A PLANNING application to drastically alter the centre of Fishguard has been recommended for approval by Pembrokeshire County Council’s planning committee.

As the Western Telegraph went to press on Tuesday the Chimney’s Link ( phase 2) application was being discussed by county planners.

The scheme includes construction of new link road, creation of a bus/coach station and dedicated bus lane, alterations to the town’s existing Co-Op store, the demolition of the former Fishguard Junior School buildings, the demolition of the rear of the former library and part of the Ship and Anchor as well as the popular Transition Café.

A report to the planning committee reads:

“The scheme is intended to relieve the current problem of traffic along High Street and West Street converging on a small roundabout at the Square in the centre of Fishguard, which currently forms a “bottleneck “in terms of traffic flows.

“The scheme would also facilitate the enhancement of pedestrian / public realm infrastructure elsewhere within the town centre due to introduction of a future one-way system.”

Pembrokeshire County Council received 37 letters relating to the development which raised issues regarding lack of parking spaces, pedestrian safety, the lack of electric charging points, visual and economic impact.

The council has also received a 609 name petition calling for the provision of public toilets as part of the development. The report says that the infrastructure to allow for potential future toilet provision will be included.

The application is recommended for approval subject to a set of conditions to include a time limit for implementation; the creation of a bat house before the school is demolished; and submission for approval of details on drainage, fencing, site levels, drainage plans and lighting.