving an imprint that might require immediate attention.
Community
Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker
Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance
FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.
Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.






On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.
Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.
Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.
(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)









Community
Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation
SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.
Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.
In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.
Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.
Community
Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven
ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.
The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.
Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.
The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.

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