June has been another extremely busy month, and before anything else, I would like to begin by thanking the incredible volunteers who have worked tirelessly throughout the village in preparation for the Wales in Bloom judges’ visit during the first week of July.

From planting and watering flower displays to painting, litter picking and carrying out countless other tasks, more than 30 volunteers have generously given up their time over recent months to help keep Saundersfoot looking at its very best. Their dedication, pride and community spirit are a credit to our village, and we are extremely fortunate to have such committed individuals making a real difference.

I would also like to extend my thanks to Welsh Coast Maintenance, who continues to generously volunteer his time not only in Saundersfoot but also in many other communities across Pembrokeshire.

Issues reported by residents has seen another busy period, many of which I have followed up with Pembrokeshire County Council.

As always, I would like to thank everyone who continues to get in touch.

Whether your concerns relate to:
• highways,
• parking,
• footpaths,
• waste
• or any other local matter

Your messages help me identify issues quickly and ensure they are raised with the appropriate departments at PCC.

One issue raised with me was the overgrown steps at the rear of the doctors’ surgery leading down to the Bottom Road. The railings had become covered with long grass and weeds, making access difficult for many users. I am pleased to report that Pembrokeshire County Council’s team responded quickly by cutting back the vegetation and restoring safe access.

Following further concerns, I have also asked the County Council to clear the overgrown footpath at Brooklands, including cutting back vegetation and clearing the grass and weeds that have built up along the gutter.

Several residents also contacted me regarding blocked drains along The Strand. These drains frequently become filled with sand, and during periods of heavy rainfall this prevents surface water from draining away properly, resulting in large puddles forming on the road. I have reported these issues and requested that they continue to be monitored and cleared.

I have also been chasing updates regarding the temporary plastic barriers on Ragged Staff, which continue to protect a damaged manhole cover. Residents are understandably keen to know when a permanent repair will be carried out, and I will continue to seek updates on their behalf.

Following photographs sent to me by a resident, I also reported what appeared to be a small sinkhole developing on the coastal path between Coppet Hall and Wisemans Bridge. I am pleased to say that Pembrokeshire County Council’s Highways Engineer attended the site almost immediately to assess the situation.

At the beginning of June, I received several reports about a large branch that had split from an oak tree during the strong winds and heavy rain. As this is a well-used pedestrian route into the village, I reported it immediately and was delighted that the County Council made the tree safe the following day.

Several residents have also contacted me regarding hedgerows and roadside verges that require cutting back. I have received confirmation that the annual grass-cutting programme begins in earnest during early July.

However, because of the significant increase in visitor numbers, Pembrokeshire County Council carries out an early cut from Amroth through to New Hedges during the final week of June to improve visibility and road safety on these busy and often narrow routes. Hopefully, all this work will be completed by the end of July.

I am also delighted to report that the road markings along The Strand have now been fully refreshed. I had previously raised concerns that many of the parking bay markings, particularly the disabled bays, had become difficult to see, resulting in motorists unintentionally parking in the wrong places. The parking bays, disabled spaces and yellow lines have now all been clearly remarked, improving both safety and enforcement.

Last month I also mentioned that several road signs around the village had been turned or moved, raising concerns as they provide important warnings to motorists. After discussing the matter with Pembrokeshire County Council Highways, a local resident witnessed a large vehicle moving one of the signs to gain access. The matter has now been raised with the contractors involved, and they have been reminded that any signs moved during deliveries or works must be repositioned immediately to ensure motorists continue to receive the correct warnings.

During June, I also helped a resident whose assisted waste collection had been missed for the second time within three weeks. As the resident has mobility issues, this understandably caused considerable anxiety and inconvenience. I raised the matter directly with the relevant department, and I am pleased to report that collections have now returned to normal.

If anyone else, who receives an assisted collection, experiences similar problems, please do let me know.

The Welsh lessons at the Regency Hall continue to be extremely popular and they now open their doors to children from Saundersfoot school once a month at the village Library. The class has also received a £250 grant from Saundersfoot Community Lottery that is being spent on learning materials and a Welsh based trip for the group. New members are always welcome, so lease pop along to the Regency Hall for details.

A number of residents have also contacted me regarding the ZIP electric bikes, with reports of bikes being abandoned in hedgerows, gardens and on pavements. I recently collected one myself after it had been left on a residential driveway on the Ridgeway and returned it to the Regency Hall. I did express concerns about this scheme before it was introduced, and whilst it offers benefits, it is important that bikes are left responsibly. If you find one causing an obstruction or concern, I would encourage residents to report it to Pembrokeshire County Council.

Residents have also continued to ask about improved access onto the Back Beach. I have recently spoken with the new Chief Executive of Saundersfoot Harbour, who confirmed that this matter is still being progressed and that they are awaiting further developments. I will continue to keep residents updated as soon as there is more news.
During the middle of June, I supported two members of Saundersfoot Rotary on a litter pick on the Ridgeway, Fan Road and back to Westfield Road via St Issell’s church. This was an extremely successful litter pick collecting 7 bags in two hours on a Sunday morning.

Finally, Councillor Cormack and I have both received correspondence from Saundersfoot Harbour regarding the culvert that runs from behind the Sports Field and Regency Hall, past the former Sands nightclub and underneath the road before discharging into the harbour sluice. The harbour has raised concerns that debris continues to block the culvert and eventually enters the harbour.
I fully support the harbour’s concerns and believe measures should be explored to reduce the amount of debris entering the watercourse.

Equally, I appreciate that following prolonged periods of heavy rainfall, during the winter, debris naturally accumulates. I have raised the matter again with Pembrokeshire County Council. Last year, the culvert behind the Regency Hall was cleared by PCC, and I am also pleased that Saundersfoot Community Council has recently undertaken work within its own area by clearing sections of the culvert and cutting back vegetation to help maintain the free flow of water.

As always, thank you to everyone who continues to contact me with local concerns. Your feedback is invaluable, and I will continue working hard to ensure that issues affecting our community are addressed as quickly as possible.

During June, I dealt with a number of fly-tipping and waste disposal issues across Saundersfoot, and I thought it would be helpful to provide residents with an update.

These incidents were brought to my attention by local residents who, like me, care deeply about keeping our village clean and are increasingly concerned about the impact irresponsible waste disposal can have on our community.

At the beginning of the month, reports were received of a black bag of waste being dumped at the Fan Road junction.

Around the same time, several bags of mixed waste were left beside public bins at the Slipway. Before they could be collected, seagulls had torn the bags open, scattering rubbish across the surrounding area, including The Strand and harbour.

I would like to thank the local residents who helped clear much of the mess before Pembrokeshire County Council’s cleansing team arrived.

As always, the Council’s cleansing staff did an excellent job ensuring the remaining waste was collected promptly and the area was restored to a clean condition. Their work often goes unnoticed but is greatly appreciated.

In another incident, information supplied by residents helped identify waste that had been left at Fan Road. Evidence recovered from the contents was passed directly to Pembrokeshire County Council for investigation.

I have also received reports of waste from holiday accommodation and commercial premises being disposed of incorrectly. In several cases, concerns have been raised regarding whether suitable arrangements are in place for waste collection and recycling. These matters have been referred to the relevant Council officers for investigation.

It is important to recognise that the overwhelming majority of holiday accommodation providers, second-home owners, businesses and visitors behave responsibly. Most ensure that appropriate recycling facilities are available, legitimate waste collection arrangements are in place and that waste is disposed of correctly.

Unfortunately, a small minority continue to undermine those efforts. Public litter bins are provided for small amounts of day-to-day litter generated whilst visiting the village. They are not intended for household waste from holiday accommodation or commercial waste from businesses.

When public bins are misused, they can quickly become overwhelmed, leading to overflowing waste, increased litter, attraction of seagulls and vermin, additional costs for taxpayers and unnecessary pressure on Council staff and volunteers. They also create a poor impression for both residents and visitors.

Saundersfoot has come a long way in tackling litter and environmental issues. Groups including Saundersfoot Rotary, the Saundersfoot Wombles, Saundersfoot in Bloom and Ecoast regularly organise litter picks and beach cleans throughout the year.

Many other individuals also volunteer their time collecting litter along roads, footpaths and beaches without seeking recognition. Their efforts, together with the hard work of Pembrokeshire County Council’s cleansing teams, help maintain the high standards we all enjoy.

I am pleased to report that Pembrokeshire County Council’s Environmental Services and Enforcement Team have responded positively to all recent reports. Concerns have been investigated and appropriate action is being considered where evidence exists. I would also like to highlight the positive impact of CCTV at Stammers Road, a location that had experienced persistent fly-tipping problems over a number of years. Residents have reported a noticeable improvement since the cameras were installed, demonstrating how practical measures can help tackle environmental crime where evidence supports action. I fully support the Council’s approach to enforcement.

Fly-tipping and the misuse of public bins are not victimless offences. They cost taxpayers money, damage our environment and place unnecessary pressure on council services and community volunteers who work tirelessly to keep our village and Pembrokeshire clean and welcoming. Saundersfoot depends on tourism, and we are fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful parts of Pembrokeshire. Residents want visitors to enjoy everything our village has to offer, but we also ask everyone, businesses, accommodation providers and visitors alike, to play their part in respecting our village community and disposing of waste responsibly.

By continuing to work together, supporting Council teams and local volunteers, and ensuring that those who deliberately ignore the rules are held accountable, we can keep Saundersfoot the clean, welcoming and vibrant village that we are all proud to call home.

Finally, I would like to thank all the residents who have recently reported concerns. Community intelligence is invaluable and plays an important role in helping tackle environmental issues across the village.

June and early July have been particularly busy months for Saundersfoot Rotary ahead of the main summer season kicking off.

At the beginning of June, they publicised their full summer programme of Duck Races, Sandcastle Competitions and Hog Roasts, with promotional posters displayed in shops and businesses throughout the village.

As part of National Volunteers Week on 3rd June, they publicly recognised and thanked all their members, friends and volunteers for the invaluable work they undertake in support of Rotary and the wider community. This was also featured in local press coverage.
On 9th June, they were delighted and honoured to receive a substantial donation from the Lotus Drivers Club (West Wales). Following a nomination by Hean Castle Estate, Saundersfoot Rotary was chosen as the beneficiary of the club’s annual charitable fundraising event. The presentation was featured in the Tenby Observer.

Our Folly Farm day for local school pupils on 10th June was a great success and attracted widespread coverage across social media and the local press, highlighting another successful community initiative.

On 12th June, Rotary members joined forces with Love Saundersfoot to replant 72 geraniums in the planters at Ocean Square, helping to enhance the appearance of this prominent village location.

On 21st June, Rotary members John and Ray, together with myself, undertook a litter pick along Ridgeway, Fan Road to Pentlepoir and back through St Issell’s into the village. Their efforts resulted in 24kg of litter being removed, helping to keep our local environment clean and attractive.

The month concluded on Sunday 5th July, with their first Duck Race of the summer held in support of the RNLI. Blessed with excellent weather and strong community support, the event was a tremendous success and raised valuable funds for this vital and worthy organisation. Love Saundersfoot generously provided an excellent video of the event which they published on their Facebook page.

I’m sure many residents, not only in Saundersfoot but across the wider area, will be aware of the recent discussions surrounding the future of Stepaside and Saundersfoot Schools and the proposal to establish a new school on the Saundersfoot site.

Earlier this year, Pembrokeshire County Council considered the proposals as part of its School Modernisation Programme. Following debate at Full Council, Members voted to proceed with the statutory process to discontinue Stepaside School. It is important to remember that this was not the final decision to close the school, but the beginning of a formal legal process that includes further consultation and consideration before any final determination is made
.
Having visited Stepaside School myself and seen first-hand the excellent facilities, the dedicated staff and the positive learning environment enjoyed by the children, I found it difficult to support the proposal.

With just over 100 pupils currently attending the school, together with the significant housing development that has taken place within the catchment area in recent years, I believe there is real potential for pupil numbers to remain sustainable. The school’s recent positive Estyn inspection further demonstrates the excellent education being provided. For these reasons, I voted in support of retaining Stepaside School.

I therefore very much welcome the recent announcement by Councillor Paul Miller, Cabinet Member for Education, that he has reviewed the Directorate’s school modernisation proposals in detail and no longer believes that discontinuing Stepaside School is the right course of action.

I also have to say that both Saundersfoot and Stepaside have had good Estyn report’s recently.

As this is ultimately a decision for Full Council, Councillor Miller has drafted a motion asking Council to reconsider its previous decision. This provides Members with the opportunity to review the proposal in light of the additional consideration that has taken place.

I personally wrote to the Head of Democratic Services to express my support for this motion and my firm belief that Stepaside School should remain open.

The matter was considered at the Full Council meeting on Thursday 16 July, where councillors debated whether to revisit the previous decision. I was delighted that members voted unanimously in support of the Notice of Motion, ensuring that Stepaside School can continue serving its pupils, families, and the wider community for many years to come.

This was a positive outcome and reflects the strength of feeling across the community about the importance of protecting local schools and the vital role they play in village life.

I’m sure many residents, not only in Saundersfoot but across the wider area, will be aware of the recent discussions surrounding the future of Stepaside and Saundersfoot Schools and the proposal to establish a new school on the Saundersfoot site.

In my May monthly report, I highlighted concerns raised by residents regarding camper vans and motorhomes parking on residential streets within Saundersfoot, from residents in three different locations across the village, particularly during busy holiday periods.

The concerns raised include vehicles obstructing access, parking for prolonged periods in residential areas, waste disposal, and the overall impact on residential streets.

I appreciate that the vast majority of visitors are respectful and contribute positively to our local economy, but it is important that residents’ concerns are also recognised and addressed.

Following these reports, I wrote to Pembrokeshire County Council asking for their views on the matter and what options may be available.

I am happy to share the response I received.

Pembrokeshire County Council Response

“The issues you raise, relating to obstruction, access, waste and general amenity, are consistent with concerns that have been raised elsewhere across Pembrokeshire. Whilst these issues tend to be sporadic, they are becoming more prevalent during peak visitor periods.
That said, I am not aware of widespread instances during the recent half-term of motorhomes, camper vans or self-converted camper vans parking inappropriately beyond the locations that have been reported.

Previous attempts to address this matter have encountered a number of challenges, including local opposition in some areas (which has, in some cases, resulted in vandalism), objections from established caravan and camping site providers, and policy limitations at Cabinet level.
Although Pembrokeshire has an excellent supply of high-quality campsites, not all visitors choose to use these facilities, and capacity can vary significantly across the County.
It is also worth noting that the recent Bank Holiday and half-term period experienced exceptionally good weather, resulting in very high visitor numbers. Many public car parks reached capacity, leading to displacement of vehicles onto available sections of the public highway.

Ownership of motorhomes, camper vans and self-converted camper vans has also increased significantly in recent years. Whilst options were previously explored through the proposed ‘Pembs Stop’ scheme to provide additional overnight facilities, the proposal was not progressed. This has left limited formal alternatives and has contributed to vehicles parking in unsuitable locations.”

Whilst I appreciate the detailed response from the County Council, I believe this issue warrants a wider discussion across Pembrokeshire. Motorhome tourism continues to grow, and whilst we should continue to welcome visitors to our county, we also need to ensure there is appropriate infrastructure and suitable locations available.

Finding the right balance between supporting tourism and protecting the quality of life for residents is essential. In my view, the lack of suitable alternative provision represents a missed opportunity, both in supporting our visitor economy and reducing pressure on residential streets.

I will continue to raise residents’ concerns with Pembrokeshire County Council and keep you updated should there be any further developments.

Plan to remove booking system for waste and recycling centres

I’m sure many Saundersfoot residents will have read my recent report about the fly-tipping incident on Devonshire Drive, where a mattress, bedding and other household items were dumped at the roadside just a short distance from Crane Cross Recycling Centre.

At the time, I said it was possible that the waste had been dumped because the items may not have been accepted without a pre-booked appointment under the current system.

While I cannot say for certain that this was the reason, it is clear that fly-tipping remains a real concern for our communities. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Since the introduction of the booking system, I have received reports of black bags, household waste and other items being abandoned at various locations.

Fly-tipping not only blights our local environment but also places an unnecessary burden on public services and, ultimately, the taxpayer.

For that reason, I very much welcome the proposed changes to how access to the recycling centres will operate in the future. I believe this is a positive step forward and one that I am pleased to support. If making it easier for residents to use our recycling centres helps reduce fly-tipping, then that can only be good news for Pembrokeshire.

I also hope that any new arrangements provide flexibility for residents. Whilst many people are happy to book in advance, others may need to visit at short notice or simply prefer the convenience of turning up, as they were able to do before the COVID-19 pandemic. If both options can work alongside each other, it would offer greater choice while helping the centres operate efficiently.

I look forward potentially to the new arrangements being introduced and hope they will encourage even more responsible waste disposal, helping to keep our communities clean, safe and free from fly-tipping.

Council Leader Cllr Tessa Hodgson has confirmed it is the intention of her administration to remove the booking system for Pembrokeshire’s waste and recycling centres (WRCs).

Cllr Hodgson has asked the Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, Cllr Rhys Sinnett, to work with officers to bring forward a report outlining the options.

Cllr Hodgson said: “Pembrokeshire is consistently one of Wales’ best performing local authorities when it comes to waste and recycling and I thank our staff and the people of Pembrokeshire for helping us continue to improve.
“However, the booking system is an issue that is raised with me time and time again by residents, and so removing the booking system is a priority for me and my administration.
“With modern technology such as number plate recognition and CCTV monitoring, I see no reason why we cannot ensure the sites are used appropriately and safely by Council Taxpayers, while minimising any unauthorised use – without the need for a booking system.

“The current arrangements can be time-consuming and bureaucratic. I believe we can create a system that maintains high standards of waste disposal, provides value for money for taxpayers, and continues to maximise recycling, all without unnecessary bureaucracy.

“It is our administration’s intention that a report is brought to the September Cabinet meeting with a clear plan to remove the booking system from our waste and recycling centres.”

Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services, Cllr Rhys Sinnett, added – “We know how important it is for residents to have straightforward, convenient access to their local waste and recycling centres, and I welcome this work to explore how we can make that happen.”

“Our focus will be on developing a practical, modern approach that improves the experience for residents while maintaining safety, protecting the service from misuse, and continuing to deliver strong recycling performance for Pembrokeshire. I look forward to bringing forward proposals that strike the right balance for our communities.”

During June, I was invited by Ateb to the Regency Hall for the handover presentation of the final eight properties at the Nant y Dderwen development.

It was a pleasure to attend and meet some of the new tenants, all of whom are local residents who were delighted to have been allocated an affordable home within their own village of Saundersfoot.

The presentation highlighted the significant investment that has gone into delivering these much-needed homes. I would like to congratulate Ateb and everyone involved in bringing the development to completion. With the demand for affordable housing continuing to grow, every new home makes a real difference to local individuals and their families.

Many residents will have read my previous updates regarding the Local Lettings Policy. After reviewing the original policy in detail, I felt it was not as robust as I had initially believed, particularly in supporting local residents.

I also raised the importance of ensuring that affordable housing policies help sustain our village school. Schools are at the heart of our communities, and enabling local families to remain within the village helps maintain pupil numbers and strengthens the long-term future of our schools.

As a result, I raised my concerns with both Ateb and Pembrokeshire County Council. Over the past few months, I have had a number of constructive meetings with both organisations, and I have been genuinely encouraged by their willingness to listen and work collaboratively to strengthen the policy.

I am therefore delighted that, following these discussions, the Local Lettings Policy has now been revised and strengthened. I have included the latest version of the policy with this report for residents to read.

One of the most positive changes is that the revised policy recognises the importance of supporting local schools. Whilst this is of obvious benefit to Saundersfoot School, the same principle will now apply to schools in other communities across Pembrokeshire. Strong schools are the foundation of thriving communities, and ensuring that local families have the opportunity to remain in their area helps safeguard school rolls and the wider community for future generations.

This is a very positive step forward, and I would like to thank Ateb and Pembrokeshire County Council for listening to the concerns that were raised and for responding positively. The policy has come a considerable way over the last few months, and I believe it is much stronger than when discussions first began.

That said, I also believe there is still room for further discussion about whether the policy can go even further in supporting local residents with locals connections. The original policy did not specifically prioritise local residents in the way many people expected, although it did provide opportunities for applicants from across Pembrokeshire.

As I have said previously, coastal communities such as Saundersfoot and Tenby continue to face some of the greatest housing pressures in the county. High property prices, the number of second homes and holiday accommodation, together with the limited supply of affordable housing, make it increasingly difficult for local people to remain in the communities where they have grown up, work and have family connections.

Supporting genuine local residents must continue to be a key consideration whenever affordable housing is developed.

We need to ensure that local people have every opportunity to remain living in the communities they know, support and contribute to.

Ultimately, whilst strengthening the policy is a very welcome step, the biggest challenge remains the shortage of affordable homes to meet the consistently high demand across our communities.

I will continue to work with Ateb, Pembrokeshire County Council and local residents to ensure future housing developments not only provide much-needed homes but also support local families, strengthen our schools and help maintain vibrant, sustainable communities for generations to come.

I will continue to keep residents updated on the parking concerns that have been raised with me, as this remains one of the most common issues I receive correspondence about.

Each week, I send numerous photographs and reports to Pembrokeshire County Council highlighting concerns relating to parking throughout the village, particularly around the current parking arrangement outside Labels for Less.

I continue to observe issues at this location, including reduced visibility, congestion and vehicles parking behind the designated bay, extending towards the adjacent dual loading bay. As the village becomes busier during the summer months, these problems become even more apparent.

Residents regularly contact me with photographs and reports showing how this parking arrangement can disrupt the free flow of traffic. On some occasions, illegally parked vehicles have prevented others from moving, causing unnecessary delays and congestion.

I have continued to raise every reported incident with Pembrokeshire County Council and the Council is working through the appropriate review process. However, concerns remain and I will continue to press for a swift solution for the removal of this parking bay.

I would also like to highlight an incident that occurred on a recent Friday evening, when I received numerous photographs and messages regarding a van that had been parked illegally close to one of the new crossing points.

The frustration expressed by residents was directed entirely at the driver and the inconsiderate manner in which the vehicle had been parked. Not only did it reduce visibility for both pedestrians and motorists, but it also created unnecessary difficulties for people with visual impairments, wheelchair users, parents with pushchairs and those with limited mobility who rely on safe and unobstructed access to the crossing.

Unfortunately, inconsiderate parking such as this can quickly escalate into wider traffic problems and, more importantly, create avoidable safety risks.

I have included some of the photographs that residents have kindly sent me, as they clearly demonstrate the difficulties that can arise. These examples have also been shared with Pembrokeshire County Council as part of my ongoing discussions.

I am currently working with the Highways team to explore measures that will help prevent this type of parking around the crossing point. I am hopeful that improvements can be agreed and implemented over the coming weeks to make the area safer and improve the flow of traffic.

As always, I would like to thank residents for continuing to report these issues to me.

Your photographs and information are invaluable in helping build the evidence needed to support changes. I will continue to raise every concern with Pembrokeshire County Council until a satisfactory solution is found that improves safety for pedestrians, supports local businesses and keeps traffic moving through the village.

I recently asked for an update from the Pharmacy on the Strand that I could share with the residents.

“Over the last few months we have had two big changes at the pharmacy – The pharmacist has qualified as an independent prescribing pharmacist and able to prescribe medication for a range of acute infections and ailments. He is working currently to expand his scope of practice so that he can see more patients. This takes time but will hopefully be beneficial to the community once fully expanded.
The pharmacy also started a new cryotherapy clinic where they can remove various suitable skin lesions, bringing another service to the community”.

Saundersfoot Harbour will be the venue on 18th of July, where a film Near and Distant Things (PG) written and directed by local filmmaker Emily Florence. This stunning independent film was filmed in Saundersfoot in 2025.

Sharks Tale and Jaws will be shown as part of the Sunset Cinema at the events decking Saundersfoot Harbour on August 8th this year. For information please contact Saundersfoot Harbour directly for full details.

The Alternative Dog Show will be back again this year on Saundersfoot Harbour on August 12th on the events decking Saundersfoot Harbour. For further information please contact the Harbour team.

Saundersfoot ladies choir Cor y Mor will be performing at the following locations during July & August:

• Harbwr bar coffee morning – Friday July 24th in aid of the Wednesday Club.
• Concert at Stepaside Methodist church Sunday evening, August 1st.
• St Mary’s church Tenby, evenings of 12th , 19th & 26th with evening service.
• Cresswell Quay on Thursday August 20th
• Tenby pirate day Saturday 22nd of August.

I wanted to update residents on a project that Visit Pembrokeshire is currently leading on.

On Thursday 11th June, VP launched their “Pembrokeshire Our Future Our Opportunity- Developing a 10-year vision for Tourism in Pembrokeshire survey” ( see e-comms attached which provides the background to this project and a link to the survey).

This stage represents the Community and stakeholder engagement stage of this important project for Pembrokeshire. This is being delivered through a carefully designed and strategically positioned survey. This is not simply a consultation exercise. It is a key opportunity to gather meaningful insight, build alignment, and strengthen the collective voice shaping the future of Pembrokeshire’s visitor economy.

The findings will directly inform the next phase of delivery and ensure clear alignment with our 2024–2028 Destination Management Plan (DMP).

Through this work, we will:
• build on our existing long-term strategy, ensuring continuity and focus

• translate strategic ambition into clear, deliverable priorities and projects

• develop a robust and credible evidence base to guide future action

• reinforce a clear mandate for delivery, partnership working, and informed decision-making

The survey is aimed at businesses, organisations, residents, and partners across Pembrokeshire, alongside visitors, and will be running until Friday 21st August. We want to share this far and wide, and we have set up a dedicated web page with QR code downloads and scans to make this as easy as possible. Pembrokeshire. Our Future. Our Opportunity. | Visit Pembrokeshire

Following the survey’s close, we will review the results, consolidate key themes, identify priorities, and prepare for post-summer discussion and action. As your county councillor I wanted to give residents and businesses the opportunity of being aware of the survey, encouraging participation, and ensuring VP capture a broad and representative range of information.

Working together for the good of Pembrokeshire- join us

Visit Pembrokeshire Ltd, Bridge Innovation Centre, Pembrokeshire Science and Technology Park, Pembroke Dock SA72 6UN
www.visitpembrokeshire.com

National Park Authority celebrates RTPI Cymru award for Saundersfoot Harbour regeneration project
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority is celebrating success at the RTPI Cymru Awards for Planning Excellence 2026, after Phase 2 of the Saundersfoot Harbour Redevelopment Project was named Best Project.

The award recognises the role of planning in supporting the transformation of Saundersfoot Harbour into a resilient, year-round destination, with new commercial, community and visitor facilities helping to support local businesses, public access, events and wider regeneration.

Delivered by Saundersfoot Harbour with planning input from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, the project was praised by judges as “an exemplar for coastal economic resilience in smaller settlements” and “a very good example of planning enabling place-based regeneration.”

The judges highlighted the project’s clear economic and community benefits, including investment, job creation, new local business space, major events, year-round activity, improved public access and the reuse of brownfield and heritage assets.

They also recognised the role of planners in addressing design changes, conservation area issues, flood risk, accessibility and the coordination of several linked schemes within a working harbour.

Sara Morris, Director of Place and Engagement at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, said: “We are delighted that Phase 2 of the Saundersfoot Harbour Redevelopment Project has been recognised by RTPI Cymru.

“This award is a real testament to the value of good planning in helping places adapt, thrive and deliver lasting benefits for their communities. Saundersfoot Harbour is a hugely important location, both locally and strategically, and this project shows how careful planning can support regeneration while respecting the character, heritage and environmental challenges of a coastal setting.

I would particularly like to thank Andrew Richards and Nicola Gandy who both led on the planning aspects of the project for the Authority.

“The judges’ comments underline the strength of the partnership approach behind the project, and we are very pleased to see the work of our planning team recognised alongside Saundersfoot Harbour’s ambition and commitment. The final delivered scheme is a result of significant work from the Harbour, local businesses and the community who have transformed Saundersfoot’s offer.”

A spokesperson for Saundersfoot Harbour said:

“As winner of the Best Project category in Wales, the Saundersfoot Harbour project will also be automatically entered as a finalist in the UK National Awards for Planning Excellence. The national finalists will be formally announced by the RTPI on 7 October 2026, ahead of the UK national finals on 3 December.

The Authority is also pleased to note that the Dark Skies Guidance for Wales, developed by a working group from across Wales including Principal Planning Officer (Strategic Policy) Gayle Lister, won the Chair’s Award at the RTPI Cymru Awards for Planning Excellence 2026.

Sara added: “It is particularly pleasing to see the Dark Skies Guidance for Wales recognised alongside the Saundersfoot Harbour project. Protecting dark skies is an important part of caring for the special qualities of Wales’ landscapes, and this guidance reflects the value of collaboration across planning, conservation and environmental disciplines.”

The RTPI Cymru Awards for Planning Excellence celebrate outstanding plans, projects and people that demonstrate the power of planning to make a positive difference to places and communities.

Further information about the RTPI Awards for Planning Excellence is available at www.rtpi.org.uk/excellence

I would like to take a moment to recognise the incredible work once again being carried out by volunteers across our community.

I have included before and after photographs of the verge on The Strand, (recently visited by the RHS Judge who toured the Village for ‘Wales in Bloom’ and ‘It’s your Neighbourhood’ Award entries) and I am sure many residents will have noticed the remarkable transformation. What was once an overgrown area, sadly often used as a dog toilet, has been transformed into a colourful, attractive space that is now full of plants, encourages wildlife and is enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike.

This is a real testament to the hard work and dedication of James, Bev and all the volunteers who have generously given their time (and their own plants) to improve an area that was previously only strimmed by Pembrokeshire County Council twice a year. Their vision, commitment and pride in our village have created something that the whole community can enjoy.

It is also wonderful to see similar projects taking place in other parts of Saundersfoot. These improvements may seem small individually, but together they make a huge difference to the appearance of our village and demonstrate what can be achieved when volunteers work together for the benefit of everyone.

If you know of a small area within the village that is currently untidy or not regularly maintained and you think could benefit from a similar transformation, please let Saundersfoot in Bloom or the Saundersfoot Wombles know. Both groups continue to do fantastic work throughout the village, and their efforts make a real difference to our local community.

A huge thank you to every volunteer that gives up their time to help make Saundersfoot such a wonderful place to live and visit.

Your hard work, enthusiasm and community spirit are greatly appreciated by us all.

Our Village Craft Club has continued creating beautiful sea-themed crafts, which will be available for sale on the decking during SeaFest on Saturday 11 July.

We hope residents and visitors alike will come along to support the club and enjoy the creativity on display.

The Garden Club welcomed Mary from The Flower Barn, who gave a wonderful demonstration on arranging bouquets using cut flowers from the garden. Members also received plenty of practical advice on how to grow a riot of colour and achieve success with their own garden displays.

Litter-picking efforts remained strong, with volunteers collecting an impressive 63kg of litter during the month. Our beach clean also benefited from the support of volunteers from St Brides Hotel, helping to achieve a June beach-clean total of 29kg.

Preparations for Wales in Bloom judging have been gathering pace. The RNLI has been hard at work redeveloping a bed on the Harbour, while the planter outside Captain Silver’s Schooner is filling out beautifully. With all the plants donated, the display is becoming a real treasure for the village.

We also had the pleasure of meeting with the Pembrokeshire Local Growers Network, accompanied by staff from Saundersfoot Youth Club. It was a valuable day of inspiration, exploring community gardens and discussing ways to engage young people in gardening.

One exciting outcome is the idea of a “pizza bed” coming to Saundersfoot soon, so watch this space. Thank you to everyone who has volunteered, donated plants, shared expertise, and supported our activities throughout June.

Your enthusiasm and hard work continue to make a real difference to our community.

The hard working group of volunteers that form the Love Saundersfoot Committees are working hard behind the scenes building the business membership, producing great content with interviews, features and reels highlighting our wonderful Village and everything it has to offer. Beaches, great shopping, food and drink, activities and events.

Recently the group assisted the first SeaFest which brought together a range of activities and educational programmes, as well as cooking demonstrations at The Regency Hall. Love Saundersfoot added its support to marketing and advertising.
With over 1.2 million views per month across its social media platforms, the reach is huge with interest for all things Saundersfoot benefitting.

Currently the committees are working with other groups to deliver Big Bang – a fusion of Bonfire night and Halloween, the Coastal Christmas celebration and the now famous New Year’s Eve firework display.

Follow their social media platforms to keep up to date with all things happening in Saundersfoot