A concerned Observer reader has responded this week to what he describes as 'horror stories' regarding the proposed Tenby Island Project.

"And to be honest, what nonsense it all reads," remarked Darren Webb, of Bicester, who believes Tenby needs to 'open its eyes' and welcome the prospect of having such a 'worthwhile and long overdue attraction'.

In his letter to us, Darren, who has become something of an authority on St Catherine's Island and its fort, states: "I am not a Tenby resident, but enjoyed many a year holidaying in Pembrokeshire. Tenby was always a favourite and still is today.

"When I was a child I was fascinated by St. Catherine's Island and the fort and remain so today.

"In 2004, I started taking a more active interest and started to research the history of the fort. During the following years I successfully managed to trace and talk to those who had lived on the island, during the zoo years, and those who had attempted restoration projects of their own. Also whilst waiting for an invitation to visit the fort, I researched all the other Palmerston forts in the Milford Haven area and spent the next eight years gaining permission to visit them all, and organise trips for others to enjoy and explore these fascinating monuments.

"When the Tenby Island Project came along in 2012, I approached the developer and offered up my research and archive material to add to the considerable research he had already undertaken. I also met up with him and spent a few days surveying the fort and listening to his ideas and expectations.

"From this, I have come to one conclusion; that the fort needs to be restored and re-opened for others to enjoy. For too long Tenby has neglected its iconic landmark. Future plans do not change the appearance and do not include night clubs or activities that would lead to late night disturbance.

"The ideas put forward will provide Tenby with a much needed attraction, incorporating nature, history and scientific interest - all that you would expect for every generation to enjoy. Examples of nature paths, star-gazing at night, underwater cameras and hydrophones around the island are just a start. The developer has put in so much time, expense and thought over the years for a project he feels passionately about - this should not be so easily dismissed.

"The first stage, though, is to make the island safe. The plans for this are sympathetic and realistic.

"The thought that people just want to have the island as a picturesque ruin on the landscape just shows selfishness to the forthcoming generations. St. Catherine's has a history, is of historical interest, and could provide so much to the image of Tenby. For years the fort has been deteriorating to such a point that original features are being lost forever. This needs to be resolved as soon as possible.

"From what I can see, the intentions of the Tenby Island Project are completely admirable. The project is an honest attempt to save this iconic monument for the future generations. Tenby should be embracing the project - not opposing it through prejudice, fear of change or ignorance. Tenby needs to open its eyes, look towards its heritage and welcome the prospect of a such a worthwhile and long overdue attraction - an attraction Tenby would be proud of!"