News

Cars to remain banned from Pembrokeshire beach this summer

Published

1 month ago

March 24, 2024

NEWPORT SANDS, which became car-free last year, will remain so, but early stages of a £350,000 scheme to improve facilities have been backed by members of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Last May, the Authority ended parking on the Newport Sands beach after purchasing the land, in response to growing safety concerns.

It said the beach would be a ‘car-free’ zone, with exceptions only allowed for emergency services and essential car users such as the RNLI and coastguards.

A petition was later launched demanding a backtrack, saying an outright ban will have an adverse effect on a wide cross-section of beach users, including disabled visitors.

Last July, members of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s authority agreed to keep the car-free resolution, with a further update and report being provided after the first car-free summer, along with “actively pursuing options of how to improve access for people living with disability”.

Between October and November of last year, the Park also ran an online public consultation regarding the future of Traeth Mawr, with 107 responses received, members of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s authority meeting of March 20 heard.

A report for members said: “There is evident anger that access to the beach has been stopped for vehicles, as well as praise for this decision,” adding, amongst other issues: “There is a theme that current access for the disabled population is not where it needs to be with investment needed for a variety of mobility equipment, parking options, changing places toilets and changing/ cleaning facilities.”

It went on to say: “The Authority has considered these responses in drawing up a specific project for Traeth Mawr, seeking to use funding available as part of the Special Landscapes Special Places fund.”

Detailing the project, the report said: “The Authority has developed a project proposal to enhance the existing car park at Traeth Mawr, to replace and upgrade the existing toilet block and provide an enhanced facility including a changing places area.

“Updated drainage facilities will be provided as part of these changes. Additional changes proposed include permeable surfaces in the overflow car park, improved ramps to access the beach and three permanent beach wheelchair storage areas. Enhanced landscaping and appropriate planting are also proposed to deliver net biodiversity benefits.”

The Park made £25,548 last year from parking at Traeth Mawr, but, as part of a wider two-year financial contributions to Pembrokeshire County Council to support public conveniences will be paying approximately £14,600 a year for Traeth Mawr for two years.

“It is anticipated that some of the capital works programmed will assist in reducing the annual revenue costs associated with running the facility if a more sustainable foul drainage solution and options such as small-scale solar PV panels can be incorporated as part of the design,” members heard.

Anticipated costs associated for the project are in the region of £330-£350,000, the report adding: “Precise costs will not be identified until further investigation works have concluded. The Authority has secured grant funding to meet the above outlined costs.”

A public consultation will take place as part of the planning application processes.

News

Tigers second division Cup Champions

Published

13 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Herald Sport

In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.

The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.

The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.

As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.

But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.

With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.

The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.

Crime

Police investigating attempted burglary at Haverfordwest shop

Published

17 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Tom Sinclair

POLICE in Pembrokeshire are investigating an attempted burglary at No.37 Food and Wine shop on High Street, Haverfordwest, at about 3am on Wednesday, April 3.

A window was smashed and the door handle broken.

Police said: “If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch with PC 195 Tayler, either by: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”

News

Don’t forget to vote on Thursday, May 2

Published

18 hours ago

May 1, 2024

Luke Sinclair

THURSDAY, May 2 is your chance to vote for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.

Don’t forget to use your vote and head to your local polling station between 7am and 10pm.

They are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account on their behalf.

A Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to set the police budget and make sure it is spent effectively, appoint the local police forces Chief Constables, set police and crime plans in collaboration with residents and work closely with the local council and other organisations on these plans.

This is the first election in Wales where you will need photographic ID to vote.

Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.

Or you may have applied for a Voter Authority Certificate which is also accepted.

If you plan on taking your Postal Vote to a polling station or County Hall main reception remember to fill in a vote return form. Without the completed form those postal vote(s) will be rejected.