PLANS for an extension to Pembrokeshire’s Parc Gwyn Crematorium, with a new memorial garden featuring a stone megalith “in a more natural setting,” have been submitted to county planners.

Pembrokeshire County Council, which owns the existing Parc Gwyn Crematorium, near Narberth, is seeking permission for a change of use of adjacent agricultural land to a memorial garden, along with associated ancillary development including access, parking, an entrance canopy, two shelters, a megalith stone structure, seating, footways, bird nest box poles and landscaping.

A supporting statement accompanying the application states: “The proposal involves creating a garden designed with the objective of providing a nature-rich experience for those wishing to gather, reflect and remember. Seating areas, paths and contemplative zones are to be sensitively interspersed within a wildflower meadow and trees.

“The existing crematorium site is set amongst formally presented memorial gardens with large lawn areas, rockeries, trees and shrubs. With greater awareness of the nature emergency, it is anticipated that the demand for more natural settings in public services will increase. Therefore, by proactively providing a more natural memorial space, Pembrokeshire County Council is taking a long-term approach to green infrastructure provision.”

It adds: “The natural memorial garden would be an extension to the outdoor space currently available at the Parc Gwyn crematorium site, with provision for burial of ashes and memorials also provided.

“The provision of this space would see the transformation of an agricultural monoculture pasture to a setting in which nature is allowed to thrive. This would represent a diversification of opportunities for quiet reflection in a natural setting, better reflecting the different needs of those served by the Parc Gwyn site.

“The layout of the path network has been designed to allow different lengths of looped walks from the entrance point to the natural memorial garden. In addition to surfaced paths, there will also be mown paths within the meadow areas. By offering a range of options, the garden can cater for diverse user preferences and needs, enhancing the overall value and appeal.

“The structures within the garden (shelters, seating and memorials) are to be designed to fit with the setting of a natural garden. These are to be of natural materials (wood and stone) and rustic in style to blend into the landscape. The majority of the site is to remain as open space to preserve the natural character and provide ample room for memorial activities.”

The scheme will be considered by county planners at a later date.

Residents of Solva and the surrounding areas have achieved a significant milestone in their efforts to keep the St Davids Waste Recycling Centre (WRC) operational. An overwhelming number of comments and objections submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) have prompted the council to postpone the Policy Overview and Scrutiny discussion until November 12.

The proposed closure of the St Davids WRC had raised concerns about environmental impact, increased travel distances for waste disposal, and the potential for increased fly-tipping. The community’s united response highlights the essential role the facility plays in supporting sustainable waste management practices in the region.

A spokesperson for the Solva Community Council expressed gratitude for the community’s activism: “This is great news! The massive response from residents shows just how vital the St Davids WRC is to our community. The postponement gives us a valuable opportunity to continue voicing our concerns.”

Residents now have an additional two months to make their voices heard. The council urges everyone to continue submitting their thoughts and feedback on the matter. Community leaders have provided email addresses on banners and notices throughout the area for residents to send in their comments.

Local environmental groups have also joined the cause, emphasizing the importance of accessible recycling facilities in promoting environmental stewardship. “Closing the centre would be a step backward in our efforts to encourage responsible waste disposal,” one environmental advocate noted.

To participate in the ongoing discussion, residents can send their comments to the PCC using the contact information displayed on local banners or visit the council’s official website for more details.

How You Can Help:

• Email Your Thoughts: Send your opinions and concerns to the PCC at the email addresses provided on community banners.
• Spread the Word: Encourage friends, family, and neighbours to submit their comments.
• Stay Informed: Attend local council meetings and follow community social media pages for the latest updates.

The collective effort of the community underscores the power of civic engagement in influencing local government decisions. With continued participation, residents hope to secure the future of the St Davids Waste Recycling Centre for the benefit of all.

THE detailed planning matters application for the Brynhir housing development in Tenby has been unanimously approved by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Tender submission bids for the site’s development were received over the summer and are currently being evaluated, with a Pre-Construction Service agreement anticipated to be awarded in the autumn.

The approved plans include 125 new homes.

The successful contractor will then be required to carry out final works on design, market testing, seek Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) Approval Body approval along with other matters before a construction contract is entered with the plan to commence on site late Spring 2025.

Cabinet Member for Housing Cllr Michelle Bateman: “Given the high level of demand for social housing across Pembrokeshire, and in particular the Tenby area, this is an important scheme in our development programme.

“The site will deliver high quality homes for the local area, made up of 93 homes that will be retained by the Council. The remaining will be a mix of open market and shared ownership.

“A local lettings policy will be in place for allocations of the council owned properties with priority given to those with a connection to Tenby and the surrounding villages.

“I am pleased that the National Park planning committee unanimously supported the application.”