A Pembrokeshire Council call for a new access to Haverfordwest’s castle as part of a wider ‘levelling-up’ scheme to rejuvenate the county town has been backed by its planners.

Pembrokeshire County Council, through agent Asbri Planning, sought approval for the construction of a new access gate, steps and associated works at Castle Back, Haverfordwest.

A supporting statement said: “The development proposed forms part of the wider Haverfordwest Castle Square, Castle Link & Wayfinding Project, which comprised the design and construction of a series of enhancement and drainage improvement works to Castle Square and Castle Link (Castle Back steps etc) hard landscaping/public realm, combined with dedicated wayfinding provisions to guide people from across the town (including the train station, transport hub and other locations) towards the castle.

“The application seeks full planning permission for the works to the rear of the building known as the Old Print Room, Castle Back, Haverfordwest and relates to the demolition of the existing gate piers and archway together with the removal of the palisade fencing which form the current gate.

“The above will be replaced with a new stone gate piers which will interface with existing boundary wall and building to create a 1,900mm opening which will accommodate a 2,100mm steel galvanised powder coated gate which will be Umbra Grey in colour (RAL 7022) as well as the construction of three new access steps which replace the existing steps from Castle Back into the site.”

An officer report recommending approval said: “The proposed construction of new access gate, steps and associated works, will all be external alterations, repair and enhancement of a derelict connective route between the town centre and castle.

“The alterations are in keeping with the traditional characteristics and matches the existing character of the site and is therefore acceptable.”

The application was conditionally approved.