Sir,

Re: St. Catherine's Island, Castle Beach, Tenby.

We read with interest the letter from Darren Webb on the front of the Tenby Observer.

As reported by Darren, the plans for the future of St. Catherine's Island sound idyllic and one could support them wholeheartedly. However, there are also a number of concerns, which should move the debate forward from the idyllic view into the hard world of reality.

It is a common observation that finance is generally available for projects where a large amount of profit is the expectation. From the very professional plans so far submitted, it is obvious that a large amount of finance is available. Also, from the plans submitted it appears that the use of 70 per cent of the area is still unaccounted for. While such things remain opaque, concerns must be felt. Perhaps such an opacity is purposely so?

Other questions remain. Should a bridge between two historically important sites, which are scheduled ancient monuments, be necessary when the island is perfectly accessible during low tide and at most stages between high and low?

We are also at loss to understand the necessity for two cranes unless extensive building works are planned which are not presently presented. Is there a reason?

Why are two boat landings important when, not only is the island generally accessible, but there is also a harbour immediately adjacent.

For tearooms, nature trail and museum an enormous amount of finance appears to be available. Why is this? Are there long-term plans sheltering modestly behind these preliminary plans which will make big financial returns on investment a distinct possibility?

The attractions of Tenby are many. These include wonderful beaches, safe and attractive for families, but with the possibility of pursuits such as sailing and surfing for the more adventurous. Also the High Street, which has successfully evaded the overtures of big business, is unusual. Excellent small local businesses that give value for money are rare and there are very few places in the UK where these can all still be found. And all of this is to be found where the protection of the whole environment, whether the wildlife or the traditional buildings, is the responsibility of the National Park.

A mainly Georgian and Victorian town built within a Norman castle is too much of a rarity to squander. A short-term gain, in terms of visitor attractions, at the expense of long-term loss of value should not be a part of Tenby's plan for the future. The fact that it appears so many times in the Sunday supplements as 'the place to live' or 'the place to visit' underlines this. Indeed, Tenby needs to 'open its eyes' and be vigilant in retaining its charm as it moves towards the future.

Cynthia and John Stanford,

Kent.