Residents and businesses of Saundersfoot have been given an update on plans to tackle ‘coastal erosion’ concerns following a ‘Community Climate Adaptation Planning Meeting’ held in the seaside village.

County councillor for Saundersfoot’s south ward said that he had attended the recent meeting held at Saundersfoot Harbour. He said that this important gathering brought together representatives from the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Fire Service, Natural Resources Wales (NRW), Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC), Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum, local business owners, landowners, and Saundersfoot Community Council.

Over the past couple of years, Saundersfoot Community Council has hosted ‘Sustainable Coastal Communities’ public meetings in collaboration with the Local Authority, to outline the challenges the seaside village will face in the future and to consider what actions may be possible to combat rising sea levels.

Feedback from residents has emphasized the need to balance short-term actions with long-term planning—potentially looking at many years ahead. Tourism has also been highlighted as a key part of the local economy, with the Strand playing a vital role in supporting this sector.

Also discussed has been the importance of improved shingle bank management, and sea defences, with the need to clarify permissions and responsibilities, especially with regard to private landowners, highlighted.

Following discussions at the most recent meeting last month, Cllr Williams provided a brief update with the aim to keep residents informed about the work being done in response to climate-related challenges in the coastal community.

He said that the key highlights from the meeting, included:

Emergency Response Focus Shift - “We heard from the Fire Officer, who explained the increasing need to focus on flood responserather than just fire. Emphasis was placed on pre-flood planning, community education, and reactive strategies to manage flood risks effectively.”

The Crown Estate Engagement - “A representative from The Crown Estate (TCE), which owns approximately 50% of the land between the mean high and low water marks, spoke about how coastal erosion is changing land boundaries. It was encouraging to hear TCE’s commitment to engage more directly with local communities.”

Land Ownership Presentation - “A clear and informative presentation on land ownership was shared, helping those unfamiliar with the area to better understand property layouts and jurisdiction.”

Action Planning and Priorities - “The group discussed short-term priorities, the potential to engage consultants for expert recommendations, and the exploration of long-term funding, possibly through grant-supported community adaptation projects.”

Flood Defence Ideas - “Suggestions included improving the shingle bank and investigating how gabion basketsmight help protect vulnerable properties. All proposals must be aligned with nationalbiodiversity and net gain commitments.

Feasibility Study and Inclusion - “A feasibility study was proposed, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that residents and businesses on The Strand lead any conversation.”

For the next steps, Cllr Williams said that the main working group will pause until September.

“In the meantime, Cllr Alec Cormack and I will continue to liaise with residents and business owners on The Strand and work towards coordinating a focused engagement group, ensuring all voices are heard and involved in shaping future action,” he added.