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Betfred’s plans refused due to fears of anti-social behaviour

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PLANS for a Betfred bookmakers in Haverfordwest town centre have been refused due to fears it would “increase the fear of crime and anti-social behaviour” and “negatively impact” the regeneration area.

Last December, Shaws the Drapers, at 6-7 Castle Square, went into liquidation, resulting in the closure of 28 shops throughout England and Wales, including Haverfordwest and Carmarthen.

Earlier this year, an application was submitted to county planners by Done Brothers (Cash Betting) Ltd for a change of use of the empty Shaws site to a Betfred betting shop.

Betfred – which already operates at nearby High Street – has been described as “the world’s biggest privately-owned betting company and one of the UK’s biggest privately-owned retail outlets” by Agent ID Planning.

The existing Betfred would, if the application was successful, become vacant, and be marketed as a retail or commercial unit, the applicants have said.

ID Planning said that, despite marketing over a nine-month period, the Shaws property has been unable to secure a viable retail or other operator.

Two objections raised concerns including it would “give prominence to a business type associated with addictive behaviours and financial hardship,” and was “likely to compound the square as a socially-blighted space”.

A report for planners said Castle Square is considered “the heart of the town centre in the county town of Haverfordwest and a gateway to the shopping streets that lead off it,” and was key to the ongoing ‘levelling up’ regeneration of the town.

It added: “Approval of the change of use would potentially result in an increased fear of crime and anti-social behaviour which would negatively impact on the council’s aim of regenerating the centre of the county town into a high-quality place to live, work and visit.”

The report warned that Betfred could decide to retain its existing High Street unit, or another bookies may occupy it, with the “potential for a proliferation of betting shops in a small area would be to the detriment of the health and wellbeing of people who have problems with gambling”.

It added: “The type of use is synonymous with a fear of crime and anti-social behaviour, and therein would negatively impact on the council’s aim to regenerate the area into a high-quality place to live, work and visit.

“Furthermore, adjoining the subject site to the north is public house Friars Vault. The coming and going of customers between the pub and the betting shop would add to the unwelcoming feel of the area to its detriment, increasing the fear of crime and anti-social behaviour, negatively impacting upon the council’s aim to regenerate the area into a high-quality place to live, work and visit.”

Planners refused the application on the grounds it would lead to a permanent loss of retail floorspace, and “the occupation of the unit with a betting shop is not considered a positive approach to supporting the regeneration and growth of Haverfordwest of which Castle Square is the civic open space at the heart of the town centre”.

Business

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority invites businesses to advertise in mag

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As 2024 comes to a close, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is encouraging local businesses to prepare for the year ahead by reserving advertising space in Coast to Coast, Pembrokeshire’s highly regarded, award-winning visitor magazine.

Launching its 43rd edition in Easter 2025, Coast to Coast provides a prime opportunity for businesses to reach a wide audience, with a readership exceeding one million people.

The bilingual publication, distributed across Pembrokeshire’s busiest locations and parts of Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion during peak tourism months, is a valuable resource for both visitors and residents. From unique products and delicious offerings to exciting experiences, businesses of all types can benefit from the exposure Coast to Coast offers. The magazine is available in hundreds of outlets countywide and has become an essential guide for anyone looking to explore the best of Pembrokeshire.

“Over the years, Coast to Coast has established itself as the must-have summer guide, packed with inspiration for exploring the Park,” said Marie Parkin, Head of Marketing and Communications for the Authority. “In addition to showcasing our visitor attractions such as Carew Castle and Tidal Mill, Castell Henllys Iron Age Village and Oriel y Parc, National Park Discovery Centre, the magazine includes practical information like maps, bus schedules and tide tables.”

“From scenic walks and beach days to rich insights into the Park’s heritage, culture, and wildlife, Coast to Coast offers something for everyone. Our Activities and Events listings ensure families can enjoy a full calendar of experiences,” Marie Parkin added.

With advertising deadlines set for early January 2025, businesses are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their spot and avoid disappointment.

For more information about advertising in Coast to Coast, please contact [email protected] or call 01646 624895.

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Business

Kurtz addresses Employment and Skills Convention

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SENEDD Member Samuel Kurtz kicked off an Employment and Skills Convention at the Cardiff City Stadium recently, organised by the Learning and Skills Institute. The event sought to unite organisations, businesses, and training providers to discuss critical issues surrounding employment and skills development across Wales.

The convention featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including local Samuel Kurtz MS, who is the Shadow Minister for the Economy and Energy; Rhys Morris, Managing Director of The Busy Group; and Megan Hooper, Director for Employment and Skills at Serco. Together, they explored strategies for increasing employment and the positive impacts this can have on individuals, young people, and the broader community.

Following the event, Samuel Kurtz said: “It was a privilege to speak at this convention and to underscore the vital role of collaboration between government and the private sector in aligning skills and training with the evolving needs of our economy.

“By enhancing skills and creating jobs, we can foster a resilient workforce that will not only meet today’s demands but also drive essential green infrastructure projects, ensuring a prosperous future for young people in Wales.

“Welsh Government Ministers must acknowledge their role in addressing high levels of economic inactivity. Introducing employment targets is essential to support people in re-entering the workforce and contributing to Wales’ economic growth.”

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Business

Homebase enters administration, putting 2,000 jobs at risk

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HOMEBASE, the beleaguered home improvement chain with stores in Haverfordwest and Bridgend, has collapsed into administration, placing 2,000 jobs in jeopardy. The company has struggled with rising costs and shifting consumer demand, which led to the closure of other Welsh stores in Newport, Brecon, Mold, and Cardiff in recent years.

Hilco, Homebase’s owner, had been attempting to sell the struggling retailer but failed to secure a complete buyer. The owner of The Range, CDS Superstores, has agreed to acquire up to 70 Homebase locations along with the brand itself, protecting approximately 1,600 jobs. However, this deal leaves 49 stores without a buyer, with thousands of additional jobs at risk in stores and at the head office. Teneo, the appointed administrators, declined to specify which locations face potential closure.

For now, the 49 stores will continue trading as Teneo seeks a buyer, with no immediate redundancies planned. In the new arrangement, CDS Superstores has acquired Homebase’s brand name and intellectual property, ensuring the Homebase brand will persist online, while physical stores will convert to The Range.

Damian McGloughlin, CEO of Homebase, described the past three years as “incredibly challenging” for the DIY sector. He cited the downturn in consumer spending following the pandemic, persistent inflation, global supply chain disruptions, and unusual weather patterns as factors that impacted Homebase’s performance. Despite restructuring and investment efforts, the business has not been able to turn its fortunes around.

Teneo joint administrator Gavin Maher acknowledged the uncertainty this announcement brings, urging any interested buyers for the remaining stores to make contact.

The current administration marks the end of a troubled chapter for Homebase, which Hilco bought for £1 in 2018 after Wesfarmers, its previous owner, admitted to several strategic missteps, including underestimating winter demand and cutting popular product lines. Homebase reported an £84.2 million loss last year, highlighting its continued financial struggle amid competition from budget-friendly rivals such as B&M and Home Bargains, which have thrived in the value-driven market.

Homebase was founded in 1979 by Sainsbury’s and the Belgian-owned department store chain GB-inno-BM. Over the years, it expanded rapidly, absorbing the Texas Homecare chain in the 1990s before changing hands several times in the 2000s.

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