News

National Park planners refuse 40-pitch campsite at Parke Farm

Published

11 months ago

December 19, 2023

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A SCHEME for a 40-pitch campsite on ‘best’ south Pembrokeshire agricultural land was refused despite pleas for approval, or at least a site visit.

Applicant Charles Goldsworthy sought – in an application submitted through agent Steve Hole Architects – permission for 40 pitches including associated infrastructure at Parke Farm campsite, just outside the hamlet of Merrion, near Pembroke.

Concerns were raised by Stackpole & Castlemartin Community Council in relation to safety when exiting the caravan site onto the main road.

The application was recommended for refusal at the December meeting of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s Development Management Committee; an officer report for members stating the application was contrary to national planning policy as it seeks to change the use of Best and Most Versatile (BMV) Agricultural Land into a caravan and camping site.

“Such land should only be developed if there is an overriding need for the scheme and either previously developed land or land in lower agricultural grades are unavailable,” and such land “should be conserved as a finite resource for the future with considerable weight given to protecting it from development,” the report said.

At the December meeting, Councillor Reg Owens made failed attempts for either a site visit or approval of the application.

He said the 10-acre site, while occupying BMV land, was too small to be a viable farm in its own right, and a caravan park wouldn’t prevent future agricultural usage.

“I’m a bit reluctant to support a blanket refusal; this site, I personally would like to go out and have a look.”

Cllr Owens’ site visit call saw members tie on six votes for and six against, committee chair Madeline Havard casting a second vote against it on the basis members had sufficient information, and the scheme went against policy.

Cllr Owens then made a call for the scheme to be approved: “We are a tourist county, it’s perhaps the biggest employer; I always felt we should cater for everybody to come and enjoy the beauty of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, and the rest.

“There is a need for accommodation which is affordable to all.”

Cllr Owen’s call for approval failed, with the recommendation for refusal later passing.

The application site is some 400 metres from the partly-demolished RAF St Twynnells Rotor Radar Station, developed to counter the threat of attack by the Soviet Union after their first trial of a nuclear weapon in 1949.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

12 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!