THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN has confirmed that it is providing “significant financial support” to Milford Haven Library, with its total contribution over the lifetime of Pembrokeshire County Council’s lease agreement until 2038 amounting to “many hundreds of thousands of pounds.”

The statement follows public frustration over secrecy surrounding the rent paid by PCC, with officials previously refusing to disclose the figure. Pembrokeshire County Council has now confirmed that the rent stands at £1,921 per month, or £23,052 per year, which accounts for 17.6% of the library’s total running costs.

At a Milford Haven Town Council meeting last week, PCC’s Head of Cultural Services, Mike Cavanagh, stated that he had been asked by the Port not to disclose the rental figure, leading to accusations of a lack of transparency over public spending on a statutory service.

Port responds to criticism

In response to the controversy, Tom Sawyer, chief executive at the Port of Milford Haven, told The Herald: “We have always recognised the significant social value generated by the Library in Milford Haven. It is a true community hub providing vital services and opportunities for people of all ages.”

Sawyer confirmed that the Port had committed to financial support long before PCC’s recent cost-cutting review, stating: “Prior to this public consultation, we had already committed to provide significant financial support to the Library service which, over the lifetime of Pembrokeshire County Council’s lease agreement up to 2038, amounts to many hundreds of thousands of pounds.”

While the Port remains engaged in discussions with PCC and Milford Haven Town Council, Sawyer stressed the broader role of the Port in community funding.

“Each year we set aside around 10% of our annual profits to support organisations, either through direct funding or partnership working, that are delivering three core outcomes: a safe and enjoyable Waterway; a sustainable and resilient environment; and a vibrant and prosperous community. We are proud that due to the Port of Milford Haven’s financial sustainability we will provide almost half a million pounds of community benefit during 2025.”

Despite this, some councillors remain concerned about the decision to charge PCC rent for a statutory service, particularly given the Port’s obligations as a Trust Port to benefit the local community.

Council defends library consultation process

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council said: “The Library Service, along with other Council services, has been asked to put forward proposals to reduce costs and/or increase income.”

PCC explained that its 2024 Library Needs Assessment had shown that while respondents opposed outright library closures, there was support for reducing premises costs and increasing volunteer involvement.

“Over the last 16 years, Milford Haven residents have enjoyed high-quality library provision in the town at Cedar Court, during which time the Port of Milford Haven has been extremely supportive, and we are grateful for their ongoing support.”

The spokesperson further revealed that the Port has been providing a “markedly discounted” rental rate for the library, stating:

“Recognising the important community role the library plays, the Port of Milford Haven has discounted the rental amount to £1,921 per month, which is significantly lower than its demonstrable commercial value. The rent is currently 17.6% of total running costs.”

Library could still be moved

Despite confirming the discounted rent, PCC has reiterated that it is considering relocating the library to a smaller or cheaper site to ensure its long-term viability. This includes a proposal to move the library to the Meads Leisure Centre, as well as the possibility of transitioning to a Community Managed Partnership.

“The County Council hopes to be able to sustain this high-quality service during these financially challenging times and solutions are currently being sought through the consultation process and ongoing discussions with interested parties.”

PCC has urged Milford Haven Library users and local residents to participate in the consultation, which is open until Monday, February 17.

The consultation can be accessed at: https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/have-your-say/proposed-changes-to-the-library-service.

Councillors discuss library future at town council meeting

The Milford Haven Town Council discussed the future of the library at their full council meeting on Monday, February 10. During the meeting, councillors debated the potential relocation of the library and the request for the town council to contribute £13,000 towards its running costs.

Councillor Lee Bridges suggested an alternative location, proposing that the library could be moved to the old Town Hall, which is owned by accountant Bruce Evens. He argued that a more central location could provide a better long-term solution.

Meanwhile, Councillor Colin Sharp raised concerns that the Port, as a Trust Port with a duty to benefit the community, should have done more to support the library’s future.

“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.”

However, Councillor Nicola Harteveld defended the Port’s position. She said: “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.”

The council has not yet made a decision on providing funding, but a final vote on whether Milford Haven Town Council will contribute £13,000 to the library is scheduled for their next meeting on February 24.

What happens next?

• Milford Haven Town Council will vote on February 24 on whether to contribute £13,000 to help fund the library for another year.
• The public consultation closes on February 17, after which PCC will review feedback before making a final decision.

The future of Milford Haven Library remains uncertain, with councillors, residents, and campaigners continuing to push for clarity and a long-term solution.

This is a developing story. The Herald will provide further updates as discussions continue.