Pembrokeshire County Council's removal of disabled parking bays in the centre of Saundersfoot - as part of the seaside village’s ongoing ‘Active Travel’ scheme - continues to face a backlash, with critics stating that it hinders access for disabled residents and visitors.

The works as part of the programme for the Cambrian Terrace section of the Active Travel scheme commenced in January, with completion expected by March 30.

The works are part of the Local Authority’s wider Active Travel proposals that were formally consulted on in 2024, including public engagement sessions held at the Old Coal Office.

One local commenting on the matter, raising concerns about the removal of disabled bays, who did not wish to be named, said: “​Currently, essential disabled parking spaces are being removed to facilitate pavement extensions, seemingly to allow local cafes and bars more room for outdoor seating.

“While supporting local business is understandable, doing so at the direct expense of disabled access is unacceptable.

“Because of these changes, there is now a severe lack of accessible parking space in the heart of the village. The council's actions are effectively pushing disabled drivers toward the main car park, but that car park simply does not have the capacity or the extra spaces to make up for the ones being lost on the street.

“​As we approach the busy summer tourist season, this layout is going to make it exceptionally difficult—if not entirely impossible—for disabled residents and visitors to access the centre of Saundersfoot.

“Disabled people rely on those close-proximity bays to use the same streets and amenities as everyone else, yet they are being pushed out.

“This feels like a clear breach of the council’s duty to ensure equal access and a major issue for the community,” they added, asking how Pembrokeshire Council can justify this loss of ‘accessible parking’.

County councillor for Saundersfoot’s South Ward, Cllr Chris Williams recently explained the plans for the centre of the village: “Residents were given the opportunity to view plans, raise concerns, and provide feedback, and this input has helped shape the final design. The scheme aims to balance road safety, accessibility, and the day-to-day needs of the community.

“I am aware that the reduction in parking bays on Cambrian Terrace is a key concern for residents. Following the implementation of the scheme, there will be fewer on-street bays in this location. However, this has been considered as part of a wider parking strategy for the village.

“Additional parking provision has already been delivered elsewhere, including the creation of two new disabled bays on Milford Street and further spaces will be implemented on Brewery Terrace.

Keeping the number in the village was extremely important to the residents and I’m confident that additional spaces will be beneficial to its residents and businesses.

“Upon completion of the programmed works the loading bay on Cambrian Terrace will remain in place and will operate on a timed basis. This allows it to support residents and local businesses for deliveries while providing flexibility for wider use outside designated loading periods,” he continued

Cllr Williams said that from a safety perspective, these changes are designed to deliver ‘tangible improvements’.

“The scheme will help reduce vehicle speeds, improve visibility, and create clearer separation between vehicles and pedestrians in a busy, high-footfall area,” he continued.

“This is particularly important for children, older residents, visitors, and those with mobility challenges, and should make moving through this part of the village safer (with a new uncontrolled pedestrian zebra crossing) and more accessible.

“I appreciate that change can be challenging, particularly where parking and access are concerned.

“My priority remains ensuring that these works are delivered safely, and with the needs of residents firmly at the centre of decision-making. I will continue to raise concerns, share accurate information, and keep residents informed as the scheme progresses,” added Cllr Williams.

A spokesperson for Saundersfoot Community Council remarked in its monthly newsletter circulated to local residents: “It won’t have escaped your notice that the village is having a ‘make-over’.

“This is not a Community Council project, though we put forward our views at the last consultation.

“If you have any concerns about what is going on please contact the Active Travel team via their website (click here).

“And we urge you to get involved in the future plans. At the very least, please complete their survey - there’s still time - the closing date is April 20. If we don’t give feedback, the team can’t take views and opinions into account.

A link to the survey can be found here: https://datamap.gov.wales/survey/Pembrokeshire-AT-survey/