News

Pembroke Town Council object to Phase 2 of the South Quay Development

Published

3 years ago

May 24, 2023

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

IN A PUBLIC meeting held at Pembroke Town Hall on Monday 22 May, representatives of Pembroke Town Council met with members of the public to discuss the planning application for Phase 2 of the South Quay development.

Chaired by the Mayor of Pembroke, those present at the meeting were unanimous in their opinion that this stage of the development was not in keeping with the historic character of the town. It was agreed that the proposal to locate a “Social Services” hub in a prominent quayside location was totally inappropriate and would not benefit the regeneration of the town.

There were various concerns and criticisms about the overall location of the “Hub”, as well the proposed height, the materials to be used and the fact that the new building could detract from and adversely dominate the existing historic focal points such as the Churches or the Castle.

A member of the public, Mr Richard Naylor, had concerns that “The proposal is a gross over-development of the constrained building site, resulting in a dense layout of accommodation with little natural light or ventilation. The over-height buildings are out of scale with the existing Royal George and the listed 7 Northgate Street.”

The Town Council had previously rejected the plans for a Social Services Hub, acknowledging that whilst this facility was needed – other existing sites were better suited – such as East End School and Riverside.

Cllr Linda Asman, said that that the Historic town of Pembroke was designated a Conservation Area in 1972, and, quoting from relevant documentation stated: “Where development or re-development is necessary, this should be carried out where possible, by adapting the existing buildings, in a manner that is in keeping with the scale and character of the area.”

The meeting also received written responses to the planning application from the Trustees of Pembroke Castle and The Pembroke Civic Trust – both echoing the comments and concerns of the Town Council. Pembroke Castle’s Trustees have particular concerns over the modern design aspects of the buildings in relation to the historic setting.

Cllr Jonathan Grimes, expressed his ongoing concerns for this stage of the project. “Pembroke is crying out for regeneration and whilst we welcome the eventual completion of Phase 1, the placement of a social services hub in such a prominent area is totally unacceptable.” He went on to say: “South Quay needs to be utilised as a recreational public space – somewhere that will attract visitors and ultimately increase footfall into other areas of the town.”

It was resolved that Pembroke Town Council as representatives of their community, have a different vision for this development. Their objections have been totally ignored and they will be responding to the planning application, along with Pembroke Castle, The Civic Trust and members of the public.

These strong objections state that this stage of the development is not appropriate and does not satisfy the aims of Levelling Up.

News

Reform reveals west Wales candidates for Senedd battle

Published

12 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Monkton councillor tops Pembrokeshire list as party confirms Carmarthenshire names and includes Haverfordwest councillor in unwinnable Swansea spot

REFORM UK has unveiled its full list of candidates for the 2026 Senedd election, setting out its challenge across west Wales including Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire.

The party has named Susan Claire Archibald, a sitting councillor for Monkton on Pembroke Town Council, as its lead candidate for the Ceredigion Preseli, Mid and South Pembrokeshire regional list.

Speaking to The Herald, Archibald said: “I am honoured to represent Reform UK and Wales.” She added that a fuller statement outlining her priorities would be released in due course.

The remaining candidates on the Pembrokeshire regional list are Paul Marr, a former prison officer, Michael Allen, Elisa Randall, Peter John and Bernard Holton.

Carmarthenshire candidates named

Reform has also confirmed its list for the Caerfyrddin and Llanelli region, with Gareth Beer placed first, followed by Carmelo Colasanto, Sarah Edwards, Christopher Brooke, Alan Cole and Michelle Beer.

The announcement forms part of a nationwide rollout of candidates as the party seeks to establish itself as a credible electoral force ahead of the 2026 vote.

Thorley listed in Swansea region

Among the names included elsewhere is Scott Thorley, a Haverfordwest-based councillor and the first Reform representative elected to Pembrokeshire County Council.

Thorley appears on the party’s list for the Gower and Swansea West region, where he is placed sixth.

Under the Senedd’s proportional representation system, candidates placed lower on regional lists are significantly less likely to be elected, meaning his position is widely viewed as a paper candidacy to complete the slate.

Election framing

Reform Wales leader Dan Thomas said the party was offering voters a stark political choice.

He said: “After a hundred years of failure, Labour are finished in Wales. The choice at this election is what comes next — common sense and a fresh start with Reform, or independence by stealth with Plaid Cymru.”

The Herald understands that further announcements, including candidate profiles and policy details, are expected in the coming weeks as the campaign begins to take shape.

Crime

Man bailed after serious assault in Fishguard town centre

Published

13 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault in Fishguard that has left a man in hospital.

The incident happened on Main Street at around 11:00pm on Saturday (Mar 21), when the victim was reportedly punched, sustaining head injuries. He remains in hospital receiving treatment.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH) and has since been released on bail while enquiries continue.

Dyfed-Powys Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident, or who may have information that could assist the investigation, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police quoting reference: 26*227686.

Information can be provided online via the Dyfed-Powys Police website, by emailing [email protected], by calling 101, or by sending a direct message on social media.

Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.

News

Childcare funding boost announced in Wales

Published

14 hours ago

March 25, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Hourly rate to rise as costs increase

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has confirmed an increase in the hourly rate paid to childcare providers under its Childcare Offer, following a review of funding levels.

The Minister for Children and Social Care, DAWN BOWDEN MS, announced that the rate will rise to £6.67 per hour from April 6, 2026. The increase of 4.18% comes after feedback from childcare providers and sector data gathered during 2025.

The Welsh Government said the change is designed to help providers cope with rising costs, including increases to the National Living Wage.

The Herald understands the review drew on responses from the Childcare Offer’s Annual Survey, as well as information from Care Inspectorate Wales’ Self-Assessment of Service Statement (SASS).

The move follows a policy shift announced last year to review the rate annually, rather than every three years, in a bid to make funding more responsive to pressures facing the sector.

As part of the update, the maximum charge for meals will also increase by 4.18%, which ministers say is intended to balance affordability for both providers and parents.

Dawn Boden said the Welsh Government remains committed to supporting the long-term sustainability of childcare services, adding that officials will continue working with the sector to explore further improvements.