Pembrokeshire County Council’s Leader, has urged people to ‘plan ahead’ before visiting the county, as more fine weather is expected this weekend, with coastal areas expected to be busy once again.

In Councillor David Simpson’s coronavirus update today (Friday, July 31), he warned that fines would issued for anyone leaving rubbish at beauty spots; for motorists parking inconsiderately; and incidents of unauthorised wild camping.

“Another weekend is almost upon us - as is the main summer holiday month of August; and we are expecting a particularly busy time in Pembrokeshire with fine weather forecast over the next couple of days which will attract more visitors to the county,” said Clr. Simpson.

“And while this is overdue good news for the local economy, the increasing number of tourists and locals enjoying our coastline also brings challenges.

“At the risk of repeating myself, I do urge people to plan ahead before venturing out.

“Over the past few weeks since the lockdown restrictions have been relaxed, there has been an increase in rubbish left at beauty spots, motorists parking inconsiderately and incidents of unauthorised wild camping.

“If this thoughtless behaviour continues – albeit by a minority of people - it will have a detrimental impact on our environment and upset the communities where it occurs.

“In my last update I detailed the steps that we, as the local authority, are taking to combat these infractions such as increasing enforcement patrols and issuing penalty notices to the transgressors.

“I would appeal to everyone over the coming weeks to use common-sense and not spoil our beautiful county,” he continued.

“More welcome news for businesses is that from this coming Monday pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes will be able to re-open indoors. But remember, social distancing measures should still be observed indoors and out.

“I would also like to remind people that a major announcement this week was that those who test positive for coronavirus - or show symptoms - must now self-isolate for at least 10 days, rather than seven.

“This applies throughout the UK and comes as Government ministers try to avoid a resurgence of the virus.

“Until now, those showing key symptoms - a new continuous cough, a temperature or loss of taste or smell - have had to self-isolate for at least a week,” added Clr. Simpson.