Dear editor - There has been much coverage in the local press recently regarding Pembrokeshire Housing's planning applications to provide 15 affordable homes at the Skrinkle Estate, Manorbier.

Pembrokeshire Housing is a not for profit voluntary organisation which has been providing affordable, quality homes across the county for more than 25 years.

The two sites in question have been identified as surplus to requirement and suitable for affordable housing by Pembrokeshire County Council, the owner and strategic housing authority.

The need for affordable housing across the county both within and outside the National Park area is now becoming widely recognised.

There are currently about 4,000 people on the Pembrokeshire housing register seeking affordable accommodation.

The Joint Unitary Development Plan (JUDP), which sets out land use for the county, identified the need for 1,800 affordable homes during the lifetime of the plan.

When these sites are developed the Skrinkle Estate will still have two equipped children's play areas, plus other open spaces, which well exceeds the National Playing Fields Association's guideline levels.

The estate itself is surrounded by open countryside with ready access to the coast and beach.

It is on this basis, and the ability to satisfy the requirements of the JUDP and its relevant policies that the association has proceeded with these applications.

If the need for affordable housing across the county is to be addressed, it is essential that the planning authorities ensure sufficient land is made available in the development plans, which, together with continued support from local politicians, will assist delivery of this much needed affordable housing.

Peter Maggs Chief executive, Pembrokeshire Housing Association.