News

Haverfordwest’s ‘Instagrammable’ footbridge faces further frustration and delay

Published

1 year ago

February 22, 2025

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has confirmed that the construction of Haverfordwest’s controversial ‘Instagrammable’ footbridge has been delayed once again, with its completion now pushed back to at least September 2025. The project, originally designed to improve pedestrian access and enhance the town’s visual appeal, has been met with growing scrutiny over rising costs and the justification for its design.

Delays and cost increases

The footbridge is a key part of the Haverfordwest Public Transport Interchange (HPTI) scheme, a wider regeneration project aimed at improving connectivity and accessibility in the town. The project was originally budgeted at £5.7 million, but concerns have been raised over whether additional delays could push costs even higher.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council outlined the reasons for the latest setbacks, stating:

“There has been a delay in fabrication modelling due to the time required to clarify and resolve technical queries related to the complex design and methodology for fabrication and installation. Additionally, there has been a delay in crane availability, which has further impacted the timeline.”

Criticism over the project’s priorities

The bridge has been a point of controversy since its announcement, particularly regarding its design focus. Councillor Rhys Jordan, who was among the first to publicly criticize the project before leaving office in October 2023, raised concerns about the emphasis on making the bridge visually appealing for social media rather than prioritizing functionality. Cllr Jordan said:

“The focus on an ‘Instagrammable’ design raises serious questions about whether this is the best use of public funds. While aesthetics are important, the people of Haverfordwest need practical infrastructure that meets their daily needs.”

His comments ignited wider debate about the project’s priorities, with some residents and local business owners questioning whether resources could have been better allocated to other infrastructure improvements.

Political and public reactions

The Welsh Conservative group, led by Councillor Di Clements, has also expressed concerns over the project’s financial management and delays. While acknowledging the need for regeneration in Haverfordwest, the group has called for greater transparency regarding the rising costs and timeline extensions.

“Residents deserve clear answers on why this project continues to face setbacks and whether further delays will result in additional costs. We need assurances that this investment will truly benefit the town and not become an expensive vanity project,” a spokesperson for the group stated.

Impact on local businesses

Local business owners have voiced frustration over the ongoing delays, with some reporting a decline in foot traffic due to construction disruptions. The bridge, once completed, is expected to improve access to key areas of the town, but the prolonged construction phase has left many questioning when they will see the benefits.

Commuters have also expressed concerns about accessibility, with some calling for alternative pedestrian routes to be improved while construction continues.

What happens next?

Despite the delays, Pembrokeshire County Council maintains that the bridge will ultimately be a valuable addition to the town’s infrastructure. However, with completion now expected in late 2025 and lingering concerns over costs, the project remains under intense public and political scrutiny.

Residents and stakeholders are now waiting to see whether the council can meet its revised timeline—or if further setbacks will once again push the bridge’s completion even further into the future.

News

Fatal crash appeal after driver dies on A44 near Aberystwyth

Published

29 minutes ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a driver died in a crash on the A44.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the collision happened at around 6:10pm on Tuesday (May 5) on the A44 between Capel Bangor and Goginan, near Aberystwyth

The crash involved a single vehicle, a white Volkswagen Golf, which was travelling eastbound towards Goginan when it left the carriageway.

Sadly, the driver died at the scene. Their next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

Police confirmed there were no other passengers in the vehicle.

Officers are now asking anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage from the area at the time, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dyfed-Powys Police online, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

4 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

Charity

Pembroke Dock charity shop expands to support hospice care

Published

4 hours ago

May 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

SHOP NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AFTER EXPANSION INTO ADJOINING UNIT

A CHARITY shop in Pembroke Dock has expanded into a neighbouring unit to help raise more money for local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home has completed a knock-through at its shop in Bierspool, London Road, creating a larger retail space and allowing the charity to offer a wider range of items, including furniture.

The expanded shop was officially opened on Friday (May 1) by the outgoing Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Cllr Michelle Wiggins.

The shop team, led by Kelly Elliot and supported by volunteers, worked for several weeks to prepare the new-look store for customers.

Head of Retail Julia Brady welcomed guests at the opening, while the charity also thanked staff, volunteers and supporters who helped decorate and prepare the premises.

Special thanks were given to Gill at Pembroke Dock Tesco for donating treats for customers and staff on the day.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home operates nine retail shops and an eBay department. Income from donations and sales helps fund the charity’s clinical teams, who provide free specialist palliative care to patients and families across Pembrokeshire.

The charity says it costs £3,600 every day to deliver its free clinical services. Around 30% of that cost is funded through Hywel Dda Health Board, with the remainder raised through retail income, fundraising and community support.

The Pembroke Dock shop is now open seven days a week, giving people more opportunities to shop, donate and support local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori, a much-loved local priest who recognised the need for hospice care before his death from cancer at the age of 39.

The charity provides care for people with any life-limiting condition, not only cancer, and supports patients of all faiths and none. It operates an open referral system, with referrals accepted from patients, families, friends and healthcare professionals.

Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd operates under the name Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. The charity was registered in 1982 and will celebrate its 45th anniversary during 2027/2028.