PLANS to change a former Pembrokeshire town police station to a funeral directors have been given the go-ahead.
In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, W & MJ Rossiter & Sons Ltd, through agent RPC Design & Architecture Ltd, sought permission for a change of use of the former Jesse Road, Narberth station.
Back in February, Dyfed-Powys Police announced it was to sell Narberth Police Station and relocate to a new base with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Services (MAWWFRS) in nearby Spring Gardens.
The Jesse Road station had been identified as not meeting modern day policing requirements, the force has said.
It stated: “As a result, and as part of a £10m savings plan spanning three years, a decision has been made to formally close the station and sell the property.”
Dyfed-Powys Police said it will maintain its presence in Narberth, from its new co-location base.
Reacting to the announcement, Narberth Town Council said it only heard about the sale through a press release shared by news outlets.
Speaking about the sale and re-location, Chief Constable Dr Richard Lewis had said: “I want to reassure our local communities that Heddlu Dyfed-Powys Police is committed to maintaining the same level of service and support for our local communities, and residents and business in Narberth will see no difference.”
In a supporting statement accompanying the application for a change of use, W & MJ Rossiter & Sons Ltd, established in 1949, said it had been based at its current offices for some 18 years but the current site in Narberth’s Station Road no longer meets the needs of its growing team or clients, with no on-site parking, no disabled access, and a shortage of space.
It said the former police station site, purchased by the applicants following the move of the police station, would “allow us to continue providing the same high standard of service we always have, but in a way that is more accessible, sustainable, and future-ready”.
Supporting documents added: “After conducting a comprehensive search of all commercial property listings with parking within the Narberth postcode area, covering every local estate agent, specialist commercial agent, and major online property platform, I can confirm that there are no other suitable premises currently available for sale.
“Our business is firmly established in Narberth, with a loyal customer base and operational networks that depend on this location.
Moving outside the area would undermine the stability, reputation, and continuity of the business, making this premises the only viable option.”
The application, supported by Narberth Town Council, was conditionally approved by officers.
