Community
AM supports National Park’s contribution to local economy
THE PEMBROKESHIRE Coast National Park, along with the other two National Parks in Wales, plays a critical role in supporting the Welsh economy, an independent report published today has revealed.
The report – Valuing Wales’ National Parks – examines the economic contribution of our National Parks and the extent to which they impact on the lives of people in Wales and beyond.
The report found that the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the surrounding area attracts 4.2million visitors a year, supports over 7000 jobs and contributes £187million Gross Value Added to the Welsh economy.
Paul Davies the Assembly Member for Preseli Pembrokeshire said: “I consider myself very lucky to both live and work in such a beautiful part of the country. Our National Parks very much symbolize the character and essence of Wales and in many respects they are Wales’ window to the world.
“Understanding their economic value is crucial on so many levels. The findings of the report, Valuing Wales’ National Parks, are very positive indeed, highlighting their significant contribution to the Welsh economy.”
In a Statement of Opinion raised at the National Assembly – AMs including Paul Davies paid tribute to the work of the Pembrokeshire Coast, Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia National Parks.
The Statement of Opinion reads: ‘This National Assembly commends the work of our three National Park Authorities and recognises their significant contribution to the Welsh economy – estimated to be in the region of £1billion. We further acknowledge that the National Parks of Wales play a pivotal role in the economic development of their respective regions that extends far beyond their physical boundaries. The specialised and consistent approach to the management of these natural assets ensures their protection and sustainability for the enjoyment of both residents and the 12 million annual visitors’.
The report found that together Wales’ National Parks attracted over 12 million visitors each year spending an estimated £1billion on goods and services, outperforming their English and Scottish counterparts in terms of visitor nights – with a higher proportion of visitors staying in the Welsh countryside.
The findings of the report not only highlight the fundamental role the National Parks play in underpinning our economy, but also recognise the recreation, wellbeing and cultural benefits they bring and their wider tourism value as high-profile international brands.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority Chairman Cllr Mike James added: “The results are revealing. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park attracts over 4million visitors each year, supporting over 7,000 local jobs.
“Their conservation and social wellbeing value of the National Park has long been recognised, but this report has given us a real insight into the tangible economic benefits and I’m naturally pleased with its findings. I’m also delighted with the cross-party support we’ve received at the National Assembly for Wales.”
The findings of the report have been endorsed by Assembly Members from across the political spectrum, who have come together to show their support for the work of Wales’ three National Park Authorities.
The report, produced by Arup, Consulting, was commissioned by National Parks Wales, the Welsh Local Government Association and Natural Resources Wales.
A LARGE police response was launched in St Florence on Sunday morning (Apr 6) following reports of a missing child.
Emergency services, including multiple police vehicles and a helicopter, were seen speeding to the quiet Pembrokeshire village shortly after 10:00am with sirens sounding.
The Herald understands that the missing person was a six-year-old girl, and that officers began immediate door-to-door inquiries in an effort to locate her.
One local resident said: “Police knocked on my door at around 10:30am saying a six-year-old was missing and they were concerned. They were asking for any information and knocking on all the properties.”
Another witness added: “I saw a police helicopter just after ten-o-clock in the morning. There was so much police activity— so many police cars.”
Fortunately, the girl was found safe and well a short time later.
Tenby, Saundersfoot and Narberth Police posted an update on social media, saying: “There has been a large police presence in St Florence this morning following a report of a missing person.
“We can confirm that the person has been located safe and well.
“Thank you to the local community for their support and patience.”
PEMBROKESHIRE County Council’s Building Control Team is congratulating local building and design projects for success in the LABC Building Excellence Awards 2024.
The LABC Building Excellence Awards are the largest business to business awards in the building control sector.
They celebrate buildings and design teams that have overcome the challenges of complex technical and construction issues and put the spotlight on innovative and creative building work.
In Pembrokeshire, D & O Construction Ltd, Julian Bishop Architect, Redstone Architecture and AB Rogers & Son Ltd, Hayston Development & Planning Ltd all achieved success on some high profile local projects.
In the Regional LABC Building Excellence Awards 2024, Berry Lodge, Newport won the Best Residential Extension in Wales prize with work carried out by D & O Construction Ltd and with agents Julian Bishop Architect and Redstone Architecture.
Highly Commended was the development at Plas Y Castell, Llawhaden, carried out by AB Rogers & Son Ltd and Hayston Development & Planning Ltd.
The Berry Lodge development then went forward to the Grand Finals at Grovesnor House in London where the top projects across the UK were celebrated.
Council Building Control Manager Sam Goodwin said: “Building Control is delighted to work on these projects which highlight the skill and innovation of developers locally.
“Pembrokeshire County Council Building Control is proud to be part of LABC Awards. The Local Authority Building Control (LABC) awards were set up to celebrate excellence achieved through high building standards, technical innovation and sustainable designs.
“The Awards are an opportunity for the industry to celebrate good building practice and winners demonstrate how positive working relationships with local Council building control teams achieve high quality, sustainable buildings.
“The awards are unique because they recognise how this cooperation improves building standards and professionalism across the industry and it is great to see local contractors, agents and designers within Pembrokeshire receive recognition in achieving these standards.”
If you would like to contact Building Control at Pembrokeshire County Council, please contact Building Control via the website www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/building-control or alternatively contact 01437 764551
PEMBROKE DOCK will step back in time this summer to mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War, with a special one-off Forties-themed dance.
The event, taking place on Saturday, June 21, will commemorate both VE Day and VJ Day in a night filled with 1940s fashion, music, and nostalgia. It will be held in a 400-capacity marquee at the former Royal Dockyard, generously sponsored by the Port of Milford Haven and supported by street food vendors.
Organised by the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre team, the dance will also raise funds for a unique heritage project – returning the RAF Pembroke Dock Memorial Window to the town. The memorial has been on display at the RAF Museum in London for the past 30 years.
Wartime favourites will be brought to life by the renowned Phil Dando Big Band, making a welcome return to Pembroke Dock. The band, known for its Glenn Miller-era repertoire, has delighted local audiences in previous Forties dances that saw guests turn out in period fashion and vintage military uniforms.
Peter and Marilyn Mitchell, long-standing members of the Heritage Centre’s volunteer team, are already planning their outfits.
“Check out local charity shops for wartime-era fashions,” they said. “Forties fashion was stylish, and it’s surprising what you can still find today – or recreate quite easily and affordably.”
Tickets for the dance cost £25 and are available via Eventbrite, directly from the Pembroke Dock Heritage Centre (01646 684220), or from the Pembroke Dock Town Council offices on Dimond Street.
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