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Controversial property development sparks outcry in Pembrokeshire’s historic village

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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

Snow and ice warning issued for Pembrokeshire as temperatures plunge

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PEMBROKESHIRE is set for a wintry spell this week, with the Met Office issuing a yellow warning for snow and ice covering the whole of Wales from 12:00pm on Wednesday until midnight on Thursday.

Cold air moving south on strong northerly winds is expected to bring frequent showers across the west, with some turning to sleet and snow as they push inland. Higher parts of the county — particularly the Preseli Hills and areas above 200 metres — are expected to see the most significant snowfall.

According to the Met Office, some places at lower levels may see only brief flurries, but where showers persist 2–5cm of snow could settle, with up to 10cm possible in a few upland spots. Icy stretches are likely overnight as temperatures dip below freezing.

Gusty winds and occasional hail are also possible, which may make conditions challenging on exposed routes such as the A487, A478, and minor roads around the Preselis, Haverfordwest, Maenclochog and Crymych.

Travel disruption expected

Transport services could be affected, with delays to bus routes and longer journey times on untreated roads. Drivers are being urged to plan ahead, allow extra time and check for local closures.

There is also a risk of slips and falls on untreated pavements, particularly during the morning school run and evening commute. Power cuts are considered unlikely but remain a possibility in more rural parts of the county.

Safety advice

Motorists are encouraged to carry warm clothing, food, water and a phone charger in case of disruption, and to ensure their vehicle is fully prepared for winter conditions.

For those heading out on foot, main road pavements are likely to be less slippery than side streets. Cyclists are advised to stick to primary routes where treatment is more likely.

Residents are also reminded that weather warnings may change at short notice, and the Met Office advises keeping up to date with the latest local forecast.

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Business

Goodwick salon celebrates triple win at national awards

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A GOODWICK hair salon is celebrating after scooping three major honours at a national ceremony in London.

Michelle Summers Davies, owner of MD Hair in Goodwick, Pembrokeshire, was named winner of Best Colour Salon, Best Boutique Salon, and Best Customer Service at the Salon Awards – an annual event recognising excellence and innovation across the UK hairdressing industry.

The awards are judged regionally by experienced industry professionals, with entries assessed on technical ability, creativity, client care and the overall salon experience.

Michelle’s salon impressed judges with its high standards, customer focus and consistent delivery of high-quality results.

Speaking after the ceremony, she said: “I am over the moon to receive these awards as they reflect years of passion, hard work, and dedication from our entire team. It’s a true celebration of our craft, our creativity, and our community. Thank you to our clients for supporting us every step of the way – we will continue delivering outstanding experiences for our clients.”

The Goodwick stylist is also a finalist for Wales & South West Hairdresser of the Year at the British Hairdressing Awards, which take place at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane next week.

Michelle has worked in the industry for more than thirty-five years and has been part of the Matrix UKI artistic team for nineteen years, contributing to national campaigns and salon education across the UK. She has also worked on the hair teams for the National Television Awards and The X Factor.

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Community

Côr Meibion De Cymru deliver moving Concert of Remembrance in Tenby

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A THOUGHTFUL and deeply moving Concert of Remembrance was held at St Mary’s Church in Tudor Square, Tenby, on Friday, November 7 at 7:00pm, as Côr Meibion De Cymru performed a gala event in aid of the Tenby Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.

At the hour of seven, the church was full – but the choristers’ seats remained empty. The musical director and accompanist were not yet in place. As the rain eased outside, the building fell into complete silence and the atmosphere tightened with anticipation.

Then, breaking the stillness, two Scottish bagpipers struck up in the courtyard. Moments later, the doors of St Mary’s were flung open and the choir, musical team and flag bearers were triumphantly piped down the aisle to their positions. It was an electrifying opening that set the tone for the evening.

Flag bearers from Tenby Sea Cadets and Tenby Army Cadets with Welsh Ladies support (Photo: Lesley Cleary)

One of the choir’s newer members remarked afterwards: “I’ve never been piped into a concert by Scottish pipers before – it was thrilling, emotional, magnificent. I want to do it again next year.”

Dispensing with customary introductions or formalities, the choir opened instead with the poignant line: “To fallen soldiers let us sing” – the beginning of The Mansions of the Lord. It was a fitting tribute for a concert devoted to remembering those who gave their lives for others.

The pipers, who travelled from Goodwick and Portsmouth, generously waived their usual fees to support the Poppy Appeal.

Pipers with Gwynlais Phillips, Chairman, and Elaine Robins (Photo: Lesley Cleary)

Under the expert leadership of Musical Director Elaine Robins, the choir delivered a rich and sensitive programme spanning Welsh hymns, musical theatre, opera and contemporary works by Welsh composers – a hallmark of their reputation.

The choir were joined by accompanist D Huw Rees, whose arrangement of This is the Moment from Jekyll and Hyde provided one of the evening’s highlights. The piece was performed by the choir in 2024 at the Royal Albert Hall during the Welsh Association of Male Choirs’ massed choir event.

Guest performers Goodwick Brass Band, under conductor Joshua Ruck, delivered an energetic and varied programme. Their sets featured talented young soloists, including trombonist Ianto Evans, and drew a warm standing ovation from the audience.

Goodwick Brass Band with soloist Ianto Evans (Photo: Lesley Cleary)

Before the Act of Remembrance, compere Phil Howells, Vice President of Côr Meibion De Cymru, read a written message of appreciation and support from the choir’s royal patron, HM King Charles III. The Act of Remembrance brought a solemn and dignified close to the evening.

Côr Meibion De Cymru thanked all who attended and supported the concert, reaffirming their commitment to uplifting communities through choral music.

As a renowned touring choir, Côr Meibion De Cymru is currently welcoming new members, including experienced choristers from other male choirs seeking opportunities to perform in larger and more prestigious venues.

The choir’s next appearance will be at the Principality Stadium on 29 November, where they will perform on the pitch ahead of the Wales v South Africa rugby match under the baton of their President, Dr Haydn James.

Pipers leading the choir into the church at 7:00pm (Photo: Lesley Cleary)
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