News

Haverfordwest mosque boundary fencing plans backed

Published

9 months ago

March 10, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

PLANS for boundary fences and gates at Haverfordwest’s mosque, on the site of the former Cherry Grove council office building, have been approved.

Mustafa Yunis of UKIM, Haverfordwest Central Mosque, had applied for the erection of boundary fences and gates at the site, which was approved as a mosque back in 2022.

An officer report, recommending approval, said: “The submitted application seeks consent to erect three sections of 1.8 metre-high V mesh fence, with three 1.8 metre by six metre wide gated openings at three points of vehicular and pedestrian access to the building, one located to the north west adjacent to Park Road, and two located to the south east of the site adjacent to The Rise.

“A further pedestrian access gate is proposed to the northeast of the site adjacent to Queensway.”

In early 2022, members of the planning committee approved a change of use application for the former tax office at Cherry Grove, made by Haverfordwest Central Mosque.

The approved application for a mosque and associated community facilities included Quran classes, after school activities, community centre and crèche, festivals, exercise classes and community space, a planning report for that committee stated.

Haverfordwest councillor Tim Evans said there was local support for the proposals.

“It’s been welcomed by the people in the area. They have had lots of meetings with the local people with what’s going on there and the community aspect that’s going to be used there as well. I think everybody is positive about it in the area,” he told the committee.

The latest application was approved, with conditions including: “Prior to installation, details of the proposed finish colour of the boundary fences and gates shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority.”

Haverfordwest Central Mosque, on its website, says: “According to the 2011 census, Haverfordwest has the highest number of Muslim residents in Pembrokeshire.

“It is a popular holiday destination for Muslim families as it is very close to the Pembrokeshire coastline. Withybush hospital attracts many Muslim medical professionals and there are many halal eateries established in the town.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

7 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

20 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

20 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!