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.