Accompanying the application for a new lifeboat house and slipway was another application from the RNLI to demolish the existing grade II listed boathouse, which Mrs. Milner admitted had been "something of a surprise" to Park planning officers.

She felt that the existing slipway, built in 1905, was a "building of great cultural and visual importance" and was "synonymous with the town" and considered that, contrary to both Planning Guidance Wales, and the Park's own policies, the RNLI had given "no justification whatsoever for the demolition of this most important listed building."

"After years of discussion with the RNLI, this application was rather unexpected," she said. "However, we are rather surprised that we have received no objections to the proposal to date."

Park officers felt that the RNLI had given no consideration to possible alternative uses for the building and recommended the application be refused.

"There is a need to explore all other options for alternative use before demolition should be considered," she stressed.

"By not considering alternative uses, the RNLI have not met the criteria of planning policies and a refusal may help to concentrate their minds on other uses."

However, Clr Tom Sinclair noted that not all consultees had replied and felt that the matter should be deferred.

"I am loathe to refuse the demolition of this building without all the information," he said.

He felt that whoever ended up with ownership of the old boathouse "could have a liability on their hands," and wondered what the outcome would be in a 'worse case scenario' if the building was not maintained in good condition.

"It could become derelict, then an eyesore and then a danger," he commented. "I would hate to see that happen."

Mr. Griffiths reiterated that the RNLI had appeared to have done little to find an alternative use and until all those processes had been gone through, approval for demolition of the old building would be premature.

"A number of things have been thrown around," he said. "A low water landing stage, an RNLI museum, a sea food restaurant and an RNLI shop and training room - which could help to reduce the scale of the proposed new lifeboat station.

"None of these have been considered. It just appears that the RNLI have said 'we don't want it anymore, get rid of it'."

While he appreciated that all alternative uses needed consideration, Clr. Sinclair reiterated his concerns that the old lifeboat station could become an eyesore.

"I would hate to see Tenby with a dangerous structure that no-one accepts responsibility for," he said. "The RNLI are prepared to pay for its demolition."

Mr. Griffiths pointed out that, it would be unlikely that, even if permission was granted in September, the new lifeboat station would be operational until at least 2004.

"There is no rush to demolish the present lifeboat station," he stressed. "We have a lot of time to talk about it and get it right. If, at the end of the day, we can find no alternative use, then consideration can be given to its demolition.

"This application is premature."

Members agreed to refused the application.