Harbourside amphitheatre part of Saundersfoot regeneration
A NEW harbourside amphitheatre for 4,000 spectators will be unveiled in Pembrokeshire this weekend in the latest phase of a major marine regeneration project.
The 20,000 sq ft National Events Deck at Saundersfoot Harbour will be used to stage events ranging from theatrical and moving performances to food and craft festivals.
The project had been backed with a bridging loan of £400,000 from HSBC, ahead of grant funding from the Welsh Government.
It marks the latest phase of the Wales International Coastal Project, which by 2020 will see a new marine centre and replica sailing ship built, also funded by HSBC.
The first phase of the project, which was also part-funded by HSBC UK, saw new outside mooring and racking facilities, redevelopment of a pontoon and enhanced disabled access to the area.
To celebrate the completion of the National Events Deck, the harbour will host an inaugural event, which will be open to the public, on September 15
It will include a live performance of popular sea-themed movie scores by the Cardiff Philharmonic Orchestra, coinciding with the Year of the Sea.
Bradley Davies, commercial manager of Saundersfoot Harbour, said: “We’ve seen a huge increase in footfall to the area since the completion of the project’s first phase, so we look forward to bringing something completely new and different to visitors and locals alike.”
Phil Sargeant, HSBC UK’s area director for south Wales, added: “HSBC UK is delighted to be a part of the regeneration of Saundersfoot Harbour and understands its importance for tourism in the area.
“My team and I look forward to seeing the project complete in 2020 and the positive impact it will have on the Saundersfoot economy.”