Further work at a Pembrokeshire seaside village pub has been given the go-ahead following a previous approved works scheme aimed at addressing “adverse comment from members of the community”.
In an application to Pembrokeshire Coast National Park approved late last year, Unicorn Fairs Pension Scheme, through agent Flora MacRae, sought permission for works, including replacement of existing veluxes with dormers to the rear roof and the installation of roof lanterns to the existing flat roof, at The Royal George, 13 High Street, Solva.
The Royal George is a public house, but has not been in use for several years now and is in need of renovations and modernising, the applicants said, with works having started last May.
A supporting statement accompanying the application said: “The Royal George is an hotel with associated bar and restaurant in the conservation area of Upper Solva, it is not listed. The owners leased the property on a full repairing lease for a period in excess of 10 years before the tenant unfortunately died.
“Subsequent to this event the owners spent most of 2023 and 2024 trying to sell the property without success.
“Following adverse comments from members of the community the owners decided that they would try to improve the external appearance of the building.”
After that approval, a further application by the same people was made to the Park, seeking amendments to the rear of the pub, including new sliding doors and large windows to the rear facade, extending the terrace area and the installation of a slatted timber screen.
An officer report recommending approval said: “The proposed works affect the rear of the premises which is not readily visible from the public realm.
“The ground floor of the building has been significantly extended with bar extensions, the proposed alterations to the glazing (including the insertion of bi-fold doors) having minimal impact on character.
“Similarly, the enlargement of the rear terrace and the proposed timber screen have little impact, the terrace taking in a section of the existing car park.”
It said one letter had objected to the scheme, raising an objection to the loss of parking spaces for the public house, but said the Royal George has no parking requirements.
The latest application was conditionally approved by Park planners.
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