Big plans are brewing in Pembrokeshire! 🚧 Heritage Park is back in the spotlight with fresh proposals for a £6 million expansion, despite a recent High Court ruling overturning an earlier approval. Originally greenlighted by councillors in 2023, the ambitious project features 48 holiday lodges, a spa, holiday flats, a café, a bike rental shop, horse riding stables, and office spaces. The development promised to create 44 jobs and breathe new life into the historic Stepaside area near the old ironworks and colliery.
However, the journey hasn’t been smooth. The Stepaside & Pleasant Valley Residents’ Group successfully challenged the council’s decision, with the High Court citing sustainability concerns and potential precedent issues as key reasons for overturning the approval.
Now, Heritage Leisure Development Ltd is back with a revised plan, addressing the court’s concerns. They’ve argued that approving the development wouldn’t set a precedent due to the unique circumstances of this proposal. Despite these new submissions, planning officers are recommending rejection again, citing unresolved policy conflicts and fears of setting “an undesirable precedent.”
Councillor Simon Hancock pointed out the addition of many new faces on the planning committee, leading to the unanimous decision for another site visit. Stay tuned as this hot topic returns for discussion at an upcoming committee meeting. 🌿🏗️
What’s your take on the proposed changes? Is this a much-needed boost for local tourism or a risky venture with sustainability issues? Let us know in the comments! 💬 #Pembrokeshire #HeritagePark #LocalNews #TourismDevelopment