Restoration of the Medieval fishponds at Manorbier Castle was first discussed at a public meeting organised by the community council in 1999. It was deemed most desirable as a new millennium objective. Shortly afterwards, a working party was established and the group have been meeting regularly since.
Much has been accomplished. It was agreed at the outset that the brief should be 'to investigate the extent and nature of the original fishponds, to reinstate them as faithfully as possible and to provide safe public access'. As it became clear that the fishponds could not be looked at in isolation, given the nature of the location, the brief was widened to include the dovecote and watermill ruins close by.
Support for the scheme was sought and gained from the landowners, the tenants, the county council and the National Park. Subsequently permissions and support have been gained from the utilities and other relevant bodies including the environmental agencies. The chairman of the National Park indicated that the authority wished to be fully involved in the scheme and would support its progress and delivery. This gave a real fillip to the group members which has helped drive the project forward.
An archaeological team from Trinity College, Carmarthen, carried out a fieldwork project in Manorbier in July, at the invitation of the group. Twenty students and staff from Trinity College's archaeology department were led by Dr. Trevor Kirk and Dr. Howard Williams. The team has also undertaken graveyard and church exterior surveys at the church of St. James, which is featured in the same medieval landscape. A great deal of work was completed in the time available and the team's report will be produced once all the data had been analysed.
When that report has been received the next stage will be to secure funding for a feasibility study. Thereafter funding for the complete project will be sought. It is envisaged that the scheme will include restoration of the fishponds, remedial work to the dovecote and the ruins of the mill made safe. In addition, footpaths will be provided and interpretation boards erected to enable the area to be enjoyed by both the community and visitors, young and old alike.
Regular updates on progress are provided for the community with articles in the local press and in the community newsletters. Last August (2001) there was a small exhibition at the annual meeting and this year the plan is more ambitious with photographs, maps, plans and information to be displayed in the Manorbier Parish Hall on August 30. The display will include a replica Tithe Map (following the Tithe Commutation Act 1836) along with the schedule, plus replicas of all the relevant Census returns from 1841 to 1901. Guided tours of the site will also be featured.