Plans to redevelop a caravan site in New Hedges, to create “a notably higher quality” facility with a move towards static vans which will actually see less pitches have been approved by the National Park.

In an application recommended for approval at the July 9 meeting of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority’s development management committee, Hean Castle Estate sought permission for the redevelopment and extension of the existing Rowston Holiday Park, New Hedges [the ward of St Mary Out Liberty], on the outskirts of Tenby.

Alongside Rowston, Hean Castle Estate owns and manages land and property locally, including nearby Scar Farm Holiday Park and Coppet Hall Beach Centre, situated in the neighbouring village of Saundersfoot, as well as agricultural, forestry and residential properties.

The proposals will see the actual number of holiday accommodation pitches at Rowston decrease from 225 to 187, “while making significant environmental enhancements to landscaping, visual effects, biodiversity and the highway network,” the applicants say.

A supporting statement through agent Lichfields stated: “Substantial investment will be made by Hean Castle Estate that will result in the removal of dense and visually prominent caravans in linear layouts which will be replaced with lower density, relaxed layouts of muted colours that are embedded within extensive new native tree and hedgerow planting.

“The shift to create a notably higher quality caravan park will attract new and repeat visitors across most of the year, reinforcing the tourist accommodation offer in the National Park, in line with the objectives of the Local Development Plan.”

The proposed development includes the installation of new bases for the siting of 172 static caravans, 15 touring pitch bases in the existing park, the demolition of former laundrette and diner buildings and two agricultural buildings, and the the conversion of a barn to manager accommodation.

A petition with 29 signatures has opposed the development, raising concerns including - the size of the extension, potential noise and disruption, a loss of rural identity for the village, and fears it would lead to caravan sites encircling the village.

Support has been received from county councillor for the ward though, Cllr Rhys Jordan, who stated that the proposals would improve the existing park, support local business, and “will strike a balance between economic benefit, environmental consideration and community support”.

Speaking at the meeting, local member Cllr Jordan said that he fully supported the scheme, saying Hean Castle Estates had “a long-standing history of delivering quality developments,” and had fully discussed the scheme with the community council and local residents.

He said: “a small minority were opposed to the scheme, but the majority of the community was in support” for the application that was “much more than an upgrade,” bringing “meaningful benefits,” including extending the tourist season, and bringing trade benefits for local businesses.

“This isn’t just about holidaymakers, it’s about jobs and further long-term development opportunities,” he added.

The recommendation was moved by Dr Rosetta Plummer, seconded by Cllr Chris Williams, with members unanimously approving the scheme with a long string of conditions.