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RESOLVED That the School Admission Arrangements for 2024/2025, as set out in Appendix 1, be approved.
RESOLVED That all Pembrokeshire schools be contained in one “Relevant Area” for admissions consultation purposes, covering the geographic area of Pembrokeshire County Council, be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That, in accordance with the Governance Arrangements outlined in the Council’s Capital Strategy: (i) That a feasibility be undertaken in order to determine approximate costs as part of an options appraisal, and a budget of £25,000 to be set aside for this purpose be approved; (ii) That the findings of the feasibility study be reported to the Corporate Asset Management Board and utilised to initiate the business case process, prior to approval and for updating the Capital Programme. (b) That subject to the above, to formally invite and evaluate a ‘direct award’ tender to the ‘Top Ranked’ Contractor under the South West Wales Regional Framework as part of a two stage tender process for the design, development works and construction for the rebuild of Manorbier Church in Wales VC School (c) That authority be delegated to the Director of Community Services for the Award of Stage 1 services. Further approval will need to be sought from Cabinet for the award of Stage 2. (d) That the decision for Manorbier VC Church in Wales School to remain at Jameston Community Hall for the remainder of the 2022/23 academic year and until such time as the reinstatement of the school is complete, be noted.
RESOLVED That progress be noted and a further summary progress report in six months be considered.
RESOLVED That the recommendations made by the February 2023 Grant Panel be endorsed.
RESOLVED That the submission of a Project Adjustment Request for the Heart of Pembrokeshire Project, option 2a, be approved for submission to the Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities for consideration.
RESOLVED (a) That the schedule of roles and responsibilities, as outlined in Appendix 1, be approved. (b) That the schedule of project management roles for major projects, as outlined in Appendix 2, be approved. (c) That the terms of reference for the Corporate Programme Board, Corporate Programme Board Officer Coordinating Group, and Major Project Boards, be approved. (d) That the recommendations regarding Councillor Membership of the Corporate Programme Board be noted. (e) That the proposals to review the above new arrangements after 12 months and implement changes as required, be noted.
RESOLVED That the Discretionary Housing Payments Policy for the financial year 2023-24, as outlined in Appendix 1, be adopted.
RESOLVED That the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Rate Relief Scheme in Wales 2023-24, as outlined above and in accordance with the criteria and conditions specified in the guidance for 2023-24, be adopted.
RESOLVED (a) That the increases to fees and charges, outlined in the report at pages 198-200, that are above the rate of inflation (CPI), be approved. (a) That the increase in respect of the Section 50 Street Works Licences be recommended to Council.
RESOLVED That a charge of £199 per Export Health Certificate, reviewable on an annual basis in line with inflation and officer costs and in accordance with the corporate Fees and Charges Policy, be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan 2023-53 be approved for submission to the Welsh Government by 31 March 2023. (b) That the HRA borrowing cap be increased by an estimated CPI per annum, subject to affordability monitoring. (c) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, be delegated authority to make minor changes to the financial tables, prior to the submission to Welsh Government. (d) That the challenges and achievements of the service in past 12 months and the impact on the HRA programme of work going forward, be noted.
The following declarations were made: Item 7 - Regeneration Update Councillor Tessa Hodgson declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of her partner working for the Milford Haven Port Authority, but had a dispensation to speak and vote. Item 8 - Second Home Council Tax - Community Element 'Enhancing Pembrokeshire' Grant Awards Councillor Neil Prior declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of having four bids submitted for consideration. Councillor Guy Woodham declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of his husband being the district Chair of the West Wales Sea Cadets and a close friend being the Commanding Officer of the Milford Haven Unit. Councillor Alec Cormack declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being a Community Councillor for both Amroth and Saundersfoot, of which both wards had bids submitted for consideration Councillor Paul Miller declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being a Director of an organisation who had bids submitted for consideration. Item 15 - Housing Revenue Account Business Plan 2023-2053 Councillor Neil Prior declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being a Director at Pobl Housing Association, but had dispensation to speak but not vote.
Moved by the Leader; Seconded by Councillor Guy Woodham. The vote was taken by way of a show of hands and carried. RESOLVED That the Minutes of the Cabinet Meeting held on 13 February 2023, be approved as a correct record.
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RESOLVED That the School Admission Arrangements for 2024/2025, as set out in Appendix 1, be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the Council’s Determination of Admission Arrangements for 2024-25. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that in accordance with the relevant requirements, as outlined in the report, consultation had taken place on the Admission Arrangements for Community and Voluntary Controlled schools in Pembrokeshire for 2024-25. The consultation period commenced on 9 January 2023 and ended on 10 February 2023 and there were no responses. Councillor Woodham highlighted that full details of the proposed Admission Arrangements, together with the admission numbers were outlined in Appendix 1. He stated that Ysgol Caer Elen was currently having additional capacity added in the form of mobile classrooms, as part of Welsh Government investment from the Welsh in Education Capital Grant. Councillor Woodham highlighted that the current published Admission Number was 57, but due to oversubscription, 60 was the effective limit. He highlighted that the overall additional capacity amounted to approximately 120 primary places. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation. Councillor Tessa Hodgson sought clarification in regards to whether if admissions were increased at nursery level, would there be enough capacity to support more children throughout all school years. In response, the Director of Education confirmed that there was sufficient capacity to manage admissions at primary level until 2027. In regards to secondary school years, the Director stated that the school had already been built to meet the new demand and that the admission number for the secondary element was 120. Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the School Admission Arrangements for 2024/2025, as set out in Appendix 1, be approved.
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RESOLVED That all Pembrokeshire schools be contained in one “Relevant Area” for admissions consultation purposes, covering the geographic area of Pembrokeshire County Council, be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the Council’s Determination of the “Relevant Area” for Admission Arrangements consultation during the period 2025-2027. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that in accordance with the relevant requirements, as outlined in the report, consultation had taken place on the “Relevant Area” for the purpose of consultation on school admission arrangements for 2025-2027. He highlighted that the proposal for Pembrokeshire was that all schools be contained in one “Relevant Area” covering the geographic area of Pembrokeshire County Council, which was said to be the present arrangement. Councillor Woodham also highlighted that no comments had been received as a result of the consultation. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That all Pembrokeshire schools be contained in one “Relevant Area” for admissions consultation purposes, covering the geographic area of Pembrokeshire County Council, be approved.
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RESOLVED (a) That, in accordance with the Governance Arrangements outlined in the Council’s Capital Strategy: (i) That a feasibility be undertaken in order to determine approximate costs as part of an options appraisal, and a budget of £25,000 to be set aside for this purpose be approved; (ii) That the findings of the feasibility study be reported to the Corporate Asset Management Board and utilised to initiate the business case process, prior to approval and for updating the Capital Programme. (b) That subject to the above, to formally invite and evaluate a ‘direct award’ tender to the ‘Top Ranked’ Contractor under the South West Wales Regional Framework as part of a two stage tender process for the design, development works and construction for the rebuild of Manorbier Church in Wales VC School (c) That authority be delegated to the Director of Community Services for the Award of Stage 1 services. Further approval will need to be sought from Cabinet for the award of Stage 2. (d) That the decision for Manorbier VC Church in Wales School to remain at Jameston Community Hall for the remainder of the 2022/23 academic year and until such time as the reinstatement of the school is complete, be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which provided an update on actions undertaken following the fire incident at Manorbier VC School in October 2022 and reinstatement plans. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and firstly expressed his and the Council's gratitude to the personnel of Stirling Construction, who were working on a building site opposite the school and who, on discovering the fire, raised the alarm with school staff and then assisted in the evacuation of pupils. He stated that the main consideration since the fire incident on 10October 2022, had been that of maintaining the education and welfare provision for pupils attending Manorbier VC School. Whilst Jameston Community Hall did not offer the full range of facilities available at a bespoke school, he stated the support of the Manorbier Community Association, the local community, and the work undertaken by various Council Officers, had ensured a secure and effective educational environment. Councillor Woodham stated that consideration had been given to alternative school sites where there was sufficient capacity, however, further relocation could be detrimental to pupil and staff wellbeing and was considered to be a risk to maintaining effective teaching and learning. It was recognised that reinstating Manorbier Church in Wales VC School would take time, possibly until the beginning of the 2024-25 academic year. Councillor Woodham stated that in order to expedite the full reinstatement of the fabric of the school, it was considered that this needed to be co-ordinated by the Council’s in-house Professional Construction Services team. The full scope of works would need to be developed in conjunction with the insurers with a view to returning the school to its pre-fire condition. It was recognised that the scope of works may not be limited to the fire damaged areas of the school only, and consideration would need to be given not only to the condition of adjacent rooms, plant and equipment, but also to ensure that rebuilt structures receive the appropriate planning consent and comply with current building standards. He highlighted that the full cost of reinstatement was not known at this time, but it was anticipated that most, if not all, of the cost would be met from insurance. Councillor Woodham stated that irrespective of the availability of insurance to reinstate the buildings, it was necessary to include this work on the Council’s Capital Programme. As per the Capital Strategy approved at Council on 2 March 2023, schemes in excess of £100k would need to follow the Welsh Government Five Case Business Model, with each stage of the business case being subject to Cabinet approval. He highlighted that the preferred option was to undertake a full reinstatement of the school. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Tessa Hodgson. Councillor Tessa Hodgson welcomed the focus on reinstating the school. She then sought clarification as to why the Council were not claiming from the contractors insurance. In response, Councillor Woodham stated that given the nature of the number of parties and legal complexities involved, liability had not yet been resolved and the Council was currently unable to confirm the position around insurance. The Chief Executive confirmed this to be the case and stated that costs were being recovered in the correct and legal manner. Councillor Hodgson expressed concern that there was no reference in the report to the contractor’s insurance. Councillor Woodham stated that as it was an ongoing matter, a decision was perhaps taken to not include too much information regarding the contractor’s insurance in the public domain, given the legal negotiations and insurance matters currently being discussed. Councillor Alec Cormack agreed with Councillor Hodgson and suggested that on page 103 of the report under ‘Insurance Matters’, made it seem that the Council was not pursuing the matter as rigorously as possible. In response, Councillor Woodham stated that full cost recovery was in the process of being secured and from appropriate means, so as to not to have to potentially use the Insurance Reserve, and therefore not encourage additional costs because of this. He highlighted that the primary priority was to get learners back into the school building as soon as possible and if there was any indication of additional costs, Cabinet would be consulted. The Chief Executive stated that the liability of the fire was not the subject of the paper for legal reasons and highlighted that the Council would seek to recover costs from other parties, if other parties were liable. The Head of Law and Governance agreed and stated that if the cost of the project needed to be paid out of Reserves in order to progress the matter quickly, the Council would certainly look to recoup that cost. Councillor Cormack stated that he wished for the word ‘will’ to be amended to say ‘may’ in regards to the sentence outlined on page 103 of the report which read, ‘A policy excess of £200,000 is in place and will need to be met from the Council’s Insurance Reserve’. Councillor Paul Miller stated his support for the recommendation and highlighted that his priority was rebuilding the school to provide the right educational environment for the pupils, but stated that if an insured contractor had caused the fire, he would expect the insurance to be pursued for the excess value. In regards to Councillor Cormack’s point, Councillor Woodham stated that he had moved the recommendations and did not believe that the change would affect the outlined recommendations. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That, in accordance with the Governance Arrangements outlined in the Council’s Capital Strategy: (i) That a feasibility be undertaken in order to determine approximate costs as part of an options appraisal, and a budget of £25,000 to be set aside for this purpose be approved; (ii) That the findings of the feasibility study be reported to the Corporate Asset Management Board and utilised to initiate the business case process, prior to approval and for updating the Capital Programme. (b) That subject to the above, to formally invite and evaluate a ‘direct award’ tender to the ‘Top Ranked’ Contractor under the South West Wales Regional Framework as part of a two stage tender process for the design, development works and construction for the rebuild of Manorbier Church in Wales VC School (c) That authority be delegated to the Director of Community Services for the Award of Stage 1 services. Further approval will need to be sought from Cabinet for the award of Stage 2. (d) That the decision for Manorbier VC Church in Wales School to remain at Jameston Community Hall for the remainder of the 2022/23 academic year and until such time as the reinstatement of the school is complete, be noted.
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RESOLVED That progress be noted and a further summary progress report in six months be considered.
[Correction to page 133 of the agenda – ‘Haverfordwest Picton House’ should read ‘Haverfordwest Pembroke House’] Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which provided a six monthly update in regards to developments across the regeneration and economic development functions. Councillor Paul Miller, Deputy Leader and the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Place, the Region and Climate Change, introduced the report and stated that the Council remained committed to being proactive in regards to regeneration, for the benefit of the economy of Pembrokeshire. He then highlighted the following, as outlined in the report: • Partnership working with UK Governments, Industry and Public Sectors, in order to maximise all opportunities. • Freeport Bid - the outcome was expected to be shared in March. • The announcement of consent granted to Blue Gem Wind for the first floating windfarm in Wales. • Trecwn Green Energy Hub - proposed by Statkraft, Europe’s largest generator of renewable energy, and was the company’s first green hydrogen project to be announced in the UK. • Full fibre digital infrastructure - Pembrokeshire's availability had risen to in excess of 30%. At the start of 2020 that was just 6%, and so the pace of roll-out in Pembrokeshire had been positive. • Town Centres – the Council wasundertaking significant projects in both Haverfordwest and Pembroke and the Shared Prosperity Fund would shortly be broadening the grant and other support would be available to other town centres across the County. Proposals were also being developed for area based place groups, designed to engage Local Members in the development of proposals for their communities. Councillor Miller then highlighted the cost pressures being experienced in regards to ongoing projects, but stated that the Team was proactively managing those projects and carefully considering how to balance cost and economic return, including considering alternative options and changes to project scope. He stated, however, that the Council remained committed to supporting the reinvention of Pembrokeshire’s town centres. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation. Councillor Tessa Hodgson congratulated the Team for the scale of the ambition in regards to ongoing projects. She then sought clarification in regards to the outcome of the Freeport Bid. In response, Councillor Miller stated that a specific date was unknown but the expectation was that the announcement was imminent. Councillor Jon Harvey made reference to the great work being carried out for all projects and stated that the schemes were very important for Pembrokeshire. The Leader also thanked Councillor Miller and the Team for their ongoing work during a difficult time. Councillor Rhys Sinnett sought clarification in regards to whether there was an overarching body to pull together the regeneration projects. In response, Councillor Miller stated that the Council had an important role in co-ordinating and enabling certain aspects of each project. Councillor Sinnett stated that he appreciated seeing active leadership and enabling environments for projects. Councillor Hodgsonstated that the Council needed to acknowledge the contribution the Private Sector made to the economic life in Pembrokeshire, and made reference to the investments from the Ascona Group in Pembroke. Councillor Neil Prior referred to the Public Services Board (PSB) and stated that it would work on projects that they believed could add collective value. Councillor Alec Cormack also supported the work of the Regeneration Team, especially in regards to connectivity work around Pembrokeshire and stated that it was important for future prosperity. Councillor Miller then referred to the Food Park which was said to be a good example of the Private Sector carrying out the project, with the Council undertaking enabling works. He stated that it was a balanced approach between the Private and Public Sector to ensure the right investments were made in Pembrokeshire. Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That progress be noted and a further summary progress report in six months be considered.
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RESOLVED That the recommendations made by the February 2023 Grant Panel be endorsed.
[Having previously made declarations of interest in this item, Councillors Alec Cormack, Paul Miller, Neil Prior and Guy Woodham left the meeting at this juncture.] Cabinet considered a joint report by the Director of Community Services and Director of Resources which outlined the Enhancing Pembrokeshire February 2023 Grant Panel recommendations. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and stated that there was an error in the report on page 146 under ‘Victoria Hall Association’, where the figures for ‘Total Project Cost’ and ‘Fund Request’ should be swapped. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Rhys Sinnett. Councillor Jon Harvey highlighted the difference this scheme made to local communities and stated that he looked forward to the scheme continuing. The Leader highlighted that so far, a total of £3 million had been awarded to 178 successful projects in Pembrokeshire. He stated that it was a wonderful scheme that was putting money back into local communities. Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that the wide range of projects were good and were important to local communities. He stated that it was an extremely successful scheme. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson and Rhys Sinnett [5] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the recommendations made by the February 2023 Grant Panel be endorsed.
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RESOLVED That the submission of a Project Adjustment Request for the Heart of Pembrokeshire Project, option 2a, be approved for submission to the Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities for consideration.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which outlined a formal Project Adjustment Request for submission to the Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities. The Head of Cultural, Leisure and Registration Services introduced the report and stated that the outlined scheme was incredibly beneficial but also the most technically complex scheme. He stated the financial pressures were outlined in the report and that the issues being faced were around high inflation, material cost inflation, but also subcontractors concerned by the risk of the scheme. In order to avoid significant financial risks or work delay, the change request was to remove Work Package 2 - Bridge Street link and walkways, replacing it with an alternative link via Castle Square and Castle back. In addition, to seek permission to reshape Work Package 3 - Conservation of the castle walls, in light of removal of the Bridge Street link and walkways. He stated that the report also outlined consultation feedback from the local community, residents and a number of Partners and that there was widespread support for the proposal. Councillor Alec Cormack stated that this was a sensible approach in order to avoid ground areas of uncertainty. Councillor Jon Harvey stated his support for the recommendation. He then sought clarification in regards to whether conversations had been undertaken with the Partner to discuss the adjustment and if not accepted, what the next steps would be. In response, the Head of Cultural, Leisure and Registration Services stated that the change had been discussed with civil servants and that it needed to be formally discussed, which would take 20 working days. He believed that the decision making board would support the change, as the value for money changes were not significant. He highlighted that if it was not supported, the project would need to be reviewed.He mentioned, however, that the Local MP Stephen Crabb was supportive and that his letter of support was an important part of the request to prove that there was local political support. Councillors Neil Prior and Rhys Sinnett also stated their support for the practical approach in order to respond to the funding challenges. The Head of Cultural, Leisure and Registration Services also mentioned that the bridge would need to be replaced regardless in the next three to five years and the cost of doing so would be similar to the current plan. Councillor Paul Miller stated that he was not pleased to be losing the direct link from Bridge Street to the Castle, but highlighted that the approach was about being pragmatic and realistic about what could be achieved, as well as appropriately managing the project and its risks, and therefore was said to be very supportive. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the submission of a Project Adjustment Request for the Heart of Pembrokeshire Project, option 2a, be approved for submission to the Department for Levelling Up Housing and Communities for consideration.
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RESOLVED (a) That the schedule of roles and responsibilities, as outlined in Appendix 1, be approved. (b) That the schedule of project management roles for major projects, as outlined in Appendix 2, be approved. (c) That the terms of reference for the Corporate Programme Board, Corporate Programme Board Officer Coordinating Group, and Major Project Boards, be approved. (d) That the recommendations regarding Councillor Membership of the Corporate Programme Board be noted. (e) That the proposals to review the above new arrangements after 12 months and implement changes as required, be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which outlined the Governance Arrangements for the Corporate Programme Board. The Chief Executive introduced the report and stated that the proposal was to create a third Programme Board called the Corporate Programme Board, which would oversee all Capital Projects that did not fall under the other two Programme Boards of the Council, the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme Board and the Affordable Housing Programme Board. Councillor Alec Cormack supported the recommendation and stated that the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme Board was working well and mirroring the Governance Arrangements seemed to be a sensible way forward. Councillor Paul Miller agreed with Councillor Cormack and highlighted that it was about ensuring that there was the right focus on governance and risk, as well as the right visibility across the projects. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the schedule of roles and responsibilities, as outlined in Appendix 1, be approved. (b) That the schedule of project management roles for major projects, as outlined in Appendix 2, be approved. (c) That the terms of reference for the Corporate Programme Board, Corporate Programme Board Officer Coordinating Group, and Major Project Boards, be approved. (d) That the recommendations regarding Councillor Membership of the Corporate Programme Board be noted. (e) That the proposals to review the above new arrangements after 12 months and implement changes as required, be noted.
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RESOLVED That the Discretionary Housing Payments Policy for the financial year 2023-24, as outlined in Appendix 1, be adopted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Financial Services which outlined the Discretionary Housing Payments policy for the financial year 2023-24. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and stated that the Council had previously structured its Discretionary Housing Payment policy to provide financial assistance to those families with the most need. Discretionary Housing Payments (DHPs) were funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). The Council was required to adopt a DHP policy each financial year.Costs were application led, therefore it was difficult to predict exact annual expenditure.Councillor Cormack stated that the demand for the funding had increased due to the lack of affordable accommodation in both the social and private sector, and the amount of payments exceeded the funding received from DWP. Since the report was published, the Council had received confirmation from the DWP that the level of funding for 2023-24 was the same as for 2022-23. He stated that the Council would therefore be seeking to secure further funding from the Welsh Government Homeless Prevention Fund. In regards to some minor changes proposed to the policy for this financial year, Councillor Cormack stated that all categories would be subject to a financial test of resources and the removal of the restriction of 52 weeks in category 7, which was the social sector size criteria restriction. He also highlighted the removal of the £15 income limit tolerance when undertaking the financial test of resources. He stated that the proposed amendment to the scheme intended to introduce a consistent approach to the assessment of DHP’s. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Discretionary Housing Payments Policy for the financial year 2023-24, as outlined in Appendix 1, be adopted.
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RESOLVED That the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Rate Relief Scheme in Wales 2023-24, as outlined above and in accordance with the criteria and conditions specified in the guidance for 2023-24, be adopted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Financial Services which outlined the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Rate Relief Scheme for 2023-24. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and stated that Welsh Government had extended the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Rates Relief for eligible occupied properties in Wales, by offering a discount of 75% on non-domestic rate bills for such properties. The relief would be subject to a cap of £110,000 each business could claim across Wales. As this was a temporary measure, Welsh Government was providing the relief by reimbursing Local Authorities who use their discretionary relief powers under published guidance. Councillor Cormack stated that it would be for individual Local Authorities to adopt a scheme and decide in each individual case when to grant relief under section 47. He highlighted that relief should be granted to each eligible business as a reduction to its non-domestic rates bill, based on occupation between 1 April 2023 and 31 March 2024.He stated that all businesses would be required to make a declaration that they met the eligibility criteria and specify to which properties they would like the relief to be applied, and that the amount of the relief they were seeking across Wales did not exceed the cap. He highlighted that an online form would be available for this purpose. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. Councillor Paul Miller stated that he welcomed the relief being afforded by Welsh Government to businesses in Pembrokeshire and across the Country. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Rate Relief Scheme in Wales 2023-24, as outlined above and in accordance with the criteria and conditions specified in the guidance for 2023-24, be adopted.
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RESOLVED (a) That the increases to fees and charges, outlined in the report at pages 198-200, that are above the rate of inflation (CPI), be approved. (a) That the increase in respect of the Section 50 Street Works Licences be recommended to Council.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined new fees and charges and increases above inflation. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and stated thatfees and charges were a large contributor to the Authority's projected income stream for 2023-24, with circa £13.5 million coming in from discretionary fees and charges, and around £14.1 million from statutory fees and charges. He highlighted that during these tough times, it was imperative that services reviewed their fees and charges annually and made at least inflationary increases in line with the budget strategy. Councillor Cormack stated that the report considered increasing some fees and charges by a rate higher than inflation to move towards full cost recovery and therefore reduce budget pressures for land charges, highways, searches, street naming and numbering, street works and admission to Scolton Manor House. Councillor Cormack then highlighted that the proposed new airport fees and charges that were publicly consulted on, had been excluded from the report, as a detailed report outlining those proposals would be presented to the next Cabinet meeting in April 2023. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Neil Prior. Councillor Neil Prior thanked the Transformation Team for their work and stated that he was happy to support the recommendations. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that, in regards to Scolton Manor House, in the current financial climate it was fair to increase that cost whilst still allowing reasonable access. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the increases to fees and charges, outlined in the report at pages 198-200, that are above the rate of inflation (CPI), be approved. (a) That the increase in respect of the Section 50 Street Works Licences be recommended to Council.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That a charge of £199 per Export Health Certificate, reviewable on an annual basis in line with inflation and officer costs and in accordance with the corporate Fees and Charges Policy, be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined the implementation of a fee for Export Health Certificates issued by the Port Health Team. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and stated that it outlined the implementation of a fee for Export Health Certificates, issued by the Port Health Team. She highlighted that Export Health Certificates were official documents that confirmed food exports met health requirements of destination countries. She stated that these were now required for exports to the EU as a result of Brexit. Councillor Bateman also stated that legislation allowed the Authority to charge for the service. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. Councillor Alec Cormack stated that this was a sensible way to ensure that the Council recovered as much funds as possible. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That a charge of £199 per Export Health Certificate, reviewable on an annual basis in line with inflation and officer costs and in accordance with the corporate Fees and Charges Policy, be approved.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED (a) That the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan 2023-53 be approved for submission to the Welsh Government by 31 March 2023. (b) That the HRA borrowing cap be increased by an estimated CPI per annum, subject to affordability monitoring. (c) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, be delegated authority to make minor changes to the financial tables, prior to the submission to Welsh Government. (d) That the challenges and achievements of the service in past 12 months and the impact on the HRA programme of work going forward, be noted.
Cabinet considered a joint report by the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing and Director of Resources which outlined the 30 year Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan for 2023 – 2053, prior to its submission to Welsh Government. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and stated that the Business Plan dealt with the HRA side of housing and that the wider Strategic Housing Function would be within the Housing Strategy, which was currently being developed with input from Members and Partners. She stated that the plan focused on three broad themes: • To provide an effective and efficient tenancy management service that was valued by tenants; • To improve the quality of housing stock and estates; • To increase the supply of affordable and accessible housing. Councillor Bateman then referred to the following key points: • Increased need for one-bed properties and how this was not matched by the Council’s current make-up of stock. • The profile of allocations had shifted from allocating properties mostly to those on the general Housing Register, to mostly customers under a Homeless Duty under the Housing Act. • Maintenance of the Welsh Housing Quality Standard (WHQS) - investment of £28.1 million over the next five years. • Tenant engagement was key to the service. There was now a dedicated Customer Liaison Officer, as well as the setup of a Tenants Panel. • Financial pressures facing the service and the Business Plan were said to be the increase in demand on the service, the increased costs of developing and maintaining stock, and the cost pressures associated with WHQS2 and the Retrofit Programme. • The Borrowing Cap was being reviewed in line with the wider Authority's borrowing criteria, and would be raised by an estimated CPI increase each year. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. In regards to Housing Delivery, Councillor Jon Harvey stated that the Council was looking to deliver 300 new Council properties with a number of sites identified in the Development Programme, which had an estimated total budget of around £114 million. He stated that approximately 50% of the funding would come from external grant aid, primarily Social Housing Grant, as well as other Welsh Government grant schemes. He also highlighted work undertaken with Registered Social Landlord (RSL) Partners. Councillor Harvey then updated Cabinet in regards to Affordable Housing units, successful Social Housing Grant allocations, additional supplies to the Council's Housing Stock, the Planning System, as well as major contractors going into administration. Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that he was pleased to see funding being put aside for estate improvements because it was not just about improving properties, but about improving the quality of life of tenants. Councillor Neil Prior stated that a partnership approach was important and encouraged it. He also highlighted that he was keen to accelerate themodernising repairs and maintenance to the implementation of the Northgate System. Councillor Bateman stated she was happy to have further conversations about how the Northgate System was progressing. Councillor Alec Cormack supported the Business Plan and stated that in regards to opportunities for acquisitions, it was difficult to know where the housing market was going, therefore a combination of high interest rates and also changes to the Second Home Council Tax regime could allow for more opportunities to make such acquisitions. Councillor Harvey agreed and stated that the Council was actively purchasing properties. Councillor Paul Miller stated that he would like the Council’s focus to be on creating new supply rather than focusing on acquisitions of existing properties. Councillor Bateman agreed and stated that whilst acquisitions were a key part of increasing stock, they were used alongside the Development Programme which created new stock. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Business Plan 2023-53 be approved for submission to the Welsh Government by 31 March 2023. (b) That the HRA borrowing cap be increased by an estimated CPI per annum, subject to affordability monitoring. (c) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, be delegated authority to make minor changes to the financial tables, prior to the submission to Welsh Government. (d) That the challenges and achievements of the service in past 12 months and the impact on the HRA programme of work going forward, be noted.
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