News

Secrecy over Milford Haven Library rent as council faces funding ultimatum

Published

10 months ago

February 10, 2025

MILFORD HAVEN’S library remains under threat as Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) refuses to disclose the rent it pays to the Port of Milford Haven, despite repeated calls for transparency. During a Milford Haven Town Council (MHTC) meeting on Monday (Feb 10), councillors and residents pressed PCC’s Head of Cultural Services, Mike Cavanagh, for answers on the library’s financial future.

RENT SECRECY

At the meeting, Cllr Lee Bridges demanded to know how much PCC is paying the Port of Milford Haven to lease the library premises at the business park. However, Cavanagh refused to disclose the figure, stating that the Port had asked him not to make this information public.

“My hands are tied,” he said. “I cannot say what the figure is because I have been asked not to by the Port.”

“We are now taking advice from our legal department to see if we can tell you this”, he added.

The revelation has intensified concerns over the lack of transparency in the funding of a statutory public service. Residents and councillors alike questioned why the Port—a Trust Port with a duty to benefit the community—is charging an undisclosed rent for the town’s only library, while PCC claims it cannot afford to maintain the service.

PORT’S FOUNDING PRINCIPLES – HELPING THE COMMUNITY?

The Milford Haven Port Authority (MHPA) was established under the Milford Haven Conservancy Act 1958 as a Trust Port, meaning that unlike private companies, it does not have shareholders and is instead supposed to operate for the long-term benefit of the local community.

According to Trust Port principles, the Port should reinvest its profits for the benefit of Milford Haven and its residents. Yet, the library—a statutory service used by hundreds of residents—is being charged rent that PCC says it can no longer afford.

In 2023, the Port achieved its highest-ever revenue, reaching £41.3 million, despite a decrease in ship calls and cargo volumes. The annual profit stood at £4.1 million. This financial growth is attributed to strong performances in cargo handling, property, hospitality, and tourism sectors.

Former Mayor Cllr Colin Sharp questioned whether the Port’s refusal to offer further reductions was compatible with its duty to support the town, saying:

“Have you spoken to the landlord? It’s going to look like very bad press for that company, which is allegedly a community organisation, if the library can no longer operate.”

In response, Cavanagh confirmed that PCC had asked the Port of Milford Haven for a further rent reduction or a community lease, but they declined.

However, Cllr Nicola Harteveld (Central Ward) defended the Port, saying:

“The Port are a business and can’t be expected to give the library to the town for free, as they already do a lot for the town.”

A STATUTORY DUTY – BUT WHO PAYS?

Under the Public Libraries and Museums Act 1964, PCC has a statutory duty to provide a “comprehensive and efficient” library service for all residents who wish to use it. The law ensures that councils must not close libraries unless they can prove alternative arrangements will meet local needs.

Despite this, PCC has repeatedly reduced library funding in recent years, and Milford Haven Library is now at risk simply because it is in a rented building rather than a council-owned one.

Milford Haven Library remains the only library in Pembrokeshire housed in a rented building after PCC sold its original premises on Hamilton Terrace in 2009 for just £120,000. Since then, PCC has paid the Port of Milford Haven an annual lease—believed to be around £50,000 per year, although the exact figure remains unknown.

In 2018, the rent was renegotiated and reduced, but Cavanagh refused to say by how much.

Now, PCC says it is struggling to afford the cost of the library as it faces a £27.4 million budget deficit for the 2025-26 financial year. The library is under direct threat, with the council exploring alternative options, including:

Relocating the library to a cheaper site, such as the Meads Leisure Centre
Transitioning it into a Community Managed Partnership
Receiving financial support from Milford Haven Town Council

TOWN HALL COULD OFFER A SOLUTION

During the meeting, Cllr Lee Bridges proposed an alternative location for the library to save costs, suggesting that the new owner of Milford Haven Town Hall, local accountant Bruce Evens, may be open to renting space back to PCC.

“The old Town Hall is in the centre of town, and the Murray Suite on the ground floor is not being fully utilised,” Cllr Bridges said. “I know that Mr Evens is a very community-minded man, and I am sure that he would rent back the space to PCC so that the library can be relocated. He has a keen interest in the town and will be willing, I feel, to invest back into the community.”

Cavanagh responded that all options were on the table and that nothing had been decided yet, stating that the council would listen to the public consultation results before making a final decision.

COUNCIL PRESSURED TO FUND LIBRARY

Cavanagh told MHTC that he had narrowed the budget shortfall for the library from £50,000 to £13,000. He then asked MHTC to contribute £13,000 to keep the library open for another year, claiming that Milford Haven was one of only three towns in Pembrokeshire not contributing to their libraries.

“If the town council agrees to fund £13,000, I will give the library all the protection that I can,” Cavanagh said—leading to accusations that PCC is coercing MHTC into taking responsibility for a statutory service it should be funding itself.

Councillor William Elliott thanked Cavanagh for his presentation and confirmed that MHTC would make a final decision on February 24 regarding financial support for the library.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

With MHTC set to vote on funding the library on February 24, the future of the service remains uncertain. If the town council refuses to pay the £13,000, PCC may push ahead with relocation or cuts, potentially reducing services in Milford Haven.

Meanwhile, the Port of Milford Haven’s refusal to disclose its rental charges has sparked renewed calls for transparency, with campaigners considering a Freedom of Information request to uncover how much public money has been spent on rent since 2009.

The public consultation on the library service remains open until February 17, with residents urged to make their views known before the final decision is made.

This is a developing story. The Herald will continue to report on new developments.

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

30 minutes ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

1 hour ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

1 hour ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.