News

Traffic problems leave locals livid

Published

10 years ago

March 2, 2016

ANGRY residents of Lower Thornton in Milford Haven fear for their safety because of the heavy volume of traffic travelling at speed near their homes.

Lower Thornton has no pavements and properties face out on to the narrow stretch of carriageway. Residents complain that between 6.30am and 9am every day, the road through the small village is being used as a ‘rat run’ by drivers, and has been since the closure of Murco Refinery.

After consulting Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) and Dyfed- Powys Police, they feel as though they still have not got anywhere with the issue, and instead turned to The Herald for help.

The Herald spoke with many residents from Lower Thornton, who are very angry with the local authorities. One of the locals, Mr Sam Hassan said: “The measures in place to reduce the speed of vehicles through the village of Thornton are ineffective.

“There are speed bumps along the road that have been there for around eight years, and they are very worn, and they are so small that vans can pass over them without their wheels touching.

“The bumps do nothing, and the speed the vehicles are travelling at is a hazard, and I feel our only solution is to have a speed camera.”

Mr Hassan added: “I bought myself a high visibility jacket, because I was frightened of being hit by a car when I walk my dog. The price is that someone needs to be killed before action will be taken.”

The speed that vehicles should be travelling at through Thornton is 20 miles per hour, although it is not illegal for people to drive faster than that, as it is only an advisory speed. However, the 30 miles per hour limit is compulsory.

And, with the mistake of the houses in Lower Thornton being placed too close to the road, the issue of having no pavement is a difficult one.

The residents say they understand that a footpath is difficult, but wish to receive some sort of traffic calming measures that would be effective for the village. Resident Glen Gale told The Herald that he even witnessed one of his neighbours being hit by a speeding car in Thornton when on her way to the cemetery, to take flowers to her recently deceased husband.

Mr Gale said: “People are speeding with elderly people around and children walking to school. There’s no refuge and there’s no respect for anybody.”

ARE SPEED CAMERAS AN OPTION?

The Herald contacted Dyfed- Powys Police to ask whether introducing speed cameras was an option. They said that the issue of speeding in the Lower Thornton area has been raised with police and has been a PACT priority.

They also said that officers have conducted speed checks at the location on a number of occasions with no one found to be over the speeding limit to date.

However, after contacting PCC, it came to light that the latest traffic count was conducted in October 2013, before the closure of Murco and before the opening of the new bypass from Tiers Cross to Johnston.

A spokesperson from PCC said: “A 20 mph zone was introduced in the village of Thornton in February 2008 following concerns raised about refinery traffic using the road through the village. The zone includes 11 pairs of traffic calming cushions spaced at regular intervals through the village.”

Resident, Hazel Davies and her husband, Tony, said they had even seen arctic lorries passing through the village, who were also paying no attention to the traffic signs, or the 7.5tonne weight limit for the bridge over the village.

PCC said that in addition to the 20 miles per hour zone, the County Council introduced a weight restriction on the road in June 2002. This restriction prohibits goods vehicles exceeding 7.5T except for access.

In response to claims of an increase in traffic since the closure of Murco, PCC said: “The refinery has now closed with the facility being used for oil storage purposes. As a consequence, this should have had an impact on traffic flows through Thornton. The completion of the nearby Bulford Road should also have had a similar effect on local traffic flows through the village.

“Pembrokeshire County Council has undertaken a number of traffic flow counts in the village with the last one carried out in October 2013. At that time the average 24 hour 2-way flow was 1132 with average daytime flows in the region of 100 vehicles per hour.

“The survey recorded average traffic speeds within the zone of 22.0 mph towards Old Hakin Road and 19.4 mph towards Steynton.

“The County Council has arranged to repeat this count to provide an indication of flow and traffic speed changes resulting from the closure of the refinery and the opening of the improved Bulford Road.

“This will help determine whether there is any justification to modify or amend the existing traffic calming measures through the village.

“The County Council has a proposal for a footway through the village in its forward programme pool. Unfortunately the character of the road is such that a facility of this nature would require extensive land acquisition and accommodation works.

“It is unlikely therefore that such a footway will be provided in anything other than the longer term, especially considering the fiscal pressures currently facing the Authority.”

Mrs Davies said: “We know there’s not enough room for a footpath, but anything is better than nothing.”

FEARS THAT CONCERNS ARE BEING IGNORED

Hazel’s husband, Tony, suffered a stroke around seven years ago and fears that his and neighbours’ concerns are being ignored.

When this was put to Dyfed- Powys Police, Sergeant Terri Harrison said: “I would like to reassure the residents that police take all calls seriously, especially those that impact on public safety, such as speeding.

“We have responded to concerns raised by the public either in person or by phone. We will in the near future be piloting a Community Speed Watch in Johnston and, if successful, this could be rolled out to neighbouring villages including Thornton.”

However, there is still no mention of the proposed speed cameras. It came to light that Mobile Speed Enforcement Cameras are the responsibility of the Wales Road Casualty Reduction Partnership which has a set of criteria that has to be satisfied before they can designate a site for enforcement.

This criteria involves a site assessment which considers a number of factors including speed and accident data; built environment including schools, shops and other facilities, pedestrian activity, and road function at any given location.

Requests for a site to be considered for enforcement are normally addressed to the Council who will then collate the relevant speed and accident data. This information is then passed onto the Partnership who will undertake a comprehensive review in accordance with their criteria.

The Partnership failed to reply to The Herald directly, and instead forwarded our questions to Dyfed- Powys Police, who had already spoken with us.

COULD THE ROAD BE CLOSED?

Mr and Mrs Davies said that if all else fails, then they would like to try to persuade PCC to consider closing off the road, due to the village now being used as a “thoroughfare.”

Mrs Davies said: “I don’t know where the traffic is coming from. I’d like to ask them where exactly they are going! However, I did notice that when the Cleddau Bridge was closed due to th bad weather, the volume in traffic definitely increased, which tells me the people driving must be going to and from Pembroke Dock. But why are they using Thornton?

“I think the only way to solve this is to close the road.”

Mrs Davies also said that she “knows” that large vehicles can turn around within the village, and that there should be “no reason” as to why it couldn’t be closed off like neighbouring streets, just like Bulford Road.

After leaving PCC alone for a few weeks, The Herald contacted them again to see if any progress had been made, with regards to finding out exactly how much traffic is passing through the village, and whether or not they have decided to do anything about it.

We also asked whether the proposed closure of the road, could be an option.

A spokesperson from PCC said: “A traffic survey is programmed which will enable the Authority to evaluate the current level of traffic and vehicle speeds through the village.

“The information will also enable a comparison to be made in respect of the impact the new Bulford Road scheme has had volume.

“In terms of closing the road to through traffic, the practicalities of such a proposal would need to be examined in detail and a full consultation exercise undertaken before a decision is made.

“Consideration would need to be given to a number of factors such as the impact on journey time and distance the closure would have on residents. The question as to how large vehicles – such as refuse lorries – accessing the village would u-turn would need to be addressed.”

Crime

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

Published

28 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.