News

Overcrowding plagues Pembrokeshire homes: Census reveals troubling housing crisis

Published

1 year ago

September 1, 2023

The 2021 census has exposed the distressing reality of almost 1,000 overcrowded households in Pembrokeshire, comprising 1.7% of all homes in the area. While overcrowding has often been attributed to sluggish housebuilding and surging rents across England and Wales, it is now a pressing concern in this idyllic Welsh county.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) data underscores that 43,785 homes in Pembrokeshire, amounting to a staggering 78.9%, are classified as ‘under-occupied,’ indicating they possess unused rooms. The overcrowding assessment method takes into account the number of available rooms and whether they are adequate for the number of occupants.

Unsurprisingly, renters bear the brunt of this crisis, with a higher likelihood of residing in cramped conditions compared to homeowners. Social renters, in particular, grapple with a daunting 4.5% of overcrowded housing in Pembrokeshire.

Ben Twomey, the Chief Executive of the advocacy group Generation Rent, lamented the dire situation faced by private renters. He attributed the crisis to a dearth of housing construction and soaring rents, describing overcrowding as particularly stressful for families with children or older renters.

Alarming statistics reveal that around 530 households with dependent children in Pembrokeshire are grappling with insufficient living space, painting a grim picture of the housing situation. Wales at large faces a stark divide, as households led by individuals of black backgrounds report an alarming 11.9% overcrowding rate, a stark contrast to the 2.2% average among the general population. Furthermore, Muslim households are nearly seven times more likely to suffer from overcrowding.

Sam Tims, a senior economist at the New Economics Foundation, underscored the gravity of the issue, stating that every family deserves an affordable, comfortable home with access to essential amenities. Yet, over two-thirds of houses across the country remain underutilized, forcing more than a million households to endure homes that are too small for their needs. Tims also pointed out that a constrained welfare system exacerbates this crisis.

London emerged as the epicenter of overcrowded housing, overshadowing all other regions in England and Wales. The capital accounted for all the top 10 most crowded areas, with the exception of Slough, a London commuter town.

In a chorus of concern, both the New Economics Foundation and Generation Rent advocate for the construction of more social housing as the primary solution to address this pressing issue. The Pembrokeshire census revelations serve as a stark reminder that the housing crisis is far from over, necessitating urgent and comprehensive action to ensure that every household has access to safe and spacious living conditions.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

13 hours 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

13 hours 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!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

13 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!