‘Immediate action’ has been called for to rectify recurring flooding on a main route in and out of Tenby, following a distressing incident when the vehicle of a disabled driver became stuck in floodwater, saw firefighters racing to rescue them.

With Storm Henk bringing more wet and windy weather to Pembrokeshire and flood warnings in force for Wales, the B4318 road by Gumfreston leading in and out of Tenby has once again been declared impassable due to flooding.

In recent weeks and months, with heavy rain and storms being a common occurrence, the persistent flooding at Gumfreston causeway, and at times, surrounding areas at the Clicketts, has caused concerns for local councillors, residents and those needing to travel along the route.

Cllr Rhys Jordan, county councillor for St Florence ward (as well as St Mary Out Liberty) has highlighted his ongoing concerns once again, calling for Pembrokeshire County Council’s leader David Simpson to instigate immediate action by the Local Authority to address matters.

“I am writing to you as a matter of pressing concern regarding the recurrent flooding in Gumfreston. As the local Councillor, I have become an unintentional 'flood helpline' for our residents, inundated with countless calls, emails, and messages seeking assistance and guidance during these challenging times - this issue has escalated to a point where immediate action is necessary,” said Cllr Jordan in his correspondence to PCC’s leader on the matter today (January 2).

“I would like to bring to your attention a recent incident that occurred on December 30, when a resident's car became stuck in floodwater, leading to a distressing situation, especially for an individual with a disability.

“The fire brigade had to intervene with an inflatable to rescue the person. This event underscores the urgency of the situation and the potential risks to our community's safety.

“I understand that Pembrokeshire County Council does not control the weather or tides. However, the Council plays a crucial role in managing infrastructure to mitigate such risks,” he continued.

“The recurrent flooding not only poses a threat to public safety but also disrupts daily life and could have severe long-term impacts on the community's well-being and the local economy.

“I urge you to consider allocating capital funding for infrastructure improvements in the southeast of the county, particularly for this vital road in and out of Tenby.

“Such investment is not just about infrastructure; it's about safeguarding our community and ensuring the resilience of our area against such natural calamities.

“Your prompt attention to this matter will be highly appreciated. I look forward to a constructive dialogue on how we can collaboratively address this issue and protect the interests of our residents,” added Cllr Jordan.

Cllr Jordan had only highlighted such matters last month, reaffirming ongoing concerns about the frequency Gumfreston causeway - a vital artery into Tenby from the west and part of the National Express London route - suffers from constant flooding.

He highlighted the fact that installed flood warning signs are frequently faulty, failing to alert drivers in time.

“This issue disrupts major school routes to Ysgol Hafan Y Mor, Tenby VC, St Teilo’s, Ysgol Preseli, and Greenhill schools - often leaving young people stranded in poor weather,” said Cllr Jordan at the time.

Natural Resources Wales issued the following flood warning this morning for Kiln Park caravan site, the B4318 road at Clicketts Lane, Gumfreston Road and the minor road Trefloyne Lane: ‘River levels in the River Ritec at Tenby have continued to rise.

‘Flooding has becoming more extensive at the Kiln Park Caravan site, conditions in the camping areas of this site will be dangerous, water is expected to surround some static caravans and the lowest lying roads in this area, such as Clicketts lane, may be affected.

‘Due to the restriction of the tidal outfall, water levels will rise over the period of each high tide. Although water levels will fluctuate, due to the rain on Monday the 1st of January and the rainfall forecast for Tuesday the 2nd of January, a continued general trend of increasing river level is anticipated.

‘We are regularly monitoring the river outfall grids on the to ensure these remain clear.’

With the weather warnings in place for the rest of today, another resident has highlighted further concerns in the area around Tenby and Penally stating this morning: “Be careful if your driving from Tenby to Manorbier - large puddle in front of Kiln Park petrol station which is covering half the road!

“The road past Chequers is only just passable. If this rain carries on the road will be a huge lake and deep in places and unpassable.

“Flooding just before Bubbleton Farm Shop and lots of running water on the corner by Celtic Haven in Lydstep. Drive carefully.”