A local county councillor has voiced significant concerns impacting both his constituency and the neighbouring areas of Tenby - asking how much longer will the south east of Pembrokeshire continue to be overlooked by the Local Authority.
Despite not representing Tenby South or Tenby North directly, many issues raised by constituents in the wards of Cllr Rhys Jordan, county councillor for St Mary Out Liberty (New Hedges) and St Florence wards, are closely related to Tenby-based issues, Cllr Jordan told the Observer, when highlighting his concerns.
Local councillors have long labelled Tenby (known as the ‘jewel in the crown’ for Pembrokeshire) as a ‘cash cow’ for the County Council, but have heavily criticised the Local Authority for not making enough investment in the seaside town’s infrastructure.
After the recent heavy rain and storms, Cllr Jordan has raised concerns over the persistent flooding at Gumfreston causeway, one of the main routes in and out of Tenby, in a list of issues that need addressing.
“The causeway, a vital artery into Tenby from the west and part of the National Express London route, suffers from constant flooding,” said Cllr Jordan.
“Installed flood warning signs are frequently faulty, failing to alert drivers in time.
“This issue disrupts major school routes to Ysgol Hafan Y Mor, Tenby VC, St Teilo’s, Ysgol Preseli, and Greenhill schools - often leaving young people stranded in poor weather.”
Cllr Jordan has also called for better and safer walking routes to Tenby from the village of St Florence where tourists attractions such as ‘Heatherton World of Activities’ and ‘Manor Wildlife Park’ are situated.
“The lack of safe pedestrian paths prevents young people from walking to school and inhibits access to four major attractions between Gumfreston and St Florence,” continued Cllr Jordan.
“Additionally, inadequate lighting on the main road from New Hedges to Tenby poses safety risks for residents walking after dark in winter months.”
Cllr Jordan has also called for major improvements to Tenby’s ‘neglected’ multi-story car park.
“Tenby’s multi-story car park - the busiest in the county - is in dire need of investment. Its narrow spaces and poor design render it unfit for purpose, especially compared to the planned £22 million new transport interchange in Haverfordwest, where usage has historically been low,” he remarked.
“This neglect is a disservice to the residents of south east Pembrokeshire.”
Cllr Jordan has also questioned how long Tenby’s Pembrokeshire County Council run leisure centre ‘aging and at risk’ swimming pool, can continue to function.
“The 50-year-old swimming pool, heavily utilised by residents and visitors, is in a precarious state! How much longer can this vital community asset continue to function with such little investment?
“In summary, these issues raise a critical question - how much longer will the south east of Pembrokeshire continue to be overlooked by the County Council?” added Cllr Jordan.