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Western Telegraph
28-05-2025
- Business
- Western Telegraph
Holiday development plans for Pembrokeshire zorbing centre
Zorbing is a sports activity rolling downhill inside an orb, usually made of see-through plastic. In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Lawson and Penny Owen, through agent Hayston Developments & Planning Ltd, seek a partly-retrospective permission for nine self-contained holiday units and a twin-unit shepherd's hut, along with associated works, on land south of Nolton Stables, Nolton, Haverfordwest. A supporting statement says: 'There are two distinct elements to the proposal with the larger being the provision of five pods and four lodges which will be accessed by a farm track which leads south towards a former quarry and thence to the shoreline,' adding: 'The second and smaller element involves contains a virtually flat area with a separate but adjacent access from the local highway on which a 12 space car park is proposed together with the retention of a Shepherd's Hut (a unit of holiday accommodation) and its separate garden and parking area.' The retrospective element refers to a park enforcement officer informing the applicant of a breach in planning control for the shepherd's hut. The statement says the Shepherd's Hut is the most suitable for those with limited mobility as it does not require use of the unpaved track to a pod or lodge. The total development amounts to only a small proportion of the circa 400 acres across four farms all of which are in the ownership of a partnership comprising two brothers (of which Mr Lawson Owen is one) and their respective families. The statement adds: 'The income from the proposed holiday accommodation will form a smaller proportion than that derived from the agricultural activities undertaken across the four farms – an example of farm diversification where the agricultural activities remain the major element. 'In previous years the applicants operated a pony trekking enterprise and a Zorbing activity as part of a farm diversification strategy. 'Unfortunately, Covid required the cessation of both activities and therefore both a loss of income for the Partnership as well local jobs for those in the Nolton community.' It says the applicants have previously operated a 2.3 acre campsite which has been managed as an exempted site under license from the Camping and Caravanning Club for over five years, an outside cinema for up to 28 days per year for a period in excess of five years, and the Zorbing experience, and the applicants are considering modifying an existing building within the Nolton Stables complex as a wedding venue. It concluded: 'It should also be noted that this proposal is in substitution for the operation of a successful pony trekking enterprise and a smaller scale Zorbing activity both of which had to be abandoned because of Covid-19 and the associated requirements to minimise personal contact. 'The applicants have a history of diversification of their farming activities in and around Nolton. It is anticipated that this new enterprise will restore those jobs lost due to Covid and hopefully increase opportunities both in the construction industry and in hospitality.' The application will be considered by park planners at a later date.
Daily Mirror
24-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Seaside town named one of best in the UK is loved by families who visit
Southwold's pristine beach makes it a hit for both families and those looking to dip their toes in the sea. Pier beach is flanked by a promenade that stretches all the way to the harbour Like many coastal regions of the UK, the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk offer a plethora of seaside delights perfect for day trips and longer holidays. Southwold presents the picture-perfect British seaside outing for people of all ages and the Camping and Caravanning Club has even rated it as one of Britain's top seaside towns. Southwold's safe, pristine beach makes it a hit for both families and those looking to dip their toes in the sea, earning it Blue Flag status and a Seaside Award in 2024. The town boasts two lovely beaches; Pier beach brims with striking beach huts while Denes beach – more secluded and favoured by windsurfers and canoeists – backs onto dunes and marshland. For added fun, Southwold Pier hosts quintessential seaside amusements, including an arcade bursting with vintage games and Tim Hunkin's "eccentric" Under the Pier Show. Hungry visitors can savour fare at various spots on the pier, be it the fish and chip shop, indulging in lunch or dinner at the Boardwalk restaurant with ocean views, or the Clockhouse for breakfast and homemade cakes, reports Cambridgeshire Live. Pier beach is flanked by a promenade that stretches all the way to the harbour area, with the town centre just a short stroll away for those keen on a spot of shopping. Southwold's high street is brimming with independent shops and boutiques waiting to be discovered, including Pearls by the Sea, a family-run clothing shop that also offers gifts and accessories, and Squires of Southwold, a sweet shop and tea room boasting over 150 different types of sweets. Little Gems, a popular greengrocers, is worth popping into if you're after some fresh fruit for your trip or local products to take back home. The shop was nominated in the regional Muddy Stilettos Awards for best farm shop in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. If you fancy a break from the beach, why not visit Southwold Museum? Housed in a quaint cottage, the museum offers interactive exhibitions and displays featuring fossil remains and information about Southwold's transformation from a fishing community to a seaside resort. Southwold is less than two hours' drive from Cambridge via the A14. There's a car park near the pier that charges £4 for a 10-hour stay, but there are other free parking spaces dotted around the town.
Daily Mirror
28-04-2025
- Daily Mirror
'UK's best beach town' where you won't battle crowds has 'world class' pier
The stunning little seaside town of Southwold in Suffolk has been labelled as one of the best places to visit for a British weekend away - and it's no wonder why A charming little seaside town has been hailed as the perfect spot for a weekend getaway. With its beautiful sandy beach, iconic lighthouse and award-winning pier, Southwold in Suffolk has got all the ingredients for an idyllic British staycation. This picturesque location offers a lengthy coastline and plenty of activities to keep you busy. From a variety of eateries and pubs to some of the best fish and chip shops around, there's something for everyone. And the cherry on top? The town is home to just 1,000 residents and sees fewer tourists than many other popular UK coastal destinations, making it a peaceful retreat. Southwold's charm extends beyond its seaside atmosphere. It boasts an impressive high street and a range of attractions to suit all tastes. Situated in the East Suffolk district, Southwold has also earned recognition as one of the UK's top coastal spots. This accolade comes from the Camping and Caravanning Club, who named it the UK's finest seaside town. Its location on the Suffolk Coast, near the River Blyth, enhances its holiday appeal. Sun worshippers will be delighted by the town's picturesque sandy beach, which holds a Blue Flag award, reports the Express. A visit to Southwold Beach is a must. It's the perfect spot for cycling and walking, with colourful beach huts dotted along the shore. Southwold, with its charming 3-mile trail to Walberswick and a promenade that oozes classic British seaside charm, is a haven for those who love the great outdoors. A wander down Southwold Pier in the springtime promises not only stunning sea views but also a feast for the senses with scrumptious eats, unique shopping experiences, and an iconic arcade. One TripAdvisor user gushed: "Visited here one afternoon in January and it truly is a lovely pier with nice restaurants, nice boutique shops and a nice big arcade at the front with all the normal 2p machines." They added: "We had a lovely time visiting this pier and I would love to return in the summer when the weather is nicer." Beyond the pier, Southwold boasts a lively market town atmosphere, complete with a plethora of cosy restaurants and cafes sure to make visitors feel right at home. For those looking to imbibe some local culture, the Adnams Brewery tour comes highly recommended, as do visits to the Southwold Gallery and the town's museums. Cultural aficionados will find plenty to enjoy in Southwold, from the International Crime Writing Festival to the quaint Southwold Model Yacht Regatta, events that sprinkle the calendar year-round.
