News

£10m expansion for Folly Farm approved

Published

8 years ago

March 6, 2017

A NEW £10m expansion for Folly Farm has been approved by Pembrokeshire County Council.

As well as developing a range of accommodation types split into three themed areas – Safari, Fairground and Farm – and all the necessary infrastructure including shower and toilet blocks, the attractions management team plans to regenerate existing farm buildings into a cafe, games rooms and reception area.

The development will aim to create a unique themed holiday destination that will increase the profile of Folly Farm and Pembrokeshire as a whole, attracting visitors from further afield.

The development of the 11.03 hectare site, which is currently used as grazing pasture, will comply with the relevant local authority’s Local Development Plan (2013) policies, which seek to support innovation, create new jobs and increase spend within the local economy.

The management team hopes the first phase of construction will begin in September, with the caravan sites ready for summer 2017.

Chris Ebsworth, Director at Folly Farm, said: “With the development of Folly Farm’s Holiday Village, our vision is to take the most successful and well-loved elements of the existing attraction and expand on them to offer a truly unique place to stay.

“At the moment, our plans will allow us to build 29 vintage showman wagons and shepherds huts, 27 timber lodges as well as space for 43 touring caravan pitches, and a range of safari, bell and circus tents.

“This is a natural step forward for us at Folly Farm. We’ve grown rapidly in the past three years investing approximately £2million per year on infrastructure, maintenance and new enclosures. We plan to continue this investment into the future alongside the Holiday Village.”

“By bringing another dimension to our offer, we aim to extend our trading seasons beyond the traditional May to September window. Our accommodation will attract new tourists to the area and provide an option to stay with us outside of the summer season, for long weekends and during half-term holidays. This development will also allow us to extend our Christmas and shoulder season opening.”

“The proposed accommodation would also create new jobs within the Holiday Village and Adventure Park, generating additional direct and indirect spend within the local economy, both during the construction and operation periods.”

“After many years of research, we have an exciting and unique proposal and we’re confident visitors will jump at the chance to have a magical stay at Folly Farm.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

15 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!