Too much to hope for?

Sir,

So, the Gatehouse is to be demolished, perhaps the inevitable conclusion to the progressive deterioration of recent years. What now? Hitherto one could have predicted more apartments and perhaps some shops, continuing the pattern of Tenby development from the characterless Croft Court to the more recent conversion of hotels and the filling of every available gap with properties for investment and largely unoccupied. But times have changed, mortgages are difficult and values are set to fall. Tenby is a world site, but it has lacked any central concept of being an integrated resort, to the benefit of businesses and residents alike. Instead there has been short-sighted direction and opportunism. The council decision to demolish the Royal Victoria Pier was an early example of the former; the growth of close-in, company owned, self contained caravan parks an example of opportunism, exploiting the location without contributing proportionately to the economy. In a recently published Encyclopedia of Wales, the paragraph given to Tenby, with all its long history, finds room to record its reputation for hen parties, we have come to that. A four-star, purpose-built hotel, of a reputable chain, recognised by international tourists and conference organisers and matching the quality of the environment, would be the essential foundation for a revival in Tenby's fortunes. There is only one possible site and it is in the most spectacular position. It would broaden Tenby's appeal to a market which has been lost over the last half century. We once catered comfortably for both Punch and Judy and the visitors to a prestigious Tennis Week and should aim at a similar range again. Such an hotel would trigger a turn round in the quality of retail trade and broaden the business of other hotels now largely dependent on coach holidays at competitive prices. A start point should be a business plan by a competent consultancy to assess the viability of such a project, incorporating a cinema, parking and appropriate shops. It should emphasise the effect on the whole economy which, in return, would enhance the viability of the hotel. The authorities should attract interest by offering very favourable conditions for the first few years of build up and the architecture should combine efficiency with respect for the past and a symbol for the future. It is probably too much to hope for, but Tenby rose from the ruins 200 years ago and could do so again. The alternative is empty apartment blocks, basic retail trade, coaches, caravans, chips and binge, in one of the world's beauty spots. If that is our future, would the last out please remember to turn off the lights.

John Tipton,

Tenby.