Plans to transform the derelict Black Pool Mill into a major new tourism attraction have been approved by the National Park’s development management committee.

The committee, which met last week, showed overwhelming support for the scheme, with just two members, who were unable to make an earlier site visit, abstaining from the vote.

The application will now pass to Cadw, the Welsh historic buildings guardian, with a recommendation for approval of Listed Building Consent for the conversion and restoration of the existing mill buildings and ancillary buildings.

The development, by Bluestone Wales, is a £3 million project which will transform the Grade 2 listed building into a significant heritage tourism destination.

Bluestone’s head of projects, Liz Weedon, said: “We are delighted that we can now move forward to create an exciting new sustainable visitor attraction for Pembrokeshire. We envisage that the economic benefits to the county will be substantial, both in terms of local jobs and opportunities for local suppliers. Black Pool Mill is one of very few surviving mills of its kind in the whole of the UK -this project enables this historic legacy to be retained, enhanced and make a positive contribution to the surrounding area.”