The Friends of Saundersfoot was formed in 1965 amid widespread concerns over planned developments in the village. There was a significant fear that its charm and unique character would be forever lost amongst a headlong rush to concrete over our open spaces.

Those fears are still with us today with the proposals of Saundersfoot Harbour Commissioners to build shops and flats on the coal office/Barbecue lawn. Their scheme would destroy one of the few green open spaces left in Saundersfoot, effectively urbanise and clutter the centre of the village and remove cherished sea views.

The Friends wish this open space to be retained for present and future generations to use and enjoy; it should remain in public ownership, free from the threat of ill-judged and costly developments.

It seems bizarre that at a time of financial stringency, when the future of, for example, the Avenue Centre and Tenby Museum are both put in doubt, Pembrokeshire County Council can find in excess of £1.5 million to lend to the Harbour Commissioners to fund this unnecessary scheme.

The vast majority of Saundersfoot residents oppose the plans of the Harbour Commissioners and it would perhaps be appropriate that instead of the county council wasting money on unwanted projects it could use its funds better to protect existing services.

Rowland Williams,

Honorary secretary,

Friends of Saundersfoot