A CALL for works at a historic Pembrokeshire town centre church to make it more accessible has been submitted to county planners.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, The Parochial Church Council of St Mary’s Church, Pembroke, through agent Arnold Bartosch Ltd, is applying for the removal of existing steps with replacement steps and a ramp at the grade-I-listed church.

A supporting statement says the church, heavily restored in the 19^th century, “is thought to have been built for Gilbert de Clare, first Earl 1138-48 or his son Richard Strongbow, 1148-76, but is likely to be contemporary with the major building at the castle by William Marshal, first in Pembroke between 1204, and 1219”.

Of the proposed scheme it says: “The current access consists of a sloping pathway and three steps up. The steps deny access to the church for wheelchair users and those with impaired mobility. The proposed arrangement will provide a level platform allowing access for all into the church and churchyard.”

It adds: “The existing access from the churchyard into the West Porch also consists of steps. The proposals will include for the installations of a new landing at the west doorway which will provide access for all into the church.”

The west entranceway was itself listed back in 2005, as grade-II.

The supporting statement adds: “The access should be altered as it currently restricts access for all. The alterations will improve public access of the church whilst retaining the grade-II-listed piers and gates. The alterations will be carried out to a high standard befitting a grade I Listed Church setting and grade-II-listed gates and railings.

“The relocation will involve minimum disruption and no loss of historic fabric. We believe this proposal is acceptable and a reasonable part of the site’s evolution concurrent with modern requirements and can be justified as minimal harm.”

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

A successful fundraising campaign was held at St Mary’s for the restoration of three church bells and associated works, with a blessing of the bells service and dedication taking place back in May attended by the Rt Revd Dorrien Davies, Lord Bishop of St Davids, new mayor of Pembroke Cllr Jonathan Grimes and Mayoress Cllr Deborah Willcocks.

The three new bells dedicated were the Lingard Family Bell, the Rogers Family Bell, and the Morgan Bell.

PLANS for what could have been the third store in the country for Welsh cheesecake business The Cheesecake Guy Ltd at Saundersfoot’s Coal Building interpretation centre have been withdrawn.

In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Craig Taylor of Merthyr Tydfil-based The Cheesecake Guy Ltd sought a change of use of part of Saundersfoot’s Cambrian Terrace Coal Building interpretation centre to create a small retail unit.

On its website, The Cheesecake Guy says of its business and products: “Established in 2019, The Cheesecake Guy is all about delivering indulgent, handcrafted cheesecake desserts with a twist. While we offer a range of sweet treats, our specialty — and customer favourite — is the signature cheesecake jar.

“Made with quality ingredients and packed with rich, creamy layers, our jars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with others, The Cheesecake Guy brings a spoonful of happiness to every bite.”

While no supporting statement was published for the Saundersfoot proposal, the application said the scheme, if approved, would employ two full-time members of staff, operating 10am-6pm Mon-Sat, and 10-5 on Sundays and bank holidays.

Of the scheme itself it said it would involve “retail sales of pre-prepared desserts and merchandise,” adding there will be “no on-site manufacturing or heavy processing,” with “equipment limited to display fridges and freezers”.

If approved, the Saundersfoot site would have been the third outlet for The Cheesecake Guy, with sites in Merthyr, and, more recently, Newport Market.

For its Newport site, The Cheesecake Guy says: “We specialise in creating a wide variety of cheesecake desserts that cater to all tastes. Our menu features popular favourites that have won the hearts of many, alongside exciting new creations designed to keep your taste buds satisfied.

“Whether you’re a classic cheesecake lover or an adventurous foodie, we promise a cheesecake experience like no other. Each cheesecake is made with the utmost care, ensuring a rich, creamy texture and a burst of flavour in every slice (or jar!).”

Since the application was submitted, Saundersfoot Community Council objected “on the basis that the harbour is diluting the original intention of this area, which was designed to be an educational section of the development”.

The application is now, as of June 19, marked as withdrawn.

Community event brought residents, businesses and town leaders together despite difficult weather

MILFORD HAVEN TOWN COUNCIL has thanked Pembrokeshire County Council for support through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which helped make this year’s Founders Day event possible.

The event, held in Milford Haven earlier this month, brought together residents, local businesses, community groups and civic leaders for a celebration of the town’s history, resilience and future.

Despite challenging weather, the day featured family activities, food stalls, music, entertainment, RNLI involvement and a strong community turnout.

The UKSPF support helped Milford Haven Town Council provide funding to Milford Haven Business Circle, which played a key role in delivering the event.

Town councillors said the day highlighted the strength of Milford Haven’s community spirit and gave local people and businesses an opportunity to come together, promote the town and build stronger connections.

Milford Haven Town Council said it was grateful to Pembrokeshire County Council for administering the UKSPF programme locally and for recognising the importance of events which support community development and economic growth.

The council added that it remains committed to working with partners on projects and events which benefit local people and contribute to the continued success of Milford Haven.