News
Farm attraction which had ‘massive impact on pupils visiting’ refused by planners
A FARM barn attraction, built after the owner lost his cattle herd to Bovine TB, has been turned down by Pembrokeshire planners despite council educational providers using its facilities.
Stuart Williams of Home Farm, Leweston, near Camrose, sought to retain the Willhome Farm Barn farm park – and ancillary buildings – built in June 2022.
The application was supported by local community council Camrose.
A supporting statement by agent Aled Thomas Planning Design Ltd said: “In 2022, The Williams family had to lose their entire milking/dairy and beef herd due to a severe outbreak of Bovine TB on their farm.
“Following the loss of their entire income/livelihood, they had to create some income for the farm and the family.
“Due to the Bovine TB outbreak, they were unable to re-stock their dairy herd for a few years to ensure that they are able to perform the necessary deep clean to the housing buildings, milking parlour and various aspects required by the Animal Health section of Welsh Government.
“Therefore, they had the idea of opening a small-scale farm barn attraction which gives people the opportunity to meet various animals and learn more about agriculture.”
The statement added: “During school terms Mr Williams has ten regular [county council] educational groups visiting, that are split into morning and afternoon sessions, Monday – Friday. These are transported using mini-buses or a maximum of four cars/taxis.
“He currently has an additional six Pembrokeshire County Council educational providers awaiting slots and has started discussions with PCC educational management to provide stronger links for the school curriculum in the future.
“Willhome Farm Barn is having a massive impact on the lives of every pupil who attends and by July 2023 there is already over 6,000 pupils booked in, with one council provision actually having filmed their pupils to show the development of the pupils from attending the barn to similar provisions across Wales.”
A report for planners said the main building contained internal pens to accommodate rabbits, llamas, donkeys, poultry, owls, goats, ponies and pigs to be accessed by visiting members of the public, along with a café building with internal and external seating areas, and some merchandise goods for sale, public conveniences, a children’s play area, and parking.
The application was refused under delegated powers due to concerns it would have a detrimental impact on highway safety, with insufficient information submitted that the development could be accessed in a sustainable manner.
The application was also refused on the grounds it would generate additional foul water flows which are likely to result in an increase in phosphate levels in the Cleddau River, adversely affecting the Cleddau Rivers Special Area of Conservation.
Crime
Three men jailed for £620,000 cannabis production at former Llandysul school
THREE men have been sentenced for producing cannabis worth up to £620,000 at a former school building in Llandysul.
Njazi Gjana, 27, and Ervin Gjana, 24, were each sentenced to two years and six months in prison, while Armeld Troski, 29, received a three-year and four-month prison sentence.
The operation followed a warrant executed by Dyfed-Powys Police on Friday, November 15, 2024, after reports from the public about suspicious activity at the site. Upon entry, officers discovered a large-scale and sophisticated cannabis cultivation setup spanning three floors. The building had been heavily modified to accommodate the illegal operation.
Arrests made after pursuit
During their search of the property, officers heard movement downstairs and arrested two individuals, Njazi and Armeld, on-site. A third man, later identified as Ervin Gjana, escaped by climbing over a wire fence and fleeing into nearby fields. However, police used a drone and conducted a physical search, eventually locating Gjana on a roadside. He was soaking wet and scratched from brambles when arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis.
All three men were charged with producing a Class B drug and pleaded guilty at Swansea Crown Court on Friday, December 20, 2024.
Police praise public for vigilance
Detective Constable Ben Nicholls said: “I’d like to thank the Llandysul community for their vigilance and proactivity in reporting suspicious activity to police.
“The information we receive from members of the community helps us build the picture of illegal activity that allows us to execute warrants such as this to ensure our area remains hostile to those who deal drugs.
“Monday’s sentencing serves as a reminder of our dedication to removing and preventing harmful substances damaging our communities, and we thank the public for the crucial role they play in this work.”
Signs of cannabis cultivation
Police encourage the public to report any concerns or suspicions about cannabis cultivation. Indicators include:
- A distinctive aroma coming from a property and noises from ventilation fans.
- Blacked-out windows to avoid detection.
- People and vehicles arriving at odd hours.
- Bright lights on continuously in seemingly vacant properties.
- Excessive condensation on windows.
- Unusual wiring or bypassed electricity meters.
- ‘Garden’ rubbish, such as plant pots, fertiliser, and chemicals.
Any information, no matter how small, could assist in tackling drug-related crime. Reports can be made via:
🖥️ | Online contact
📧 | [email protected]
💬 | Social media direct messages
📞 | Non-emergency: 101
For the deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired: text 07811 311 908.
For updates on local policing, appeals, and events, follow Lampeter, Aberaeron, and Llandysul Police on Facebook.
Community
Drop in sessions to help reshape Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service
MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is pleased to announce the launch of a series of community drop-in sessions designed to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders. This initiative aims to identify issues and challenges that may impact the delivery of the Community Risk Management Plan 2040 (CRMP 2040).
The CRMP 2040 outlines the Service’s commitment to addressing risks, threats, and challenges faced by communities. These drop-in sessions provide an opportunity for residents to help shape the future of fire and rescue services in Mid and West Wales, ensuring safety and well-being remain a priority.
Shaping the future together
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Iwan Cray said: “We believe the best way to serve our communities is by involving them in the planning process. These drop-in sessions are an opportunity for us to listen, learn, and collaborate with the people we serve.”
The drop-in sessions, details of which are available on the MAWWFRS website, offer a platform for open dialogue. Residents can share their insights, concerns, and suggestions, contributing to the development of a modern Fire and Rescue Service tailored to their needs.
A data-driven approach
The CRMP 2040 adopts a data-driven approach, focusing on prevention, protection, and response to reduce emergencies’ impact and enhance public safety. By tailoring services to community needs, MAWWFRS is committed to building safer and more resilient communities.
Get involved
Community members are encouraged to attend these sessions and provide their feedback. To thank participants, MAWWFRS is offering a chance to win a £100 Amazon voucher. To enter, simply attend a session and complete the survey.
For more information about the plan or the upcoming drop-in sessions, visit the MAWWFRS website or contact the team at [email protected].
About MAWWFRS
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is dedicated to protecting and serving the communities of Mid and West Wales. Through prevention, protection, and response, the Service works tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents and visitors.
News
Storm Eowyn causes disruption across Pembrokeshire
STORM EOWYN has brought widespread disruption to Pembrokeshire, with the Cleddau Bridge closed to all traffic this morning (Jan 24) due to strong winds. A yellow weather warning for wind remains in place, though conditions are expected to improve as the storm system moves northwards.
Roads blocked by fallen trees and debris
The storm has caused several road closures and partial blockages, with council teams working tirelessly to clear affected areas. Significant updates include:
- Cleared and Reopened Roads:
- Imble Lane, Pembroke – Tree cleared.
- Dreenhill (B4327) – Tree cleared.
- Whitewell Lane between Ridgeway and Lydstep – Tree cleared.
- Corrugated sheet obstruction near Reynalton caravan park – Cleared.
- Ridgeway – Tree removed, road reopened; however, BT cables remain affected.
- Ongoing Issues:
- Abercych to Newchapel (B4322) – Tree partially blocking road; passable with care.
- Trecwn to Llanychaer – Partial blockage due to fallen tree.
- Nine Wells, Solva (A487) – Tree partially obstructing road.
- Ashdale Lane, Burton – Trampoline on the road awaiting removal.
Other hazards and updates
The storm has left 344 properties without power this morning, with National Grid teams working to restore services across the county. In Pembroke Dock, crews have cleared glass and debris from St Govans shopping centre on Dimon Street.
Bus services have seen minimal disruption, though routes 3489 and 355 are affected by the Cleddau Bridge closure.
Public safety urged
Pembrokeshire County Council is urging residents to take extra care, especially on rural roads where debris and fallen trees may still pose a hazard. Motorists are advised to adhere to any warning signs, particularly at Burton, where issues with advisory signage have been reported.
Residents experiencing power outages are encouraged to contact their energy provider for updates and assistance.
A gradual easing of conditions
While the wind is expected to subside throughout the day, the council has warned that further issues may arise as the storm moves through the region. The Herald will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.
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