Dyfed Powys Police is in the process of trying to establish whether criminal offences have occurred in relation to a new proposed supermarket development in Narberth.

It is understood that a criminal investigation has been launched relating to allegations of fraudulent letters of objection opposing the planned Co-op retail development at the town's Spring Gardens.

The matter came to light following a public meeting in the town to discuss the development and issues affecting businesses in the town.

Following the meeting, the developers, Actoris and Waterstone Estates, issued a statement saying they wished to convey their sincere apologies for having to withdraw from the public meeting as a result of 'unforeseen circumstances'.

"It has recently been brought to our attention that a criminal investigation has been launched relating to allegations of fraudulent letters of objection opposing this development," the statement said

"Following legal advice, we were regrettably forced to withdraw from the meeting.

"Our withdrawal is not a reflection on our commitment to comprehensive public consultation, but rather, a reaction to the unusual circumstances in which we have found ourselves."

The developers say they will endeavour to resume dialogue with key stakeholders (AM's, local councillors, traders and residents) as soon as possible and, in the meantime, wish to convey some of the cornerstones of their proposals: to attract a leading ethical retailer to enhance the town's current retail offer; to offer 54 free car parking spaces, to benefit the town centre as a whole; to reduce current leakage to nearby towns for bulk-shoppers and increase footfall across the town centre as a whole; to offer an environmentally and economically sustainable solution, which reduces the dependence upon motor cars and captures spend within Narberth town centre, benefitting retailers and other service providers.

Matt Bryant, of Actoris, commented: "We are committed to working with the local community and to delivering a scheme that offers maximum benefits.

"We are confident in our proposals, which have been lodged with the local authority and await the outcome."

Last Thursday's meeting at the Queen's Hall was the second public meeting chaired by Angela Burns AM.

Having met with the developers Actoris after the first public meeting, Mrs. Burns had offered to organise a second one so that they could put forward their plans for the old brewery site and get the opinions, both for and against, of local residents and businesses.

She said: "Regrettably, the developers chose to pull out of the meeting with one-and-a-half hours notice; despite that, the meeting went ahead and a lively debate took place discussing the brewery site and the proposed Co-op, along with the future needs and aspirations of Narberth, including opportunities for the old school site.

"I am disappointed that the developers, having sought this meeting, then pulled out. They say they are committed to public engagement, but frankly I don't see that being translated into reality.

"A great many people, whether for or against the proposals, were looking forward to understanding the developers thoughts on some of the key issues that bedevil Narberth, like parking and traffic management."

Mrs. Burns continued: "Narberth is an important asset to Pembrokeshire and we should ensure that whatever decisions are taken, are not taken lightly and take into account not just immediate need, but the whole future of Narberth.

"An integrated strategy of future development for the town needs to be created and nurtured to sow the seeds for future generations. All of us should take part in deciding what we want for this popular community."

She added: "We need a strategy that will support existing businesses, develop a sustainable and pleasant environment for residents and tourists, meet the needs of the public and support a future commercial infrastructure that allows Narberth and Pembrokeshire to thrive. We need to look at the bigger picture, learn lessons from other towns facing big expansion plans and act accordingly."

Simon Hart MP addressed the meeting and said: "You have made Narberth special over the past 30 years, but that could be lost in the blink of an eye. The town may simply become like every other town if this goes ahead."

And he expressed his disappointment that the developers had pulled out of the meeting.

"We wanted them here to cross-examine them about their public consultation and about some of their figures and to put our minds at rest. I find it very odd that they are not here to put their side across."

Police are appealing for anyone who has been approached in relation to a petition in relation to this matter to contact Pembroke Dock police on 101 as they may have information which could assist officers.