Plans for a new traveller site on the edge of Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire, have encountered significant opposition from local residents and the village's community council. The proposal, which seeks to establish a site at Froghall Yard on Moreton Lane, would feature one static caravan, a touring caravan, a utility room, and ecological improvements.
Nearly 300 people have signed a petition opposing the development, with around 50 individuals attending a recent Saundersfoot Community Council meeting where councillors unanimously voted against the application. The council's objections highlight that the proposed site is classified as agricultural land and has not been used for caravan accommodation or similar purposes for over three decades. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the visibility of the site from the nearby Incline Way, and fears that approval might open the door to further development throughout the national park.
Saundersfoot Community Council also questioned the motivations behind the application, noting that the applicant, Dai Evans of Pontypool, lives approximately 100 miles away from Saundersfoot and does not have local ties to the area. Mr Evans submitted the application via agents Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd.
In a supporting statement accompanying the application, it is explained that Mr Evans belongs to a longstanding Romany Gypsy family whose generations have maintained a traditional lifestyle living in caravans. The statement indicated that Mr Evans and his partner currently reside on an overcrowded traveller site in Pontypool, where living conditions are described as poor. They presently live in rented brick-and-mortar accommodation, which does not align with their cultural preference for caravan living.
The statement further suggests that Mr Evans and his family have used the proposed site during summer months for many years, initially on a touring caravan owned by another Gypsy family. After purchasing the Froghall Yard site in 2023, Mr Evans has cleared and refurbished it. The application aims to enable the continuation of his family's cultural and traditional lifestyle on this site.
At a Pembrokeshire Coast National Park development management committee meeting held on 9 April, members agreed to carry out a site visit before reaching a formal decision, recognising the level of public interest the application has generated.
A forthcoming meeting of the national park authority is expected to review the application comprehensively.
This case emerges amid wider discussions in Wales about the quality of living conditions faced by Gypsy and Romany communities. In February, a report by Senedd members highlighted concerns regarding site conditions and the need for improved awareness to address these challenges. Issues such as high rental and utility costs were cited by contributors, with examples including a relative paying more for a deteriorating concrete pitch and outbuilding than others pay for conventional housing.
The Wales Online is reporting on this matter as the community awaits the final decision from the national park authority.
Source: Noah Wire Services