News

Man faces losing dream home after ‘bonkers’ decision

Published

8 years ago

December 12, 2016

screen-shot-2016-10-17-at-13-57-13 A MAN’S dream of living an eco-friendly life in Pembrokeshire turned into a nightmare when he made what he calls a ‘bonkers’ decision to take on Pembrokeshire County Council.

Terence Jones began building a two storey home on agricultural land before knowing whether planning permission would be granted.

Now, the partly built house at Llawhaden could be torn down and removed at his expense.

The years old saga took another bad turn for Jones when he lost an appeal at Swansea Crown Court against a conviction by Haverfordwest magistrates for failing to engage with building regulations.

Judge Geraint Walters, sitting with two magistrates, heard that Jones, a Welshman, had wanted to move with his wife from the north of England to west Wales and live a cashless lifestyle, growing his own food and generating his own power.

He paid £30,000 for three fields and planted 5,000 fruit and nut trees. He also applied for planning permission for a new house.

Jones said he followed the Welsh Assembly’s ‘one planet’ initiative which encouraged people to develop homes and communities that would not pollute the environment or consume it.

Jones complained that Pembrokeshire County Council took two years to rule on his planning application–and eventually turned it down.

But before the ruling he had been so confident it would be granted he took ‘the maddest most bonkers decision of my life’ to begin building the house.

By then, explained PCC building control inspector Richard Lawrence, Jones was also in contravention of building regulations as it would become increasingly difficult to know whether the house was being constructed according to them.

Judge Walters explained to Jones that, for example, it would be almost impossible for a building inspector to even look at foundations once they had been laid.

Jones, a technical author, said he blamed PCC for taking two years to decide on a planning application that should have taken eight weeks.

He said he found himself dealing with two branches of the authority–planning and building regulations. At one stage the planners ordered him to stop building, while the other told him to engage with inspectors who could decide whether it was being built properly.

Mr Lawrence told the court Jones had never applied for building regulations to kick in, despite being invited to do so and being warned of the potential consequences.

One amongst many reasons, said Mr Lawrence, was that planning permission could be granted retrospectively. But if that happened no-one would really know how the house had been built.

Jones said he did not see the point in paying more than £1,000 for inspectors from PCC to look at a development the same authority had told him not to progress.

Jones said he and his wife had spent two winters ‘living in a field’ and had since returned to live in Gateshead. He said he now had a half built house in Llawhaden and was £20,000 in debt and living off £140 a week.

Judge Walters said the court would not get involved in Jones’ dispute with PCC. It was purely a question of whether he had started building without involving building regulations inspectors.

Of that, he added, there was no doubt.

The court upheld the fine of £400 imposed by the magistrates, and added £250 to Jones’ prosecution costs of an already £500.

Jones left the court after saying he was in the process of writing a book about his experience.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

Published

18 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

Published

18 hours ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

Published

1 day ago

December 24, 2024

Tom Sinclair

WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”