A dilapidated Charles Street building, described as an eyesore and health hazard, has again sparked calls for action to be taken against the landlord.

Previously Motor World, the building at 70A Charles Street has remained empty and in a state of disrepair after water came through its roof last October.

This sparked calls for legal action to be taken against the Irish company that leases the whole block of five shops, of which just one remains trading today.

But Red Cross staff say that's down to internal maintenance work carried out by the charity.

Staff member Sylvia Bevan said: “We do not have any faith. The building has been in a poor condition for so long, and I do not think it needs to be regenerated, I think it needs to be knocked down and started again."

She added that the damage and lack of repair was putting a strain on the rest of the buildings.

She said: “We’ve been lucky because Red Cross have done a lot of maintenance on the interior. But unfortunately it’s throwing good money after bad if other buildings are not being maintained.

“Years ago this place was buzzing. But repair and lack of maintenance is what caused this. If you do not look after something it will start falling apart.”

Volunteer Keith Thompson added: “If those properties were maintained and the upstairs turned into flats, they would have some of the best views in Milford Haven. They could be fine buildings if they were looked after - it’s not rocket science. And if it was sorted out at the beginning, it wouldn’t be in this state now."

Sarah Hearne, whose Upper Crust Coffee Shop is next door to the empty block, said that the building was having a negative impact on the rest of the street.

She said: “It’s horrendous. It’s got pigeons flying about inside, and it’s a health hazard as far as I’m concerned.

“It gives the rest of the street a completely dirty and neglected appearance, which is not the right image for us. It’s off-putting and wouldn’t encourage anybody to come into the town, whether they are customers or someone looking to set up a new business."

She added: “I think that the council has to act now. It’s already in a far worse condition than it could have been if something was done earlier.

“The building is in a fantastic position and lends itself to many things, and even if they just cleared and tidied the land, it would be better than what it is now. Something has got to be done, and it's got to be done now – not in two years' time.”

A Pembrokeshire County Council spokesman said that the council was in the process of getting a detailed structural report on the premises. The spokesman added: "Once it has been completed we will be making further contact with the leaseholders in Ireland, who are - under the terms of the lease - responsible for maintenance and repairs."