News

Second homes money boost for affordable housing scheme

Published

2 years ago

May 25, 2023

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

£100,000 from Pembrokeshire’s second homes council tax premium funds have been awarded to a community group to help provide affordable housing.

Members of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Cabinet, at their May meeting, considered a business case made by Nolton & Roch Community Land Trust for financial support to purchase a parcel of land.

A report for members said: “The [Trust] has requested funding from the council towards the purchase of a parcel of land for affordable housing. The Second Home Council Tax Premium may be used by the council to assist with community led Housing developments to increase the supply of affordable housing.”

Members heard a suitable plot – whittled down from an initial six – had been identified, which could accommodate up to 19 homes, the Trust working in partnership with ateb Housing Association.

“Through this partnership, it is anticipated that ateb will seek a Social Housing Grant towards the cost of the build,” members heard.

In its application, Nolton and Roch community Land Trust said the landowner had agreed to the sale of the land at “a very attractive price”.

It said the cost of meeting Welsh Government requirements for energy performance standards, and a hope of building zero-carbon houses, had led to the hopes of financial support from the county council to purchase the site.

It added: “We also request sufficient funding to engage a buildings design consultant who can support our CLT during the project. Although enthusiastic and reasonably technically competent our Board does not possess sufficient expertise to understand fully the industry-specific technicalities nor the detailed legislation.

“An experienced consultant will help to ensure that our expectations are realistic, that our viewpoint is properly heard and understood and, importantly, it will help us to keep track of the project and oversee progress.”

It was recommended that £100,000, plus up to £10,000 towards legal fees, be allocated towards acquisition of land.

Cabinet members unanimously supported the recommendation, Councillor Neil Prior – who moved approval – praising the role of the Trust in “taking on the initiative”.

He was backed by Councillor Michelle Bateman, who said: “We know there’s a housing crisis in Pembrokeshire, it’s really good to see a pro-active group coming forward.”

Cllr Bateman said she hoped to see similar proposals in other areas: “It’s not the solution to our housing crisis, but it’s a small part.”

Crime

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

Published

23 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

2 days 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

2 days 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!