News
Councillors bend planning rules
AN APPLICATION for an affordable house to be built on land south of Summerside in Upper Tancredston, Hayscastle, caused much debate among councillors.
It was recommended that the application be refused, but at the Planning and Rights of Way Committee meeting on Tuesday some councillors voted in favour of the plan.
The reason for refusing it was given in the agenda and said:
“The proposed development would conflict with the Council’s restraint strategy on new housing in the countryside. The proposal would create an unjustified visual intrusion into the countryside and represent an unsustainable form of development by reason of the absence of local services and facilities.”
Councillor Lyn Jenkins spoke in support of the application saying:
“It is well known that Pembrokeshire needs to find 4000 affordable homes and no objections have been raised to this application”.
Applicant Sarah Goddard added:
“Everything we have done looks toward the future. We understand that approving this application goes against your newly implemented policies but Pembrokeshire needs every affordable home it can get”.
The council’s Head of Planning, Hywel Jones, spoke to give clarification on the matter. He said:
“The LDP was set up to ensure patterns of development are sustainable. If we start departing from that we will incur the wrath of the Welsh Government. It’s the legal duty we have when we make these decisions. If we accept this it may well open the door for a flood of applications”.
Councillor Gwilym Price said:
“They should be supported in every way possible; I don’t for one second beleive that this could open the door for more applications”.
Councillor Brian Hall moved the recommendation for refusal and said:
“This does not comply with our policy; an affordable house has to come within an existing settlement”.
However, Councillor Jacob Williams said:
“This application is quite unique, there isn’t one objection. I appreciate that it’s not in our boundaries but I cannot see this as an intrusion into the countryside.
Councillor David Pugh said:
“I find this a very difficult application, but I have to support the recommendation for refusal. We all signed up for LDP earlier this year, we can’t keep departing from the rule book”.
Councillor Peter Morgan then moved that the application be approved, a motion which was seconded by Cllr Williams.
The director of development, Dr Steven Jones, asked:
“What are the material considerations that out-weigh the policies?”
Both councillors were asked to come up with reasons but they could not give a full answer.
Cllr Williams quoted from Planning Policy Wales, but Hywel Jones responded:
“The LDP trumps the PPW”.Cllr Morgan and Cllr Williams then withdrew their earlier proposal to accept the plans and allowed for the original recommendation to go to a vote. Six members voted for the application to be refused, but eight voted that it should be accepted.
They were again asked to give reasons why they had done so, but after a conclusion was not reached it was decided that this item would be on the agenda for the next meeting in January to allow time for those who voted for it to come up with their reasons.
Community
Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby
SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.
Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.
The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.
Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.
Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.
As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.
For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.
With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.
Community
Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan
ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.
At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.
The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”
With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.
Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.
Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.
Charity
Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues
ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.
Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.
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