Latest news with #SaundersfootCommunityCouncil
Wales Online
2 days ago
- Business
- Wales Online
Plans for pirate bar in seaside village to be refused
Plans for pirate bar in seaside village to be refused A decision is due on the rum bar plans for the Coastal Schooner interpretation centre in Saundersfoot as the proposals are recommended for refusal The Coastal Schooner in Saundersfoot Harbour. (Image: Local Democracy Reporting Service ) Plans for a pirate-themed bar at a family venue in a Pembrokeshire seaside village, which was partly built to reflect its coal heritage, are likely to be rejected next week. Jonathan Thomas of 'Schooner' has applied for permission to convert the Coastal Schooner interpretation centre in Saundersfoot Harbour into a rum-themed bar. The application is being considered by committee members rather than planning officers as it was called in by a member of the authority. The schooner – a key feature on the village's National Events Deck – was constructed to highlight Saundersfoot's maritime heritage and is part of the £10m Wales Coastal Centre project. The building replicates a traditional coastal schooner vessel that operated from the harbour during the coal mining era to transport coal from Saundersfoot. The interpretation centre closed in October 2024, and the proposed rum bar would operate from 11am-11pm. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here . The plans to establish the pirate and rum-themed bar with a terrace on the boat have upset villagers who are already frustrated at unsuccessful attempts to make the project commercially viable. Saundersfoot Community Council and Saundersfoot South county councillor Chris Williams have expressed their objections to the plans. Councillor Williams has previously stated: "My principal concern now lies with the proposed change of use. "I strongly believe that if this had been the original application, it would never have been approved in this location. Article continues below "To allow such a transformation through a change of use application undermines the original planning process and sets a concerning precedent. "It's disappointing that in the past few years, nothing has ever proved viable at the schooner. I just wish there had been more interaction with the community, because I feel that residents should be at the heart of all developments in the village. "The pursuit of commercial viability must not come at the cost of appropriateness and respect for the site's character as a busy working harbour." Saundersfoot Community Council objected to the scheme on the basis, saying the proposal as a rum bar "raises concerns in this location and is considered to be at odds with the current family venue and heritage elements". A supporting statement accompanying the application says: "The maritime theme will be maintained as the bar will include a small-scale rum distillery and will focus on the Martine history associated with rum and tell the tales of local pirates. "The Schooner operated as an interpretation centre and high ropes offer for a year from October 2023 to October 2024. However, it has proved not to be a viable option to run the Schooner as an interpretation centre alone and an additional use is sought to maintain the interpretation element of the Schooner. "The High Ropes offer proved to be an unviable option to retain going forward." The proposal aims to transform the site into a mixed-use interpretation centre and bar, drawing inspiration from the Rum Story in Whitehaven Harbour, albeit on a smaller scale. According to the plans: "The proposal will allow for the Schooner to be maintained and be freely open to the public thus protecting and enhancing the community facilities to meet the needs of local people and visitors alike. Article continues below "The proposal would also sustain the future of the interpretation element of the Schooner which in turn will protect and enhance the harbour, which is one of the key attractions in Pembrokeshire." However, an officer's report has recommended refusal, citing that the scheme falls outside the defined retail area of the seaside village and may negatively impact the local amenity, particularly for nearby residents.
Pembrokeshire Herald
09-06-2025
- Business
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Milford Haven hotel earns top green award
A CALL to turn a vacant unit at a Pembrokeshire seaside village's flagship marine centre of excellence into a high-quality seafood restaurant has been given the go-ahead by the national park. In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Red Roses-based Rhianwen Lane of Catch Cymru sought permission for a change of use of Unit 21, Marine Centre of Excellence, Saundersfoot Harbour, Saundersfoot to a food and drink establishment with indoor seating and a takeaway. The proposal was supported by Saundersfoot Community Council. A supporting statement with the application said: 'Catch Cymru is an established, independent seafood business based in Carmarthen, with a strong reputation for high-quality takeaway seafood. 'As a result of the success and demand for our current operation, we are now looking to expand by opening a second restaurant in Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire. 'Our aim for this new shop is not only to replicate our successful takeaway model but also to enhance the customer experience by providing a unique, seaside dining experience that will appeal to both locals and tourists alike. 'In addition to our existing offerings of fried fish and chips, the Saundersfoot restaurant will offer a broader menu, including seasonal grilled and barbequed fish, fresh salads, and a variety of side dishes to cater to a wider demographic, to include halloumi fries, corn on the cob etc. 'This expansion will also allow us to continue our popular takeaway service while providing a casual dine-in atmosphere with a drinks menu that features locally sourced beers and IPAs.' The application says a key feature of the menu at the dog-friendly restaurant will be 'Catch of the Day' specials, 'based on the freshest seafood available from the local harbour,' giving customers 'a unique experience and encourage repeat visits knowing that we support local fishermen'. It also plans to host live music events from local artists on selected weekends, especially during peak season and bank holidays to 'help create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that encourages customers to linger, enjoy their food and drinks, but most importantly return for more'. An officer report recommending approval said the change of use of an existing chandlery from A1(Shop) to A3 (Food & Drink) 'will ensure that the vacant unit within the Marine Centre of Excellence is brought back into use and positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour'. The Marine Centre of Excellence was given planning consent in 2016, subject to a condition which restricts the available retail floor space and its use. The report says a viability statement from the Saundersfoot Harbour Authority' detailed how the unit was no longer viable for A1/A2 use and that an A3 use would provide vitality and vibrancy to the harbourside location'. It finished: 'The proposed development will have no adverse impact on the special qualities of the National Park and will positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour. 'A seafood business would fit within the character of the seafront at the Marine Centre of Excellence and will bring a vacant unviable retail unit back into use providing a benefit to the community and local economy.' The application was conditionally approved by park planners.
Pembrokeshire Herald
08-06-2025
- Business
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Restaurant at ‘flagship' Saundersfoot harbour approved
A CALL to turn a vacant unit at a Pembrokeshire seaside village's flagship marine centre of excellence into a high-quality seafood restaurant has been given the go-ahead by the national park. In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Red Roses-based Rhianwen Lane of Catch Cymru sought permission for a change of use of Unit 21, Marine Centre of Excellence, Saundersfoot Harbour, Saundersfoot to a food and drink establishment with indoor seating and a takeaway. The proposal was supported by Saundersfoot Community Council. A supporting statement with the application said: 'Catch Cymru is an established, independent seafood business based in Carmarthen, with a strong reputation for high-quality takeaway seafood. 'As a result of the success and demand for our current operation, we are now looking to expand by opening a second restaurant in Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire. 'Our aim for this new shop is not only to replicate our successful takeaway model but also to enhance the customer experience by providing a unique, seaside dining experience that will appeal to both locals and tourists alike. 'In addition to our existing offerings of fried fish and chips, the Saundersfoot restaurant will offer a broader menu, including seasonal grilled and barbequed fish, fresh salads, and a variety of side dishes to cater to a wider demographic, to include halloumi fries, corn on the cob etc. 'This expansion will also allow us to continue our popular takeaway service while providing a casual dine-in atmosphere with a drinks menu that features locally sourced beers and IPAs.' The application says a key feature of the menu at the dog-friendly restaurant will be 'Catch of the Day' specials, 'based on the freshest seafood available from the local harbour,' giving customers 'a unique experience and encourage repeat visits knowing that we support local fishermen'. It also plans to host live music events from local artists on selected weekends, especially during peak season and bank holidays to 'help create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that encourages customers to linger, enjoy their food and drinks, but most importantly return for more'. An officer report recommending approval said the change of use of an existing chandlery from A1(Shop) to A3 (Food & Drink) 'will ensure that the vacant unit within the Marine Centre of Excellence is brought back into use and positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour'. The Marine Centre of Excellence was given planning consent in 2016, subject to a condition which restricts the available retail floor space and its use. The report says a viability statement from the Saundersfoot Harbour Authority' detailed how the unit was no longer viable for A1/A2 use and that an A3 use would provide vitality and vibrancy to the harbourside location'. It finished: 'The proposed development will have no adverse impact on the special qualities of the National Park and will positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour. 'A seafood business would fit within the character of the seafront at the Marine Centre of Excellence and will bring a vacant unviable retail unit back into use providing a benefit to the community and local economy.' The application was conditionally approved by park planners.
Wales Online
07-06-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
Plan for seafood restaurant near top Welsh beach approved
Plan for seafood restaurant near top Welsh beach approved A new seafood restaurant is set to open in a Pembrokeshire seaside village after the planners gave the go-ahead Saundersfoot Harbour (Image: John Myers ) A proposal to transform a vacant unit at Pembrokeshire's flagship Marine Centre of Excellence into a high-quality seafood restaurant has been approved by the national park. Rhianwen Lane of Catch Cymru, based in Red Roses, submitted an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for a change of use of Unit 21, Saundersfoot Harbour, Saundersfoot, to a food and drink establishment with indoor seating and takeaway facilities. The plan received backing from Saundersfoot Community Council. A supporting statement said: "Catch Cymru is an established independent seafood business based in Carmarthen with a strong reputation for high-quality takeaway seafood. "As a result of the success and demand for our current operation we are now looking to expand by opening a second restaurant in Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire. "Our aim for this new shop is not only to replicate our successful takeaway model but also to enhance the customer experience by providing a unique seaside dining experience that will appeal to both locals and tourists alike. "In addition to our existing offerings of fried fish and chips the Saundersfoot restaurant will offer a broader menu, including seasonal grilled and barbecued fish, fresh salads, and a variety of side dishes to cater to a wider demographic to include halloumi fries, corn on the cob etc. Article continues below "This expansion will also allow us to continue our popular takeaway service while providing a casual dine-in atmosphere with a drinks menu that features locally-sourced beers and IPAs." For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here. The application says that a standout selection on the dog-friendly eatery's menu will be 'catch of the day' specials "based on the freshest seafood available from the local harbour" designed to offer patrons "a unique experience and encourage repeat visits knowing that we support local fishermen". The venue aims to introduce live music sets from local talent on select weekends, especially in high season and bank holidays, to "help create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that encourages customers to linger, enjoy their food and drinks, but most importantly return for more". An officer's report endorsing the project explained that the proposed alteration of an existing chandlery from A1 (shop) to A3 (food and drink) "will ensure that the vacant unit within the Marine Centre of Excellence is brought back into use and positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour". Previously granted planning permission in 2016, the Marine Centre of Excellence has been subject to conditions limiting retail space and its function. The document includes a viability statement from Saundersfoot Harbour Authority which "detailed how the unit was no longer viable for A1/A2 use and that an A3 use would add life and energy to this prime waterfront setting". The statement concluded: "The proposed development will have no adverse impact on the special qualities of the national park and will positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour. "A seafood business would fit within the character of the seafront at the Marine Centre of Excellence and will bring a vacant unviable retail unit back into use providing a benefit to the community and local economy." Park planners gave conditional approval to the application. Article continues below Get daily breaking news updates on your phone by joining our WhatsApp community here. We occasionally treat members to special offers, promotions and ads from us and our partners. See our Privacy Notice.
Western Telegraph
07-06-2025
- Business
- Western Telegraph
Restaurant at 'flagship' Saundersfoot harbour approved
In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Red Roses-based Rhianwen Lane of Catch Cymru sought permission for a change of use of Unit 21, Marine Centre of Excellence, Saundersfoot Harbour, Saundersfoot to a food and drink establishment with indoor seating and a takeaway. The proposal was supported by Saundersfoot Community Council. A supporting statement with the application said: 'Catch Cymru is an established, independent seafood business based in Carmarthen, with a strong reputation for high-quality takeaway seafood. 'As a result of the success and demand for our current operation, we are now looking to expand by opening a second restaurant in Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire. 'Our aim for this new shop is not only to replicate our successful takeaway model but also to enhance the customer experience by providing a unique, seaside dining experience that will appeal to both locals and tourists alike. 'In addition to our existing offerings of fried fish and chips, the Saundersfoot restaurant will offer a broader menu, including seasonal grilled and barbequed fish, fresh salads, and a variety of side dishes to cater to a wider demographic, to include halloumi fries, corn on the cob etc. 'This expansion will also allow us to continue our popular takeaway service while providing a casual dine-in atmosphere with a drinks menu that features locally sourced beers and IPAs.' The application says a key feature of the menu at the dog-friendly restaurant will be 'Catch of the Day' specials, 'based on the freshest seafood available from the local harbour,' giving customers 'a unique experience and encourage repeat visits knowing that we support local fishermen'. It also plans to host live music events from local artists on selected weekends, especially during peak season and bank holidays to 'help create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere that encourages customers to linger, enjoy their food and drinks, but most importantly return for more'. An officer report recommending approval said the change of use of an existing chandlery from A1(Shop) to A3 (Food & Drink) 'will ensure that the vacant unit within the Marine Centre of Excellence is brought back into use and positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour'. The Marine Centre of Excellence was given planning consent in 2016, subject to a condition which restricts the available retail floor space and its use. The report says a viability statement from the Saundersfoot Harbour Authority' detailed how the unit was no longer viable for A1/A2 use and that an A3 use would provide vitality and vibrancy to the harbourside location'. It finished: 'The proposed development will have no adverse impact on the special qualities of the National Park and will positively contribute to the character of Saundersfoot Harbour. 'A seafood business would fit within the character of the seafront at the Marine Centre of Excellence and will bring a vacant unviable retail unit back into use providing a benefit to the community and local economy.' The application was conditionally approved by park planners.
