Community

Controversial property development sparks outcry in Pembrokeshire’s historic village

Published

1 year ago

November 1, 2023

Tensions are rising in Roch, as residents voice their concerns over a proposed 52-unit property development that threatens to reshape the character of one of the region’s historic villages. Wakefield Developments Ltd., the proponents of the project, have set forth plans to construct 52 units, comprising one and two bedroom flats, as well as three and four bedroom houses on land east of Pilgrim’s Way.

Local residents, led by concerned voices like Cliff White and Brenda Hooper, fear that the development could place lives at risk due to increased traffic congestion and reduced pedestrian visibility. The main point of contention lies in the already strained junction leading from the main A487 into Pilgrim’s Way. Roch locals argue that the junction, servicing the existing residential estates at Grassholm Close and Pilgrim’s Way, is unable to cope with the current traffic demands, let alone a significant increase resulting from the proposed development.

Mr White expressed the community’s worries, stating, “Approximately 30 houses currently feed off the junction, and already it’s dangerous. The road is a bottleneck as it approaches the junction and isn’t wide enough for two vehicles. Two pedestrians were recently knocked down near the junction, and it stands to reason that if the development goes ahead, the volume of traffic is going to triple.”

Residents are not only concerned about road safety but also the safety of around 170 primary school children who use the same route to get to and from Roch school. Brenda Hooper highlighted these worries, “The vast majority of them walk along Pilgrim’s Way or come down on their bikes or their scooters. Parents are extremely concerned about the road safety impact the development will have.”

Furthermore, sewage disposal infrastructure has become a point of contention. Roch’s sewage treatment plant in Newgale is reportedly operating at maximum capacity, straining to cope with the existing waste water and raw sewage discharged from Roch. Locals have reported issues like lifting manhole covers, raising concerns about the village’s ability to manage additional waste from the proposed development.

The planning notice for the project has sparked controversy, with residents claiming that it was intentionally concealed. The notice, initially hanging upside down from a piece of string at the site entrance, left many residents unaware of the impending changes. Community members question the lack of consultation and transparency, especially given the potential impact on their daily lives.

Cliff White expressed frustration, “We’ve learned that the developers recently requested a meeting with the parish council, so why weren’t the locals invited to listen to the proposals? Why haven’t we been consulted?”

There is also scepticism about the nature of the proposed housing units. Despite initial claims that the development would cater to social housing needs, residents fear that such promises might change once planning consent is granted, leading to unaffordable housing options for the local community.

Community

Officials announced for 2026 Eisteddfod in Pembrokeshire

Published

1 hour ago

November 14, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE NATIONAL EISTEDDFOD returns to Pembrokeshire in 2026, and organisers have named the officials who will steer this major cultural event over the next year and a half.

With the artistic and local committees already established, meetings to finalise competitions and adjudicators are underway to ensure the List of Competitions is ready by spring. Committee members have also been voting over the past weeks to elect key officials for the Executive Committee.

John Davies, former leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, has been appointed Chair of the Executive Committee. Known for his deep connection to Pembrokeshire and extensive experience with national organisations, Davies aims to make the Eisteddfod a true community event, welcoming involvement from all corners of the region.

Tegryn Jones, Chief Executive of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, takes on the role of Deputy Chair (Strategy). With a strong passion for Welsh culture and language, Jones brings a wealth of experience working with local communities, visitors, and volunteers across three counties.

Deputy Chair (Culture) is Carys Ifan, Director of Canolfan Egin and a seasoned cultural organiser. Based in Llangrannog and originally from Llandudoch, Ifan has led numerous artistic and community projects across the region.

Cris Tomos, a community development veteran with over 30 years of experience, will lead the 2026 Eisteddfod Local Fund. Working with PLANED, a community development charity, Tomos has supported countless community enterprises and co-operatives in Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, and Carmarthenshire.

Non Davies, recently elected as Executive Committee Secretary, brings extensive cultural management expertise as Ceredigion County Council’s Corporate Manager for Culture. Having chaired the Cardigan Local Fund Committee for the 2022 Ceredigion Eisteddfod, Davies is well-versed in managing cultural projects.

National Eisteddfod Chief Executive, Betsan Moses, said: “We’re looking forward to working with John and the team over the next few months as we prepare for the 2026 Eisteddfod.

“There’s almost a quarter of a century since the Eisteddfod was last held in Pembrokeshire, and we’re very much looking forward to returning to the area. 2026 is an important year for us as we celebrate 850 years since the first Eisteddfod was held in Cardigan Castle in 1176.

“We’re looking forward to working in a new way within a catchment area which includes parts of another two counties, which is, of course, a chance to work with local people in Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire again.”

Further announcements are expected in the coming weeks, including the sale of competition prizes and opportunities to donate the Crown and the Chair.

The National Eisteddfod will be held in Llantood from August 1–8, 2026.

Charity

Kurtz goes Jurassic as Pantosaurus visits Senedd NSPCC Campaign

Published

16 hours ago

November 14, 2024

Richard Lewis

THIS WEEK, the NSPCC’s annual campaign to safeguard children from sexual abuse reached the steps of the Senedd.

Pantosaurus, the friendly mascot of the NSPCC’s PANTS campaign, appeared to raise awareness among Members of the Senedd and the wider public about the vital importance of child safety. The campaign encourages parents and carers to talk openly with young children about risks and protective measures.

The PANTS campaign is built around five key child protection messages:

Privates are private.
Always remember your body belongs to you.
No means no.
Talk about secrets that upset you.
Speak up; someone can help.

After meeting Pantosaurus, Samuel Kurtz MS, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, expressed his support for the campaign

He said: “I wholeheartedly support this important NSPCC initiative. Since its launch in 2013, it has empowered over six million families to discuss this sensitive subject.

“This issue affects communities across Wales, so promoting the five principles of PANTS is essential for everyone in Pembrokeshire and beyond.”

Community

Crowdfunding drive launched for documentary on forgotten 1967 football match

Published

1 day ago

November 13, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A CROWDFUNDING campaign has launched to support a new documentary capturing a nearly forgotten piece of football history—a 1967 charity match in Liverpool featuring Hungarian football icon Ferenc Puskás, alongside British legends Billy Liddell and John Charles.

Daniel Metcalf, director of the film and grandson of Chester FC striker Mike Metcalf, who played in the match, describes the film as “a love letter to the beautiful game,” aiming to highlight community spirit and the unity of sport. “Through personal stories, historic footage, and expert insights, we’ll revisit this unique game and explore 1960s football’s influence over the decades,” he said.

The project has attracted substantial backing, including collaboration with Chester FC, endorsements from notable players like Neville Southall, and the involvement of a skilled production team with narration by broadcaster Kim Thomas.

Supporters can choose from various funding tiers, with contributions starting at £10 for acknowledgments and extending to £5,000 Producer credits. Rewards range from film credits to signed memorabilia and invitations to the UK premiere. The funding target of £3,300 aims to cover initial production costs, with stretch goals set to enhance production quality.

Filming will commence in Chester in May 2025, with the documentary slated for release in early 2026 for the festival circuit.

For more information or to support the project, visit Kickstarter.