News

Controversial planning application sparks uproar among residents

Published

4 months ago

July 17, 2024

TENSIONS are escalating among Pembrokeshire residents ahead of a contentious planning committee meeting scheduled for Monday, July 23, due to alleged procedural breaches by the planning authority.

In a strongly worded email addressed to the planning committee, Bevis Musk, a concerned resident, outlined the apparent irregularities associated with the handling of the application. According to Musk, the required protocols have not been observed, as agendas and reports must be published three clear working days prior to the committee meeting, which means by July 18. Additionally, the public consultation period does not conclude until the close of business on July 19, raising concerns about premature judgement.

“The planning authority clearly intends to prejudge the application and will have unfairly influenced Members with a recommendation before they are in possession of all the facts,” Musk wrote. He further emphasised that any decision made under these circumstances would be legally flawed and suggested that the inclusion of 24/0063/PA in the upcoming meeting’s agenda could be deemed illegal. Musk warned that several objectors are prepared to take immediate legal action if the application proceeds as planned.

Musk also invoked the Human Rights Act 1998, specifically Article 10, stressing his lawful right to address the committee. He cautioned that any attempts to prevent him from speaking or tampering with the meeting’s recordings would be considered acts of corruption and an attempt to pervert the course of justice.

In a subsequent email, Penny Davies echoed Musk’s concerns, expressing bewilderment at the Council’s actions. “Taking this to Committee next week is so obviously unfair and flawed that it beggars belief,” Davies wrote. She questioned the urgency of the matter, implying that the only beneficiaries of such haste are the developers, and accused the Council of bias. “There will be no impartial decision made next week and any such decision will be made on the basis of a biased prejudged recommendation that hasn’t taken all relevant considerations into account,” she added.

The growing discontent among residents underscores the demand for a transparent and fair process. The planning committee’s decision to proceed with the application in the face of these objections will undoubtedly be scrutinised closely by the community.

The Pembrokeshire County Council has been asked to comment.

Crime

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

Published

5 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

19 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

19 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.