Test drilling will start within the next two weeks on the site of the proposed multi-million pound Martello Quays marina development at Pembroke Dock.

The announcement was made this week by Conygar, who have been granted licences by the Marine Consent Unit and the Crown Estate to undertake this essential programme of engineering research before work can start on exciting project.

Martello Quays will provide in excess of 350 berths as well as some 300 apartments. There will also be a commercial core providing retail and leisure opportunities adjoining the marina which will provide a vibrant new waterfront to Pembroke Dock.

Mr Robert Ware, Chief Executive of Conygar, said: "The drilling will be the first public sign of activity on the site, although a huge amount of work has been going on in the background. All schemes of this kind and this size are complicated and time-consuming and simply getting the scheme to this stage is evidence of our commitment.

"It is very exciting and I am sure will be a great benefit to Pembroke Dock and the surrounding area."

The local member of Pembrokeshire County Council, Clr. Brian Hall, commented: "I am delighted to hear about this important milestone for this scheme which is so vital for the future of Pembroke Dock. There is tremendous public support for Martello Quays in the town and most people cannot wait for work to start."

The Martello Quays scheme was initially promoted by a client group comprising Milford Haven Port Authority, Pembrokeshire County Council, the Crown Estate and the Welsh Government. Following a public competitive process, the client group appointed Conygar to carry out the development.

Conygar has secured planning permission for the scheme.

Martello Quays is one of three major marina developments for Conygar in Wales. Plans have also been approved for a new marina, housing and ferry port development in conjunction with Stena Line at Fishguard and a major waterfront development scheme at Holyhead in a joint venture by Conygar Stena Line. These developments could increase the marina-berth capacity in Wales by circa 25 per cent which has long been identified as an area for growth in marine leisure activity.

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The leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, Clr. Jamie Adams, said: "We are delighted with this latest announcement from Conygar which is good news not just for Pembroke Dock, but for Pembrokeshire as well. It is a major step forward in bringing the multi-million marina development to fruitition."