Developers behind the restoration and regeneration of St Catherine’s Island and Fort will bring the historic Tenby landmark ‘back to life’ after planning conditions were set out allowing the project to progress.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority has confirmed that permission has now been granted for the carrying out of the development in accordance with the application and plans submitted subject to the conditions set out, after members of the authority’s development management committee agreed back in May that the application be approved.

The plans will see the provision of new buildings to provide supporting facilities/services, and the improvement of access to and on the island, to turn it into a visitor attraction.

Applicant Pete Prosser this week gave the Observer an update on the progress now being made on the island and what it means to the developers and locals and visitors alike, to be able to experience the Island itself.

“After so many years of hard work planning and headaches, we are loving sharing St Catherine’s Island with all the visitors,” he said.

“On a wonderful trip to the top of St. Mary’s Church Tower during the church fete we could see St. Catherine’s so close to the heart of Tenby. So integral and yet closed for 35 years, it is a huge step to be open again.

“It’s great to see people from all around the world enthused and excited climbing the stairs to take in the views and see for themselves the island and fort.

“Our guides bring to life the history and events and some of our visitors have been treated to see porpoises, seals and even sea bass swimming around the island.

“Looking down into the aqua marine sea gives us glimpses into the fantastic environment around the island then as the tide goes out our visitors are loving exploring the caves and finding anemones, sea sponges and crabs that are so abundant,” continued Mr. Prosser.

On visiting St. Catherine’s, you can see the anti-aircraft gun platform that protected Tenby in World War II and then wander up the island to see inside the palmerston fort.

“This imposing building with its bold exterior is now coming back to life with laughter and fun,” explained Mr. Prosser, who wished to thank all their visitors for ringing the bell in the well with their donations and raising £280 pounds in the process for Grace Girls Home Nepal.

The Tenby Island team have also teamed up with local film aficionados ‘Rooms With A View’ for their next big event, on September 9 and 10, where the island will be hosting amazing old school cinema evenings, with a screening of ‘Escape From Alcatraz’ planned.

Visit www.roomswithaview.wales for further info on the film nights and the Tenby Island Facebook page for up to date times of when you can access the island (or currently as the tide recedes in the day and you see the Welsh flag flying you can access the island).