A review of the revamp of the centre of Saundersfoot continues to take place, with one local county councillor for the seaside village highlighting his concerns about the proposed improvements for Cambrian Terrace put forward by the Local Authority.

Access improvements for Saundersfoot have been under the spotlight recently, with Pembrokeshire County Council carrying out consultations. Cllr Chris Williams though has stated his priorty has always been on putting an emphasise on the importance of accessibility over café culture and the need to retain much needed parking bays in the heart of the village.

“This month I have held two further meetings on this issue, and I am pleased to report that we are now moving towards a more balanced and appropriate solution for Cambrian Terrace,” he said.

“I have engaged with numerous business owners, property holders, and residents, all of whom were willing to discuss the proposals.

“Their feedback consistently emphasised the importance of maintaining some level of parking provision while also supporting an extended active travel link that connects smoothly onto the Strand.

“Recent discussions have established that the existing parking spaces will be relocated to the opposite side of the road. There will be four spaces in total, a slight reduction from the current five plus the loading bay.”

Speaking on aspects of the proposals, Cllr Williams’ view was that the initial design did not enhance the character of the area, and that the proposed active travel link would detract from the visual look of this prominent location in front of the old Cambrian Hotel; with a suggestion of using black-and-white kerbs fixed to the road surface, alongside a differently coloured active travel route, he felt was not in keeping with the central village environment.

“I also noted that last year’s consultation strongly supported retaining parking in this vicinity, and it is important that any development proposals reflect the outcomes of that consultation,” continued Cllr Williams.

“A timed loading bay that can operate flexibly, supporting loading, short-stay parking, and disabled parking, would provide practical benefits for local businesses that rely heavily on accessible parking for customers.”

Cllr Williams said that he is now awaiting to see visual plans that will show the revised layout in more detail.

There is also potential for Cambrian Terrace to benefit during future reallocation of highway space (or closed-road) events in the village, such as Ironman Wales and the Saundersfoot Triathlon.

“During such events, this area could be transformed into a enable licensed areas within the highway, subject to PCC review and agreement, for businesses to expand into the areas adjacent to their premises, contributing to the atmosphere of the village and providing a welcome boost for local businesses,” he explained.

“Further meetings are scheduled in the coming weeks, and it is important that the proposed plans continue to be shared with residents and businesses.

“I will continue to work closely with PCC, businesses, and residents to ensure that the final scheme is both practical and in keeping with the character of the village.”