Milford in the spotlight as pub chain heads to county

9:49am Thursday 4th September 2008

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With pub giant JD Wetherspoon set to open its first premises in Pembrokeshire, the spotlight has now fallen on Milford Haven as a likely site for the chain’s second pub in the county.

Pembrokeshire County Council has approved JD Wetherspoon’s application for a new premises licence at Wilton House Hotel, Quay Street, Haverfordwest.

With its foot in the door, the company is now expected to view other sites in the county, with Milford rumoured to be one of its prime targets.

Councillor Rhys Sinnett, who serves as a county councillor and town councillor in Milford, said he wouldn’t directly oppose the company moving to the town, but said a number of factors would have to be considered.

“It is my understanding that JD Wetherspoon has an excellent record in terms of premise security,” he said.

“On the plus side, it would provide an alternative social option for local residents providing the right measures were in place.”

However, Cllr Sinnett did express concern for local landlords who have already suffered with the credit crunch and last year’s smoking ban.

“If the introduction of such a renowned pub chain was to have a detrimental effect on other licensed premises locally then it would be difficult to endorse,” Cllr Sinnett added.

“Also the exact location would be critical. I know Dyfed-Powys Police had reservations on having another licensed premises in Haverfordwest and the same consideration would have to be given to Milford.”

Councillor Anne Hughes said Wetherspoon would benefit Milford.

“It’s a family orientated pub that serves food with alcohol,” she said.

“I think it would not only be good for Milford residents, but for the vast number of people we have coming off cruise liner ships throughout the year.”

Georgina Bennett, landlord of the Trafalgar pub on Charles Street, said she didn’t feel a Wetherspoon pub in the town would adversely affect her business.

She said: “I don’t think it would do any harm. We, along with other pubs, rely heavily on local trade and I believe they would stay loyal.”

JD Wetherspoon currently runs 702 pubs throughout the UK with the closest establishment currently in Carmarthen.