Protestors have been out in force as Pembrokeshire planners visited the site of a controversial proposal to build 45 self catering units at the approach to Penally.

Residents were joined by representatives of Badger Watch and Rescue as members of the county council’s planning and rights of way committee made their site inspection yesterday (Wednesday) morning.

The scheme for land at the rear of the Night Owl was recommended for approval at the July committee meeting, but deferred pending the site visit.

It is due to come before next Tuesday’s meeting, with a further recommendation for approval.

Banners bearing the messages ‘Penally won’t gain from these chalets’ and ‘Don’t spoil our ancient village’ were held by the protestors as councillors and planning officials arrived.

The application is being made by Mrs Patricia Henriksson of West Holloway Developments Ltd and proposes a misture of two, three and four bed roomed units.

Planning consent is being recommended subject to a number of conditions, including a Section 106 agreement to extend footways outside the site to tie in with existing paths.

Twelve objections to the proposal have been received, with eight in support.

Following the site meeting, the area’s county councillor, Jonathan Preston, commented: “Whilst I accept that such facilities are necessary in Pembrokeshire, special consideration should be given to developments in areas of natural beauty and protected habitats.

“There is some doubt that the environmental survey has not gone far enough, which needs to be addresses.

“With Penally being outside of the National Park, it is somewhat lacking in the protection afforded to areas that are within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority boundary.”