News
Milford Haven: Port acquires Havens Head Retail Park
THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN has announced that it has acquired Metric Property Milford Haven Limited, owner of the long leasehold interest in the Havens Head Retail Park, in Milford Haven.
The value of the acquisition is £15.3m and will add approximately £1m per annum to the Port’s operating profit.
The Port of Milford Haven already owns the freehold of the site but through this acquisition will now handle all aspects of its on-going property management as well.
The purchase from London Metric Property plc forms part of the Port’s diversification strategy and aims to strengthen and create new employment opportunities in Milford Haven.
“This is a significant step in our diversification strategy,” said Alec Don, Chief Executive at the Port.
“The investment forms part of a conscious effort to increase the quality and diversification of our earnings. Our retail offer now includes larger existing units as well as the exciting prospective developments at Milford Waterfront. Havens Head Retail Park is immediately adjacent to Milford Waterfront and gives the port a much more substantial stake in the development of Milford Haven as a successful retail and leisure destination.
“The Port of Milford Haven is committed to Pembrokeshire,” continued Alec.
“As a business rooted in the area, whose activities already support around 4,000 jobs countrywide, we are always looking to the future. And because our profits are reinvested back into the business we are able to look for new opportunities to create business growth and employment.”
Havens Head Retail Park comprises approximately 83,000 sq ft space and is occupied by a mix of long-term tenants including Tesco, Boots, Card Factory, Home Bargains, Iceland Frozen Foods, Peacocks and Poundland.
The acquisition is financed from own cash resources and lending provided by Svenska Handeslbanken AB and is expected to provide an attractive return on the Port’s net investment.
The Port of Milford Haven’s Milford Waterfront Development received a resolution to grant outline planning consent in 2015 and work continues to develop and improve the masterplan.
Since then the Port has reached agreement for the development of a drive-thru Costa Coffee and a number of other development discussions are underway.
The successful delivery of this exciting waterfront development will create over 600 new jobs in the area and deliver £19m of GVA per annum to the local economy.
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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