News

Outcry as telecom tower threatens Park’s picturesque landscape

Published

2 years ago

March 31, 2024

PLANS for a 20-metre-high telecom tower in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park have sparked a wave of opposition from local residents and conservationists. The proposed development by Cornerstone aims to erect a timber-clad telecoms structure opposite the National Trust Car Park in Trehilyn West, Trefasser, a move that has been met with vehement disapproval by the community.

The contentious site is nestled within the Pen Caer Registered Historic Landscape, an area celebrated for its natural beauty and historical significance. Flanked by the ancient Iron Age hill forts of Garn Fawr Camp and Garn Fechan Camp, both Scheduled Monuments, and within proximity to two Grade II Listed buildings, the proposed tower’s location has been criticised for its potential impact on the landscape’s heritage and visual appeal.

Further concern arises from the tower’s visibility from the vicinity of John Piper’s cottages, where the renowned 20th-century artist found inspiration for his work. One of Piper’s paintings, depicting Garn Fawr, fetched over £37,000 at a Christie’s auction in 2013, highlighting the area’s cultural and aesthetic value.

Designed to host three antennas and two dishes, along with a suite of supporting equipment, the tower’s introduction is argued by the applicant to have a ‘slight’ and ‘minor’ impact on the historic landscape, a sentiment not shared by local heritage and conservation authorities. Cadw, the Welsh Government’s historic environment service, has not objected to the proposal concerning the nearby scheduled monuments. However, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority’s Building Conservation Officer, Rob Scourfield, has recommended the application be refused, citing the significant detrimental effect on the setting of nearby listed buildings and the overarching landscape of the National Park.

Residents have also voiced their frustration, citing a lack of consultation and public notice regarding the project. Llandruidion local Jill Rowley lamented the potential visual intrusion in an area famed for its picturesque qualities, pointing out the absence of communication with the community council. Echoing these sentiments, Karen Roden raised concerns over the need for improved mobile coverage versus the sensitivity of Pencaer’s landscape. She highlighted the short window for public objection and the perceived oversight in consulting with the National Park and local populace.

With the planning application now open for comments on the National Park’s planning portal, the clock is ticking for those wishing to express their views. The case underscores the delicate balance between technological advancement and the preservation of natural and historical landscapes, a debate that continues to resonate across the UK’s protected areas.

Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

3 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

4 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

4 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.