Pembrokeshire County Council has stated that it is ‘exploring the future’ of Tenby’s historic market hall - with any plans for the facility currently at a feasibility stage.

The Local Authority has come in for strong criticism in recent times from traders at the market and local councillors, for neglecting the building which sits within the walled town.

Traders that operate their businesses at the Pembrokeshire Council owned premises, have also voiced concerns about being ‘kept in the dark’ by council offcers, over approved plans to turn the former TP Hughes department store next door into a luxury spa hotel, restaurant and café, which could see parts of the market hall impacted.

A spokesperson for PCC said today (February 6): “We are really excited to have held a positive interactive consultation session with the traders of Tenby Market Hall yesterday (February 5), marking the first step in exploring the future of the market offering.

“This will be followed by a public drop-in consultation and engagement session, giving residents, businesses and key stakeholders the chance to share their views.

“The event will take place on Wednesday 18th of February, with final details to be confirmed shortly.

“At this stage, we are working closely with traders to understand their views on the opportunities, challenges, and aspirations.

“The future plans of the market hall are currently at feasibility stage, with architects commissioned to explore options. No final decisions have been made, and it’s important to note that no funding has been secured for any development at this time.

“PCC are committed to consulting on these important town centre projects, and your input is an important part of this process. We look forward to continuing the conversation,” they added.

Towards the end of last year, County councillor for the seaside town’s north ward Cllr Michael Williams contacted PCC’s Deputy Leader, Paul Miller asking for an update on plans to carry out improvements and repairs to the historic market hall, after continued reports of rainwater pouring through sections of the roof and worryingly running down the light fittings in the building - only to be told that there was ‘no available quick fix’.

“The way these tenants have been treated is truly appalling,” remarked Cllr Williams at the time.

“I have asked for meetings with the tenants and been informed that this was ‘Premature’. I have also asked for details of any agreements reached with the developers next door and received nothing.

“I have also shown the CEO the conditions prevailing in the market over two years ago, it is now far worse, and nothing has changed.

“Frankly I absolutely despair. The way the authority has treated the tenants is an absolute disgrace, and nobody appears to listen, after years of neglect.

“This is but one example of what appears to be the almost complete abandonment of Tenby by this authority and enough is enough,” he added.