Pembrokeshire-based architect Gareth Scourfield - known as ‘G’ to so many in the Welsh construction industry - retired recently after nearly 40 years in practice.

For 35 years he was Chairman of Pembroke Design Ltd which has three offices in West Wales. During this time his firm won over 50 high profile awards for projects.

Gareth was brought up in Pembroke Dock, the eldest son of well respected business couple John and Joyce Scourfield. He studied at Pembroke Grammar School and Thames Polytechnic (now the University of Greenwich) London.

After working in private practice and for Transport for London, Gareth returned to his native county and set up Pembroke Design Ltd with the late Keith Williams. It rapidly established an enviable reputation throughout Wales and beyond.

Professionally, Gareth is one of very few in the UK to be a member both of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). A Past President of the Royal Society of Architects in Wales, he remains on their council, and is also an Advocate for the Design Commission for Wales.

Close to home Gareth authored the Conservation Masterplan for Pembroke Dock, used by Pembrokeshire County Council to secure grant funding for projects in the town centre. He has, over many years, worked on conservation projects, exhibitions and designed the contemporary café at Pembroke Castle.

Passionate about the history and heritage of his area, Gareth has been actively involved in many organisations. A founder member and trustee of the Pembrokeshire Historic Buildings Trust, he is also trustee of both the Pembroke Dock Museum Trust and the Pembroke Dock Sunderland Trust which have set up impressive visitor attractions locally.

Gareth is the author of ‘Castles and Strongholds of Pembrokeshire’ and has had many articles relating to construction published. For several years he lectured at Pembrokeshire College’s Construction Department.

Reflecting on his retirement, Gareth said: “I am delighted that the three remaining directors have secured my shareholding so the future of Pembroke Design Ltd is assured and I wish my old colleagues many further successes in the future.”

Gareth is moving to Laugharne to join his partner Liz on her farm where she has a holiday cottage specialising in dog friendly holidays.

“Hopefully retirement will allow me more time to enjoy many interests and pastimes like travel, rugby, animals, gardening, cooking and photography. And I finally intend to take up piano lessons,” he added.