Community

Haverfordwest shoppers warned of new parking restrictions at Withybush Retail Park

Published

3 months ago

August 28, 2024

RESIDENTS of Haverfordwest are being urged to take note of new parking restrictions at Withybush Retail Park, which could see unsuspecting shoppers hit with fines for overstaying their welcome. The Town Council has issued a warning in recent days, following reports from concerned residents who have fallen foul of the rules.

The privately owned retail park, in partnership with Parking Eye, has introduced strict time limits on parking, with fines being enforced if the limits are exceeded. Shoppers can park for a maximum of three hours across the park, but within the Costa Coffee area, this limit is reduced to just 90 minutes. The penalty for overstaying is £100, though this is reduced to £60 if paid within 14 days.

A resident from Crymych, who recently visited the retail park, contacted the Town Council after receiving a parking notice. Uncertain if the notice was legitimate, the resident was dismayed to learn that the signage warning of these restrictions was clearly visible at the entrance and throughout the car park. The Town Council has since confirmed that cameras are in place, with one located at the first parking bay on the right after M&S, which captures the arrival of vehicles.

The resident, who had travelled 25 miles to visit the park, received the notice just days before the payment deadline. Although they were able to pay the reduced fine, the situation has highlighted the need for other visitors to be vigilant. The Town Council could not confirm whether the signage was in place during the resident’s initial visit, raising concerns about the adequacy of the warnings at that time.

Several other residents have shared similar experiences. Kellie Lowther, a regular customer at Costa Coffee, received a £100 fine after spending two hours at the café, unaware of the new parking charges. She has since paid the fine but vowed not to return to the establishment. Another resident, Becky Bevans, recounted how she too was fined after exceeding the free parking time by just ten minutes while feeding her baby in Costa. Her appeal against the fine was rejected.

Some residents have suggested that those who receive fines should check the spelling of the location on their notice. The private company managing the car park has reportedly referred to the town as “Haverford West” instead of the correct “Haverfordwest,” leading to speculation that this could form the basis for an appeal.

The Town Council is now taking action by raising concerns with the managing agents of the retail park, who are based in Bristol. The Clerk has recognised a growing pattern of shoppers being caught out by the new restrictions and will be feeding this back to the managing agents. The Council noted that many of the park’s visitors travel from a distance and often require more than three hours to complete their shopping, particularly older residents who may need extra time to browse and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

In one recent example, a couple spent over three hours shopping at M&S, Next, and TK Maxx before stopping for lunch, only to receive a fine for exceeding the parking limit by 17 minutes. The Town Council is advocating for a review of the parking restrictions to better accommodate the needs of all visitors to the retail park.

However, recent changes to private parking regulations in the UK, introduced under the government’s new Private Parking Code of Practice, could offer some relief to those affected by the fines at Withybush Retail Park.

One of the most significant updates is the reduction of the maximum private parking fine from £100 to £50, except in cases of serious breaches, such as parking in Blue Badge bays without authorisation. This means that the fines previously issued at the retail park may now exceed the legal cap for most infractions, potentially providing grounds for appeal or even reimbursement for those who have already paid.

The new regulations also introduce a mandatory 10-minute grace period, allowing drivers a little extra time before a fine is issued. For residents like Becky Bevans, who was fined after overstaying by just 10 minutes, this rule could have prevented the fine altogether. This grace period is intended to protect drivers from being penalised for minor delays.

Additionally, the updated Code of Practice mandates clearer and more visible signage, ensuring that terms and conditions are easily understood by all visitors. If the signage at Withybush Retail Park did not meet these standards at the time of issuing fines, this could further strengthen the case for those looking to appeal.

The introduction of a fairer appeals process is another significant change, offering a more transparent and accessible route for challenging unfair fines. Residents who have already paid fines might find that these new rules provide them with the opportunity to contest the penalties more effectively.

The Town Council has expressed its intention to raise these new developments with the managing agents of Withybush Retail Park. By advocating for the application of these updated rules, the Council hopes to secure a more equitable parking system that better serves the needs of the community.

For now, residents and visitors to Withybush Retail Park are encouraged to stay informed about the new parking regulations to avoid unnecessary fines and to take advantage of the improved protections now in place.

Community

Public meeting for Haverfordwest’s new transport interchange

Published

2 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

RESIDENTS of Haverfordwest are invited to attend a public engagement event at HaverHub on Thursday, 21st November from 3:00pm to 7:00pm to meet the team behind the upcoming Public Transport Interchange (PTI) development. The event will provide an opportunity for local people to learn more about the exciting project, which is due to start its rebuild phase imminently.

The PTI scheme forms part of the broader South West Wales Metro project, designed to create a modern, integrated transport hub for Haverfordwest. The new facility will bring significant improvements to local transport infrastructure, including enhancements to pedestrian and cycle access, as well as a more efficient and accessible bus station.

Cllr Paul Miller, Cabinet Member for Place, the Region, and Climate Change, said: “This is another exciting step in the extensive regeneration of Haverfordwest, and we look forward to seeing construction start on this important project.”

The new development will include seven bus bays, upgraded passenger facilities, and a multi-storey car park with around 280 spaces. The car park will also feature electric vehicle charging points, with provisions for future expansion, as well as solar panels on the roof. These green features are part of the project’s commitment to sustainability and the promotion of Active Travel, with a focus on walking and cycling.

Cllr Thomas Tudor, County Councillor for the Castle Ward, welcomed the public engagement event, saying: “This is a great opportunity for residents to come together and learn more about the ongoing regeneration projects that will improve the town for everyone.”

The PTI project will also improve car parking provision and local bus access at Haverfordwest railway station, contributing to a more efficient and sustainable transport network for the town.

Jason Taylor, Regional Director at Kier Construction, said: “We are excited to meet the people of Haverfordwest and share the plans for this important project. Kier is proud of its Welsh heritage and thrilled to contribute to the town’s development.”

Kier Construction, which has been awarded the contract to build the PTI, will also have a presence at Riverside Shopping Centre, where residents can drop in for more information once work begins this month.

Please note that the temporary Riverside car park has closed to make way for the development.

Business

Cilgerran cafe could close but a new one could open as plans submitted

Published

9 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Bruce Sinclair - Local Democracy Reporter

A CALL to convert a Pembrokeshire village café back to a house, while another ongoing scheme in the same village seeks to convert a house to a café, have been submitted to county planners.

David McDonald, through agent Acer Town Planning, seeks permission to change the use of the ground floor of Awelfa, High Street, Cilgerran from a café to being used as part of the attached dwelling.

A supporting statement, through the agent, says Adele’s café at Awelfa, High Street was originally a dwelling but has seen mixed commercial use for decades.

“Prior to opening as Adele’s café by the applicant, the ground floor commercial use had been vacant for around two years having previously been operated as a Chinese takeaway.

“The current owners took over the rental of the property in April 2019 (purchasing in October 2020) and have operated Adele’s café from the premises between June 2019 and August 2024 whilst living in the linked dwellinghouse.

“During this period, the Awelfa, Cilgerran business has been under prolonged and sustained economic pressures from the cost-of-living crisis with the subsequent increases in utility and food costs and minimum wages.

“Summers 2023 and 2024 saw a significant drop in trade from both local customers and, in particular, a drop in the number of tourists visiting the area. The closure of the toilets and visitors centre at Cilgerran Castle is considered to have contributed to this reduction in visitor numbers.

“The business was closed during January due to low trade and opened again in February for three days a week and then four days a week from April. Even with reduced opening hours the business has not been viable for the applicant to continue operating. The reluctant decision was therefore made to sell the property and trading ceased on August 24.”

The statement says was put up for sale with no offers to buy despite several price reductions, with only three viewings in total.

“In order to increase the pool of buyers for the property, the applicant is now applying for the change of use of the café areas back to form part of the residential use of the main dwelling (as per the original building),” the statement adds.

It also references an unrelated application to convert The Old Post House, High Street, owned by nearby village stores Siop Y Pentre, from a dwelling to a café and flat, saying it “could act as a replacement facility for the community”.

Both applications are currently before planners and are expected to be considered at a later date.

Community

Waldo Lounge in Haverfordwest is now officially open!

Published

1 day ago

November 20, 2024

Design Team

WALDO Lounge has officially joined Haverfordwest High Street, promising to be a “home-from-home” with a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of offerings for the community.

The venue offers an all-day menu featuring everything from hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, with dedicated gluten-free and vegan menus ensuring there’s something for everyone. Guests can enjoy a relaxed environment complete with board games for all ages, toys for younger visitors, and even refreshments for canine companions. Whether you’re stopping by for coffee with friends, a family brunch, or an evening meal, Waldo Lounge aims to create a space where every customer leaves happy.

The ground floor of the Western Quayside development has been transformed by Loungers PLC into a cosy yet stylish haven. Highlights include vibrant wallpapers, Gothic chandeliers, vintage sofas, and a back bar mural that nods to Haverfordwest’s mediaeval past.

Gemma Irwin, Head of Community at Loungers, shared her enthusiasm for the opening:
“We are delighted to bring Waldo Lounge to Haverfordwest. At Loungers, we put community at the heart of hospitality. Our teams are encouraged to connect with local groups, charities, and businesses, making a meaningful difference. We can’t wait to welcome residents to our new home.”

The venue’s family-friendly ethos extends to providing high chairs, baby-changing facilities, and a selection of games and activities for younger guests. With this combination of features, Waldo Lounge seeks to become a central hub for the community.

Council leaders have praised the addition to Haverfordwest’s town centre. Pembrokeshire County Council Leader, Cllr Jon Harvey, commented: “This is a fantastic addition to the hospitality sector in Haverfordwest. Waldo Lounge will undoubtedly improve footfall and vibrancy, showcasing Western Quayside as a key asset to our town.”

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, Cllr Paul Miller, added: “Loungers shares our vision for Western Quayside, and this opening represents a significant step in regenerating Haverfordwest. It’s exciting to see the area evolving into a great place to live, work, and visit.”

Paul McGeown, a Site Manager for Loungers who oversaw the Waldo Lounge project, shared his experience: “The project itself was an enjoyable one, and the community were great and very welcoming. I’ve been with Loungers for over seven years now, working nationally since October 2017, and it’s been amazing to be part of such a rapidly expanding and fantastic company. My family lives in Pembrokeshire, so I’ll definitely be visiting Waldo Lounge when I’m there on holiday. I wish the team every success in their new home!”