March has been an eventful month with plenty to cover. I will highlight some of the jobs and issues that have impacted local residents in Saundersfoot. The weather has been particularly good and it’s nice to see the great weather bringing people to the village. March 1st started with an event at the Regency and a Cawl trail around the village. Thanks to everyone involved and hopefully that will grow over the coming years to all parts of the village.
ROCKFALL
I will start with some really positive news regarding the coastal path from Coppet Hall to Wiseman’s Bridge. Work has progressed and I feel the weather has certainly helped the contractors onsite. Last week there has been a ‘spider’ machine clearing away the recent rock fall and making sure all the fallen debris is removed off site. Access for the excavator has been via the foreshore, which is both a marine environment and an SSSI, with the necessary licences/consents in place. This is in advance of the construction of a rock fall protection barrier at the base of the slope. Rock bolts and mesh will be installed to the adjacent section of the cliff by the current contractors, Ibex, once the design is completed. At this time it would be unfair to put a timescale on this, however, I acknowledge that PCC are working extremely hard to get this open as soon as possible. Safety will be paramount in their decision. It is also pleasing for PCC and the contractors to do additional safety works to last year’s rock fall, while the path is closed.
SUSTAINABLE COASTAL COMMUNITIES
I have been invited to a meeting this week at Saundersfoot Harbour, organised by Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum. The broad idea is to meet as a small representative group and key stakeholders to further consider the increased risks posed to Saundersfoot by climate change / sea level rise and to work together to co-create a plan to ensure Saundersfoot is well prepared and adapted to the increased risks for the future. Pembrokeshire County Council, have provided some great information on predicted sea level rise related to Saundersfoot and other relevant information which formed the basis of a recent community meeting held at the Regency Hall. The main purpose of this meeting was to take that discussion forward, with the climate adaptation tool kit and get input from all key stakeholders – including Saundersfoot community council, Natural Resources Wales, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, The Crown Estate, Pembrokeshire County Council, Saundersfoot Harbour, Hean Castle Estate and a small group of Saundersfoot residents.
FAN ROAD/JUNCTION
Last week Councillor Cormack and I, held a site meeting at various points on Fan Rd and the road heading up to Pentlepoir. We held a very positive meeting where we discussed local residents’ concerns from the recent works to improve access, visibility. Over the last few years, residents have expressed concerns regarding the Railway Bridge access driving down from Pentlepoir and the two plastic bollards to the left hand side of the road. There is also a red strip of tarmac for pedestrians to walk on. Whilst I agree that this was an improvement on years gone by but is still unsatisfactory to the majority of car users driving into the village. Later in the year a priority system will be in place and traffic driving into the village will have to give way to vehicles driving out of the village. This will significantly improve safety and another added bonus will see a far better pedestrian access under the bridge. While these works are being carried out, additional drains will be installed to help, when we do experience torrential downpours. This area under the bridge is renowned for flooding at times. A similar scheme is currently in place in Kilgetty that works very well. Councillor Cormack and I have also asked for the writing on the roads to be replenished and the words slow highlighted for those who aren’t familiar with the area, The shared use path will then have a tactile kerb to assist those visually impaired and will link up the village correctly with Pentlepoir so that a safer route is established. There will also be a taxi bay introduced to assist those being dropped off at the train or being picked up. Currently this ‘pull-in’ is being used by those using the train and leaving their vehicle safely parked up. This will be subject to a traffic order that Councillor Cormack and I fully support. Another talking point is the newly created junction at the entrance of Fan Rd. Many residents have expressed their praise for this but there are still concerns with the visibility looking down the road towards St Issell’s church. The Highways officer agreed with the points raised and stated that they would look to reduce the bank and remove the vegetation to a level that they feel is acceptable.
TOURISM TAX
I am delighted this week to announce that the current cabinet of Pembrokeshire County Council will be ruling out this administration bringing forward a Visitor Levy for Pembrokeshire. I personally feel tourism plays a huge part in the Pembrokeshire economy. Saundersfoot and neighbouring towns and villages heavily rely on tourism and during recent years businesses have experienced change and difficulties. That may be down to the weather or a drop in visitor numbers and we have to make sure tourism is sustainable 12 months of the year. Pembrokeshire is a fantastic place to live and work in and these are challenging times for everyone and an additional tax at the moment wouldn’t support business and local jobs. The three aims of this Welsh Government initiative are – 1. Ensure a more even share of costs to fund local services and infrastructure that benefit visitors between residential populations and visitors. 2. Provide councils with the ability to generate money that can be invested back into local services and infrastructure to support tourism. 3. Support the Welsh Governments ambitions for sustainable tourism.
Whilst I don’t disagree with some of the points, I do feel that if Pembrokeshire had implemented the scheme, tourism would have definitely been affected, with visitors choosing to visit Cornwall, Devon, the Cotswolds and many other UK destinations that currently don’t have a tourism levy. We live in a beautiful part of the world and whether you like it or not, tourism plays a significant role in our lives. I fully support Mr Miller cabinet member for Place, the Region, Climate change and Rural Affairs, as I feel this levy would have a negative effect on Saundersfoot and Pembrokeshire.
JOBS CHASED/COMPLETED
During March I have had numerous reports regarding potholes, man hole covers, blocked drains etc. The potholes on Frances Lane have been completed, and still waiting for a time regarding the remaining jobs. There are still numerous drains blocked around the village and I will chasing these up again shortly. There have been issues with a manhole cover and drain in Ragged Staff. PCC are unsure of what the problem is especially when we have torrential rain. PCC will be carrying out investigation works and will deploy a camera to establish the problem. I must also pass on my gratitude to the PCC team for doing an excellent job at Ragged Staff, resurfacing a large area. The pavement in this vicinity has also been tarmacked and safety/access has vastly improved with the residents being extremely happy with the recent works. I have previously stated my concerns regarding fly tipping at the bottom of Stammers Rd before it joins Brewery Terrace. Residents have had to deal with this for many years and it is often left to local residents to clear up this mess. Whilst on a site visit this last week, the PCC team did some investigational works and found the bins dumped to have come from holiday properties. This site is totally open and within close proximity to the pavement and highway. Whilst PCC fenced off the wheelie bins last year, I still felt this wouldn’t eradicate the problem of opportunist fly tipping. Bags are now either placed on top of the wheelie bins or dumped in the front courtyard. This is unacceptable for the residents and every effort will be made to chase offending holiday homes. The meeting was positive and the need for a fence to screen the property is clearly required. This would make a significant difference, as costs are mounting for PCC to remove waste and generally keep this location free of waste. I am hopeful that we can make changes to improve the current situation for local residents on this street and also keep costs down to PCC, through preventative measures that residents feel is long overdue. Last month I reported dog fouling on the sports field and, unfortunately, another game was held up in March to clear the mess.. The Sports Club will now be putting up signs at the King George V grounds banning dogs from the sports field, this doesn’t include assisted dogs. These fields are used by many children and adults and its now totally unacceptable for dog owners to walk their dogs on the village sports field. During March I was invited to the Hean Inn to celebrate five years of Saundersfoot Connect and I would like to thank them for all their efforts over the years in keeping the community updated on news and many other items. It was great to see Saundersfoot Rotary holding their food bank initiative whist listening to the various artists throughout the afternoon. Councillor Cormack and I are fully aware of recent accidents in the village due to slippery pavements and councillor Cormack has submitted an accident log to PCC. Only last week there was another accident on High Street and we are chasing this up as a matter of urgency with the officers. Our initial concern is for those who have experienced injuries and will follow up any other concerns that come to our attention regarding the black paving slabs. The fence that had fallen over at a property at Brooklands Close, this has been chased up with the team at PCC. Councillor Cormack and I are very keen to see that PCC are looking into the current pavement on the Ridgeway. This is a very busy road in and out of the village and the pavements along this route are in need of works. It’s important that this area of the village has a safer access.
BRYNHIR DEVELOPMENT
PCC would like to provide you with an update on the Brynhir development. A number of ground works and investigations will be carried out on the site over the coming months, ahead of Morgan Construction starting the build in the autumn. Over the next week some of this investigative work will be taking place. Whilst this work is taking place the public rights of way will remain unaffected and all work areas will be appropriately segregated and fenced off as operations progress.
This work includes investigation works focused around assessing the Coal Mining Risks and collecting gas data. PCC will be sending a letter out to the surrounding residents to make them aware of these ongoing works.
VILLAGE WORKS
Works to continue the Multi User Route between the rail station and village have recommenced and the contractor is currently constructing the ramped link between the lower section of the Incline and Incline Way, alongside the ground preparation for the MUR construction between the ramp and Westfield Court. PCC gained the necessary Cadw approvals and ensured a watching brief was undertaken regarding archaeological concerns during the activity. The formation and surface to this section is programmed for completion mid-April.
The highway section to the junction of Westfield Court will then follow, with MUR uncontrolled crossing positions formed and signage to guide users to specific destinations. Surface repair to Brooklands Place has been completed, the final stone dressed layer to be installed in May – again, this will require the contractor to limit access whilst the operation is being completed and PCC apologise for any disruption. This final stone layer being applied to the majority sections of the PRoW sections (different coloured aggregate to the off-road sections)
Other currently programmed construction include a minor junction realignment to the junction access to Incline Way and Bonville’s Close, this being to improve Multi User Route facilities and junction maneuverability for highway traffic. Minor improvements to the verge to Fan Road Station Road junction, aimed to reduce vegetation grow within the visibility splay for the junction. A traffic calming proposal at the road under rail bridge on Station Road near to the rail station access, this will be advanced to construction in the new financial year once designs are checked and civils works procured. PCC are looking to advance initial feasibility review to consider the highway connectivity for traffic and pedestrians along The Ridgeway, whilst continuing to advance other Active Travel corridors following the Public Consultations.
SAUNDERSFOOT PHARMACY
I had a recent catch up with the new partners of the village Pharmacy and discussed how they will cater for the village’s needs regarding the closing of the dispensary unit at Saundersfoot Medical Centre. Saundersfoot pharmacy would like to thank customers for their patience over the past few weeks during the renovation. The work is nearly complete, and they are excited to soon having three consultation rooms available for clinical services. This expansion will also allow the pharmacy to support patients affected by the recent closure of the medical centre’s dispensary. Additionally, one of the rooms will be used by healthcare professionals such as a podiatrist, physiotherapist, and sports therapist, bringing these services directly to the pharmacy.
Saundersfoot pharmacy looks forward to becoming a true healthcare hub for the community.
ROAD CLOSURES
NOTICE is hereby given that Pembrokeshire County Council intend not less than seven days from the date of this Notice, to make Order under Section 14 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended by the Road Traffic (Temporary Restrictions) Act 1991. The proposed Order is necessary to enable a new footpath and upgrade works to the existing footpath to be carried out. The effect of the Order will be to temporarily prohibit all pedestrian traffic other than exempted persons from proceeding along those sections of public footpath SP42/39/1 & SP42/39A/1 at Saundersfoot – from a point at Westfield Court/Road, west along The Incline to a point near Bonville’s Court.
It is intended that the restrictions, which will be signed accordingly, will come into effect on Monday 28th April 2025, and remain in force for a period of approximately 2 months. The alternative route for pedestrians will be determined and signed accordingly as works progress.
TENBY SWIMMING POOL
I recently attended a meeting regarding Tenby Swimming Pool and the concerns of the current state of the building and the current conditions of the pool with other County Councillors and PCC officers. PCC have commissioned surveys to look at expanding the life of this facility for another 10 years and will put any report to the cabinet for their consideration. It was also noted that the current management/staff are all working extremely hard in difficult circumstances and they should rightly be praised for all their efforts in challenging circumstances. I fully support a pool, as the town and surrounding communities, desperately need facilities that match other areas across our county. Tenby holds many sporting events, which brings in tens of thousands of visitors and participants to our county with vast numbers of local residents taking part in many local annual challenges. I feel there needs to be a detailed consultation process with its residents to make sure any future facilities match our expectations.
LITTERPICKS
During March I did three litter picks in three separate locations. It was easy to get out of bed early during March especially after watching Wales in the rugby. This was a great opportunity to clear my head and focus on something positive. The first litter pick was on Sandy Hill Rd, heading up to the main Moreton junction, towards the New Hedges roundabout and back down the opposite side of the road to the nursing home, before returning down Sandy Hill. The second pick was from the top of the Ridgeway, along Fan Rd, up to Pentlepoir and back to the Ridgeway. In both of these locations an incredible 8 bags were filled and many other items such as car parts, wheel trims, etc. The amount at both locations was 34kg. Last Sunday Julie Davies and I, collected rubbish along the Moreton Rd towards the nursing home, from the junction of Hopshill Lane and to the allotment past the Crane Cross recycle center, just past the bridge on Devonshire Drive. This resulted in 15 bags being filled and the weight in total was 83.6kg. I just find it incredible the number of take away packaging and drinks containers which are tossed out of a vehicle’s window. Also concerning is the amount of gels we are now picking up from the side of the road along with beer cans and glass bottles. I know that Sam and Julie do an excellent job centrally in the village as well as covering the beaches. The center of the village has regular litter picks and the beaches are also regularly cleaned. Litter pick equipment is avaiable at Ecoast. Ecoastpembs@aol.com
I would like to support them with having certain routes in and out of the village covered by different individuals who are happy to put their name forward and take responsibility of some of the roads in our community. We have certain roads currently covered on a regular basis and feel that we could link this in with Sam & Julie and the work they are doing for Saundersfoot Wombles. The data is then passed on to Keep Wales Tidy. Currently Errox Hill, and around the St Issells area, Broadfield Hill down to the village, Coedrath down to St Issells church etc. Fan Rd to Pentlepoir are all covered by local residents. There are many other individuals who contribute and it is hoped that we can work out a strategic plan to cover other routes on a regular basis. It is hoped to cover Valley Rd, Hopshill Lane, Frances Lane and Rd down to Coppet Hall. Sardis, Hean Castle down to Coppet Hall, St Brides Lane, Sandy Hill Rd & Stammers Rd. Swallow Tree woods down to the Glen. Please contact Sam, Julie or pass on your details to myself.
COMMUNITY MEETING
A meeting was held on the 17th of March, the purpose of the meeting was to establish whether the community felt there was a need to form a working/events group, working collectively for the village. The meeting was open to Residents, businesses and organisations, for them to express their views and to see if there was a consensus of opinion on how this can move forward. It was great to see roughly 70 individuals turn up and ask questions on how this could potentially work for the village. During the meeting over 20 individuals came forward and there are others who weren’t able to attend or unaware of this meeting. Another meeting has been arranged for the 30th of April, at the Regency Hall, where it is hoped that anyone who missed the last meeting, will now be able to attend. It is hoped that from this next meeting a new committee can be formed working together for the village. The committee will be comprised of representatives from all three groups – residents, organisations and businesses.
EVENTS
Saundersfoot Harbour are busy preparing for the season to start, the boat lift will start soon and they are gearing up for the first event of the year – Oasish supported by the Maniac Street Preachers – a tribute to Knebworth 1996. The tickets are limited so please secure your space by booking early. Rock the Deck – Oasish (Oasis Tribute Band) Tickets, Fri 2 May 2025 at 17:00 | Eventbrite
NYDS – held their presentation evening at Saundersfoot Sailing club on Thursday April 10th. Saundersfoot Festivities would like to thank all the swimmers who registered this year and to those who have handed in their sponsor money. If you haven’t yet contacted us to share your fundraising total, please let us know as soon as possible. We truly appreciate your efforts and look forward to seeing you again in 2026.
The Wednesday Club – are you living with dementia or caring for someone who does? If so, why not join us on a Wednesday for a variety of activities in and around the Saundersfoot & Tenby area. The Wednesday club provides an opportunity for people living with Dementia and their carers, to socialise in a safe and friendly environment. We play board games and boccia or pool, organise walks suited to all abilities, have lunch at local venues and occasionally enjoy a mystery trip. Week 1 – games morning, Week 2 Lunch, Week 3 Walk and talk, Week 4 Get together at the Giltar Tenby. Whether you join us for 1 meeting a month or all, you will be most welcome. If you think you would enjoy some good company, please get in touch. If transport is an issue, please let us know and we can advise you how to access any help available. Email – twcpembs@gmail.com – www.twcpembs.org 07842739059.
SAUNDERSFOOT ROTARY CLUB
Saundersfoot Rotary Club has continued to demonstrate its commitment to the local community through a range of initiatives and charitable activities in recent months. Sponsorship of Wiseman’s Bridge Junior Rowers
In support of local youth sports, the Rotary Club sponsored new apparel for the Wiseman’s Bridge Junior Rowers. This initiative has helped provide the team with high-quality uniforms, boosting team morale and promoting a sense of unity among the rowers. Charity Quiz Night – The Rotary Club hosted a successful charity quiz night, which raised nearly £200. The funds generated from this event will be directed towards local projects and causes, continuing the club’s long-standing tradition of supporting the community through enjoyable and engaging events. Foodbank Collection for Saundersfoot Connect’s 5th Anniversary. In parallel with Saundersfoot Connect’s 5th anniversary celebrations, the Rotary Club organised a highly successful Foodbank Collection. The generous community response resulted in over 130kg of donations, which will support local families in need. Support for The Bridge’s Fundraising Efforts – Saundersfoot Rotary also extended its support to The Bridge’s fundraising efforts for the Wednesday Club. The Wednesday Club is a vital community resource for those living with dementia, and the Rotary Club’s involvement highlights its dedication to enhancing social welfare for all residents.
Beach Clean with ECoast – In support of Sam at ECoast, the Rotary Club took part in a Beach Clean event aimed at keeping Saundersfoot Beach and the surrounding village clean and environmentally sustainable. The event saw a significant amount of rubbish being removed, contributing to the preservation of the local environment for future generations. Through these varied activities, the Saundersfoot Rotary Club continues to play an essential role in supporting local initiatives, promoting environmental sustainability, and fostering a strong sense of community within Saundersfoot
LONG COURSE WEEKEND
PCC and LCW have been working on new maps to Zoom in on Saundersfoot and surrounding boundaries. I feel having the maps specifically tailored for our village, could certainly improve access and more importantly provide local residents & businesses with accessible routes. There will be major changes this year with vastly improved access corridors and Amroth now will be totally accessible, vehicles will be able to access the Saundersfoot, whilst residents in the Glen, Broadfield Hill, Cwm Gwenol will now have access in and out of their properties. Full road closures have been dramatically reduced to just Brewery Terrace, Cambrian Terrace, High Street & St Brides Hill to the second exit of St Brides Spa Hotel and hope that visitor numbers return to the village when the LCW event had an open roads policy. I have included a current map to demonstrate access, however this may be updated with further notices. If there are any further updates on communication and access, I will let you know.
COCKLE PICKERS
I am sure everyone is aware of the cockle/shell pickers descending onto the Glen and Saundersfoot beaches last week. This is far from new and has been happening for many years, however the amount of pickers on mothering Sunday has certainly raised more questions than answers on this subject. Everyone has an opinion on this subject, especially when its estimated that numbers reached between 2 & three hundred. Three factors supported this, it was a beautiful sunny day, it landed on a Sunday, lowest tide for many years and this attracted large family groups to support each other. I would like to thank local residents who have contacted me on this subject. It has been an exceptionally busy period last week in which I had made contact with the following organisations – Fisheries Department, Dyfed Powys Police, Hean Castle Estate, PCC Highways team and Saundersfoot Harbour regarding the issues raised. The Fisheries Department are well aware of the low tide and were in attendance in Saundersfoot last Sunday and other days relating to the exceptionally low tides. The message is very clear and is the same as previous messages over the last two years. “ from a fisheries perspective, I can confirm we had a presence in Saundersfoot last weekend. Whilst large number of, mostly families, were noted, NO fisheries offences were noted by officers. The Fisheries department also informed me that they do maintain a presence at irregular times in the area. Whilst on some days we had some larger numbers of people, each bucket/container we inspected was fully compliant with both size and quantity of shellfish, generally the persons who caused the most complaints (those of East Asian origin) prefer Razor, Mussels and Clams to Cockles so I can count on one hand those that were actually gathering Cockles. Asian groups do generally attend in (often family) groups for a day out on the beach, and as is traditional, they pick food for a meal later on. This is not illegal. Another point I have raised previously is the inconvenience to the residents at the Glen. Last Tuesday at 2am, there were roughly 60 cockle pickers who descended at low tide onto the Glen beach. This is totally unacceptable as picking cockles after dusk is illegal. There is also a total disregard to the residents at this time of the morning as they are oblivious to the noise they are making, slamming doors, all with torches and carrying on with their conversations. When the residents get up at the Glen they then find litter and other issues. During last week cars were parked everywhere, partially blocking driveways, parking fully on the pavement and blocking rights of way. The concern is that safe access was totally blocked onto the Glen that prevented those with mobility issues to safely navigate to the Glen. I did contact PCC Enforcement team to call at this location and to continue to monitor. Eleven cars were appropriately booked on one day but I feel this isn’t a deterrent, looking at the quality of the cars and private registration plates, especially as they are harvesting free food off the beaches. I have spoken to many agencies and we all think a collective meeting would be beneficial, however we all fully understand that there would need to be changes in the bye laws to make any significant difference. What we can do is try to have better communication and be fully aware especially during low tides but also supporting the residents of the Glen. I do feel PCC could look at preventative measures, to stop the illegal parking by possibly introducing bollards on the pavement edge, to prevent parking and stricter enforcement on those who prevent access or make it difficult getting in and out of their properties. It has also been stated by residents, if there was a need for an emergency vehicle like a fire engine, it would be impossible to access many of the properties.
What many residents and I would like to know, is this having a detrimental effect on the cockles, razor clams & mussels? Is the bio diversity affected if one of two of these is over fished and how often do stocks quickly replenish. There are many questions which have been raised and I simply don’t know the answers, I will be speaking to NRW – Natural Resources Wales at a meeting at Saundersfoot Harbour on 7th of April so I will also be inviting them for a further meeting with other agencies. I stated back in 2023 that there should be signage as the majority of residents do not understand the rules/bylaws. I also feel that this can be placed at the Glen beach highlighting the bylaws and what’s permitted, this would have to comply with Fisheries Legislation. Unfortunately, this hasn’t happened for many reasons and hopefully that can be discussed at a future meeting, on who takes responsibility for this signage.
I urge anyone who has concerns to contact the Fisheries Department on fisheries-intel@gov.wales – Tel 0300 250719 Or ring Dyfed Powys Police on 101.
Cllr Chris Williams
Saundersfoot South