Entertainment

Milford Haven industrial estate live events venue plans backed by councillors

Published

10 months ago

July 28, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A CHANGE of use for a Milford Haven business unit to a live events venue has been approved, planners hearing the applicant had “jumped the gun” by previously operating it without permission. However the management have always said, and the council had confirmed, they did not need planning permission to run under a temporary events notice.

In an application recommended for conditional approval at the July meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee, Steve Bartrum sought retrospective permission for a change of use for Units 4 and 6, Maritime House, Thornton Industrial Estate from a business unit to weekend leisure hall use, along with dedicated parking, ecological and noise mitigation enhancements.

A report for planners stated: “Whilst the agent has indicated a D2 [leisure hall] use the venue will host live bands, DJs, Bingo, boxing matches, live screenings for live sporting events, such as boxing and rugby and dance music events, the nature of some of the events are not considered to fall within a D2 Use Class and would be Sui generis (no specified class).”

It said the application had been amended since its initial submission for up to 25 events per year operating as late as midnight, with five special cases to 2am, along with exceptions around the Christmas/New Year period.

The report said the council’s planning enforcement team has an open investigation owing to the unauthorised material change in use of the premises; an enforcement notice was served on April 25 on the grounds that it was considered the unregulated use of the building as an events venue has a significant detrimental impact on local amenity in terms of noise and disturbance.

A third-party representation was received in objection to the application, raising concern at the negative impact that noise nuisance has had, and will have, upon the lives of their family who neighbouring residents.

Following liaison with the council’s Pollution Control Team, the applicant and their acoustic consultant have agreed structural noise mitigations “which can be implemented and a robust management plan for the control of patrons in and around the premises during events to ensure that noise is controlled so as not to adversely impact upon the local amenity,” the report said.

Speaking at the July meeting, agent Andrew Vaughan-Harris said: “When we look at our business parks, I think their uses have changed over the years; we have a case of a building built after the Second World War looking a bit tired, after all these years.”

He added: “My client, quite a successful builder, saw there was a market for this sort of leisure use; he did jump the gun, he did start operating without planning, he’s learned from that exercise.”

Mr Vaughan-Harris, who cited a letter of support for the amended plans from local county councillor Alan Dennison, said the applicant was “going to reuse an empty building and create some jobs,” adding a related licensing application was currently ongoing.

Approval was moved by Cllr Brian Hall, with fellow supporter Cllr Mark Carter saying: “No-one wants to see empty buildings in any town; I think we’re having to think outside the box; it’s possibly a good use for this building, in my mind it could be alright.”

The conditional approval was backed by the committee, members hearing the licensing application was likely to be heard in August.

Entertainment

Rain fails to dampen spirits at Milford Haven’s Big Beer Festival 2025

Published

40 minutes ago

May 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Crowds raise a glass as music, beer and community take centre stage under cover at Milford Waterfront

RAIN and drizzle couldn’t wash away the good vibes at this year’s Big Beer Festival, held at Milford Waterfront on Saturday (May 24).

Thanks to the large Ascona Group marquee, festivalgoers stayed warm and dry—apart from what they were drinking—as hundreds turned out to celebrate one of Pembrokeshire’s most anticipated events, organised by Milford Haven Round Table.

Supported by headline sponsors Milford Waterfront, Ascona Group and Thornton Motors, the festival delivered an unforgettable afternoon and evening of entertainment, street food, and a standout drinks menu—all while raising money for local causes.

The UK’s number one Stereophonics tribute act The Phonics headlined the event, electrifying the stage with iconic hits. Also performing live were Steve Bartram, Funktion 22, Kyle Kirkhouse, The Doovays, and Big Chicken—each met with cheers from the packed marquee as rain fell steadily outside.

Entry to the event was £25, which included four drink tokens and a limited-edition festival glass. Attendees could sample over 20 cask and craft beers, local ciders, lagers, prosecco and Pimm’s. Featured producers included Tiny Rebel, Mantle Brewery, Gethin’s Cider, and Pembrokeshire Cider Co.

Food lovers were spoiled for choice at the Thornton Motors Street Food Zone, where vendors such as The Junkyard Dog, Impasto Pizza Bar, and Get Loaded served up everything from gourmet hotdogs to handmade pizzas.

A strict Think 25 policy was in place throughout the event, ensuring a responsible and safe environment for all. Security staff praised attendees for their upbeat and respectful attitude.

The event ran until 10:30pm, closing with a crowd-wide singalong to “Dakota” beneath the bright lights of the marquee.

Organisers from Milford Haven Round Table expressed their thanks to everyone who braved the weather, the sponsors who made the event possible, and the volunteers who made it run so smoothly.

Staying dry under canvas: Toby Ellis, from Pure West Radio took a selfie of the crowd from the stage

Entertainment

Choristers unplugged: St Davids Cathedral rings with joy at Saturday’s coffee concert

Published

9 hours ago

May 24, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL came alive this morning (Saturday, May 24) as its North Transept echoed with the sounds of musical theatre, pop, and Disney classics during a spirited performance from the Cathedral’s own choristers.

Part of the week-long St Davids Cathedral Music Festival, the “Coffee Concert: Choristers Unplugged!” event offered a lighter, family-friendly musical interlude amidst a schedule filled with orchestral grandeur and sacred choral works.

Accompanied by Simon Pearce, Laurence John, and Abigail Blake, the young choristers delivered an energetic and engaging set, trading their usual formal robes for casual outfits with a splash of fun—pink sunglasses, flower headbands, and even some 90s-style denim adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

The eclectic programme ranged from the bold optimism of “A World of Your Own” from Wonka to the emotional ballad “Home to You” by Sigrid, performed by soloist Phoebe Laidlaw. Another standout solo came from Harriet Pearce, whose rendition of Adele’s “Chasing Pavements” was met with loud applause.

Highlights included crowd-pleasers such as “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King” from The Lion King, “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman, and the Abba classic “Waterloo”. The concert closed with a heartwarming ensemble performance of “Some Things Never Change” from Frozen 2, leaving the audience smiling and humming along.

The event drew parents, festival-goers, and visitors alike, many of whom praised the choir’s versatility and enthusiasm. The North Transept space, filled with morning sunlight and joyful music, offered a perfect start to the day.

Today’s concert formed part of the wider St Davids Cathedral Music Festival, which runs until Wednesday (May 29), with upcoming performances by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Connaught Brass, and The Queen’s Six still to come.

Tickets and full programme details are available at www.stdavidscathedralfestival.org.uk

Entertainment

Four days of folk music fill Fishguard and Goodwick

Published

2 days ago

May 23, 2025

Tom Sinclair

FISHGUARD and Goodwick are ringing with the sound of folk music once again as the Fishguard Folk Festival returns for its 24th year, running from Friday (May 23) to Bank Holiday Monday (May 26).

The four-day celebration of music, song, and dance sees venues across the twin towns come alive with performances, workshops, storytelling, and informal sessions, attracting visitors and artists from across Wales and beyond.

Firmly established on the folk calendar, the festival highlights both traditional and contemporary expressions of folk culture, with a programme that includes bilingual performances, open mic slots, children’s activities, and walking tours — many of them free to attend.

Festival Development Manager Claire Quinn said the event offers something for everyone: “What makes Fishguard Folk Festival truly special is the variety of ways to experience folk music and culture — whether you’re enjoying live performances, joining sessions and workshops, trying something new, or simply soaking up the atmosphere.”

Headline concerts this year include a sold-out Sunday performance from acclaimed Welsh acts Alaw and Cynefin. On Friday evening, BBC Radio 2 Folk Singer of the Year Ríoghnach Connolly performs at Bethel Chapel with John Ellis, known for his work with Tom Jones and Lily Allen, supported by the lively London Irish SGH Trio. Saturday night sees festival favourites 3 Daft Monkeys take the stage at Theatr Gwaun.

Beyond the ticketed concerts, visitors can explore the Barti session trail — 11 venues across the towns hosting informal music sessions — as well as an art exhibition at Trove Gallery and quayside festivities in Lower Town, which include local food stalls, live music, and a visit from Celtic Sail and Trade’s sailing ship.

Workshops range from Welsh singing and storytelling to Tiny Twmpaths for younger children, and there are opportunities to learn and participate throughout the weekend.

The festival is supported by local sponsors including The Royal Oak, Barti Rum, and Stena Line, along with backing from Fishguard and Goodwick Town Council, the Oakdale Trust and Pembrokeshire County Council.

More details, including how to book for remaining ticketed events and workshops, are available at www.fishfolkfest.co.uk.