Plans for a new takeaway overlooking a popular Welsh beach in Tenby’s seaside harbour have sparked controversy despite expectations for approval. Ruby Goodrick is seeking permission from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners to convert the former RNLI lifeboat store into a cold food kiosk open from 10 am to 10 pm seven days a week. Despite securing a five-year lease from the council for the site, concerns have been raised about the historical significance of the area.
The proposal, set to be approved next month, has faced criticism from various parties including Tenby Civic Society and local councillor Michael Williams. Cllr Williams expressed concerns that the development could damage the historical environment of the Grade II-listed harbour estate. Additionally, there are worries that allowing the takeaway could lead to further unwanted commercial exploitation of the area.
Tenby Civic Society has emphasized the importance of maintaining Tenby Harbour as a working harbour, raising objections to the commercial nature of the proposed takeaway. Despite these objections, the scheme is recommended for conditional approval at the upcoming national park’s development management committee meeting. This recommendation comes despite diverging from the existing development plan for the area.
An officer report supporting the approval of the takeaway states that while it would introduce a retail element to the harbour, the overall impact on the character of Tenby Harbour is deemed insignificant. The report notes that the proposed use would rely on existing footfall within the harbour and occupies a relatively small floor area. However, concerns remain regarding the potential precedent that could be set by allowing this development.
Furthermore, a connected application for a display board promoting the takeaway is also suggested for approval during the committee meeting. The proposal is set to move forward to the meeting due to objections from Tenby Town Council. Despite the objections and concerns expressed by various parties, the recommendation for approval is based on the belief that the development would not significantly harm the character of Tenby Harbour.
Overall, the decision to approve the new takeaway at Tenby’s seaside harbour remains contentious, with stakeholders on both sides of the debate expressing valid concerns. The balance between commercial opportunities and historical preservation in this picturesque area will be a key point of consideration as the approval process moves forward.