Bruce Sinclair

Brithdir Mawr Community’s request to establish a temporary 28-day campsite near Newport, Pembrokeshire, has been refused under permitted-development rules. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority found that the proposed site was within 100 metres of neighbouring homes and included the Grade II-listed Brithdir Mawr farmhouse, excluding it from Welsh Government Class BA rights. The applicants can still pursue the campsite by submitting a full planning application.

Rhyal Engineering Ltd has applied to Pembrokeshire County Council for permission to demolish a deteriorated workshop-storage building at Thornton Industrial Estate in Milford Haven and construct a new fabrication workshop. The company says the existing building was demolished for health and safety reasons and was unsuitable for refurbishment. The expansion is intended to support work in floating offshore wind, renewables, oil refining and gas sectors, while creating eight additional local jobs alongside the company’s existing workforce of 110. County planners will consider the application at a later date.

John Forward and Julie Clare have applied to Pembrokeshire County Council to convert an attached garage and first-floor storeroom at Basford Park near Saundersfoot into a self-contained two-bedroom holiday-let annex. The proposal would involve minimal external alterations, limit stays to six consecutive weeks, and retain garden space for both the annex and the main dwelling. The applicants say the scheme would support tourism without adding unrestricted residential accommodation and would not cause significant overlooking, overshadowing or privacy loss. County planners will consider the application at a later date.

Shalom House hospice in St Davids, which closed last October because of ongoing financial difficulties and unsustainable funding, is being offered for auction at a guide price of £450,000. The five-bedroom bungalow on Nun Street, gifted to the charity by novelist Elizabeth de Guise, could be used for healthcare, commercial purposes, bed and breakfast accommodation or residential conversion subject to planning approval. Although local community members and beneficiaries have asked trustees to halt the sale, founder Margaret Burnett and patron Baroness Finlay have publicly supported the decision to proceed.

Plans have been submitted to convert the derelict Grade II-listed Barham Memorial School in Trecwn, Pembrokeshire, into a five-bedroom home. Proposed owners Zach Seward and Rebecca Eva seek residential conversion and listed building consent, with restoration works including rebuilding damaged chimneys, installing new roofs, windows and doors, and adding modern systems such as underfloor heating, solar panels, updated plumbing and electrical infrastructure. The former Victorian school has been vacant since 2001 and suffered vandalism, lead theft, roof collapse and water damage, although a structural survey found most of its stonework and basic structure sound. Pembrokeshire County Council will consider the application at a later date.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee voted to approve the removal of two chimneys from the former Carpenters Arms in Cosheston, despite planning officers recommending refusal because the demolition harmed the character of the conservation area. Permission for a front porch and retaining wall was also approved. The chimney decision was a “minded to” approval, so the application must return to a future committee meeting for formal confirmation or refusal.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has conditionally approved retrospective planning permission for an ice cream sales area and waste area added to the existing fish-and-chip café at 2 Marine Road in Broad Haven, along with an external pergola. The works were completed the previous summer and were supported by The Havens community council. Planning officers found the structures well designed, proportionate and compatible with the site, noting the use of sustainable materials and the absence of public objections.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee unanimously approved the removal of a 1994 agricultural workers-only condition on Redwood House at Summerhill Farm near Dreenhill, Haverfordwest. Richard and Diane Evans had occupied the property since 1996, although neither had mainly worked in agriculture since 1998; an earlier certificate of lawfulness established that the breach had continued for more than a decade without enforcement action. Their agent, Andrew Vaughan-Harries, said the original approval for the 18-hectare farm was unlikely to lead to a return to agricultural use and described the latest application as a tidying-up measure. Councillors supported the change while acknowledging concerns about setting a precedent and the changing scale of viable agriculture.

Pembrokeshire County Council refused permission for Gayle Mcfarlane’s proposed Seren Dawel rural wellness retreat at Trewallter Farm near Mathry. The scheme included yoga and wellness facilities, treatment rooms, a spa garden and Nightfall stargazing domes. Although planners accepted that the rural setting supported the dark-sky and nature-based elements, they found insufficient evidence that the retreat’s other uses, including wellness, yoga and dining, required a countryside location. A later phase involving woodland cabins, barn accommodation, a restaurant and retail facilities was also outlined but remained subject to future financing and business growth.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park refused an application by Mr and Mrs Stevenson to convert an agricultural barn at Ty Llwyd Bach, St Dogmaels, into a two-bedroom home with an office and workshop. The barn had been restored under a 2023 scheme for a fruit-and-nut forest farm, subject to a condition prohibiting residential use. Officers said the proposed conversion would make the building predominantly residential, undermine the agricultural enterprise, and fail rural dwelling policy tests because the business remained in its infancy and had not progressed as planned. They also concluded that the barn lacked the historical character required for an appropriate conversion.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners refused a resubmitted application by Lawson and Penny Owen for a temporary two-year, year-round dog exercise area near Williamston Farm in Broad Haven. The applicants argued that a temporary trial would allow the effects on agricultural land to be assessed and said the operation had generated no noise complaints. However, The Havens Community Council and planning officers raised concerns about noise, residential amenity, disturbance to livestock, the rural location and reliance on private car journeys. Officers concluded that the temporary proposal did not resolve the site's fundamental conflict with sustainable transport and development-plan policies.

CAD Properties has applied for permission to build four two-bedroom dormer bungalows and an access road on grazing land behind Dinas Cross Service Station in Pembrokeshire. The proposal includes tree and ecological measures but offers no affordable housing contribution, with the applicant arguing that overhead electricity wires, a gas main, tree protections and development costs make affordable housing unviable. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners will consider the application at a later date.

The Welsh Government has taken over decision-making on the proposed DARC space radar installation at Cawdor Barracks in Pembrokeshire shortly before it was due to be considered by county planners. The Ministry of Defence seeks approval for 27 radar antennas as part of an AUKUS-linked global tracking network, arguing the system is essential for satellite protection and national security. The project has drawn significant local opposition, including more than 1,000 objections, protests, and criticism from residents and campaign group PARC against DARC, which requested the call-in. The government cited national security issues, potential conflicts with planning policy, and widespread public interest as reasons for assuming control. The Pembrokeshire council confirmed the application is now transferred to Welsh Ministers, with procedures and timelines to be set.

A motion by Councillor Huw Murphy seeks to disband Pembrokeshire County Council’s Planning Delegation Panel, arguing it adds unnecessary bureaucracy, delays decisions, and limits democratic oversight. He proposes that planning applications recommended for refusal and flagged by local councillors should go directly to the Planning Committee. Members voted to refer the proposal to the council’s constitutional review committee for further consideration.

A former hairdressing salon in St Davids has been approved for conversion into a family‑friendly coffee bar with a children’s playroom. The application, submitted by Gerallt Nash, includes minor internal changes and no on‑site cooking. Local councillors supported the proposal, while one public comment raised concerns about noise, smells and vermin, which officials said were unfounded. The national park authority approved the plan with conditions on opening hours, concluding it would not impact local amenity or the conservation area.

A long-disused chapel near St Dogmaels has received approval to be converted into a residential home following an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The proposal includes minor structural work, a new foul water system, and reflects the original character of the 1850 building. Supportive planning documents stated the chapel no longer serves a community need, while public objections raised concerns about access, traffic, and heritage impact. Revised plans addressing transport, access and drainage were submitted during the process, and the application was approved with conditions.

National park planners approved a proposal to convert a former Talbenny scrapyard into a seasonal campsite with caravan pitches, tent spaces, and three removable shepherd’s huts. Initial highway safety objections were resolved after additional technical information. Despite continued opposition from The Havens Community Council, officers found the remediated site and seasonal operation compliant with planning policy. During the meeting, objectors raised road safety concerns while the applicant’s agent highlighted improvements already made. Councillors supported the development, viewing it as beneficial for rural tourism, and approved it unanimously.

National park planners approved an application to install twelve all‑black solar panels on the south‑western lean‑to roof of The Shed Tea Room in Porthgain, part of the Grade‑II‑listed Ty Mawr building. Officers concluded the scheme was in keeping with the character of the listed structure, and committee members unanimously supported both the planning application and the related listed building consent.

Protesters gathered at Pembrokeshire County Council’s meeting to oppose the removal of Voluntary Controlled status from Ysgol Cilgerran, despite overwhelming public opposition to the plan. The Church in Wales has formally objected and threatened legal action, citing misrepresentation and discrimination against faith schooling. Parents and governors argued that the school’s identity and community links would be damaged. The Church expressed broader concerns about recent council decisions affecting Church in Wales schools, including the closure of Manorbier School and potential status changes in Tenby.

Pembrokeshire County Council reversed its earlier plan to close Stepaside Community Primary School, following a call from the deputy leader and sustained opposition from local councillors. The school, previously earmarked for closure as part of a proposed merger with Saundersfoot School, will remain open after a unanimous council vote. Supporters highlighted stable enrolment numbers and positive Estyn inspection findings, crediting school staff, governors and the Kilgetty community for their efforts to keep the school operating.

Pembrokeshire councillors pressed for a review of Wales’ 182‑day letting rule, which requires self‑catering holiday properties to be occupied for 182 days to avoid second‑home council tax premiums. Cllr Huw Murphy urged the council leader, Tessa Hodgson, to request clarity from the Welsh Government on when a promised review will begin, citing concerns from tourism‑reliant communities and advocating for a reduced threshold of 140 days. Hodgson agreed to write to the First Minister, noting a review is expected but without a confirmed timetable.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority approved the creation of a permeable hardstanding at the Penlan forestry entrance in the Gwaun Valley to support habitat management and conservation work across a 70-hectare site. Officials noted the area’s ecological importance and confirmed no objections from public rights‑of‑way officers. Authority chair Dr. Madeleine Havard highlighted the long-running biodiversity efforts and the benefits the new hardstanding will provide for land management activities. The committee unanimously supported the proposal.

A proposal to permanently site the award‑winning Hwyl Outdoor Sauna at Saundersfoot harbour was refused by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners due to concerns about landscape impact, obstruction of the promenade and the lack of a required flood assessment. Despite strong public support, a 558‑signature petition and backing from local councillors, the committee upheld the recommendation for refusal, citing potential precedent issues for other protected areas. Members expressed hope that an alternative harbour location could be found to allow the business to continue operating.

The premises licence for Tenby’s Summer Spectacular events has been revoked following a council licensing review prompted by public safety concerns raised by emergency services. Pembrokeshire County Council’s sub‑committee concluded that issues including crowd safety, emergency access and child protection were not adequately addressed, despite organisers disputing some incident data and outlining mitigation efforts. Councillor Aaron Carey emphasized that the decision was made reluctantly but that safety must take priority. With the 2026 event already cancelled by organisers, authorities indicated a willingness to work with Tenby Round Table to resolve safety issues for future events.

A revised application has been submitted for four homes on Station Road in Kilgetty after previous proposals were refused for insufficient housing density. The scheme, put forward by Robert Bowen through agent Matthew Hitches, aims to meet policy requirements by increasing the number of dwellings. Supporting documents argue the development would fit the surrounding built environment and make effective use of under-utilised land. The plan includes a financial contribution toward affordable housing and will be reviewed by Pembrokeshire County Council.

Wildlife found dead at Pembroke Mill Pond prompted concerns over algae, but Pembroke Town Council stated the deaths appear to result from deliberate catapult attacks. Council representatives retrieved several animals with injuries consistent with intentional harm and reported the matter to Wildlife Crime Officers. The council encouraged residents to report any relevant information and reaffirmed ongoing efforts to manage pond water quality, which remains in good condition.

Councillors in Pembrokeshire will consider a call for an independent investigation into the process that led to the closure of Manorbier School, which was destroyed by fire in 2022 and later subject to a disputed consultation. Councillor Phil Kidney seeks both an inquiry into delays, insurance issues and council handling, and an apology from deputy leader Paul Miller over comments suggesting pupils would receive a better education at an alternative school. The Diocese of St Davids has accused the council of bias against voluntary controlled schools, and objections to the closure drew significant local opposition. Both the motion and the request for an apology will be addressed at the next council meeting on July 16.

Jamie Street won the Pembroke Dock Market ward by-election for the Welsh Conservatives, securing 143 votes in a seven-candidate race following the death of long-serving councillor Brian Hall. Street pledged to represent all residents, provide a strong voice for Pembroke Dock, and focus on local issues and improvements. Turnout was 28 percent, with Claire Francis-Boswell finishing second, followed by candidates from Plaid Cymru, Reform UK, the Welsh Liberal Democrats, and independents.

Jamie Street of the Welsh Conservatives won the Pembroke Dock Market ward by-election with 143 votes following the death of long-serving councillor Brian Hall. Seven candidates contested the seat, with Independent Claire Francis-Boswell finishing second. The result brings the Conservative group on Pembrokeshire County Council to 12 members, the largest single party group. Vote totals for the remaining candidates were detailed, and background was provided on former councillor Paul Dowson’s previous disqualification from public office.

A proposal has been submitted to Pembrokeshire County Council for phase two of the Wilder Retreats development, including two new holiday cabins, a mobile woodland sauna and two covered padel courts using an existing building. Supporting documents describe Wilder Retreats as an ecotourism destination focused on environmental restoration and note national media attention. Tennis Wales endorses the padel court plans, citing demand for year‑round facilities. The site currently hosts a motorcycle business set to vacate by early 2027, and planners will review the application at a later date.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park approved a proposal to convert the Hildebrand Hotel in Tenby into short‑term holiday accommodation to support its long‑term viability amid challenges facing the hospitality sector. The plan involves no external alterations and aims to maintain the building’s use, appearance and contribution to the conservation area. Local authorities and groups raised concerns about parking, waste management and the potential for future residential conversion, but planners determined these issues were outside the scope of the current application. The approval includes conditions restricting the property to holiday accommodation use only.

Pembrokeshire County Council approved changes to 13 properties, including four marked for disposal and several others reassigned between council departments for future review or development. Surplus designations do not guarantee sale and will require further approvals. The adjustments include residential, commercial, educational and open land sites across Newport, Neyland, Haverfordwest, Pembroke and Pembroke Dock.

Pembrokeshire County Council approved a report outlining 17 housing purchases and a children’s home acquisition totalling £6.5 million, largely offset by £6.4 million in grants. The acquisitions range from individual properties across the county to larger multi-unit developments in Rosemarket and Hook. A separate £475,000 property will become a children’s residential home, backed by a larger grant. Councillors noted that the grant support significantly reduces net spending and will contribute to increasing affordable housing stock.

Pembrokeshire County Council reported a £5.6m underspend for the 2025–26 financial year, outperforming earlier forecasts. Additional council tax income contributed £2.4m, partly due to changes in the assessment of self‑catering properties, though arrears rose to £19.5m. Councillors approved transferring the underspend to an initiative fund to support efficiency projects and allocated part of the extra tax income to cover potential refunds linked to appeals over second‑home occupancy thresholds. Recent years showed fluctuating financial outcomes, with past overspends gradually reduced.

Milford Haven North councillor Alan Dennison has been suspended from Pembrokeshire County Council for four months after being found to have breached the members’ code of conduct over a planning application involving his friend Lee Bridges. Dennison had financial, business, social and Masonic connections to Bridges but failed to declare personal and prejudicial interests and remained involved in efforts to have the application decided by councillors. The Adjudication Panel for Wales rejected all seven grounds of his appeal, finding no reasonable prospect of success. His suspension began on July 29 and prevents him from undertaking council duties, attending meetings or representing the authority until he resumes office on November 29.