News

Pembrokeshire airport lease expected to be completed by end of year

Published

5 months ago

July 19, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

HAVERFORDWEST’S council-run airport, which had a circa £119,000 deficit last year, is expected to be leased out by the end of the year following “reasonably complex” negotiations, councillors heard.

Back in May, members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet supported the leasing of Withybush Airport as part of plans to make the facility cost-neutral to the authority.

Last year, Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, members heard the financial position at the council-supported Haverfordwest/Withybush airport deteriorated in 2022/23, with an out-turn position for 2022/23 of £238,000.

That loss has been reduced to an expected £119,000 for 2023/24 “following an extensive review of the operations of the airport”.

At the July 18 meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s full council, a series of submitted questions on the airport were heard.

Merlins Bridge councillor John Cole asked: “With the council leasing out the Haverfordwest airport, can members be assured that the lease is at comparable rent with similar airport facilities, and the airport being offloaded purely as a cost savings measure?”

He also asked a second related question: “Are current users protected and assured that their tenancy and rents currently payable to the authority are taken into consideration?”

Responding, Deputy Leader Cllr Paul Miller said the proposed letting was considered to be “best letting,” with restricted private documents detailing the figures available to all members.

On the second question, he said existing tenants had been involved throughout the process, and once the new overall lease was in place tenants would be protected through legislation.

However, he stressed the new leaseholder would be able to change conditions in the future and the council would “not dictate terms” in the future.

A further question was asked by Saundersfoot South councillor Chris Williams: “On a recent services meeting back in 2023, we had a productive meeting at Withybush Airport to look at the impact regarding costs to PCC and to consider options with regards to its future operation.

“Can you please clarify if the airport is still owned and operated by Pembrokeshire County Council and if so at what cost since April 1, 2024?”

Cllr Miller said the airport was still currently owned by the council following the Cabinet decision, with “reasonably complex” negotiations ongoing, complicated by land ownership issues and the need to obtain the civil aviation licence.

“Hopefully by the end of the calendar year we will have completed that transaction,” Cllr Miller said, adding that £25,000 had been spent since April 1.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

8 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

9 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

15 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”