An official application for a popular Haverfordwest record store and bar has been given the go-ahead by Pembrokeshire planners after it was previously overlooked despite being licensed by the council.

In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Malcolm Herbert of Core of the Poodle sought permission for a retrospective change of use of 26 Market Street, Haverfordwest, in line with the mixed used of the commercial property for retail (record shop) and as a cafe/bar.

Core of the Poodle, owned by Malcolm and his wife Cheryl, who were inspired to open the shop after visiting the former AW Jazz shop to look for records, opened in April 2021, and has since proved popular among residents.

As well as selling records, the shop also brews its own beer and sells drinks from independent breweries.

A Premises License was granted in 2021, without objections, and limited trading has taken place since March 2023; a recent application for variation of that licence also approved, which highlighted the current planning use class as being incorrect.

“This wasn’t picked up by the applicants or during the initial licence approval process in 2021,” a supporting statement says, adding: “This application is ensure the correct use class is in place for the current activity and to ensure renovation works on the previously derelict area are documented.”

It added: “This was an oversight on our part during the initial licence application but wasn’t picked up and have successfully traded as a mixed retail (record shop) and bar since 2022. Since acquiring the building we’ve done a significant amount of renovation, in particular to the derelict area of the site to the rear. This work continues but is in use as the Market Tavern since September 12.

“The aim was to build a social space to complement other licenced and retail premises at the ‘top of town’ on Market Street and towards St Thomas’ Green, however with the closure of The Pembroke Yeoman and The Georges, the value of the venue to the local community has increased.”

An officer report recommending approval said: “The use of the application site for A3 use would not allow for any issues over overlooking or impact on neighbouring amenity,” adding: “Furthermore, the Public Protection Division has not raised any objection to the proposal noting that no complaints have been received in terms of the usage, for which is located centrally within Haverfordwest.”

The application was conditionally approved.