Plans to allow the permanent siting of an award-winning Saundersfoot outdoor sauna, that sits on the seaside village’s harbour seafront, are being recommended for refusal by the National Park’s conservation officer - who wants the facility moved to another spot.

Back in June 2024, a temporary two-year permission for a mobile wood-fired sauna at Saundersfoot harbour was granted by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority’s development management committee.

Since then, a further application by Kerry Evans of Hwyl Outdoor Sauna to make the siting permanent has been submitted to National Park planners.

However, Rob Scourfield, PCNPA’s building conservation officer is recommending refusal for the application, stating: “The site lies within Saundersfoot Conservation Area on the sea-front Section 160 of the Historic Environment (Wales) Act requires that when considering planning applications, special attention must be paid to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of the area.

“A small-scale sauna is not considered alien in terms of such a location, thus the character of the Conservation Area is arguably preserved by such a use.

“In terms of appearance, the site is very prominent and part of the widely-used sea-front walk that is effectively public realm.

“The appearance of the immediate area - a car park behind a 'promenade' has been altered over the years but still preserves the open character of the coal harbour and its former railway plain/yards overlooked by the former coal office which still remains prominent.

“The permanent placing of a sauna structure within such a prominent location cannot be regarded as preserving or enhancing the appearance of the conservation area. An alternative site further back within the car park would seem a better option.”

Members of Saundersfoot Community Council recently backed the plans when discussing the application at its recent meeting, with a large number of local residents, business owners and Rotarians speaking in favour of the proposals.

“We considered an application for planning permission from Hwyl Outdoor Sauna - a request to make the sauna a permanent feature because two year temporary permission is running out this year. There was a large contingent of supporters present,” the Community Council.

“Although it was recognised that there are some objections to its location raised on social media, there were no objections to the sauna itself - it being a popular addition to the village. The Council supported the application.”

County councillor for Saundersfoot’s south ward, Cllr Chris Williams has also spoken in favour of the sauna, stating: “In my view, the sauna has been an outstanding success story for Saundersfoot. It has supported a local family business, created part-time employment, and contributed positively to the local economy.

“Importantly, it has become a year-round attraction, drawing visitors to the village even outside the traditional tourist season. This increased footfall benefits other local businesses, including cafés, shops, and accommodation providers. Beyond its economic contribution, the sauna offers significant wellbeing benefits.”

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The application for a permanent facility will be considered by park planners at a later date.