Concerns about future coastal erosion of the seaside village of Saundersfoot, continue to be discussed by local councillors, authorities and organisations, with a concerted effort being made to be proactive in raising awareness and to promote greater community engagement on what has been called a ‘critical’ issue.

Over the past couple of years, Saundersfoot Community Council has hosted ‘Sustainable Coastal Communities’ public meetings in collaboration with Pembrokeshire County Council, to outline the challenges the seaside village will face in the future and to consider what actions may be possible to combat rising sea levels.

Last month, county councillor for Saundersfoot’s south ward, Cllr Chris Williams attended a meeting at Saundersfoot Harbour to discuss the impacts of climate change on the area.

The meeting was highly productive, with representation from Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC), Natural Resources Wales (NRW), the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority (PCNPA), Saundersfoot Harbour, Hean Castle Estate, Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum, local landowners, residents, and business owners from the Strand all in attendance.

“The primary focus was to address ongoing concerns about climate change and rising sea levels,” remarked Cllr Williams.

“A key issue raised was the increasing frequency of rock falls between Coppet Hall and Wiseman’s Bridge that has become more severe in recent years.”

Work continues to re-open the coastal path known as the Tramway, which connects neighbouring seaside villages Saundersfoot and Wisemans Bridge which was closed once again in January after a number of further substantial landslips occurred.

One of the main outcomes of discussions at the meeting was the proposal to develop and share a Saundersfoot Flood Risk Management Plan.

“The aim is to raise awareness and promote greater community engagement on these critical issues. While short-term measures such as reinforcing the shingle bank were discussed, there was a consensus that climate resilience must be a collective effort involving the entire community – not just the residents and businesses of the Strand.”

Pembrokeshire County Council has collated and produced information relating specifically to Saundersfoot, titled ‘Sustainable Coastal Communities’ - concluding that there is a need for change led by the community.

“The council also clarified that, as the land in question is privately owned, it cannot intervene directly but will provide support when requested,” continued Cllr Williams.

Tourism was also highlighted as a key part of the local economy, with the Strand playing a vital role in supporting this sector.

Feedback from residents emphasized the need to balance short-term actions with long-term planning—potentially looking at many years ahead.

“We also discussed the importance of improved shingle bank management and the need to clarify permissions and responsibilities, especially with regard to private landowners,” explained Cllr Williams.

“Another key priority is the development of a flood risk plan to identify vulnerable areas and individuals who would need support during extreme weather events.”

A follow-up meeting has now been scheduled to continue discussions, with Cllr Williams promising to share the outcomes of the meetings, and ensuring the local community’s involvement in the next phase of this work.