Residents have raised concerns about pedestrian safety on the outskirts of Saundersfoot - due to lack of a continuous footpath.

County councillor for the seaside village’s south ward, Cllr Chris Williams said that he was recently given cause to write to Pembrokeshire County Council Highways Officers to raise an observation regarding pedestrian safety and safe access along a particularly busy stretch of Sandyhill Road, after he had received a call from a local residents, raising concerns.

“Whilst undertaking litter picking duties along Sandy Hill Road, I also became aware of a potential gap in safe pedestrian connectivity between the new Persimmon Homes development at Ger y Mor and the existing pavement network serving properties at Sandyhill Park,” explained Cllr Williams.

“As residents have now begun moving into the new development, pedestrian movements in this area are increasing with individuals walking to the village, bus stops, and existing footways.

“At present, there appears to be no continuous, clearly defined pedestrian link between the new estate and the current established pavement. This results in pedestrians having to walk along or cross a section of carriageway that carries regular vehicular traffic,” continued Cllr Williams

Sandyhill Road is a well-used route, and vehicle speeds and traffic volumes at peak times can create an environment where pedestrians may feel vulnerable, Cllr Williams went onto say, highlighting that the absence of a dedicated footway connection raises concerns regarding visibility and safe passing distances.

“I fully appreciate that there may not yet be legal agreements or adopted arrangements in place to deliver a permanent pavement connection at this time. However, given the strong emphasis placed on active travel, sustainable transport, and improved connectivity within the village, I believe it is both timely and appropriate to consider whether interim safety measures could be explored while longer-term solutions are progressed,” he continued.

“As a starting point for discussion with PCC Highways and Road Safety Officers, I suggested the possibility of introducing a short-term temporary pedestrian link. One potential option could involve the use of temporary barriers to create a protected walking corridor over a short section of carriageway.”

Cllr Williams explained that this could, potentially, be supported by a traffic management measure, such as a priority working arrangement limiting the road to one vehicle at a time over the affected stretch.

“Such an approach could help slow traffic, improve driver awareness, and provide pedestrians with a safer, more defined route during this transitional period,” he remarked.

“I have made it clear that this suggestion is offered purely to initiate discussion and I welcome any alternative proposals that PCC officers may consider more suitable. It is wiser to discuss a safety concern at an early stage before it becomes a more significant issue.

“Pedestrian safety remains a key priority for PCC, and I believe that even modest interim measures could make a meaningful difference to residents who are currently required to walk along this section of Sandyhill Road.

“I will continue to engage with Highways Officers and will provide further updates as discussions progress,” he added.