It has been another exceptionally busy month and have included some of the jobs that I have been dealing with. . Unfortunately, the recent poor weather, combined with the ongoing traffic light system and Active Travel improvement works, has created a number of challenges across the village. These factors have not only impacted local businesses but have also caused understandable disruption for residents travelling in and around Saundersfoot. I will provide a more detailed update on the progress of the highway and Active Travel works later in this report.

During the month, I reported two damaged posts that appear to have been struck by vehicles. One is located at the top of The Ridgeway and the other on Fan Road. Both locations have been inspected and added to the schedule of works for repositioning and repair. I also visited a property at the lower end of Westfield Road following concerns about a leaking utility drain. There is a continuous flow of water escaping from the drain, which is collecting outside the front of the property and creating ongoing inconvenience. I fully appreciate the resident’s concerns and have reported the matter to the appropriate department for investigation and resolution. In addition, I requested that the road sweeper attend this section of highway, including the corner leading up to Hopshill Lane. A build-up of wet leaves had been creating hazardous conditions, with reports of vehicles struggling for traction during damp weather. I was pleased that the sweeper attended promptly the following day, and the cleaning has made a noticeable improvement. However, the underlying issue with the leaking manhole remains outstanding and will require further attention.

I have received updates regarding the steps at Glen Beach, which continue to be monitored following recent high tides that have caused some damage. There has also been a broken pipe reported at Back Beach. I can confirm that the Harbour Authority has been actively addressing the matter, and Welsh Water attended the site last week to assess the situation.

In addition, I was notified of a deceased sheep that had washed ashore near the slipway. As sections of the beach are privately owned, I contacted one of the landowners immediately. I am grateful to report that the matter was dealt with swiftly and the sheep was removed within two hours. I would like to thank those involved for their prompt response.

During the past month, I was contacted by a resident of The Strand who raised concerns about the surface condition and a break-up of the ground at the first tunnel heading towards Coppet Hall. This was reported and acted upon immediately and I am pleased to confirm that there are currently no ongoing issues at that location.

Accessibility within the village remains a priority. Over the coming month, I will be attending a walkabout in Saundersfoot with an Access Officer from Pembrokeshire County Council, alongside a blind resident. The purpose of this visit is to review pedestrian access and consider improvements, supported by the introduction of a tactile map designed to assist those with visual impairments. While many of us may take pavement access for granted, for residents with mobility or sight difficulties, clear, safe and unobstructed routes are essential to maintaining independence and confidence when moving around the village. A further site visit will be arranged once final details are confirmed, and I will share the date for anyone who may wish to join us.

The PCC team continues to address the issues at Ragged Staff relating to a utility cover and an apparent blockage in the vicinity. Investigative works are ongoing to determine the root cause, and I will keep residents updated as further information becomes available. I was also contacted by a concerned resident regarding several trees affected by ash dieback disease. The trees are not the responsibility of the resident who raised the concern. I have therefore contacted the managing agents responsible for the land to ensure they respond directly and take appropriate action.

On a personal note, I continue to undertake litter picking during early morning walks, which I find both rewarding and productive. I have carried out further collections along Fan Road and more recently along Sandy Hill Road. Despite driving this route many times I was surprised by the volume of discarded waste present. From the entrance to Sandy Hill Park to the junction near Sandy Hill Nursery, less than half a mile, I collected five full bags of litter weighing a total of 50.8kg. This is the heaviest amount I have ever gathered over such a short distance. It was particularly disappointing to find that much of the waste consisted of alcohol-related cans and bottles, along with takeaway packaging.

While this highlights an ongoing challenge, I remain committed to doing what I can to keep our village clean and welcoming, and I would encourage everyone to take pride in maintaining our local environment.

I recently received photographic evidence from a resident highlighting discolouration in the water entering the watercourse at Cwm Gwennol before it flows onward to Glen Beach. Given the environmental sensitivity of this location and its proximity to the beach, I have again reported the matter to Natural Resources Wales (NRW) to ensure the appropriate regulatory body was aware and able to assess the situation.

At the same time, I contacted Persimmon Homes, who are currently undertaking development works at the Sandy Hill Road site, to seek clarification regarding their surface water management and filtration processes. I  asked for detailed information about the on-site water filtration system, which is designed to treat and manage water through a series of settlement and silt-control stages before discharge from the site.

Following my enquiry, Persimmon confirmed that their specialist environmental contractors, Frog Environmental, who oversee silt and water management on their behalf, had recently attended the site. After reviewing the current arrangements, Frog Environmental recommended a number of minor adjustments to further enhance the effectiveness of the filtration system. I am pleased to report that these recommendations have now been implemented.

While it is recognised that the area has experienced exceptionally heavy rainfall over the past two months, which can place additional pressure on drainage and filtration systems, this cannot be relied upon as justification for any shortcomings. It is essential that robust mitigation measures are consistently maintained, particularly in a location so close to a natural watercourse and Glen Beach.

Persimmon Homes have confirmed that the revised filtration arrangements have been communicated to NRW. NRW have since responded to confirm that they are satisfied with the adjustments made at this stage.

To provide further transparency and reassurance, I have accepted an invitation to visit the site, along with the resident who initially raised the concern, to observe first-hand how the water management and filtration systems operate within an active construction environment. I believe this will be a valuable opportunity to better understand the processes in place and to ensure that appropriate environmental safeguards continue to be maintained.

On a further positive note, Persimmon have also confirmed that they undertake weekly litter picking outside their site, covering the area between the two site entrances, and that the road is swept daily. I have found them to be open and constructive in their engagement, and I welcome their willingness to respond promptly and work collaboratively when concerns are raised.

Date: Saturday 28th February 11am – 3pm.

The Cawl trail over the years has proved to be extremely popular and Cawl Trail is set to return, bringing back one of the village’s much-loved celebrations of Welsh food, culture and community. This event will be hosted by Love Saundersfoot in partnership with the Regency Hall. The event will once again see multiple venues across Saundersfoot taking part, with participating cafes, pubs and restaurants to be announced closer to the event. Entry to the Cawl Trail will be via the purchase of a bespoke cawl bowl, with a minimum £5 contribution, which also includes participation in the trail. The bowls are being specially produced by Narberth Pottery, giving attendees a unique keepsake while also supporting local craftsmanship. The event aims to continue to drive footfall into the village during the quieter season, support local businesses, and celebrate a much-loved Welsh tradition in a fun and accessible way. Also running from the Regency Hall on Saturday 28th is a Celebration of Everything Welsh, traditional local craft stalls, Wool Spinners, Welsh cakes and Choirs, open from 10am – 3.30pm. For any more information please contact The Regency Hall.

Coastal Erosion Event – 10th March

On 10th March, a community event focusing on coastal erosion and the theme of “Our Changing Coast” will be held at the Regency Hall in Saundersfoot. This will be an engaging and informative evening exploring the past, present, and future of our coastline, and how environmental changes are shaping the village and surrounding area. The event is open to anyone with an interest in the future of Saundersfoot and its coastal environment.

The programme will begin at 5:30pm with a presentation by local geologist Sid Howells, who will provide expert insight into the geological history of the coastline, the natural processes influencing coastal change, and the factors contributing to erosion in our area. His talk will help set the context by explaining how our coastline has evolved over time and what current patterns indicate for the future.

The evening will also feature a specially commissioned storytelling performance by professional storyteller Phil Okwedy. Commissioned by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Phil has created a bespoke piece exploring climate change and sea level rise. Through storytelling, he will offer a thought-provoking and accessible perspective on environmental change, helping to connect scientific understanding with lived experience and community heritage.

At 7:00pm, a complimentary light buffet will be provided for attendees, offering an opportunity for informal discussion and community engagement. Members of the youth group are also warmly invited to attend and participate in the evening, as this is an important opportunity for younger generations to engage with conversations about the future of our coastline.

This event is intended to be inclusive, informative, and forward-looking, bringing together residents, families, and local stakeholders to better understand the challenges and opportunities associated with coastal change. A poster has been circulated to highlight the details, and I would encourage anyone interested in the future of our village to attend.

Concerns have been raised by parents and grandparents regarding road safety outside Saundersfoot School. For many years, the school benefited from dedicated crossing patrols to support children across this busy stretch of road. Currently, no patrols, or only limited patrols, are in place, and the surrounding area remains a concern for parents due to limited parking and congestion, particularly at drop-off and collection times. This isn’t new and these issues are commonly experienced across all schools in the county.

The bay at the top of the school is frequently busy, and vehicles often stop across the red crossing point, which can force children to step out from between parked cars. Visibility is further restricted by the hedge on the right-hand side, and vehicles regularly park directly outside the school gates, adding to the potential hazards.

I recently visited the school with the local PCSO to observe these issues firsthand. The recent Active Travel improvements across the village are welcome and should encourage more children to walk or cycle to school, making safe crossing points even more important. I have also written to the PCC Highways Safety Officer, providing evidence and highlighting the concerns, to explore potential improvements in collaboration with the school and local community.

I encourage residents, parents, and carers to share their feedback. Further updates will be provided once I have met with officers to discuss possible solutions to issues raised.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is currently preparing Local Development Plan 3 (LDP3), which will guide development within the National Park area up to 31 March 2040. The Local Development Plan is a key statutory document that shapes how land is used, identifies where development may or may not take place, and sets out policies to balance growth with the protection of the National Park’s special qualities.

As part of the early stages of preparing LDP3, the Authority has formally launched a “Call for Candidate Sites.” This process invites members of the public, landowners, developers, community groups and other stakeholders to nominate land that they wish the Authority to consider for inclusion in the new Plan.

Sites submitted at this stage are referred to as candidate sites. A candidate site can be proposed for a range of potential land uses, including, Housing (including affordable housing), Employment uses, Retail Development, Commercial Development, Leisure & Recreation, Green Infrastructure & Renewable energy schemes.

Encouraging early submissions is an important part of the plan-making process. The Authority is seeking to gather as many candidate site proposals as possible at this stage in order to properly assess options and inform decisions about the future spatial distribution of growth within the National Park. Submitting a site does not guarantee that it will be allocated in the final Plan; each submission will be subject to detailed assessment against planning policy, sustainability principles, environmental constraints and the statutory purposes of the National Park. Those wishing to participate should complete the Candidate Site Submission Form, which is attached to my monthly report. The form requests information about the location, size, proposed use and deliverability of the site, along with any relevant supporting details. Information regarding how to submit a candidate site is available on our website: Call for Candidate Sites LDP 3 – Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

For specific queries or assistance, the Development Plans team can be contacted directly via email at devplans@pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk.

This is an important opportunity for residents, landowners and stakeholders to contribute to shaping how development is planned and managed within the National Park up to 2040.

Over the winter months, a number of residents have understandably expressed frustration regarding the reduced lighting levels in the Regency Hall car park and around the village hall. Adequate lighting in this location is important not only for convenience but, more importantly, for public safety, pedestrians and safe vehicle manoeuvring during the darker evenings.

I have been actively pursuing this matter with both Pembrokeshire County Council and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, and I would like to thank both organisations for their continued engagement and input. Officers from both authorities have investigated the issue and identified faults within the existing lighting infrastructure. Unfortunately, their initial findings indicate that the works required may be more complex, and potentially more costly, than first anticipated. I have also asked Saundersfoot Community Council if they would consider working with the Regency Hall in making sure that an additional sensor light can be fitted to the Village Hall on the cut through from the car park opposite the Bowling Green.

I am very grateful that Pembrokeshire County Council has managed to isolate and repair one of the affected streetlights. This has already improved lighting levels in part of the area and is very much appreciated. However, the remaining lighting column appears to involve a more significant issue than originally thought, and further investigation and works will be required to resolve it fully.

Following ongoing correspondence and a number of discussions with the National Park Authority, I am pleased to confirm that progress is now being made towards an interim solution. In response to the current acute problem of insufficient night-time lighting, a three-month rental order has been placed for the installation of a temporary solar-powered streetlight. I am currently awaiting confirmation of the installation date from National Park Authority and have requested that the installation be undertaken as soon as possible.

The purpose of this temporary installation is to help ease the immediate lighting shortfall caused by the ongoing failure of streetlights located adjacent to the Regency Hall building. It will also provide improved illumination in and around the immediate vicinity of the car park and Pay and Display station, enhancing visibility and safety for both pedestrians and drivers. In addition, this temporary arrangement will allow officers to trial and assess the suitability of a permanent solar lighting installation at the same location, potentially replacing the poorly located and currently non-operational legacy lighting within the car park.

I fully appreciate residents’ patience while this matter is being progressed. Lighting issues of this nature can be technically complex, particularly where responsibilities sit across more than one authority, but I am encouraged by the collaborative and supportive approach being taken by both Pembrokeshire County Council and the National Park Authority. I am hopeful that, working together, a more permanent resolution can be achieved over the coming weeks. I will continue to provide updates as further information becomes available.

These amendments aim to strike a fair balance between supporting sustainable travel initiatives and maintaining practical parking provision within the village centre.

By way of background, there have been several proposals over recent years to deliver an active travel link connecting Brewery Terrace, Milford Terrace and The Strand, with the objective of providing a safer and more accessible route through the village. Earlier options included routing the link through the harbour.  However, this was not feasible due to harbour byelaws prohibiting cycling. There were also proposals to remove part of the Sensory garden wall to facilitate the route, but this was ultimately not supported as an appropriate solution.

The current proposal positions the active travel link along Cambrian Terrace. This will result in the removal of one existing parking space. However, following consultation undertaken in 2024 and subsequent discussions with Highways Officers, revised arrangements have been developed to mitigate the impact.

On Cambrian Terrace, a shared loading/parking bay will be introduced. This will operate as a loading bay between 6:00am and 10:00am, supporting early morning deliveries to local businesses. From 10:00am to 6:00am, the same space will convert to two 30-minute limited waiting bays. Together with the remaining provision, this will provide four usable bays along Cambrian Terrace during the daytime period after 10am.

I fully acknowledge concerns regarding the reduction of one overall space. However, it is important to note that the previous arrangement on Cambrian Terrace included a full-time loading bay, limiting general parking availability. Furthermore, these changes have been under discussion for several years. As part of earlier mitigation measures, two disabled parking bays were created on Milford Street opposite the bus stop, specifically to offset earlier adjustments to parking provision in this area.

In relation to Brewery Terrace, an additional 30-minute limited waiting bay will be created outside Labels for Less. This represents an additional space to help compensate for the changes on Cambrian Terrace.

The existing loading bay on Brewery Terrace will also be converted into a dual-use arrangement. At present, it operates as a loading bay at all times throughout the year, which has caused ongoing frustration for residents who have parked there and subsequently received penalty notices. Under the revised proposal, this bay will operate as a timed loading bay to support business deliveries, and as 30-minute limited waiting at other times. This approach will provide greater flexibility, better support for village centre trade, and offer additional short-stay parking in the heart of the village.

Overall, the proposed development will result in a net gain in practical, usable short-stay parking within the village centre. Retaining and enhancing parking availability has been a key priority throughout these discussions, alongside delivering a safer and more coherent active travel route. I am happy to answer any questions or provide further clarification. The proposal will now proceed to public consultation before the final Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) is made.

I have recently written to Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) Highways Officers to raise an observation regarding pedestrian safety and safe access along a particularly busy stretch of Sandyhill Road, after I received a call from a local resident.

Whilst undertaking litter picking duties along Sandy Hill Road, I also became aware of a potential gap in safe pedestrian connectivity between the new Persimmon Homes development at Ger y Mor and the existing pavement network serving properties at Sandyhill Park. As residents have now begun moving into the new development, pedestrian movements in this area are increasing with individuals walking to the village, bus stops, and existing footways.

At present, there appears to be no continuous, clearly defined pedestrian link between the new estate and the current established pavement.  This results in pedestrians having to walk along or cross a section of carriageway that carries regular vehicular traffic. Sandyhill Road is a well-used route, and vehicle speeds and traffic volumes at peak times can create an environment where pedestrians may feel vulnerable. The absence of a dedicated footway connection raises concerns regarding visibility and safe passing distances.

I fully appreciate that there may not yet be legal agreements or adopted arrangements in place to deliver a permanent pavement connection at this time. However, given the strong emphasis placed on active travel, sustainable transport, and improved connectivity within the village, I believe it is both timely and appropriate to consider whether interim safety measures could be explored while longer-term solutions are progressed.

As a starting point for discussion with PCC Highways and Road Safety Officers, I suggested the possibility of introducing a short-term temporary pedestrian link. One potential option could involve the use of temporary barriers to create a protected walking corridor over a short section of carriageway. This could, potentially, be supported by a traffic management measure, such as a priority working arrangement limiting the road to one vehicle at a time over the affected stretch. Such an approach could help slow traffic, improve driver awareness, and provide pedestrians with a safer, more defined route during this transitional period.

I have made it clear that this suggestion is offered purely to initiate discussion and I welcome any alternative proposals that PCC officers may consider more suitable. It is wiser to discuss a safety concern at an early stage before it becomes a more significant issue. Pedestrian safety remains a key priority for PCC, and I believe that even modest interim measures could make a meaningful difference to residents who are currently required to walk along this section of Sandyhill Road. I will continue to engage with Highways Officers and will provide further updates as discussions progress.

SMELT Project  (Saundersfoot Miner’s Express Leadership Team) – Celebrating Our Industrial Heritage

I have continued to keep residents updated on the progress of the SMELT project, which has now seen the installation of three coal trucks at the Sensory Garden, prominently positioned alongside the coastal path between Coppet Hall and Saundersfoot Harbour. This highly visible location was deliberately chosen to ensure the display reflects the significance of our industrial heritage in a place where residents and visitors alike can engage with it.

For those familiar with Saundersfoot’s history, the coal trucks serve as a powerful reminder of the village’s industrial past. Saundersfoot was once at the heart of a thriving coal industry, producing high-quality anthracite that was exported across the world from its harbour and adjoining collieries. Indeed, the harbour itself was originally constructed to facilitate the export of coal, underlining the  role that mining played in shaping the identity and development of the village. The SMELT project seeks not only to commemorate that legacy but also to educate those who may know Saundersfoot solely as a seaside destination, highlighting the depth and importance of its industrial roots.

This project has been generously funded by the former Saundersfoot Festivities Committee. The committee, which originally established the much-loved New Year’s Day Swim and organised community events such as the village Water Sports competitions between local public houses. The annual “bragging rights” contests and the iconic greasy pole challenge, wished to leave a lasting community legacy. Their intention was to create something meaningful for future generations that would celebrate the history of the village. Their vision and generosity have made this project possible.

A significant amount of work has already been completed, although there are still elements to finalise. As ever, progress is somewhat dependent on favourable weather conditions, and we are hopeful that the coming weeks will allow the remaining tasks to be concluded. Last month, interpretative signage for the Coal Trucks project was introduced, providing important historical context and helping to tell the story behind the installation. Subject to suitable weather conditions, we are also planning to place coal within the trucks to enhance authenticity. To ensure the material remains secure and safe for public display, we have been advised that the coal should be sealed with a resin covering.

The SMELT Committee continues to pursue the sourcing of authentic mining lamps to further enhance the display and strengthen its historical accuracy. We understand that there may be a local resident who could assist us in identifying or sourcing appropriate fittings, and we would welcome any support in this regard. Once the structural and heritage elements are complete and temperatures begin to rise, we intend to introduce planting on both sides of the installation as part of the overall design concept. Soft landscaping will provide an attractive setting for the display while complementing the Sensory Garden and surrounding coastal path environment.

This project could not have been delivered without the collective support and collaboration of many individuals and organisations. I would like to extend sincere thanks to the former Saundersfoot Festivities Committee for their funding and foresight, Saundersfoot Community Council for their full and ongoing support, David Lewis of Hean Castle Estate, Saundersfoot Historical Society, Saundersfoot Bay Heritage and Regeneration Trust, Spencer Odley, Hywel Rees and Rob Collins along with the dedicated volunteer committee members who have worked tirelessly over the past eighteen months to bring this vision to fruition.

I would also like to acknowledge, with great respect, the late Neil Sefton. Neil was an integral part of this initiative from its early stages and played a key role in shaping the project. It is a great sadness that he is no longer with us to see the completed installation, but his contribution forms an important part of its legacy.

The SMELT project stands as a fitting tribute to Saundersfoot’s industrial heritage and demonstrates what can be achieved when the community works together with a shared sense of purpose and pride in its history. Once this is finished, the SMELT committee will be working on an opening of this village initiative and hopefully the committee will continue to explore other avenues to enhance areas of the village that might need repurposing. Lastly a thank you to the contractor for delivering our vision.

The Saundersfoot Rotary Club is pleased to submit its monthly report highlighting recent activities, community involvement, and forthcoming plans.

Community Activities and Support
Following the Christmas and New Year break, the Tenderfoot Disabled Sports Club successfully recommenced on 30 January, continuing its vital work in providing inclusive sporting opportunities for participants across the community.

On 31 January, at The Regency Hall, Rotary members were proud to support Ecoast Pembrokeshire and the Saundersfoot Wombles during the “Tales From The Tideline” exhibition. The display showcased striking artworks created entirely from litter collected from local beaches, powerfully highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship.

Further practical support was given on 3 February, when Rotary members joined a beach clean led by Sam from Ecoast Pembrokeshire. This highly successful effort resulted in the removal of 22.45 kg of litter, 8.55 kg of metal, and a 31 kg lobster pot, totalling 61 kg of waste cleared from local beaches.

Awareness and Environmental Enhancement

Around Saundersfoot village and the harbour area, crocuses planted to mark World Polio Day and Rotary’s ongoing commitment to the global eradication of polio have begun to flower. These displays are adding welcome colour to the village while reinforcing an important humanitarian message.

Looking Ahead
The Rotary Club is excited to announce that planning is now underway for the inaugural Saundersfootballs, due to take place towards the end of May. This family-friendly event will invite members of the public to sponsor one (or more!) of up to 1,000 footballs, which will then race down one of Saundersfoot’s hills which will be closed to vehicular traffic for the event. The event promises to be an exciting, fun and memorable addition to the village calendar.

The Rotary Club is also very excited to be preparing for a major milestone in its history.

The Club will be celebrating 50 years of serving the Saundersfoot community with a special Community Concert for Saundersfoot, featuring performances by Côr y Môr and the Tenby Male Choir. This celebratory event promises to be an uplifting evening of music and community togetherness.

Tickets will be available on the door, with a limited number available in advance from The Shoe Box and The Regency Hall. Tickets are priced at £10 per adult, with free entry for under-16s, and include hot drinks and a traditional Welsh cake.

Both the Saundersfootballs event and the anniversary concert are intended to be fun, inclusive occasions that bring the community together and reflect the Rotary Club’s long-standing commitment to service, fellowship, and local engagement.

In Memoriam
A particularly sad moment for the Club was marked on Friday 6 February with the funeral of past Club President and co-founder of Tenderfoot, Newman Vincent. Newman was a long-standing and dedicated Rotarian whose contribution to both the Club and the wider Saundersfoot community was immense. Current members formed a guard of honour at services held at St Issell’s Church and subsequently at Parc Gwyn Crematorium. Both services were attended by a large number of family and friends who came together to honour his lifetime of service. His passing has been deeply felt by all whose lives he touched.

Pembrokeshire County Council Active Travel Consultation

Pembrokeshire County Council is currently undertaking a consultation on Active Travel across the county, aimed at helping to establish new walking, wheeling, and cycling routes. Residents, business owners, and members of the community are encouraged to take part and provide feedback on the proposals. The consultation can be accessed via the following link:
https://datamap.gov.wales/survey/Pembrokeshire-AT-survey/

I would particularly encourage Saundersfoot residents and business owners to review the scheme and share any thoughts or suggestions they may have. Your input is invaluable in helping to shape a network of routes that will make it easier, safer, and more enjoyable to walk, wheel, and cycle within the community and across Pembrokeshire.

For those who wish to attend in person, the following consultation meetings have been arranged:

• Tenby – Tenby Town Council, 5th March, 09:30 – 12:30
• Saundersfoot – Regency Hall, 5th March, 13:30 – 17:30

A poster has also been attached to assist in sharing the information. PCC would be grateful if this information could be circulated widely within local community groups to ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to participate.

Feedback from the consultation will directly inform the development of a connected and accessible Active Travel network, supporting healthier, more sustainable travel options across Pembrokeshire. For further information or assistance, please contact the transport strategy team at transportstrategy@pembrokeshire.gov.uk.  I have attached the QR code that takes you directly to the survey to help.

 am pleased to share positive news regarding the Ger y Môr development on Sandy Hill Road, Saundersfoot. Pembrokeshire County Council has confirmed that it will be purchasing 21 new homes within the development to help meet identified local housing need. The homes will comprise of 12 one-bedroom flats, 6 two-bedroom houses, and 3 three-bedroom houses. This mix of properties has been designed to respond to a range of housing requirements within the community, from single occupants and couples to small families. These properties will form part of the Council’s housing stock and will be allocated in accordance with its housing allocation policies.

The homes will be handed over to Pembrokeshire County Council in phased stages as construction progresses, with the first phase currently anticipated to be completed and transferred in the spring of 2026. This phased approach will allow for a managed and structured allocation process. Importantly, the Council intends to apply a Local Lettings Policy to these properties.

This approach is aimed at ensuring that local housing need is prioritised and that the homes support the sustainability of the Saundersfoot community. In recognition of the strong local interest and demand for affordable and appropriate housing, this is a very welcome step. To support transparency and community engagement, Pembrokeshire County Council will be holding a community meeting on 18th February from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Regency Hall, Saundersfoot.

During the session, Council officers will provide a short presentation outlining the proposed Local Lettings Policy and will invite feedback and discussion from those in attendance. I very much hope this event will be well attended, particularly by residents who may be seeking accommodation within the village, as well as those who have previously had to move away due to a lack of suitable housing. This meeting provides an important opportunity to understand how the Local Lettings Policy will operate, to ask questions, and to share views before final decisions are made. This is a significant step in responding to local housing demand, and I welcome the Council’s commitment to engaging with the community as part of the process. I look forward to seeing residents there and continuing to support initiatives that help maintain a strong and sustainable local community.

Road Closures

Over the last few months, Councillor Cormack and I have been involved in discussions regarding the Harbour’s commitment to providing an information service to the village, as originally agreed as part of the sale of the Old Coal Office from Pembrokeshire County Council. As part of that agreement, there was a clear commitment that an information service would be maintained for a defined period, which was reflected in the sale price agreed with Saundersfoot Harbour.

More recently, conversations have taken place about the future of the Village Information Centre and whether it might operate more effectively from the Regency Hall or remain in its current location. I would like to reiterate my view that the Information and Welcome Centre should remain centrally located within the heart of the village.

The Old Coal Office occupies a highly strategic position. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs directly outside the building, placing it at one of the busiest and most visible points in the village. It is estimated that close to a million journeys take place annually between Saundersfoot Harbour and Wisemans Bridge, and this significant footfall makes the current location particularly well suited to welcoming visitors and providing information. The building itself is modern, well presented, and already serves as a focal point for interpreting Saundersfoot’s heritage. It provides an excellent platform not only to promote what the village has to offer, but also to showcase attractions, events, and opportunities across the wider county.

Councillor Cormack and I recently attended a meeting with officers from Pembrokeshire County Council, alongside the Chief Executive Officer of Saundersfoot Harbour, to discuss this matter further. The meeting was extremely positive and constructive. Both Councillor Cormack and I expressed our full support for retaining the Information Centre in its current location, and it was encouraging to see a shared commitment to strengthening and enhancing the service.

As a result of these discussions, it was agreed that Pembrokeshire County Council will install additional signage within the village to clearly direct people to the Information Centre. Saundersfoot Harbour has also agreed to review and improve signage outside the building itself, including the use of A-boards to further raise awareness. In addition, it was reassuring to hear that PCC is willing to support further staff training, building upon the training that has already been implemented by Saundersfoot Harbour.

I believe that, with these improvements and continued partnership working, the Information Centre can continue to operate successfully in its current location, serving both residents and visitors alike and helping people discover what is happening not only in Saundersfoot but across Pembrokeshire as a whole.

I recently attended an online business meeting regarding the Business Rates Revaluation process. This followed on from our earlier in-person meeting at the Hean Castle Inn and was organised by Samuel Kurtz MS in response to the significant level of concern being raised by the small business community. Paul Davies MS has also been receiving regular correspondence from local businesses outlining the challenges they are facing, particularly in relation to the revaluation process and wider policy decisions impacting operating costs.

The online meeting was extremely well attended, with over 170 participants joining. This level of engagement clearly demonstrates the strength of feeling within the business community and the importance of ensuring that accurate information and practical guidance are readily available.

The purpose of the session was to provide businesses with a clearer understanding of how and why the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) changes are taking place, as well as to outline the reliefs and support mechanisms that may be available. It was important that attendees were able to access straightforward, practical information to help them navigate what can be a complex and, at times, concerning process.

To provide further support, a Business Advice Surgery is being arranged, offering local businesses the opportunity to discuss their individual circumstances in more detail and receive tailored, confidential advice. The first surgery will take place on Tuesday 17 February at 10:30am. If you feel you would benefit from a private discussion, please email Samuel Kurtz directly and he will ensure you are booked in.

Samuel remains committed to supporting local businesses by being your voice and ensuring that policy decisions properly reflect the lived experience of running a business in our community. However, to make the strongest possible case on your behalf, it is essential that we gather robust and detailed evidence. For this reason, businesses are strongly encouraged to complete the Business Impact Form, which will help build a clearer picture of how business rates and related costs are affecting local enterprises.

The form can be accessed here: https://www.samuelkurtz.wales/campaigns/business-owners

If you have any concerns, questions, or would like to engage further on this issue, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We are here to listen, to represent your concerns, and to support you in any way we can.

On 29th January, the full Planning Committee considered a planning application for a new traveller site at the lower end of Westfield Road, Saundersfoot. This application had been previously refused and was once again refused by the Committee. While further applications may be submitted in the future, the decision reflects ongoing concerns regarding the suitability of this location.

The application was refused primarily on the grounds of unacceptable landscape impact. The site is located within the National Park, and the proposal was considered to introduce caravan development into an area that lacks the landscape capacity to accommodate it. In addition, the application did not provide sufficient detail to demonstrate that species and habitats would not be adversely affected. The removal of scrub and woodland from the site has already resulted in the loss of previously sighted wildlife, raising further concerns about biodiversity and the wider ecological impact of development in this location.

Community representatives have highlighted that there is very little difference between this application and the previous submission, and that the ecological and landscape impacts remain significant. The decision underscores the importance of protecting the natural environment and biodiversity within the National Park while considering any proposals for development.

I would like to extend a warm thank you to everyone who has already handed in their sponsorship money to Salt on the Strand, Saundersfoot, for the New Year’s Day Swim. This year’s swim has been record-breaking, and we are still receiving sponsorship contributions, which is fantastic to see.

If you have not yet submitted your sponsorship, please do so as soon as possible, as we are beginning to arrange the presentation event. This will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the Swim and to present cheques to the numerous charities and organisations that continue to support this important community event.

I would also like to take a moment to thank all the residents who regularly get in touch with me to share their concerns or provide feedback. Your input is invaluable, and I am extremely grateful for the positive responses to points raised in my previous monthly reports. Your engagement helps ensure that we continue to support and improve our village together.

NOTICE TO PROVIDE TRAFFIC CALMING FEATURES & INTRODUCTION OF A TOUCAN CROSSING; PARALLEL CROSSINGS AND REMOVAL OF EXISTING PELICAN CROSSING.

SAUNDERFOOT.

The  Western Telegraph will be advertising its intention to introduce

• Traffic Calming features,
• The installation of a Toucan Crossing,
• The installation of parallel crossings
• & removal of an existing Pelican crossing.

The purpose of the scheme is to:

• Improve pedestrian safety and accessibility,
• Encourage lower vehicle speeds,
• Make crossing the road easier and more visible for pedestrians

The proposals are intended to benefit all road users, particularly pedestrians, cyclists, those with mobility impairments, families with children and has been developed as part of the Active Travel Improvements.

Full details, together with a map showing the length of road affected, are attached to this email and can also be found on the Pembrokeshire County Council Website.

Traffic Regulation Orders – Pembrokeshire County Council

The form can be accessed here: https://www.samuelkurtz.wales/campaigns/business-owners

If you have any concerns, questions, or would like to engage further on this issue, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We are here to listen, to represent your concerns, and to support you in any way we can.