Latest news with #NewgaleCoastalAdaptationProject
Pembrokeshire Herald
11-05-2025
- General
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Petition to stop plans to move A487 coastal road inland
A PETITION calling on Pembrokeshire County Council to halt a proposed road realignment scheme at a coastal village, and instead look at a cheaper alternative scheme, has been launched. A public consultation was recently launched ahead of a formal Pembrokeshire County Council application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for Phase 1 of the Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project, which would see the development of a new inland section of road with bridge over Brandy Brook some 2.3km inland, to replace the coastal section of A487 at Newgale that will be closed and removed, among other works. Varied claims have been made about the cost of this scheme, from £20m upwards, with some saying it could cost as much as £60m, with millions spent on consultation fees to date. Newgale was hit hard by flooding following storms in early 2014 storms, and later by Storm Dennis in 2020. In 2014 it even saw a visit by the-then Prime Minister David Cameron, as part of a tour of the UK to 'learn lessons' following storms and flooding that year. In 2018, Pembrokeshire County Council's Cabinet backed a recommendation, long-term, for an inland highway link for the A487. A supporting statement through agent AtkinsRéalis says a 2020 report commissioned by Pembrokeshire County Council into coastal change at Newgale concluded 'that continued efforts to maintain the shingle ridge as a defence is highly likely to be unsustainable beyond 2035, more realistically by 2030,' adding: 'Early action is required before the road becomes impassable and unsafe.' However, opponents have said the costs associated with the 2014 flooding incident – which they say was a flooding incident rather than the effects of climate change – would cost less for 3,000 years' worth of clear-ups than the new road scheme. An alternative scheme has been proposed by STUN – Stand Up for Newgale, who have accused AtkinsRéalis and Pembrokeshire County Council of misleading the public over the need for the new Newgale bypass. It says that by using photos of 'the only major flood Newgale has ever had,' in 2014, they are 'over-dramatising' and 'using shock tactics' designed 'to scare people into supporting an unnecessary £40-60 million new road, which, if built would cause devastation to Newgale's ecology and local countryside and would be a blight on the iconic Brandy Brook valley through which the new road would pass'. STUN's alternative scheme would, it says, be an 'alternative low-cost solution to counter any threat from the sea that will protect Newgale for at least 85 – 100 years'. STUN's alternative proposes a section of the shingle bank at Newgale be realigned 10-12 metres to the seaward leaving an over wash barrier between it and the A487 to capture any pebbles and sea water. It has also linked the proposed road realignment scheme to a proposed US military DARC Radar Array, which would involve the construction of 27 Deep Space Radars, each 21 metres tall at Cawdor Barracks, Brawdy, above Newgale, which it says could not go ahead without the new road in place due to the high levels of lorry traffic DARC's construction and operation would involve. STUN has said: 'Newgale is a jewel in the crown of our tourism rich peninsular, so why is there such determination to waste £60 million of taxpayers money on a completely unnecessary road which would only ever potentially benefit a US military base, and from which the ecology and wildlife of Brandy Brook could never recover?' The council proposals have encountered strong opposition, including local Senedd member Paul Davies MS, who said it was 'ill conceived,' with STUN's alternative less invasive and one that would 'save the council, and local taxpayers, huge amounts of money'. A petition has now been launched opposing the Newgale coastal realignment scheme. It says: 'We believe that the current plan—estimated to cost between £25–£40 million, with consultation fees already exceeding £4 million—requires further scrutiny, transparency, and public engagement. 'At this stage, we call for a thorough consideration of STUN's (Stand up for Newgale) alternative scheme, or at the very least, a pause on current proceedings until all viable options have been fully explored. 'The Brandy Brook Valley is an ecologically sensitive and historically significant landscape. Routing a major road through this area risks irreversible damage to its unique natural character, habitats, and community heritage. 'This is not just a financial concern—it is a matter of protecting our shared environment, ensuring community voices are heard, and making responsible, future-facing decisions for Pembrokeshire. 'We respectfully request that Pembrokeshire County Council takes immediate action to: Pause the current development of the Newgale route. Open a transparent review of all alternative proposals, including STUN's plan. Engage in meaningful consultation with local communities, experts, and stakeholders.' STUN has launched a Crowdfunder aimed at funding its alternative planning application. The Pembrokeshire County Council proposals have been previously costed at £20m. The Pre-application Consultation runs until May 11, with plans available online; comments may be sent to Newgale@ or by post: Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project Team, AtkinsRéalis, Floor 4, West Glamorgan House, 12 Orchard Street, Swansea, SA1 5AD.
Pembrokeshire Herald
09-05-2025
- Business
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Welsh Government pledges additional £31.5m for town centre regeneration
Cllr Nick Neumann calls for preservation of iconic landscape and protection of beachfront businesses A PEMBROKESHIRE county councillor has publicly declared his opposition to the controversial £60 million Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project, describing the scheme as unjustified and damaging to the area's natural heritage. Cllr Nick Neumann, who represents Newgale, said he had been approached by several constituents seeking clarity on his stance. In a detailed public statement issued this week, he confirmed his 'resolute' opposition to the current plans, which would see a new inland route for the A487 cut through the Brandy Brook valley. 'I've lived in Newgale most of my life, brought up at Southwood Cottage and spending time on neighbouring Wood Farm,' Cllr Neumann said. 'I can honestly say the frequency of flooding, road closures, and storms is less now than when I was a young boy.' 'For me, I see no justification or need for a new road that will cut through a very sensitive landscape rich in natural habitat whilst costing taxpayers tens of millions of pounds.' The Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project, led by Pembrokeshire County Council in partnership with consultants AtkinsRéalis, proposes a major inland realignment of the A487 to address risks from coastal flooding. However, it has faced mounting criticism from residents, local politicians, and environmental groups. Support for existing road and local businesses Cllr Neumann has urged the council to focus instead on maintaining and safeguarding the existing coastal road, which he says supports well-established businesses such as the Newgale campsite, pub, surf shop, café and hardware store. He described continued management of the shingle bank as 'a sustainable, cost-effective and proven solution if managed correctly,' and called for modest investment in diversion routes to improve signage and traffic management on the rare occasions when the road is closed. 'These are my personal views as a lifelong resident of Newgale, views which I know are shared by many in our community,' he added. 'In my capacity as local member and county councillor, I will continue to hold those in authority to account and push back on the current proposals.' Consultation still open Cllr Neumann encouraged residents to participate in the ongoing statutory pre-application consultation, which runs until Saturday, May 11. 'This iconic view on the approach to the St Davids Peninsula needs to be preserved for future generations to enjoy and not lost as the consequence of ill-considered advice and misinformation,' he said. The proposed scheme includes a 2.5km inland road and a 120m-long concrete bridge across Brandy Brook valley. While the council maintains that it is necessary to protect against future climate-related risks, campaigners and some experts argue that the current coastal road could be retained with relatively minor interventions. How to respond to the consultation: Online: Email: newgale@ Post: Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project Team AtkinsRéalis 12 Orchard Street Swansea SA1 5AD
Pembrokeshire Herald
09-05-2025
- Business
- Pembrokeshire Herald
Local councillor speaks out against £60m Newgale road scheme
Cllr Nick Neumann calls for preservation of iconic landscape and protection of beachfront businesses A PEMBROKESHIRE county councillor has publicly declared his opposition to the controversial £60 million Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project, describing the scheme as unjustified and damaging to the area's natural heritage. Cllr Nick Neumann, who represents Newgale, said he had been approached by several constituents seeking clarity on his stance. In a detailed public statement issued this week, he confirmed his 'resolute' opposition to the current plans, which would see a new inland route for the A487 cut through the Brandy Brook valley. 'I've lived in Newgale most of my life, brought up at Southwood Cottage and spending time on neighbouring Wood Farm,' Cllr Neumann said. 'I can honestly say the frequency of flooding, road closures, and storms is less now than when I was a young boy.' 'For me, I see no justification or need for a new road that will cut through a very sensitive landscape rich in natural habitat whilst costing taxpayers tens of millions of pounds.' The Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project, led by Pembrokeshire County Council in partnership with consultants AtkinsRéalis, proposes a major inland realignment of the A487 to address risks from coastal flooding. However, it has faced mounting criticism from residents, local politicians, and environmental groups. Support for existing road and local businesses Cllr Neumann has urged the council to focus instead on maintaining and safeguarding the existing coastal road, which he says supports well-established businesses such as the Newgale campsite, pub, surf shop, café and hardware store. He described continued management of the shingle bank as 'a sustainable, cost-effective and proven solution if managed correctly,' and called for modest investment in diversion routes to improve signage and traffic management on the rare occasions when the road is closed. 'These are my personal views as a lifelong resident of Newgale, views which I know are shared by many in our community,' he added. 'In my capacity as local member and county councillor, I will continue to hold those in authority to account and push back on the current proposals.' Consultation still open Cllr Neumann encouraged residents to participate in the ongoing statutory pre-application consultation, which runs until Saturday, May 11. 'This iconic view on the approach to the St Davids Peninsula needs to be preserved for future generations to enjoy and not lost as the consequence of ill-considered advice and misinformation,' he said. The proposed scheme includes a 2.5km inland road and a 120m-long concrete bridge across Brandy Brook valley. While the council maintains that it is necessary to protect against future climate-related risks, campaigners and some experts argue that the current coastal road could be retained with relatively minor interventions. How to respond to the consultation: Online: Email: newgale@ Post: Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project Team AtkinsRéalis 12 Orchard Street Swansea SA1 5AD
Pembrokeshire Herald
09-05-2025
- Business
- Pembrokeshire Herald
VE Day 80 commemorations continue in Haverfordwest
Cllr Nick Neumann calls for preservation of iconic landscape and protection of beachfront businesses A PEMBROKESHIRE county councillor has publicly declared his opposition to the controversial £60 million Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project, describing the scheme as unjustified and damaging to the area's natural heritage. Cllr Nick Neumann, who represents Newgale, said he had been approached by several constituents seeking clarity on his stance. In a detailed public statement issued this week, he confirmed his 'resolute' opposition to the current plans, which would see a new inland route for the A487 cut through the Brandy Brook valley. 'I've lived in Newgale most of my life, brought up at Southwood Cottage and spending time on neighbouring Wood Farm,' Cllr Neumann said. 'I can honestly say the frequency of flooding, road closures, and storms is less now than when I was a young boy.' 'For me, I see no justification or need for a new road that will cut through a very sensitive landscape rich in natural habitat whilst costing taxpayers tens of millions of pounds.' The Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project, led by Pembrokeshire County Council in partnership with consultants AtkinsRéalis, proposes a major inland realignment of the A487 to address risks from coastal flooding. However, it has faced mounting criticism from residents, local politicians, and environmental groups. Support for existing road and local businesses Cllr Neumann has urged the council to focus instead on maintaining and safeguarding the existing coastal road, which he says supports well-established businesses such as the Newgale campsite, pub, surf shop, café and hardware store. He described continued management of the shingle bank as 'a sustainable, cost-effective and proven solution if managed correctly,' and called for modest investment in diversion routes to improve signage and traffic management on the rare occasions when the road is closed. 'These are my personal views as a lifelong resident of Newgale, views which I know are shared by many in our community,' he added. 'In my capacity as local member and county councillor, I will continue to hold those in authority to account and push back on the current proposals.' Consultation still open Cllr Neumann encouraged residents to participate in the ongoing statutory pre-application consultation, which runs until Saturday, May 11. 'This iconic view on the approach to the St Davids Peninsula needs to be preserved for future generations to enjoy and not lost as the consequence of ill-considered advice and misinformation,' he said. The proposed scheme includes a 2.5km inland road and a 120m-long concrete bridge across Brandy Brook valley. While the council maintains that it is necessary to protect against future climate-related risks, campaigners and some experts argue that the current coastal road could be retained with relatively minor interventions. How to respond to the consultation: Online: Email: newgale@ Post: Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project Team AtkinsRéalis 12 Orchard Street Swansea SA1 5AD
Western Telegraph
08-05-2025
- Politics
- Western Telegraph
Petition to stop plans to move A487 coastal road inland
A public consultation was recently launched ahead of a formal Pembrokeshire County Council application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for Phase 1 of the Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project, which would see the development of a new inland section of road with bridge over Brandy Brook some 2.3km inland, to replace the coastal section of A487 at Newgale that will be closed and removed, among other works. Varied claims have been made about the cost of this scheme, from £20m upwards, with some saying it could cost as much as £60m, with millions spent on consultation fees to date. Newgale was hit hard by flooding following storms in early 2014 storms, and later by Storm Dennis in 2020. In 2014 it even saw a visit by the-then Prime Minister David Cameron, as part of a tour of the UK to 'learn lessons' following storms and flooding that year. In 2018, Pembrokeshire County Council's Cabinet backed a recommendation, long-term, for an inland highway link for the A487. A supporting statement through agent AtkinsRéalis says a 2020 report commissioned by Pembrokeshire County Council into coastal change at Newgale concluded 'that continued efforts to maintain the shingle ridge as a defence is highly likely to be unsustainable beyond 2035, more realistically by 2030,' adding: 'Early action is required before the road becomes impassable and unsafe.' However, opponents have said the costs associated with the 2014 flooding incident – which they say was a flooding incident rather than the effects of climate change - would cost less for 3,000 years' worth of clear-ups than the new road scheme. An alternative scheme has been proposed by STUN - Stand Up for Newgale, who have accused AtkinsRéalis and Pembrokeshire County Council of misleading the public over the need for the new Newgale bypass. It says that by using photos of "the only major flood Newgale has ever had," in 2014, they are 'over-dramatising' and 'using shock tactics' designed 'to scare people into supporting an unnecessary £40-60 million new road, which, if built would cause devastation to Newgale's ecology and local countryside and would be a blight on the iconic Brandy Brook valley through which the new road would pass'. STUN's alternative scheme would, it says, be an 'alternative low-cost solution to counter any threat from the sea that will protect Newgale for at least 85 - 100 years'. STUN's alternative proposes a section of the shingle bank at Newgale be realigned 10-12 metres to the seaward leaving an over wash barrier between it and the A487 to capture any pebbles and sea water. It has also linked the proposed road realignment scheme to a proposed US military DARC Radar Array, which would involve the construction of 27 Deep Space Radars, each 21 metres tall at Cawdor Barracks, Brawdy, above Newgale, which it says could not go ahead without the new road in place due to the high levels of lorry traffic DARC's construction and operation would involve. STUN has said: 'Newgale is a jewel in the crown of our tourism rich peninsular, so why is there such determination to waste £60 million of taxpayers money on a completely unnecessary road which would only ever potentially benefit a US military base, and from which the ecology and wildlife of Brandy Brook could never recover?' The council proposals have encountered strong opposition, including local Senedd member Paul Davies MS, who said it was "ill conceived," with STUN's alternative less invasive and one that would "save the council, and local taxpayers, huge amounts of money'. A petition has now been launched opposing the Newgale coastal realignment scheme. It says: 'We believe that the current plan—estimated to cost between £25–£40 million, with consultation fees already exceeding £4 million—requires further scrutiny, transparency, and public engagement. "At this stage, we call for a thorough consideration of STUN's (Stand up for Newgale) alternative scheme, or at the very least, a pause on current proceedings until all viable options have been fully explored. 'The Brandy Brook Valley is an ecologically sensitive and historically significant landscape. Routing a major road through this area risks irreversible damage to its unique natural character, habitats, and community heritage. 'This is not just a financial concern—it is a matter of protecting our shared environment, ensuring community voices are heard, and making responsible, future-facing decisions for Pembrokeshire. 'We respectfully request that Pembrokeshire County Council takes immediate action to: Pause the current development of the Newgale route. Open a transparent review of all alternative proposals, including STUN's plan. Engage in meaningful consultation with local communities, experts, and stakeholders.' STUN has launched a Crowdfunder aimed at funding its alternative planning application. The Pembrokeshire County Council proposals have been previously costed at £20m. The Pre-application Consultation runs until May 11, with plans available online; comments may be sent to Newgale@ or by post: Newgale Coastal Adaptation Project Team, AtkinsRéalis, Floor 4, West Glamorgan House, 12 Orchard Street, Swansea, SA1 5AD.
