A CALL to convert a financially unviable disused shop on the edge of Crymych to residential accommodation, which could provide a low-cost home, has been submitted to county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Clare Griffiths, through agent Josh Macrae, seeks a change of use of a disused shop with ancillary accommodation above, at Ty Ebrill, Clares Shop, on the edge of the village, to an ancillary accommodation unit.

A supporting statement says: “Siop Clare is a mixed-use building in the curtilage of the main dwelling on the site, Ty Ebril, it comprises a small flat above a disused shop below. The flat, constructed in 2007, is comprised of a single modestly sized living space and bedroom area, with a bathroom; the flat is accessed by a set of stairs to the rear of the building. Since its construction the flat has been used as ancillary accommodation for family members of the owners of Ty Ebrill.

“The disused retail premises below is comprised of an open plan shop area with a conservatory attached, the conservatory was previously used as a flower preparation area.

“The shop was in use for a number of decades; it was operated by the current owner since 2003 and was previously an antiques shop, but has been disused since it was closed 2019 as it was no longer financially viable and the owner had changed career. Due to the shop being located within the curtilage of the main dwelling it has not considered suitable for the shop to be leased to another party.”

It adds: “The change of use will require a minimal amount of work to covert the disused shop and modestly sized flat into a small dwelling. The dwelling would be suitable for single occupancy, a small household, or as continued ancillary accommodation for the main dwelling, this would create the opportunity for multi-generational living on the site should the owner sell Ty Ebrill.

“As there is a high demand for housing in the Pembrokeshire area it is felt that the proposal would be suitable and would allow the building to become a viable dwelling, creating a potentially low-cost home in the area.”

The application will be considered by county planners at a later date.

OFFICIAL planning for the signage associated with the new Animal store in Tenby has been given the go-ahead despite concerns raised by the local civic society it ‘grated’ with the Victorian and Georgian character of Tudor Square.

Animal Tenby opened its doors in late November at the Grade-II-listed Tudor House, Tudor Square, which has more recently been used as a café.

Several cafés had run at the site including Oakley’s, Caffi Llyw and most recently, Henry’s.

The new Animal store sells outdoor wear, ski gear, beachwear and robes and kids’, women’s and men’s clothes.

Animal is part of the Mountain Group which incorporates Mountain Warehouse and Eastern Mountain Sports.

The Tenby Animal store was the tenth stand-alone Animal store in the UK.

A November-registered planning application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, by Holden Signs Ltd on behalf of Animal, covering the store’s signage was approved by park officers under delegated powers yesterday, January 19.

The proposals were supported by Tenby Town Council but Tenby civic Society, while not formally objecting, had raised concerns.

“The new sign lettering is of suitable size and the fascia setting proposed is fine. The Animal house logo-style lettering grates with the Victorian and Georgian character of Tudor Square and the conservation area. We note that nearby proposed Tesco signage was amended to maintain the character of the conservation area, and we feel the logo lettering does not enhance the character of the conservation area.

“It is a brand logo so a check whether they have amended it to fit in other conservation areas is a relevant consideration to put to the applicant.”

An officer report recommending approval said: “Tenby Civic Society whilst having no objection in principle has expressed concern as to the font style.

“Whilst a distinctive and modern font, it is not considered that the character or appearance of Tenby Conservation Area is negatively affected. The impact on amenity is considered negligible.”

Selling a home isn’t just about accepting an offer; it’s a legal journey filled with contracts, deadlines, and constant communication. Without the right support, it can quickly feel overwhelming. That’s why understanding what your solicitor does at every stage helps you stay informed and confident throughout the process. 

With professional guidance, you can move through each phase feeling reassured that your sale is in safe hands. Keep reading to see how your solicitor guides you through each step of the sale with care and clarity.

Understanding the role of your conveyancing solicitor

Your conveyancing solicitor handles all the legal work that turns an accepted offer into a completed sale. From verifying your property’s title to preparing contracts, they make sure every legal detail is accurate and every requirement is met. 

Experienced conveyancing solicitors, such as those working with SAM Conveyancing, act as your trusted legal partner by coordinating with the buyer’s solicitor, estate agent, and lender so your sale moves forward smoothly and without unnecessary stress.

Preparing and issuing the draft contract

Once an offer is accepted, your solicitor gathers essential documents like the property title deeds, identity verification, and details of any outstanding mortgage. Using this information, they will prepare the draft contract that sets out the agreed price, property boundaries, and any included fixtures or fittings. 

This draft is sent to the buyer’s solicitor for review. If any concerns arise, such as questions about access rights or shared responsibilities, your solicitor will help clarify them quickly so progress is not delayed. Their role at this point is to make sure the terms protect your interests and that the sale remains on track.

Responding to enquiries and managing searches

After reviewing the contract, the buyer’s solicitor will raise enquiries, which are questions about the property’s condition, history, or legal standing. Your solicitor will guide you through these, helping provide accurate responses and ensuring you understand any implications. 

They will also review the buyer’s search results to confirm there are no legal issues that could affect the sale. During this phase, consistent communication is key. A good solicitor keeps you informed so you always know what is happening and what is needed from you next.

Exchanging contracts and finalising the agreement

Once all enquiries are resolved and both parties are satisfied, the transaction moves to the exchange of contracts. This is when your sale becomes legally binding. Your solicitor will confirm that the contracts are identical, arrange for signatures, and agree on a completion date. 

Before exchange, they will ensure any mortgage redemption figures are in place and that all outstanding requirements have been met. When contracts are exchanged, both sides are committed to completing the sale, giving you certainty and peace of mind.

Completing the sale and handing over the keys

Completion day marks the final handover of ownership. Your solicitor will receive the buyer’s funds, confirm the transaction with the buyer’s solicitor, and authorise your estate agent to release the keys. 

They will also handle repayment of any mortgage and deduct legal fees before transferring the balance to your account. Finally, they will ensure the property title is legally transferred to the new owner and that all official records are updated correctly.

How your solicitor supports you even after completion

Even once the sale is complete, your solicitor’s support does not stop there. They will follow up with confirmation that your mortgage has been discharged and help with any remaining legal paperwork.

 If post-completion questions arise, such as final bills or documentation requests, they will be on hand to offer clear guidance. Having this continuity of support helps ensure the process ends as smoothly as it began.

Selling with confidence and clarity

Selling property can feel complex, but when you understand what to expect from your solicitor, the process becomes far easier to manage. Each stage, from preparing contracts to completion, is handled with precision and care to protect your interests. 

With experienced professionals guiding you, you will move through your sale confidently, knowing that every detail has been managed with expertise and integrity.