Plans for a project to celebrate Saundersfoot village’s coal mining heritage are progressing following a public consultation.

Plans for cast iron trucks paying homage will be introduced to the seaside village’s Sensory Garden, along with information boards.

County councillor Chris Williams gave an update: “This garden is a peaceful, quiet space for residents and visitors to enjoy, and the SMELT Committee has worked closely with Saundersfoot Community Council to carefully design a scheme that both improves this area and reflects our village’s rich coal mining heritage.

“It was entirely appropriate that the proposal was put out to public consultation, allowing residents and businesses to have their say and help shape how key areas of our village should look.

“The support of the Community Council in leading this consultation has been vital in ensuring that every voice could be heard, whatever the viewpoint.”

The consultation is now closed, with a total of 376 responses received, both online and via paper forms made available at the Regency Hall.

Results were as follows.

• 94% in favour of the project as proposed

• 3% in favour of the project but suggested a different location (such as Coppet Hall or closer to the Coal Office)

• 2% opposed the project, with concerns primarily about the appropriateness of the Sensory Garden as a location and the height of the proposed sleeper wall.

The SMELT Committee was extremely pleased with the high level of engagement and wishes to thank everyone who took the time to share their thoughts.

The location within the Sensory Garden allows the trucks to be displayed in a respectful and sympathetic way. Regarding concerns about the sleeper wall, it is important to note that the proposed 1.8 metre structure will be significantly lower than the existing overgrown hedge and will improve both the aesthetics and functionality of the space.

It will also act as a wind barrier to protect new planting in what is a particularly exposed area of the garden. The temporary wildflower bed that will be displaced will be relocated at the back of the Bowling Green at the Regency Hall, ensuring no net loss in floral variety.

The SMELT Committee has now been informed that Saundersfoot Community Council have submitted a planning application to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, to be considered at a later date.

Councillor Eleanor Jones, Chair of the Garden and Grounds Working Group, welcomed the overwhelming public support for a project that both enhances public space and celebrates the village’s historical identity.

She said: “Since this area of the garden faces the sea, it is one of the most challenging places to maintain healthy planting. The sleeper wall is essential to protect what’s behind it, and once the hedge is removed, the usable space inside the garden will actually increase.”

The SMELT Committee would like to express its sincere thanks to Councillors Eleanor Jones and Alec Cormack for their ongoing support, as well as to all members of the Community Council who have supported this important initiative.