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RESOLVED That the Standards Committee Annual Report 2023-2024 be noted.
RESOLVED (a) That the fourth edition of the Delivery Agreement for the Council’s replacement Local Development Plan be approved. (b) That the fourth edition of the Delivery Agreement be submitted to Welsh Government for endorsement.
RESOLVED (a) That the remit of the Member Working Group be extended to consider the Draft Proposals and respond to the consultation on behalf of the County Council by the deadline of 2 September 2024. (b) That all Members be encouraged to consider the Draft Proposals individually, discuss them with their Council(s) (as appropriate) and respond to the consultation accordingly.
RESOLVED That the report and actions that continue to be taken be noted.
RESOLVED That the Conservative Group retains the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair, relinquishing the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair. Council then considered the allocation of seats to political groups, as following an increased membership of the Independent Group, it was now entitled to two additional seats on an ordinary Committee, three additional seats on Overview and Scrutiny Committees and one seat on the National Park Authority. Council was then asked to determine which Overview and Scrutiny Committee the Independent Group received their additional seat on. Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that the Independent Group secure an additional seat on Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee; Seconded by Councillor Brain Hall. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Independent Group secure an additional seat on Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee It was then stated that as a consequence of the decrease of the membership of the Conservative Group, they lose seats on an ordinary committee and one Overview and Scrutiny committee, so Council was asked to determine which Overview and Scrutiny Committee the Conservative Group received their additional seat on. Councillor Di Clements Moved that the Conservative Group retained a Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat and relinquished a Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat; Seconded by Councillor Aled Thomas. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Conservative Group retains a Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee seat and relinquishes a Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat. It was then necessary for Council to agree the schedule of changes, so Councillor Simon Hancock Moved that the schedule of changes be agreed in its entirety, with the following amendments: Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee (5 seats to Independent Group, 3 seats to Conservative Group, 2 Seats to Labour Group and 3 unallocated seats); Seconded by Councillor Huw Murphy. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the schedule of changes be agreed in its entirety, with the following amendments: · Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee (5 seats to Independent Group, 3 seats to Conservative Group, 2 Seats to Labour Group and 3 unallocated seats) Council was then tasked with appointing Unaffiliated Members to the following vacant Committee seats: (i) Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee - 1 vacancy Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey fill the vacancy; Seconded by Michelle Bateman. (ii) Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee - 1 vacancy Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Pat Davies fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Simon Hancock. (iii) Licensing Committee – 2 vacancies Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey fill the first vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Michelle Wiggins fill the second vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tim Evans. (iv) SACRE/SACRVE - 1 vacancy As there were no nominations, the vacant seat will be rolled forward to the next meeting. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following appointments be approved: (i) Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Aaron Carey (ii) Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Pat Davies (iii) Licensing Committee – Councillor Aaron Carey and Councillor Michele Wiggins (iv) SACRE/SACRVE - As there were no nominations, this would be carried over to the next meeting of Council. The Head of Democratic Services proceeded to highlight a number of oversubscribed seats and requested notice from Members not in a political group wishing to step down from Committees as a consequence of the revised schedule. The following notices were received: • Councillor Phil kidney to step down from Disciplinary and Investigatory Committee • Councillor Steve Alderman to step down from Governance and Audit Committee • Councillor Tim Evans to step down from Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee • Councillor Steve Alderman to step down from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority • Councillor Pat Davies to step down from Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee [Councillor Neil Prior left the meeting at this juncture] Ahead of the next section of nominations, the Head of Democratic Services corrected a typographic error in the report which stated that Councillor Jacob Williams was a Member of the Democratic Services Committee, it should have stated Councillor Michelle Bateman instead. Councillor Williams was a reserve Member only. Council then considered nominations from the Labour Group to the following vacancies; (i) Governance and Audit Committee – 1 vacancy Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillor Maureen Bowen fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox (ii) Democratic Services Committee – 1 vacancy Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillor Nicola Gwynn fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following appointments be approved: (i) Governance and Audit Committee – Councillor Maureen Bowen (ii) Democratic Services Committee – Councillor Nicola Gwynn Vice-Chair appointments were then sought for the below two Committees: (i) Licensing Committee Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that Councillor Vanessa Thomas be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox The meeting was paused at this juncture for Members to vote via a secret ballot. Following the issuing of the ballot papers, the votes were verified and counted and the Presiding Member announced the number of votes cast. RESOLVED That Councillor Vanessa Thomas be appointed as the Vice-Chair of the Licensing Committee. (ii) Democratic Services Committee Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that Councillor Elwyn Morse be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That Councillor Elwyn Morse be appointed as the Vice-Chair of the Democratic Services Committee. The final nominations sought were in relation to Reserve Members. Moved by Councillor Jacob Williams; Seconded by Councillor Steve Alderman The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following Reserve Member appointments be approved: • Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Disciplinary and Investigatory Committee – Councillor Tessa Hodgson and Councillor Phil Kidney • Constitutional Review Committee – Councillor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall and Councillor Tim Evans • Urgency Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Senior Staff Committee – Councillor Neil Prior • Democratic Services Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Governance and Audit Committee – Councillor Steve Alderman and Councillor David Simpson • Planning Delegation Panel - Councillor Mike Stoddart and Councillor Pat Davies [Councillor Andrew Edwards left the meeting at this juncture]
RESOLVED (a) That a politically balanced cross-chamber members’ Working Group, comprising of 15 Members, be established to examine in greater detail the evidence provided for a review of school organisation in Pembrokeshire, with a view to bringing the findings back to full Council in due course. (b) That the Working Group be comprised of the following: 4 Independent Group Members, 3 Conservative Group Members, 3 Labour Group Members, 1 Welsh Liberal Democrat Member, 1 Plaid Cymru Group Member and 3 Unaffiliated Members. The Chamber was then tasked with appointing the three Unaffiliated Members and Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillors Michael Stoddart, Pat Davies and Sam Skyrme-Blackhall be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Jordan Ryan. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillors Bethan Price and Chris Williams be appointed as Reserve Unaffiliated Members; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. (c) That Councillors Michael Stoddart, Pat Davies and Sam Skyrme-Blackhall be appointed as the three Unaffiliated Members. (d) That Councillors Bethan Price and Chris Williams be appointed as Reserve Unaffiliated Members. [Councillors Tom Tudor, Sam Skyrme-Blackhall and Chris Williams left the meeting at this juncture]
RESOLVED That the revised and updated Terms of Reference for the Council Tax Working Group be approved. [Councillor Aaron Carey left the meeting at this juncture]
RESOLVED That the redundancy requests be approved. [Councillor Di Clements left the meeting at this juncture] The webcast was then resumed.
The Chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting, and the following announcements were made: (a) Presiding Member The Presiding Member expressed his personal thanks, and thanks of the Chamber, to all Council staff who took part in the planning and organisation of the General Election polling and count. He expressed that enabling residents to exercise their democratic right was one of the most important functions of the Council, and recognised the enormous amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to allow residents to put their vote in the ballot box. Congratulations were then extended to Henry Tufnell MP on becoming the Member of Parliament for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, Ben Lake for winning in Ceredigion Preseli and Ann Davies for taking the Caerfyrddin seat. The Presiding Member stated that the Council looked forward to working alongside the successful candidates over the coming years. It was announced that on Sunday 14 July, Councilors Guy Woodham, Jon Harvey, Michelle Bateman and Josh Beynon, accompanied by many family and friends, completed the Prostate Cymru Big Walk from Solva to St Davids. The 18 walkers who made up ‘Team Guy’ raised £6409 for the charity. It was expressed that the funds would assist with raising awareness of prostate cancer, supporting treatments, finishing research and innovation and supporting the education of medical professionals and students. It was added that an additional £200 went directly to the Pembrokeshire branch. The Presiding Member offered his warmest congratulations to all partakers on such a great achievement and a message from the Councillors that took part expressed their thanks to everyone who had supported them and stated that the donations page was still open for anyone who wished to make a donation. (b) Chair / Deputy Presiding Member The Chair echoed the Presiding Member’s comments on the extremely professional way the General Election was carried out. He stated that the pre-election period had naturally slowed the number of Chairman’s commitments somewhat but he had still been able to represent the Council at a number of events, which included Mayor making ceremonies at Pembroke, Haverfordwest and Milford Haven, D-Day commemoration at Pembroke Castle, Armed Forces Day at the Garrison Chapel in Pembroke Dock and a visit to St Davids Cathedral for a service to mark 200 years of lifesaving by the RNLI. This event was a timely reminder ahead of the main summer season that as a coastal community we should always remember and pay tribute to those in the RNLI who keep us all safe on and by the sea. The Chair added that in the last month he had been privileged to host two memorable ceremonies to present both British Empire Medals and an MBE, the first was in the Council Chamber and the second at Crymych Fire Station. He expressed that it was an honour to give speeches at both venues as His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dyfed presented the honours to five very worthy recipients. The dedication and commitment of all those who received honours was remarkable. The Chair took the opportunity to highlight some fantastic Pembrokeshire successes at the Urdd Eisteddfod in Montgomeryshire this year and shared that it had been Pembrokeshire’s most successful year, taking home third place while also having the highest number of competition entries from all Urdd Counties and Regions across Wales. Some specific success were highlighted as follows · In the main ceremonies Saffron Lewis, from Pembrokeshire College won the Art Medal, Mirain Iwerydd from Aelwyd, Crymych came second in the Crown competition, and Amy-Lee Miles of Pembrokeshire College came second in the Young Artist scholarship. Nine gold medals were won by individuals at Pembrokeshire College, as well as five silver and five bronze - 19 medals in total. · Aelwyd Crymych secured seven gold medals, six silver and two bronze medals of which 12 medals were awarded to one multi-talented individual Lleucu-Haf Thomas. · Ysgol Bro Preseli brought home a huge total of 22 medals; six gold, four silver and twelve bronze. The school's greatest achievement was to reach the first three in each of the six mass theatre competitions open to those from year 7 to under 25. A feat that had not been accomplished before. · A large number of prizes were also awarded to Pembrokeshire primary schools with Ysgol Eglwyswrw winning six gold medals in the homework and art competitions, and Ysgol Prendergast winning the bronze medal for their Welsh learners singing group to name but a few. The Chair stated that the success on this national level was down to the talented competitors that had firstly competed at local and county rounds, having been skilfully taught by their teachers and coaches. Without the support of school staff, headteachers and parents who enable and encourage the children and young people to compete, Pembrokeshire’s success would not be as noteworthy this year. He reiterated his many, many congratulations to all those successful, and looked forward to even more success next year.
The following declarations of interest were made: Item 11 - Petition regarding the Closure of Anchorage Adult Day Care Centre Councillor Guy Woodham declared a personal interest by virtue of having close family members within the care system, albeit not this particular centre. Councillor Aaron Carey declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of a close friend’s sibling who attends the centre. Councillor Paul Miller declared a personal and prejudicial interest and advised that he had obtained dispensation from the Standards Committee to speak but not vote on the matter. Item 12 - Petition regarding the Closure of the Lee Davies and Bro Preseli Day Care Centres Councillor Guy Woodham declared a personal interest by virtue of having close family members within the care system, albeit not this particular centre. Councillor Paul Miller declared a personal and prejudicial interest and advised that he had obtained dispensation from the Standards Committee to speak but not vote on the matter. Item 15 - Review of Community Electoral Arrangements Councillor Simon Hancock declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Neyland Town Council. Councillor Steve Alderman declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Stackpole and Castlemartin Community Council. Councillor Michele Wiggins declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Pembroke Dock Town Council. Councillor Rhys Sinnett declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Milford Haven Town Council. Councillor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Tenby Town Council. Councillor Simon Wright declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Clunderwen Community Council. Councillor Vanessa Thomas declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Carew and Jeffreyston Community Councils. Councillor Bethan Price declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of St David’s City Council. Councillor Alistair Cormack declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Amroth and Saundersfoot Community Councils. Councillor Mark Carter declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Brawdy Community Council. Councillor Neil Prior declared a personal interest by virtue of being the Chair of Llanrhian Community Council. Councillor Nicola Gwynn declared a personal interest by virtue of being the Chair of Fishguard and Goodwick Town Council. Councillor John Davies declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Cilgerran Community Council. Councillor Michael John declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Llangwm Community Council. Councillor Tony Wilcox declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Pembroke Dock Town Council. Councillor Aled Thomas declared a personal interest by virtue of being the Chair of Johnston Community Council. Councillor Claire George declared a personal interest by virtue of being the Chair of One Voice Wales Pembrokeshire Area Committee which represents Town and Community Councils. A second declaration was made by virtue of being a Member of Tiers Cross Community Council. Councillor Jonathan Grimes declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Pembroke Town Council. Councillor Mike James declared a personal interest by virtue of speaking at Nevern Community Council but stated he would not vote. Councillor Maureen Bowen declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Pembroke Dock Town Council. Councillor Jamie Adams declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Camrose Community Council. Councillor Brian Hall declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Pembroke Dock Town Council. Councillor Jordan Ryan declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Fishguard and Goodwick Town Council. Councillor Guy Woodham declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Member of Milford Haven Town Council. Item 18 - The Case for the Review of the Organisation of Pembrokeshire Schools Councillor Simon Hancock declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Neyland Community School. Councillor Jon Harvey declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Pembroke Dock Community School. Councillor Steve Alderman declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Penrhyn Church in Wales V.C School; also his granddaughter attends the school; and due to his daughter being employed at Cosheston School. Councillor Tim Evans declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Portfield School. Councillor Michele Wiggins declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Parent of a learner at Ysgol Harri Tudur; her daughter also being employed at Ysgol Harri Tudur; and from September a grandparent of a learner attending Golden Grove School. Councillor Rhys Sinnett declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Milford Haven Community Primary School. Councillor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Greenhill School. Councillor Simon Wright declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of the Federation of the Maenclochog and Llandissilio Junior Schools; and also due to his daughter being employed by Ysgol Caer Elen. Councillor Rhys Jordan declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Hafan-y-Mor. Councillor Delme Harries declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Bro Penfro, Ysgol Casmael and Ysgol Ger y Llan . Councillor Vanessa Thomas declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Sageston CP School. Councillor Tessa Hodgson declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of both Cosheston and Henry Tudor Schools. Councillor Michelle Bateman declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Casblaidd and Ysgol Bro Gwaun; and also due to her daughter being employed by Ysgol Bro Gwaun. Councillor Alan Dennison declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Milford Haven School. Councillor Bethan Price declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Penrhyn Dewi and her granddaughter also attends the school. Councillor Alistair Cormack declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Greenhill School and Saundersfoot School. Councillor Iwan Ward declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Clydau. A personal and prejudicial interest was also declared by virtue of being a parent governor at Ysgol Bro Preseli. Councillor Pat Davies declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Glannau Gwaun. Councillor Steve Yelland declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Prendergast School. Councillor Shon Rees declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Bro Preseli along with his wife being employed at Ysgol Caer Elen. Councillor Neil Prior declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Croesgoch. Councillor Aaron Carey declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Bro Penfro and Ysgol Gelli Aur. Councillor John Davies declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Cilgerran and Ysgol Gynradd Eglwyswrw. Councillor Michael John declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Hook CP School and Haverfordwest High School. Councillor Marc Tierney declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Narberth School and his daughter undertaking work experience at Tavernspite School. Councillor Tony Wilcox declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Pennar Community School. Councillor Chris Williams declared a personal interest by virtue of his brother being the current Headmaster of Golden Grove School. Councillor Anji Tinley declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Fenton School. Councillor David Howlett declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of St. Aidan’s School. Councillor Huw Murphy declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Ysgol Bro Preseli. Councillor Aled Thomas declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Johnston CP School and Ysgol Caer Elen. Councillor Jonathan Grimes declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Community appointed Governor of Monkton School. Councillor Mike James declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Governor of Ysgol Bro Preseli. Councillor Maureen Bowen declared a personal interest by virtue of her partner being a teacher at Ysgol Henry Tudor. Councillor Jamie Adams declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority appointed Governor of Roch School. Councillor Terry Davies declared a personal interest by virtue of his daughter being a teacher at Neyland School. Councillor David Simpson declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Governor of Tavernspite School. Councillor Jordan Ryan declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Governor of Ysgol Bro Gwaun. Item 21 - Approval of Redundancy Payments in Partneriaeth Councillor Guy Woodham declared a personal interest by virtue of being a voting member on the Partneriaeth Joint Committee. Item 33 - Notice of Motion relating to Council Tax Reduction for Fire Fighters Councillor Iwan Ward declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Crew Manager at Crymych fire station.
The Minutes of the Council Meeting held on 9 May 2024 were Moved by Councillor Simon Hancock; Seconded by Councillor Brian Hall. The Minutes of the Annual Council Meeting held on 10 May 2024 were Moved by Councillor Simon Hancock; Seconded by Councillor Steve Alderman. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED (a) That the Minutes of the Meeting held on 9 May 2024 be approved as a correct record. (b) That the Minutes of the Annual Meeting held on 10 May 2024 be approved as a correct record.
Councillor Joshua Beynon, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by a member of the public, Suzanne Radford-Smith, prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.17 as follows: Dear Members, I am writing to draw attention to the fact that Dyfed pension fund has £64m invested in companies that are connected with Israel and to ask that Dyfed pension fund divests from these companies. Many of these companies are making arms and weapons being used by the Israeli army in the war on Palestine which makes them complicit in the genocide in Gaza. I believe this makes PCC also complicit in that genocide. Will Pembrokeshire County Council divest the pension fund from these companies? I attach a statement written by Palestine Solidarity Campaign with full details. In response, Councillor Joshua Beynon stated that the Dyfed Pension Fund was a long-term investor aiming to deliver a sustainable pension fund for all stakeholders and had a fiduciary duty to act in the best, long-term, interests of the fund’s employers and scheme members. It was stated that Pembrokeshire did not administer the fund, it was a member. It was stated that the fund has a Responsible Investment Policy which sets out its approach to responsible investing, including Human Rights and the fund believes that engaging with investee companies is likely to be more effective than divestment in improving desired outcomes and the Committee encourages Fund Asset Managers to engage with the companies they invest in. It was explained that around 80% of the Fund’s assets were now held with Wales Pension Fund (WPP) (either pooled or under pool management) and the WPP recognises that environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues can pose material risks to those assets held within the pool. It was stated that the WPP expects and requires all Investment Managers managing assets on its behalf to properly consider relevant ESG factors when making investment decisions within their respective portfolios, this includes considerations such as those relating to human rights and alleged violations of global norms. Councillor Beynon advised that the Fund’s approach to human rights was set out in Section 5 of its Responsible Investment Policy and noted that, given the complex nature of many human rights issues, such issues are generally most appropriately addressed through the exercise of stewardship rather than through a blanket policy of divestment. It was added that WPP believes engagement with individual issuers, or groups of issuers, is the most appropriate and constructive path, allowing for dialogue around such issues as supply-chain management and social impact which was a more holistic approach than blanket divestment, particularly where a direct causal relationship may not exist between supply and impact. For example, a company that supplies components to support renewable-infrastructure projects may also supply components to companies with contracts with law-enforcement agencies. It was noted that it was the Investment Managers who are best placed to understand such nuance, considering all relevant ESG factors in their investment-management decisions, as well as their investment stewardship. It was stated that WPP endeavours to identify and engage organisations on human rights issues through various channels including its membership of the Local Authority Pension Fund Forum, the engagement programme of its Investment Manager, and via the voting and engagement activity undertaken by WPP’s Voting and Engagement Provider. Recently, such activity has included the WPP’s direct support of a number of shareholder proposals relating to human rights (including disclosures on human rights impacts), as well as engagements targeting human rights due diligence for those companies operating in conflict-affected areas, including the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Councillor Beynon stated that engagement would continue on such issues with all its service providers, partners and other stakeholders, evolving its approach as necessary to meet its regulatory and fiduciary requirements.
Councillor Joshua Beynon, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by a member of the public, Marjorie Hawkins, prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.17 as follows: I receive a pension from Dyfed Pension Fund and have recently found out that Dyfed pension fund has £64m invested in companies that are connected with Israel. Many of these companies are making arms and weapons being used by the Israeli army in the war on Palestine which makes them complicit in the genocide in Gaza. I am very dismayed to find out this information and feel that this makes PCC (as one of the County Councils in Dyfed Pension Fund) also complicit in that genocide. I spent over 10 years working as a Social Worker in Pembrokeshire. 10 years before this I was a Social Worker in Swansea and also worked for the NHS previously. I chose to work in jobs that were not involved in making profits or exploiting other people. I am very upset and outraged to find that the pension I receive is complicit in a genocide that is ongoing and we witness daily. Will Pembrokeshire County Council divest the pension fund from such companies that are complicit in this genocide? I am including a statement at the end of my letter, with details and information taken from the Palestine Solidarity Campaign's website. The Statement was left for Cllr John Harvey on May 15.2024 In response, Councillor Joshua Beynon stated that the answer to the question would be the same as the previous question on the agenda, and was as follows: Dyfed Pension Fund was a long-term investor aiming to deliver a sustainable pension fund for all stakeholders and had a fiduciary duty to act in the best, long-term, interests of the fund’s employers and scheme members. It was stated that Pembrokeshire did not administer the fund, it was a member. It was stated that the fund has a Responsible Investment Policy which sets out its approach to responsible investing, including Human Rights and the fund believes that engaging with investee companies is likely to be more effective than divestment in improving desired outcomes and the Committee encourages Fund Asset Managers to engage with the companies they invest in. It was explained that around 80% of the Fund’s assets were now held with Wales Pension Fund (WPP) (either pooled or under pool management) and the WPP recognises that environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues can pose material risks to those assets held within the pool. It was stated that the WPP expects and requires all Investment Managers managing assets on its behalf to properly consider relevant ESG factors when making investment decisions within their respective portfolios, this includes considerations such as those relating to human rights and alleged violations of global norms. Councillor Beynon advised that the Fund’s approach to human rights was set out in Section 5 of its Responsible Investment Policy and noted that, given the complex nature of many human rights issues, such issues are generally most appropriately addressed through the exercise of stewardship rather than through a blanket policy of divestment. It was added that WPP believes engagement with individual issuers, or groups of issuers, is the most appropriate and constructive path, allowing for dialogue around such issues as supply-chain management and social impact which was a more holistic approach than blanket divestment, particularly where a direct causal relationship may not exist between supply and impact. For example, a company that supplies components to support renewable-infrastructure projects may also supply components to companies with contracts with law-enforcement agencies. It was noted that it was the Investment Managers who are best placed to understand such nuance, considering all relevant ESG factors in their investment-management decisions, as well as their investment stewardship. It was stated that WPP endeavours to identify and engage organisations on human rights issues through various channels including its membership of the Local Authority Pension Fund Forum, the engagement programme of its Investment Manager, and via the voting and engagement activity undertaken by WPP’s Voting and Engagement Provider. Recently, such activity has included the WPP’s direct support of a number of shareholder proposals relating to human rights (including disclosures on human rights impacts), as well as engagements targeting human rights due diligence for those companies operating in conflict-affected areas, including the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Councillor Beynon stated that engagement would continue on such issues with all its service providers, partners and other stakeholders, evolving its approach as necessary to meet its regulatory and fiduciary requirements.
Councillor Tessa Hodgson, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by a member of the public, Martin J Bell, prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.17 as follows: For a number of years the County Council was a partner in preparing a Community Plan for Pembrokeshire. Another participant was Hywel Dda UHB. In 2018 the Health Board produced a “Our Big NHS Change” with the provision of a new major Urgent and Planned Care Hospital at its centre. Over the past 6 years there has been an inability to identify a favoured site and, as a result, one possibility at the junction of the A40 and A477 has already been compromised by the development of a food park. Pembrokeshire patients are already having to travel further east than Whitland or St Clears and therefore to Glangwili, Morriston, Singleton or Neath Port-Talbot and Llanelli for a wide range of services including A&E and for surgery. Is this Council encouraging the Health Board to at least procure a site for a new major Urgent and Planned Care Hospital or does it note a service that is struggling to deliver using the rather historic provision to be found at current sites? A new major Urgent and Planned Care Hospital would not only help to retain existing staff but would attract a range of employment opportunities and associated career paths in an area where the loss of young people is a well-known problem. In no way does the above question the quality of personal care currently provided by Health Authority staff in West Wales. In response, Councillor Tessa Hodgson stated that the Council had liaised with the Health Board and was assured that the Health Board completely agreed that a new Urgent and Planned Care Hospital would provide considerable opportunity and benefits. It was stated that the Health Board had taken the land selection process as far as they could at this stage, having selected a favoured two sites at a meeting of their Public Board in August 2023. The first a Local Authority owned site in Whitland along with a privately owned site in St Clears. It was noted that they were very aware that sites, particularly privately owned, were at risk of being lost should the owners choose to go another route. It was explained that there was an established process before any funding would be allocated to the University Health Board (UHB) for land purchase and building works which was set down in Welsh Government guidance and involved the completion and approval of a series of business cases. It was stated that the UHB had completed a Programme Business Case (the first stage of the business case process), which was submitted to Welsh Government in February 2022. Councillor Hodgson advised that this had not yet been formally endorsed and was subject to a Welsh Government commissioned review of their proposed clinical models by the Nuffield Trust. It was added that the report had been issued to the UHB from Welsh Government and presented at their May Public Board and was broadly supportive of the UHB's clinical strategy. Following this a management response had been developed which was going to the July Public Board. Councillor Hodgson advised that at Welsh Government's request the UHB was now drafting a Strategic Outline Case which included the new hospital and the conversion of both Glangwili and Withybush Hospitals to community facilities, as set out in the strategy and added that the next stage would be an Outline Business Case, at which point, if supported by Welsh Government, the UHB would seek to secure the land for the hospital. The final stage was stated to be a Full Business Case in which the final costs and approvals would be established for the construction to commence.
Councillor Neil Prior, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to two questions submitted by a member of the public, Sharon Purcell, prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.17 as follows: The Council's Action "Plan towards Becoming a Net Zero-carbon Local Authority by 2030" has two points relating to staff: 1. NZC-30 Consider adding a requirement in staff performance reviews for each member of staff to volunteer to take an action each year to contribute to decarbonisation – whether in their personal or work environments. ????? 2. NZC-31 Consider incentivising more sustainable forms of travel when staff take a short-haul holiday – for example, agreeing to provide one day’s additional annual leave should staff elect to take the train to Europe rather than fly, or when staff choose to holiday in the UK rather than take a flight abroad Have these action points been adopted? If so, what is the budgeted cost of the extra annual leave entitlement? In response to the first question, Councillor Neil Prior stated that the Council currently offered colleagues the opportunity to volunteer, promoted schemes to volunteer and encouraged the use of the volunteer days. It was stated that a number of teams actively use the volunteer days for team activities which has been very successful, with many spent partaking in community initiatives including biodiversity and environmental activities. In response to the second question, Councillor Neil Prior stated that Annual Leave was part of nationally agreed terms and conditions and as such the Council does not have the ability to modify these. It was stated that given the increasing challenges of the cost of delivering public services, it would not be possible to add this type of cost and whilst the cost would vary, a minimal cost would be £626,000. It was reiterated that this action had not been implemented.
Councillor Joshua Beynon, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by a member of the public, John Hudson, prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.17 as follows: In the last budget process, information in respect of discretionary service full cost recovery income was only provided formally to councillors, and an unsuspecting public, by way of a high level appendix to the final budget report. There was little opportunity to ask questions or scrutinise this significant aspect of the Budget process. It has been some time since the Council approved and adopted its full cost recovery Policy. The current budget policy provides an annual automatic inflationary increase in respect of charges for discretionary services. Income generated from these sources represents a charge on residents for the use of Council services in addition to the Council Tax demanded of them by the Council. In the light of considerable service budget reductions and consequent reductions in services provided, income from full cost charges, now automatically increased for inflation, may well exceed the expenditure necessarily incurred to provide these services. Could the Council please provide an updated comprehensive full cost recovery policy on income actually received, and expenditure actually incurred, together with an explanation of how the Council will monitor, and control, the income actually generated in respect of each discretionary service that is subject to the full cost recovery limitation. In response, Councillor Joshua Beynon stated that a list of the Council Fees and Charges could be found on the Council website at the following link: https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/finance-and-business/fees-and-charges It was stated that in line with the annual Budget Strategy approved by Cabinet, discretionary fees and charges budgets were increased by inflation with any increase above inflation considered by Cabinet as part of the budget savings options, with approval required on alternative mechanisms for increasing specific fees and charges. It was added that where appropriate, full cost recovery methodology was used to calculate the full cost of delivering a service and to identify the fee increases required to ensure that the income received covered the costs. Councillor Beynon advised that both income and expenditure were monitored throughout the year and are reported to Cabinet as part of the quarterly budget monitoring and outturn reports, with the next report due in September. It was noted that a separate appendix was included as part of such reports detailing the income received by service area.
Councillor Joshua Beynon, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by a member of the public, John Hudson, prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.17 as follows: I understand that internationally accepted full cost accounting rules allow the Council to include notional costs in charges that the Council does not actually incur in its rate born cash expenditure accounts. If this be the case, are charge payers being charged cash from their disposable cash incomes for an element of notional cost recovery that the Council does not actually incur in real money cash terms? In response, Councillor Joshua Beynon stated that recovering the full cost of services was permitted by legislation and was considered by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) to be an appropriate method of calculating the definition of ‘cost’ for fees and charges. It was stated that full cost reflects all expenditure attributable to the service including the cost of early retirement and the use of non-current assets in provision of a service.
[Councillor Aaron Carey left the meeting, having previously declared his personal and prejudicial interest in the matter.] Mr Peter Welsh, originator of the petition regarding the Closure of Anchorage Adult Day Care Centre, which met the threshold for a debate at Council, addressed the Chamber in support of the following: We call on Pembrokeshire County Council to reverse its decision to close the Anchorage Social Activity Centre based in Pembroke Dock as part of the Council’s reduction in services being imposed following the recent budget approval. Mr Welsh began by expressing his thanks to all signatories for their support, and reiterated that the aim of the petition was to protect the 21 vulnerable individuals, some of whom were in attendance in the Chamber’s public gallery. It was communicated that they all deserved to maintain the setting at which they felt at home and a place that played a large part in daily life and routines. Reference was made to an email which Mr Welsh had circulated to Members prior to the meeting, of which the following bullet points regarding the dealings of the closure were reiterated: no consultation, questionable due process, morals, ethics and integrity and a suspected hidden agenda. A request was made for Member support to reverse the planned closure of the Anchorage. Following Mr Welsh’s address, the Presiding Member invited the Cabinet Member for Social Care and Safeguarding to provide a response. Councillor Tessa Hodgson expressed her thanks to all involved in the petition for holding Members of the Chamber to account, and advised that the Head of Adult Services was also in attendance to assist with questions. Councillor Hodgson elaborated on the work the Adult Care Team had undertaken with reviewing care plans for all service users and discussing alternative provisions with taster sessions offered, ensuring all users felt consulted and supported. She advised that the day services model had been under review since 2019 with the aim of progressing to a ‘what works for you’ flexible provision but had been expedited by the required savings identified during the Council Tax setting process. It was added that the Anchorage facility had been subject to declining numbers since Covid and with a maintenance backlog of over £600k, the proposal had been made. Assurance was given that transport would continue to be provided to those eligible, should they opt for alternative provision, and the democratic process of the Council’s decision making was outlined, stating the final decision was likely to be considered at the September Cabinet meeting. The Presiding Member opened the matter for debate, where Councillors Brian Hall, Tony Wilcox and Michael John suggested that the Anchorage be maintained for a couple of years until a new provision in Pembroke was completed. It was added that such arrangement would reduce transport costs to alternative provisions and offer short term contentment for those effected. Councillor Di Clements requested further information regarding the taster sessions which had been offered to service users, to which the Head of Adult Care advised that the sessions had been taking place and would continue to take place at alternative Council run facilities and spanned a range of activities such as sensory rooms and outdoor activities. It was stated that other Local Authorities were also doing the same cost saving processes regarding day services and had conducted matters in a similar way. It was noted that whilst some service users had felt reluctant about the alternative provisions, with support, they had remained positive. With a view to manage expectations the Cabinet Member for Social Care and Safeguarding explained that the Authority did not have the funds to maintain the Anchorage facility for years to come, hence the proposed closure. Councillors Delme Harries, Alan Dennison and Michael Williams expressed the importance of a full consultation with all services users and their families, to include clear timescales of the imposed changes. The Head of Adult Care confirmed that the Authority had met with all service users and their careers to provide 1-1 care plans along with an independent organisation who had been satisfied with the consultation undertaken thus far, although she agreed that the more consultation undertaken the better. It was added that although specific attendance figures of the consultation sessions were not to hand, they had been busy sessions and an offer to conduct further consultation was made if it was deemed necessary by Members. For information, Members were advised that all staff would be relocated to ensure continuity of care along with best efforts to keep families together. It was also stated that work had been undertaken regarding transportation, and logical transportation arrangements were a priority to ensure service users were being transported to the closest, most suitable facility possible. Councillor Tom Tudor suggested that a breakdown of costs may be beneficial to Members so they could see what the cost to the Authority would be in the instance that the Anchorage remained open until the new Pembroke facility was completed in comparison to relocating all users to alternative provisions via Council funded transport. The Cabinet Member for Social Care and Safeguarding corrected a figure provided previously in the meeting stating that the required maintenance costs for the Anchorage building were £370,000 not £600,000 as stated. Councillor Aled Thomas highlighted the importance of cross-party unity on social care matters and suggested that Pembrokeshire follow other Authorities who single out the Council Tax proportion for Adult Social Care from the total element to allow fluctuation to be made to a specific element and to ensure residents are clear on the percentage of Council Tax they pay is going towards matters they feel are a priority. In response to this suggestion, the Director of Resources stated that whilst he did not think it was possible to do this separation on Council Tax bills, it could possibly be shown on a separate document which could be posted out with the bill and was a suggestion which would be explored. Councillor Maureen Bowen expressed her sadness of the situation and recognised that difficult decisions made within the Chamber in relation to cost savings were tough to face when they happen. The point was reiterated by Councillor Huw Murphy who stated that whilst the Head of Adult Care was fronting the questions today, the decision to close day centres was not made by her, it was made by Members of the Chamber collectively, and stressed that it was now Members’ duty to listen to the petitions submitted and be held to account. Councillors Tony Wilcox and Pat Davies requested further information regarding the stated ‘deteriorating condition’ of the Anchorage building, to which the Head of Adult Care advised that sticking plasters had been applied over the years but the building was now showing significant issues such as holes in the ceilings and asbestos in the roof which were causing health and safety concerns. It was challenged why the building had not received the repairs required to which the Chief Executive agreed to source the specific information regarding the building maintenance and report back to all Members. He also added that the additional money which was put into Social Services for this year’s budget significantly exceeded the 12% Council Tax increase that Council had decided upon. Councillors Steve Alderman, Jon Harvey and Huw Murphy concurred that social care was a cross-party matter which did not stop at local level, and the importance of working with other Local Authorities and both the UK and Welsh Government on social care funding pressures was empahsised, of which conversations were stated to be ongoing. Mr Welsh exercised his right to reply to the Chamber debate and took the opportunity to express his disappointment in the lack of consultation and the over exaggeration of the condition of the building, he summarised with a final plea for the Council to maintain the status quo at the Anchorage until such time that another provision was available.
The meeting was paused at 11:43am and resumed at 11:57am. Councillor Elwyn Morse left the meeting at this juncture.
Mrs Kate Scourfield, supporter of the petition regarding the Closure of the Lee Davies and Bro Preseli Day Care Centers, which met the threshold for a debate at Council, addressed the Chamber in support of the following petition started by Mr John Llewellyn: We call on Pembrokeshire County Council to Review the closure of the Lee Davies Day Care Centre at Bloomfield's and the Bro Preseli Day Centre at Crymych. Staff at both Day Care Centres were informed in Mid-March that both facilities would be closing due to PCC budget cuts. Both centres are an essential outlet for the well-being of the attendees and their families. Mrs Scourfield began by expressing that it was disappointing to be fighting to stop the closure of more day services within the County, and expressed her frustration regarding the lack of consultation. She stated that whilst savings would, in the first instance, be made by closing provisions, the cost of providing alternative/new provision was unknown, but would likely be more. Concerns were raised regarding the impact the closures would have on unpaid carers as alternative offers being made by new service providers were not like for like of current provision and excluded a large proportion of service users. Mrs Scourfield stated that as a carer, she had safeguarding concerns regarding the duty of care and due diligence carried out by Social Services which she would be happy to share outside of the meeting. In summing up, Mrs Scourfield requested that Members re-consider the decision to close the day centres as they provide a safe, secure setting for very vulnerable adults and whilst it had been stated that numbers were diminishing, this was simply not true, in her opinion. Following Mrs Scourfield’s address, the Presiding Member invited the Cabinet Member for Social Care and Safeguarding to provide a response. Councillor Tessa Hodgson shared a positive update that additional funding had been secured which would enable the Lee Davies Centre to remain open until next spring, giving additional time for the Council to work with trustees and representatives from PAVS to explore a new delivery model which may secure the future of the provision and maintain staffing by the Authority. With regards to the Bro Preseli Centre, she stated that positive progress had also been made, whereby a community enterprise had evolved out of the Preseli Carers Project which was exploring partnership with the Authority and was being supported by PAVS, with the hope the new model would be agreed by August. It was noted that delivery models of both sites may change in the future, but the Cabinet Member gave assurance that the Head of Adult Care, and her team, were working hard with stakeholders to ensure services continue. The Presiding Member opened the matter for debate, where Councillor Marc Tierney requested reassurance that it was the Cabinet Member’s priority to seek a sustainable solution to retain the Lee Day Centre in future years, which she agreed it was. An offer was extended to all Members, by the Cabinet Member, to discuss plans in detail should they wish. In response to a question raised by Councillor Marc Tierney, the Head of Adult Care advised that the Lee Davies Day Care Centre had put a hold on taking any new referrals at this time, until a stable plan was in place for the building. Following a question raised by Councillor Brian Hall, the Cabinet Member advised that the Council owned the Anchorage building but did not own the Lee Davies Day Care Centre at Bloomfield's or the Bro Preseli Day Centre. A request was made by Councillor John Davies, supported by Councillors Michael Williams, Iwan Ward, Delme Harries and Shon Rees, for any operational decisions in relation to the three centres discussed today, be deferred until after the September meeting of Cabinet takes place, which was agreed by the Head of Adult Services. The Cabinet Member added that a Member’s seminar on the matters would be held in early September to provide a full informative briefing and allow questions to be raised before Cabinet meet to make its decisions. Councillor Di Clements made reference to the differing cost saving opinions raised by Mrs Scourfield and requested further financial information. In response the Head of Adult Care stated that she would be able to provide more detailed financial information following the meeting. [Councillor Rhys Jordan left the meeting at this juncture] In response to a question raised by Councillor Alan Dennison seeking clarification regarding the Square Mile Company that had been conducting work at Bro Preseli, the Head of Adult Care provided information about Preseli Care and stated that as an established social enterprise, they could offer the Authority an opportunity to fully utilise Bro Preseli Day Centre. She added that discussions were taking place next week with the social enterprise, of which an open invite was extended to Members should they wish to partake in the discussion. Mrs Scourfield exercised her right to reply to the Chamber debate and took the opportunity to request that the Authority ensure they speak, in person, to all individuals who are affected by such significant changes, before any formal decision is made. She queried how any community interest company would be able to financially make the centres work if the Authority could not and stated that before making such unsettling decisions the Authority needed to look at who they were representing before diverting money to other community matters.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the Standards Committee Annual Report 2023-2024 be noted.
Council considered a joint report by the Monitoring Officer/Deputy Monitoring Officer which outlined the duty of the Standards Committee to provide an annual report to full Council. Mr Nick Watt, Chair of the Standards Committee, introduced the report and stated that as he had only recently taken the Chair of the Committee, he would like to pay thanks to the former Chair, Ms Corinna Kershaw, for the way she had managed the transition of work of the Committee over the years with professionalism. Thanks were also expressed to Members (both elected and co-opted) and the Deputy Monitoring Officer, and the recent membership changes were outlined. A brief overview of the year and statistics was given with it being stated that the Committee had to adjust to a wider range of responsibilities which had come with challenges. Mr Watt asked Members for their assistance with encouraging Town and Community Councils to partake in Code of Conduct training sessions whether it be through One Voice Wales or the Council’s Monitoring Officer and reiterated that the Standards Committee was always on hand to help and assist where required. The Presiding Member, on behalf of the Council, expressed thanks and appreciation to the Standards Committee for the work they had conducted throughout the year. In response to a question raised by Councillor Tom Tudor regarding the current amount of outstanding complaints/concerns regarding conduct of Town and Community Council Members in Pembrokeshire, the Deputy Monitoring Officer stated that she did not have the figures to hand but would source them and circulate following the meeting. Councillor Tom Tudor sought the views of Mr Nick Watt on whether he felt the Ombudsman was effective in dealing with complaints received, to which Mr Watt stated that he did not feel it would be professional of him to comment on the actions, or otherwise, of the Ombudsman. Councillor Simon Hancock Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor John Cole. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Standards Committee Annual Report 2023-2024 be noted.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED (a) That the fourth edition of the Delivery Agreement for the Council’s replacement Local Development Plan be approved. (b) That the fourth edition of the Delivery Agreement be submitted to Welsh Government for endorsement.
Council considered a report by the Head of Planning which sought Council endorsement of a fourth edition of the Delivery Agreement for the Council’s replacement Local Development Plan, LDP 2. Councillor Jacob Williams, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Planning and Regulatory Services introduced the report and reminded Members that the Local Development Plan (LDP) sets out the local policy framework for determining planning applications and directing growth and has primacy in the determination of planning applications, alongside Welsh Government’s Future Wales document. Information regarding the history of the LDP was outlined with it being stated that the LDP 2, would cover the period up to 2033 and was due to be considered by Members at an extraordinary meeting of Council in September. It was added that delays had arisen due to a range of contributing factors but Cabinet had agreed the report at its May meeting and recommended that Council also approve it ahead of seeking Welsh Government approval. Councillor Jacob Williams Moved the recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of an electronic vote, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jamie Adams, Steve Alderman, Michelle Bateman, Josh Beynon, Maureen Bowen, Aaron Carey, Mark Carter, Di Clements, John Cole, Alec Cormack, John Davies, Pat Davies, Terry Davies, Tim Evans, Claire George, Jonathan Grimes, Nicola Gwynn, Brian Hall, Simon Hancock, Delme Harries, Jon Harvey, Mike James, Mike John, Paul Miller, Huw Murphy, Mel Phillips, Bethan Price, Neil Prior, Shon Rees, Jordan Ryan, David Simpson, Rhys Sinnett, Sam Skyrme-Blackhall, Mike Stoddart, Viv Stoddart, Aled Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Anji Tinley, Thomas Tudor, Iwan Ward, Michele Wiggins, Tony Wilcox, Chris Williams, Jacob Williams, Guy Woodham, Simon Wright and Danny Young [47] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the fourth edition of the Delivery Agreement for the Council’s replacement Local Development Plan be approved. (b) That the fourth edition of the Delivery Agreement be submitted to Welsh Government for endorsement.
The meeting was paused at 13:02pm and resumed at 13:57pm.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED (a) That the remit of the Member Working Group be extended to consider the Draft Proposals and respond to the consultation on behalf of the County Council by the deadline of 2 September 2024. (b) That all Members be encouraged to consider the Draft Proposals individually, discuss them with their Council(s) (as appropriate) and respond to the consultation accordingly.
Council considered a report by the Assistant Chief Executive which sought Council approval of the approach to formulating the Council’s response to the draft proposals consultation stage of the Pembrokeshire Community Review, currently being undertaken by the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales (the Commission). Councillor Neil Prior, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Improvement and Communities, introduced the report and reminded Members that the Council had a duty to keep its community areas and community electoral arrangements under review with the aim of seeking to ensure effective and convenient Local Government. It was stated that to meet its obligations, the Council appointed the Commission to carry out the review of communities and electoral arrangements in Pembrokeshire on its behalf, which was now at the draft proposals stage, with the consultation being run from 9July - 2 September 2024. The recommendations and proposed changes of the review were outlined and it was stated that the draft proposals were quite complex and varied from community to community so an open invite was extended to all Members for them to discuss any specific matters with the Cabinet Member and/or members of the Working Group, who would take all options on board as they formulated the response. Councillor Steve Alderman expressed his interest in becoming a member of the Working Group and raised a number of questions in relation to how the logistics of clerking duties and precepts would work when Community Councils were combined. The Cabinet Member stated that changes would not begin until 2027 which allowed sufficient time for adequate preparation to be made and added that whilst addressing some of the challenges, a Clerks’ network had been established to enable discussions to be had regarding such matters. Regarding precepts, it was stated that the formation of a new Community Council would bring with it the ability to set its own precept. Councillor Di Clements identified that the consultation period would run within a timeframe that many Community Councils would not meet due to summer recess, to which the Cabinet Member suggested that an extraordinary meeting be held to consider the matter as an extension to the deadline was not possible. Councillor Michael John raised concerns that merging Community Councils, in some areas, felt like a backward step which would lead to some areas losing their identities. He added that in the past a lot of work had been undertaken to split some Community Councils and reversing that would not benefit the towns/villages being represented. He felt disappointed that the Commission had not taken on board the views they sought and felt many of the proposals were unfair and did not fit in with the aims of the review. A number of inaccuracies from the report were outlined which included responses received and specific figures, which made him question what other information may be inaccurate. He sought assurance that the Working Group’s response would be consistent with all Councillor views to which the Cabinet Member provided such assurance. Councillor Michelle Bateman requested that the Working Group look at the provision of support for Community Councils, particularly in relation to recruitment and redundancy matters and management of precepts; and also requested that timely, clear communication is used in the lead up to the next election to ensure those wanting to stand know the process to do so and those voting know what it is they are voting for. The Cabinet Member advised that support would be provided through ‘Working Better Together’ seminars and also via One Voice Wales. It was added that County Councillors could request to join the ‘Working Better Together’ seminars to assist their Community Councils if they wished. Councillor Mark Carter requested that when the Working Group fed back on how many seats will be allocated per Community Council it takes into consideration the following three matters: the first being that the number of proposed Community Councils should not be based on voter numbers; the second being that communities with high numbers of second homes are at a disadvantage as those homeowners do not vote therefore the calculation of Council requirements is incorrect; and the third point was that it seems the new proposals would result in an increase of elections which bring with them huge costs for Community Councils. The Cabinet Member confirmed that the second home point would be included within the response and disagreed with Councillor Carter’s point about elections, as he felt an increase in elections would be beneficial. Councillor Jordan Ryan spoke in support of the changes and stated that merging Community Councils could bring with it benefits, in particular for rural communities, as they would essentially have a bigger force representing their views. Councillor Iwan Ward stated that within his ward, the proposal would see the combination of two Community Councils, which currently conduct their business in two separate languages (English and Welsh) and queried if support would be provided for translation in such circumstances to mitigate ??? members standing down. The Cabinet Member stated that the merged Councils would be able to create their own policies regarding translation facilities of which those costs would be covered by the Community Council. In response to a question raised by Councillor Alec Cormack querying whether the Section 31 review would be concluded in time for 2027 election, the Cabinet Member advised that further information would be provided on the matter but it was hoped the process would be concluded in 2025, with the proposed changes taking effect at the 2027 election. Councillor Delme Harries reiterated a point raised earlier in the meeting that the proposed changes did not seem to link in with the aim of the review and he suspected that the changes would discourage individuals to stand for election, which defeated the communicated aim. In response to questions raised by Councillors Aled Thomas and Jordan Ryan, the Cabinet Member stated that the new Community Councils would have control over how they wished to deal with owned assets and whilst he did not think such matters would be open to legal challenge, he would need to seek further clarification on that point. The Assistant Chief Executive stated that it was his understanding that community assets would not be split, they would be merged and become the property of the newly formed Community Council. [Councillor Elwyn Morse re-joined the meeting at this juncture] Councillor Mike James sought clarification as to whether any merge would take place involving Nevern Community Council as he found the report to be contradicting. The Cabinet Member advised that it was his understanding that no change would be made to Nevern Community Council under the current proposals although alterations to the number of Councillors could be made in future as part of the Section 31 review. An observation was made by Councillor Jacob Williams that ‘Llanstadwell’ was being referred to as ‘Stadwell’ and queried if this was a mistake, to which the Assistant Chief Executive advised that ‘Stadwell’ had been used in the previous legal order but agreed that representation needed to be made for it to be adjusted to ‘Llanstadwell’. Councillor Neil Prior Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of an electronic vote, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jamie Adams, Michelle Bateman, Maureen Bowen, Aaron Carey, Mark Carter, Di Clements, John Cole, Alec Cormack, Pat Davies, Terry Davies, Andrew Edwards, Tim Evans, Claire George, Jonathan Grimes, Nicola Gwynn, Brian Hall, Simon Hancock, Delme Harries, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, David Howlett, Mike James, Mike John, Rhys Jordan, Paul Miller, Huw Murphy, Mel Phillips, Bethan Price, Neil Prior, Shon Rees, Jordan Ryan, David Simpson, Rhys Sinnett, Sam Skyrme-Blackhall, Mike Stoddart, Viv Stoddart, Aled Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Marc Tierney, Anji Tinley, Thomas Tudor, Iwan Ward, Michele Wiggins, Tony Wilcox, Chris Williams, Jacob Williams, Michael Williams, Guy Woodham, Simon Wright, Steve Yelland and Danny Young [51] Against the Motion: Councillor Elwyn Morse [1] Abstentions: Councillors Steve Alderman and Alan Dennison [2] RESOLVED (a) That the remit of the Member Working Group be extended to consider the Draft Proposals and respond to the consultation on behalf of the County Council by the deadline of 2 September 2024. (b) That all Members be encouraged to consider the Draft Proposals individually, discuss them with their Council(s) (as appropriate) and respond to the consultation accordingly.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the report and actions that continue to be taken be noted.
[Councillor David Bryan joined the meeting at this juncture.] Council considered a joint report by the Assistant Chief Executive/Head of Housing and Public Protection which provided an update on the current Local Authority position in response to addressing community concerns related to activities arising from the Withyhedge Landfill site. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents' Services, introduced the report and stated that it was the third report brought before Council on the matter. He stated that odour monitoring had continued and in some cases the World Health Organisation’s odour annoyance level had been exceeded, and a range of potential symptoms to exposure were outlined. It was advised that the results had however indicated the guideline levels coupled to direct health impact, had not been exceeded. It was noted that complaint levels had reduced for both the Authority and Natural Resources Wales, which may be due to action being taken. Members were advised that the company was undertaking additional work on site to increase the efficiency of the gas collection network together with permanent installation of air quality monitors. It was confirmed that the legal challenge being undertaken by the Authority was still progressing and Councillor Sinnett provided assurance that the Council was committed to maintaining clean air for residents, and continued to work closely with all parties involved with regular multi-agency meetings being held. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Huw Murphy. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the report and actions that continue to be taken be noted.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the Conservative Group retains the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair, relinquishing the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair. Council then considered the allocation of seats to political groups, as following an increased membership of the Independent Group, it was now entitled to two additional seats on an ordinary Committee, three additional seats on Overview and Scrutiny Committees and one seat on the National Park Authority. Council was then asked to determine which Overview and Scrutiny Committee the Independent Group received their additional seat on. Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that the Independent Group secure an additional seat on Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee; Seconded by Councillor Brain Hall. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Independent Group secure an additional seat on Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee It was then stated that as a consequence of the decrease of the membership of the Conservative Group, they lose seats on an ordinary committee and one Overview and Scrutiny committee, so Council was asked to determine which Overview and Scrutiny Committee the Conservative Group received their additional seat on. Councillor Di Clements Moved that the Conservative Group retained a Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat and relinquished a Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat; Seconded by Councillor Aled Thomas. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Conservative Group retains a Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee seat and relinquishes a Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat. It was then necessary for Council to agree the schedule of changes, so Councillor Simon Hancock Moved that the schedule of changes be agreed in its entirety, with the following amendments: Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee (5 seats to Independent Group, 3 seats to Conservative Group, 2 Seats to Labour Group and 3 unallocated seats); Seconded by Councillor Huw Murphy. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the schedule of changes be agreed in its entirety, with the following amendments: · Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee (5 seats to Independent Group, 3 seats to Conservative Group, 2 Seats to Labour Group and 3 unallocated seats) Council was then tasked with appointing Unaffiliated Members to the following vacant Committee seats: (i) Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee - 1 vacancy Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey fill the vacancy; Seconded by Michelle Bateman. (ii) Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee - 1 vacancy Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Pat Davies fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Simon Hancock. (iii) Licensing Committee – 2 vacancies Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey fill the first vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Michelle Wiggins fill the second vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tim Evans. (iv) SACRE/SACRVE - 1 vacancy As there were no nominations, the vacant seat will be rolled forward to the next meeting. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following appointments be approved: (i) Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Aaron Carey (ii) Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Pat Davies (iii) Licensing Committee – Councillor Aaron Carey and Councillor Michele Wiggins (iv) SACRE/SACRVE - As there were no nominations, this would be carried over to the next meeting of Council. The Head of Democratic Services proceeded to highlight a number of oversubscribed seats and requested notice from Members not in a political group wishing to step down from Committees as a consequence of the revised schedule. The following notices were received: • Councillor Phil kidney to step down from Disciplinary and Investigatory Committee • Councillor Steve Alderman to step down from Governance and Audit Committee • Councillor Tim Evans to step down from Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee • Councillor Steve Alderman to step down from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority • Councillor Pat Davies to step down from Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee [Councillor Neil Prior left the meeting at this juncture] Ahead of the next section of nominations, the Head of Democratic Services corrected a typographic error in the report which stated that Councillor Jacob Williams was a Member of the Democratic Services Committee, it should have stated Councillor Michelle Bateman instead. Councillor Williams was a reserve Member only. Council then considered nominations from the Labour Group to the following vacancies; (i) Governance and Audit Committee – 1 vacancy Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillor Maureen Bowen fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox (ii) Democratic Services Committee – 1 vacancy Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillor Nicola Gwynn fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following appointments be approved: (i) Governance and Audit Committee – Councillor Maureen Bowen (ii) Democratic Services Committee – Councillor Nicola Gwynn Vice-Chair appointments were then sought for the below two Committees: (i) Licensing Committee Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that Councillor Vanessa Thomas be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox The meeting was paused at this juncture for Members to vote via a secret ballot. Following the issuing of the ballot papers, the votes were verified and counted and the Presiding Member announced the number of votes cast. RESOLVED That Councillor Vanessa Thomas be appointed as the Vice-Chair of the Licensing Committee. (ii) Democratic Services Committee Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that Councillor Elwyn Morse be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That Councillor Elwyn Morse be appointed as the Vice-Chair of the Democratic Services Committee. The final nominations sought were in relation to Reserve Members. Moved by Councillor Jacob Williams; Seconded by Councillor Steve Alderman The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following Reserve Member appointments be approved: • Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Disciplinary and Investigatory Committee – Councillor Tessa Hodgson and Councillor Phil Kidney • Constitutional Review Committee – Councillor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall and Councillor Tim Evans • Urgency Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Senior Staff Committee – Councillor Neil Prior • Democratic Services Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Governance and Audit Committee – Councillor Steve Alderman and Councillor David Simpson • Planning Delegation Panel - Councillor Mike Stoddart and Councillor Pat Davies [Councillor Andrew Edwards left the meeting at this juncture]
Council considered a joint report by the Head of Democratic Services/Monitoring Officer which sought to review the allocation of Overview and Scrutiny Committee chairs, to review the allocation of committee seats to political groups and to review the of allocation of representation on politically balanced outside bodies. The Head of Democratic Services introduced the report and stated that following changes to the composition of the Executive Group and membership of both the Independent and Conservative Groups since the Annual Meeting, it was necessary for Council to review the allocation of chairs to Overview and Scrutiny Committees and the allocation of seats to political groups in accordance with the relevant legislation. It was stated that the report comprised several elements which Council would need to work through individually. The Head of Democratic Services began by outlining the current allocation of Overview and Scrutiny Committee chairs and stated that the Conservative Group was now entitled to only one Scrutiny Chair. It was advised that Council would need to determine which Chair the Conservative Group should retain, the unallocated Chair would then be appointed by Members of that Committee at their first meeting. Councillor Di Clements Moved that the Conservative Group retain the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair; Seconded by Councillor Mark Carter. Councillor Pat Davies then Moved an amendment, for the Conservative Group retain the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair and relinquish the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair which was Seconded by Councillor Viv Stoddart. When put to an electronic vote, the motion fell. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Steve Alderman, Michelle Bateman, Josh Beynon, Maureen Bowen, Aaron Carey, Alec Cormack, Pat Davies, Nicola Gwynn, Simon Hancock, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Paul Miller, Neil Prior, Jordan Ryan, David Simpson, Rhys Sinnett, Sam Skyrme-Blackhall, Mike Stoddart, Viv Stoddart, Marc Tierney, Thomas Tudor, Tony Wilcox, Michael Williams, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [25] Against the Motion: Councillors Jamie Adams, David Bryan, Mark Carter, Di Clements, John Cole, Terry Davies, Alan Dennison, Andrew Edwards, Tim Evans, Claire George, Jonathan Grimes, Brian Hall, Delme Harries, David Howlett, Mike James, Mike John, Rhys Jordan, Elwyn Morse, Huw Murphy, Mel Phillips, Bethan Price, Shon Rees, Aled Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Anji Tinley, Iwan Ward, Michele Wiggins, Chris Williams, Simon Wright, Steve Yelland and Danny Young [31] There were no abstentions. Discussion then turned to the substantive motion. Councillor Jamie Adams expressed that it was his understanding that due to the Council about to embark on a review of the organisation of schools within the County, the Chair of the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee should be held by an opposition party member. On the same matter Councillor Joshua Beynon expressed a differing view that it was his understanding that any Member of the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee, regardless of political affiliation, would be eligible to take the Chair. To offer clarification, the Head of Democratic Services advised that the regulations do not offer any steer on the matter, therefore it would be a matter for the Committee to decide. A vote for the substantive motion was undertaken by way of an electronic vote, and was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jamie Adams, Steve Alderman, Michelle Bateman, Josh Beynon, David Bryan, Aaron Carey, Mark Carter, Di Clements, John Cole, Alec Cormack, John Davies, Terry Davies, Alan Dennison, Andrew Edwards, Tim Evans, Claire George, Jonathan Grimes, Brian Hall, Simon Hancock, Delme Harries, David Howlett, Mike James, Mike John, Rhys Jordan, Paul Miller, Elwyn Morse, Huw Murphy, Mel Phillips, Bethan Price, Shon Rees, Aled Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Anji Tinley, Iwan Ward, Michele Wiggins, Michael Williams, Chris Williams, Guy Woodham, Simon Wright, Steve Yelland and Danny Young [41] Against the Motion: Councillors Maureen Bowen, Pat Davies, Nicola Gwynn, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Jordan Ryan, David Simpson, Rhys Sinnett, Sam Skyrme-Blackhall, Mike Stoddart, Viv Stoddart, Marc Tierney, Thomas Tudor and Tony Wilcox [15] There were no abstentions. RESOLVED That the Conservative Group retains the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair, relinquishing the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee Chair. Council then considered the allocation of seats to political groups, as following an increased membership of the Independent Group, it was now entitled to two additional seats on an ordinary Committee, three additional seats on Overview and Scrutiny Committees and one seat on the National Park Authority. Council was then asked to determine which Overview and Scrutiny Committee the Independent Group received their additional seat on. Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that the Independent Group secure an additional seat on Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee; Seconded by Councillor Brain Hall. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Independent Group secure an additional seat on Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee It was then stated that as a consequence of the decrease of the membership of the Conservative Group, they lose seats on an ordinary committee and one Overview and Scrutiny committee, so Council was asked to determine which Overview and Scrutiny Committee the Conservative Group received their additional seat on. Councillor Di Clements Moved that the Conservative Group retained a Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat and relinquished a Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat; Seconded by Councillor Aled Thomas. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Conservative Group retains a Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee seat and relinquishes a Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee seat. It was then necessary for Council to agree the schedule of changes, so Councillor Simon Hancock Moved that the schedule of changes be agreed in its entirety, with the following amendments: Services Overview & Scrutiny Committee (5 seats to Independent Group, 3 seats to Conservative Group, 2 Seats to Labour Group and 3 unallocated seats); Seconded by Councillor Huw Murphy. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the schedule of changes be agreed in its entirety, with the following amendments: · Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee (5 seats to Independent Group, 3 seats to Conservative Group, 2 Seats to Labour Group and 3 unallocated seats) Council was then tasked with appointing Unaffiliated Members to the following vacant Committee seats: (i) Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee - 1 vacancy Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey fill the vacancy; Seconded by Michelle Bateman. (ii) Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee - 1 vacancy Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Pat Davies fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Simon Hancock. (iii) Licensing Committee – 2 vacancies Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey fill the first vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Michelle Wiggins fill the second vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tim Evans. (iv) SACRE/SACRVE - 1 vacancy As there were no nominations, the vacant seat will be rolled forward to the next meeting. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following appointments be approved: (i) Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Aaron Carey (ii) Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Pat Davies (iii) Licensing Committee – Councillor Aaron Carey and Councillor Michele Wiggins (iv) SACRE/SACRVE - As there were no nominations, this would be carried over to the next meeting of Council. The Head of Democratic Services proceeded to highlight a number of oversubscribed seats and requested notice from Members not in a political group wishing to step down from Committees as a consequence of the revised schedule. The following notices were received: • Councillor Phil kidney to step down from Disciplinary and Investigatory Committee • Councillor Steve Alderman to step down from Governance and Audit Committee • Councillor Tim Evans to step down from Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee • Councillor Steve Alderman to step down from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority • Councillor Pat Davies to step down from Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee [Councillor Neil Prior left the meeting at this juncture] Ahead of the next section of nominations, the Head of Democratic Services corrected a typographic error in the report which stated that Councillor Jacob Williams was a Member of the Democratic Services Committee, it should have stated Councillor Michelle Bateman instead. Councillor Williams was a reserve Member only. Council then considered nominations from the Labour Group to the following vacancies; (i) Governance and Audit Committee – 1 vacancy Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillor Maureen Bowen fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox (ii) Democratic Services Committee – 1 vacancy Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillor Nicola Gwynn fill the vacancy; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following appointments be approved: (i) Governance and Audit Committee – Councillor Maureen Bowen (ii) Democratic Services Committee – Councillor Nicola Gwynn Vice-Chair appointments were then sought for the below two Committees: (i) Licensing Committee Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that Councillor Vanessa Thomas be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillor Aaron Carey be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Tony Wilcox The meeting was paused at this juncture for Members to vote via a secret ballot. Following the issuing of the ballot papers, the votes were verified and counted and the Presiding Member announced the number of votes cast. RESOLVED That Councillor Vanessa Thomas be appointed as the Vice-Chair of the Licensing Committee. (ii) Democratic Services Committee Councillor Huw Murphy Moved that Councillor Elwyn Morse be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That Councillor Elwyn Morse be appointed as the Vice-Chair of the Democratic Services Committee. The final nominations sought were in relation to Reserve Members. Moved by Councillor Jacob Williams; Seconded by Councillor Steve Alderman The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the following Reserve Member appointments be approved: • Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Disciplinary and Investigatory Committee – Councillor Tessa Hodgson and Councillor Phil Kidney • Constitutional Review Committee – Councillor Sam Skyrme-Blackhall and Councillor Tim Evans • Urgency Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Senior Staff Committee – Councillor Neil Prior • Democratic Services Committee – Councillor Mike Stoddart • Governance and Audit Committee – Councillor Steve Alderman and Councillor David Simpson • Planning Delegation Panel - Councillor Mike Stoddart and Councillor Pat Davies [Councillor Andrew Edwards left the meeting at this juncture]
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED (a) That a politically balanced cross-chamber members’ Working Group, comprising of 15 Members, be established to examine in greater detail the evidence provided for a review of school organisation in Pembrokeshire, with a view to bringing the findings back to full Council in due course. (b) That the Working Group be comprised of the following: 4 Independent Group Members, 3 Conservative Group Members, 3 Labour Group Members, 1 Welsh Liberal Democrat Member, 1 Plaid Cymru Group Member and 3 Unaffiliated Members. The Chamber was then tasked with appointing the three Unaffiliated Members and Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillors Michael Stoddart, Pat Davies and Sam Skyrme-Blackhall be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Jordan Ryan. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillors Bethan Price and Chris Williams be appointed as Reserve Unaffiliated Members; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. (c) That Councillors Michael Stoddart, Pat Davies and Sam Skyrme-Blackhall be appointed as the three Unaffiliated Members. (d) That Councillors Bethan Price and Chris Williams be appointed as Reserve Unaffiliated Members. [Councillors Tom Tudor, Sam Skyrme-Blackhall and Chris Williams left the meeting at this juncture]
Council considered a report by the Director of Education, which requested that Council consider the evidence in support of reviewing school organisation in Pembrokeshire and consider the establishment a cross-chamber, politically balanced Working Group to examine the evidence in detail. Councillor Guy Woodham, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that following the July Cabinet meeting where the case for the review of the organisation of Pembrokeshire schools was discussed, the matter was now being presented for Council to consider the recommendations. Members were reminded that the Authority had a statutory duty to secure sufficient and suitable school places in its area, and on the basis of the evidence provided, specifically the population decline over recent years, and the forecasted continued decline, it was deemed that Pembrokeshire had too many schools. Consideration would need to be given to the number of schools but also to ensure continuous standard improvement, extending the Welsh medium provision and providing sustainable education communities and better quality buildings. It was highlighted that functions in respect of approval or determination of school organisation proposals were matters for full Council with the School Organisation Code detailing the process which must be followed. Statutory consultation with a wide range of stakeholders was a fundamental part of the process and public consultation would therefore be included as an important part of any future recommendations that are brought back to Full Council. Councillor Woodham stated that following discussion, in advance of the meeting with the Leader of the Independent Group, Councillor Huw Murphy, it was suggested that whilst there was a need for full cross-chamber membership, Councillor Murphy had offered to relinquish a seat and offer it to the Unaffiliateds. Based on a 15 Member Working Group, the Independent Group Members would reduce to four and the Unaffiliated Members would increase to three, which was a suggestion welcomed by Councillor Woodham. It was added that should Council resolve to establish a cross-chamber, politically balanced Working Group, Group Leaders would be asked to consider ensuring that a geographical balance was achieved when nominating Group Members and Full Council would need to approve the appointment of the Unaffiliated Members. To avoid persistent non-attendance of Members to the Working Group meetings, Councillor Aled Thomas requested that a clause be included within the Working Group’s terms of reference to state that should a Member miss a number of consecutive meetings then their place would be re-allocated to another Member. The Cabinet Member advised that the matter had been addressed as part of the draft terms of reference, which would be approved at the Group’s first meeting. [Councillor Claire George left the meeting as this juncture] Councillor Rhys Sinnett expressed that he felt it would be pertinent for the Chair of Schools Overview and Scrutiny Committee to form part of the Working Group membership to ensure the expertise of overview and scrutiny was represented, which the Leader of the Conservative Group concurred with. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved that a cross-chamber, politically balanced Working Group of 15 Members (3 Conservative Members; 4 Independent Members; 3 Labour Members; 1 Liberal Democrat Member; 1 Plaid Cymru Member and 3 Unaffiliated Members) be established to examine in greater detail the evidence provided for a review of the organisation of Pembrokeshire schools, with a view to subsequently bringing its findings back to full Council; Seconded by Councillor Huw Murphy. The vote, undertaken by way of an electronic vote, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jamie Adams, Steve Alderman, Michelle Bateman, Josh Beynon, Maureen Bowen, Aaron Carey, Mark Carter, Di Clements, John Cole, Alec Cormack, John Davies, Pat Davies, Terry Davies, Alan Dennison, Tim Evans, Jonathan Grimes, Nicola Gwynn, Brian Hall, Simon Hancock, Delme Harries, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, David Howlett, Mike James, Mike John, Paul Miller, Elwyn Morse, Huw Murphy, Mel Phillips, Bethan Price, Shon Rees, Jordan Ryan, David Simpson, Rhys Sinnett, Sam Skyrme-Blackhall, Mike Stoddart, Viv Stoddart, Aled Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Marc Tierney, Anji Tinley, Thomas Tudor, Iwan Ward, Michele Wiggins, Tony Wilcox, Michael Williams, Chris Williams, Jacob Williams, Guy Woodham, Simon Wright, Steve Yelland and Danny Young [52] There were no votes against or abstentions RESOLVED (a) That a politically balanced cross-chamber members’ Working Group, comprising of 15 Members, be established to examine in greater detail the evidence provided for a review of school organisation in Pembrokeshire, with a view to bringing the findings back to full Council in due course. (b) That the Working Group be comprised of the following: 4 Independent Group Members, 3 Conservative Group Members, 3 Labour Group Members, 1 Welsh Liberal Democrat Member, 1 Plaid Cymru Group Member and 3 Unaffiliated Members. The Chamber was then tasked with appointing the three Unaffiliated Members and Councillor Jacob Williams Moved that Councillors Michael Stoddart, Pat Davies and Sam Skyrme-Blackhall be appointed; Seconded by Councillor Jordan Ryan. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved that Councillors Bethan Price and Chris Williams be appointed as Reserve Unaffiliated Members; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. (c) That Councillors Michael Stoddart, Pat Davies and Sam Skyrme-Blackhall be appointed as the three Unaffiliated Members. (d) That Councillors Bethan Price and Chris Williams be appointed as Reserve Unaffiliated Members. [Councillors Tom Tudor, Sam Skyrme-Blackhall and Chris Williams left the meeting at this juncture]
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the revised and updated Terms of Reference for the Council Tax Working Group be approved. [Councillor Aaron Carey left the meeting at this juncture]
Council considered a report by the Head of Financial Services which outlined the proposed amendments to the Council Tax Working Group’s Terms of Reference. Councillor Joshua Beynon, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that in the past the Group had not been able to make recommendations to Council, due to the wording of the terms of reference, so the report before Members sought approval of an updated version of the terms of reference to enable the politically balanced Group to make recommendations, to Council, on Council Tax premiums. Councillor Aled Thomas queried why the terms of reference stated that the Working Group was not permitted to consider matters relating to the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Scheme, as it was his understanding that the scheme was funded by the premium so it seemed unusual that the Group would not be able to consider such matters. Councillor Beynon agreed that the wording could be strengthened but explained that it meant the Group was not permitted to decide how elements of the money were distributed when projects come in. Following a request made by Councillor Aled Thomas, Councillor Beynon was content for it to be added into the terms of reference that the Group’s Minutes would be circulated to all Council Members once available following the meeting. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. The vote, undertaken by way of an electronic vote, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jamie Adams, Steve Alderman, Michelle Bateman, Josh Beynon, Maureen Bowen, Mark Carter, Di Clements, John Cole, Alec Cormack, Pat Davies, Terry Davies, Alan Dennison, Nicola Gwynn, Brian Hall, Simon Hancock, Delme Harries, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, David Howlett, Mike James, Mike John, Paul Miller, Elwyn Morse, Huw Murphy, Mel Phillips, Bethan Price, Shon Rees, Jordan Ryan, Rhys Sinnett, Mike Stoddart, Viv Stoddart, Aled Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Marc Tierney, Iwan Ward, Michele Wiggins, Tony Wilcox, Michael Williams, Jacob Williams, Guy Woodham, Simon Wright, Steve Yelland and Danny Young [43] There were no votes against or abstentions RESOLVED That the revised and updated Terms of Reference for the Council Tax Working Group be approved. [Councillor Aaron Carey left the meeting at this juncture]
Council considered excluding the public from the meeting for the next item of business, as the report involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 13 and 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Act; and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. Councillor David Simpson Moved the recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Guy Woodham. The vote, undertaken by way of an electronic vote, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jamie Adams, Steve Alderman, Michelle Bateman, Josh Beynon, Maureen Bowen, Mark Carter, Di Clements, Alec Cormack, John Davies, Pat Davies, Terry Davies, Alan Dennison, Nicola Gwynn, Brian Hall, Simon Hancock, Delme Harries, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, David Howlett, Mike James, Mike John, Paul Miller, Elwyn Morse, Huw Murphy, Mel Phillips, Bethan Price, Jordan Ryan, David Simpson, Rhys Sinnett, Viv Stoddart, Aled Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Marc Tierney, Iwan Ward, Michele Wiggins, Tony Wilcox, Michael Williams, Jacob Williams, Guy Woodham, Simon Wright, Steve Yelland and Danny Young [42] Abstentions: Councillors John Cole and Mike Stoddart [2] There were no votes against. RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting for the following item of business in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972, as they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 13 and 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Act; and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the redundancy requests be approved. [Councillor Di Clements left the meeting at this juncture] The webcast was then resumed.
Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraphs 13 and 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Council considered the exempt report and associated appendices. Councillor Guy Woodham, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report which related to the redundancy of two post holders from Partneriaeth and outlined the key points. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of an electronic vote, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jamie Adams, Steve Alderman, Michelle Bateman, Josh Beynon, Maureen Bowen, Mark Carter, Di Clements, John Cole, Alec Cormack, John Davies, Pat Davies, Terry Davies, Alan Dennison, Tim Evans, Nicola Gwynn, Brian Hall, Simon Hancock, Delme Harries, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, David Howlett, Mike James, Mike John, Paul Miller, Huw Murphy, Mel Phillips, Bethan Price, Jordan Ryan, David Simpson, Rhys Sinnett, Mike Stoddart, Viv Stoddart, Aled Thomas, Vanessa Thomas, Marc Tierney, Iwan Ward, Michele Wiggins, Tony Wilcox, Michael Williams, Guy Woodham, Simon Wright, Steve Yelland and Danny Young [43] Abstentions: Councillor Elwyn Morse [1] There were no votes against. RESOLVED That the redundancy requests be approved. [Councillor Di Clements left the meeting at this juncture] The webcast was then resumed.
Councillor Paul Miller, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by Councillor John Cole prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: With the Council leasing out the Haverfordwest airport, can members be assured that the lease is at comparable rent with similar airport facilities, and the airport being offloaded purely as a cost savings measure? In response, Councillor Paul Miller stated that the proposed letting was considered to be best consideration in line with the Council’s statutory obligations. It was added that the report taken to Cabinet on 20 May 2024 covered the matter in further detail, specifically paragraph 2 of the main considerations section and the associated Appendix A. It was noted that whilst Appendix A was not for publication/in the public domain, it was available to all Members. [Councillor Danny Young left the meeting at this juncture]
Councillor Paul Miller, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by Councillor John Cole prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: Are current users protected and assured that their tenancy and rents currently payable to the authority are taken into consideration? In response, Councillor Paul Miller stated that the leases currently in place and rents paid were considered as part of the decision made by Cabinet. It was stated that leaseholders had been consulted throughout the process and were aware of the situation. It was added that once the Council executes the lease of the airport, the new tenant would become the relevant landlord to all existing users and current leases would remain in place with their terms protected by relevant legislation. It was confirmed however, that in time the new operator would be free to manage the tenancies as they please within the context of the legislation and Council would not dictate the levels of rents or prices to be charged as this would be a commercial matter between the new operator and the leaseholders going forward. [Councillor Elwyn Morse left the meeting at this juncture]
Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by Councillor John Cole prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: Following on from my March Notice of Motion on the car park charging at County Hall, the Cabinet decision was to delay a recommendation until further work and information is gathered from various sources. Can an update be provided on work done since the recommendation? In response, Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that as Members were aware Haverfordwest was currently undergoing significant investment and infrastructure changes including the new transport interchange (work starting October 2024), the new signature bridge, the Western Quay Side and the Castle development. It was stated that all of the projects were aimed at enhancing the transport, retail and heritage offer of the County town and would therefore impact on the current surroundings in Haverfordwest. In particular, the transport interchange would offer a new facility which would be key to the town. Reference was made to Councillor John Cole’s Notice of Motion which he submitted and which was discussed by Cabinet in February, it was agreed that it be supported in part and that once there was a suitable reference point, a study would be undertaken due to the number and complexity of changes underway in Haverfordwest. It was stated that currently it was not deemed that the Council had met the trigger point for a study as at this stage any research would not provide a clear baseline to truly reflect on future impact and trends that car parking charges will have. Councillor Sinnett provided assurance that Cabinet do still support a study taking place at the appropriate time, following a more settled period, so the true impact of car park charges can be mapped out. In response to a supplementary question regarding the car parking charges being a separate matter to the transport interchange, Councillor Sinnett stated that the Council needed to ensure that the study undertaken would capture all data, including traffic flows, and outlined a proposal for a study to take place from April 2025 to map out all parking, and then after the interchange is completed.
Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by Councillor Alan Dennison prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: In the Cabinet meeting of the 11th March the following was resolved: That the inclusion of the Saundersfoot to Wiseman’s Bridge cycle track cliff stabilisation works (“the Scheme”) in the capital programme, at a capital cost of £600k in 2024-25, be approved, noting that this is a cost to be met by Council funds unless external funding is secured to reduce this cost commitment. It is now paused pending further stabilisation works that are required. Can the cabinet member confirm whether the land that has slipped is council owned or private land and if council, what further cuts will have to be made to services to fund the cost to stabilise the cliff? In response, Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that whilst a third unforeseeable rock-fall did occur prior to work starting on site, it was confirmed that at no stage has the stabilisation work been paused or suspended, progress by the contractor on site remained excellent. It was stated that the land that had slipped onto the cycle track was privately owned but had been maintained, in the interests of public safety, ever since the Public Right of Way was registered. It was added that initially the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority carried out the work, but since the path was reclassified to a Cycle Track, maintenance had been conducted by the Council. Council Sinnett stated that whilst the third rock-fall had meant that additional design and site work had been needed it was still envisaged that the project would be delivered within the £600K budget agreed in Cabinet on 11 March 2024, however, £300,019 of external grant funding contribution had been sourced via Welsh Government’s Active Travel Fund in 2024/25, as well as £57,000 carried over from the 2023/24 Active Travel Fund. It was noted that the Council was still awaiting the outcome of grant applications made to the National Parks Partnership and Sustrans. Councillor Sinnett assured Members that every effort was being made to secure external funding to ensure that minimal Council funding was needed and confirmed that the path was due to re-open on 1 August 2024. In response to a supplementary question regarding why the Council was funding works on land it did not own, and how the matter was any different to the current situation on Conduit land in Hakin which had remained closed for many years, Councillor Sinnett advised that he did not have specific detail regarding Conduit, and whilst he thought it may be due to the Conduit matter spanning multiple land owners he would find out the details and report back.
Councillor Joshua Beynon, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to question submitted by Councillor Alan Dennison prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: Can the Cabinet Member for Finance advise how much the council has paid itself in empty property tax and what the cost of administering this collection is? In response, Councillor Joshua Beynon stated that there were a number of properties across the corporate portfolio that were captured by the empty property premium, however, the majority of charges related to properties held within the Council’s HRA housing stock, which for a number of reasons, had been empty for some time awaiting refurbishment, development or demolition. In March 2024, as part of the annual billing exercise, a spreadsheet was shared internally which confirmed the Council Tax liability for the forthcoming financial year. It was added that during the year ad hoc demands are being issued and again shared internally. It was stated that should a tenant vacate a property, staff will amend the Council Tax liability to include future charges such as the long-term empty premium. It was noted that the standard Council Tax and long-term empty premiums were paid by internal transfer from the HRA fund to the general fund. Councillor Beynon shared the total amount billed for the standard Council Tax and any long-term empty premium as follows: · 2022-23 - £123,000. · 2023-24 - £206,000 · 2024-25 - £457,000 It was explained that the above figures included the standard Council Tax and any long-term empty premium and were based on the annual charge and could change during the financial year if a property was let. It was stated that administration of Council Tax for Council owned stock was not broken down and the Council had employed an Empty Homes Officer utilising premium payments for the purpose of proactively bringing empty properties back into use, utilising any grants or loans available, and if needed, enforcement action. Whilst Councillor Dennison did not have a supplementary question, he commented that he would like to see a big effort made by the Council to reduce empty properties.
Councillor Guy Woodham, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by Councillor Huw Murphy prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: Given the financial pressure currently endured by Pembrokeshire County Council could members be provided with an explanation of why Pembrokeshire Leisure offers free "active membership" to students up to the age of 16 who are Elective Home Educated (EHE) when Pembrokeshire Leisure charge £23 pcm or £23.50 pcm Leisure membership for students attending Pembrokeshire schools when in the interest of equity all students whether in formal education or EHE should pay the same as the current situation appears somewhat unfair. In response, Councillor Guy Woodham stated that the concern raised regarding equity and fairness in the fees charged for leisure memberships was understood but stated that it was crucial however, to recognise the unique context and rationale behind offering free Leisure Passes to Electively Home Educated learners. Councillor Woodham proceeded to state that providing free leisure passes served as an incentive for families to register on the Electively Home Educated database. This was a critical component in efforts to support the Children missing education processes and procedures. By ensuring those children were registered with the Local Authority, the Authority can more effectively monitor their educational progress and welfare. It was added that one of the primary concerns with Elective Home Education was that some children may become "invisible" to Education and Social Services therefore, offering leisure passes helped the Local Authority identify and engage with children who might otherwise not be known. The initiative directly contributes to safeguarding children and young people by maintaining a line of communication and support with families who choose to home educate. It was highlighted that many home educated learners do not have access to the usual physical education that school learners enjoy so the free leisure pass provides these children with opportunities for physical activity, which was essential for promoting their physical health and well-being. Touching on funding, Councillor Woodham stated that the free leisure passes for Electively Home Educated learners were funded by Welsh Government, funding specifically allocated to the Local Authority for those Electively Home Educated. Welsh Government endorsed the practice as a good way to engage with families of those Electively Home Educated to try and ensure that these learners were not overlooked. It was noted that the funding was designated for this purpose and was not derived from the general budget of Pembrokeshire County Council. Continuing on the funding element, it was added that whilst the financial pressures faced by the Council were acknowledged, it was important to note that the provision of free leisure passes for Electively Home Educated learners did not detract from the resources available for other learners. Instead, it leverages specific funding meant to support those Electively Home Educated, ensuring that all children in Pembrokeshire have access to opportunities that promote their well-being, physical activity and educational engagement. In summing up, Councillor Woodham stated that the provision of free Leisure Passes to Electively Home Educated learners was therefore a strategic measure that supported the Local Authority’s overarching goals of safeguarding, equity in education, and effective use of designated funding and it was noted that the approach ultimately benefits the community by ensuring that all children, regardless of their educational setting, receive the support and oversight necessary for their development and safety.
Councillor Joshua Beynon, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to two questions submitted by Councillor Huw Murphy prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: Question 1 At Full Council on October 12th, 2023, I submitted a Notice of Motion requesting that PCC use its discretionary relief policy regarding the current 182-day occupancy rule for self-catering accommodation and reduce the eligibility criteria to 140 days in support of the tourism industry. This NoM was debated by Cabinet on Dec 4th, 2023, where it was not adopted but would be reviewed in 12 months following the impact of legislative change where evidence to support potential change to the 182-day occupancy rule will have been gathered. Furthermore, Cabinet stated they would write to Welsh Government to highlight concern over the 182-day occupancy rule and to be provided with information on how the current regulations are working both in Pembrokeshire and the rest of Wales, to support a review in 12 months time. 9 months have elapsed since this NoM was presented to Council in Oct 2023 and 7 months since Cabinet debated it with two recommendations and this question is submitted in two parts. Can Council be provided with an update of what data has been obtained since Dec 2023 to examine the impact of the 182-day occupancy rule for self-catering properties in advance of a review to be completed by December 2024 prior to any decision over what level of second home council tax to be levied for 2024/25 as it may be necessary to consider a reduction to support an industry under pressure. In response to Question 1, Councillor Joshua Beynon stated that a decision on the level of Council Tax premiums would be made by Council at the 17 October 2024 meeting. He advised that prior to this, Cabinet committed to review the discretionary discount policy at its meeting on 7 October 2024 when the Council would have more evidence available on the effect the Welsh Government changes to number of days properties have to be let in order to qualify for business rates has had on owners of self-catering units in Pembrokeshire. It was added that prior to Cabinet’s discussions, the matter would be considered by Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on 17 September 2024. The matter has recently been discussed at the Council Tax Working Group and would be again prior to any decision being made by Cabinet. It was stated that to inform the decisions, Council was currently undertaking a consultation on the second homes and long-term empty property premiums and have included questions on using our discretion on properties which do not meet the 182 days let and/or the 252 days available to let threshold to qualify for non-domestic rates. Councillor Beynon advised that in the interim the Revenues Team was monitoring the movement in second homes and self-catering units and the number of properties receiving an exception to paying the Council Tax premium. An update on their findings to date was provided as follows: As at 1 July 2024 the main increases in the level of exceptions relates to Class 1 exceptions (which are properties that are up for sale) and these have increased by 97 in the last 12 months and in Class 6 exceptions (which are properties that have a planning condition prohibiting year round occupancy) which have increased by 78. The numbers of second homes and self-catering units in the County compared to a year ago are as follows: 1.7.2023 1.7.2024 Second homes 3,364 3,271 Self-Catering units 2,621 2,425 Exceptions Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4 Class 5 Class 6 Class 7 06.07.23 38 3 36 2 37 360 34 01.07.24 135 3 42 3 44 438 36 Question 2 Have PCC received a reply from WG with regards to the concerns raised with regards to the 182-day rule and its impact on the Pembrokeshire tourism industry. In response, Councillor Joshua Beynon stated that the former Leader of Council, Councillor David Simpson, wrote to Welsh Government on the 8 April 2024 and their response was received on the 1 May 2024.
Councillor Paul Miller, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by Councillor Chris Williams prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: On a recent services meeting back in 2023, we had a productive meeting at Withybush Airport to look at the impact regarding costs to PCC and to consider options with regards to its future operation. Can you please clarify if the Airport is still owned and operated by Pembrokeshire County Council and if so at what cost since April 1st, 2024. In response, Councillor Paul Miller stated that the Airport was still owned and operated by the Council at present. He added that the legal process of leasing out the Airport as outlined in the Cabinet Report presented on 20 May 2024 was underway, but was a complex matter, which included the transfer of staff and the matter of the processing of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) licence, which needed to be in place. Members were advised that completion would be within the next couple of months. It was noted that the cost of running the Airport from 1 April 2024 was£25,245 year to date.
Councillor Paul Miller, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by Councillor Michael Stoddart prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: Would the relevant Cabinet member please provide an update on the situation regarding the provision of fibre optic broadband to the rural areas surrounding Milford Haven? In response, Councillor Paul Miller stated that since his last update in March 2024, the Broadband Team had been working with infrastructure providers, Swansea Bay City Deal and UK Government to collate data supporting all current and future build activities across Pembrokeshire. He updated that there were plans to further enhance deployment of fibre based broadband in the rural areas surrounding Milford Haven but unfortunately, as some of the information held by the Council had been shared on a commercially sensitive basis and protected by non-disclosure agreements therefore, he was not able to provide a full update today. Councillor Miller stated that it was his understanding that the Head of IT, along with the Broadband Team, had reached out to Councillor Stoddart directly on the matter and would keep him informed. He added that Broadway Partners going into administration was a disappointment and had set back the rural delivery ambition somewhat but assured Members that the Team was working diligently to connect the whole of the County as quickly as possible. Councillor Stoddart raised a supplementary question regarding the progress being disappointing. In response Councillor Miller expressed that in some respect he does agree as the roll-out has taken longer than originally estimated, although highlighted that when the roll-out started there was less than 5% of properties able to access fibre broadband across the County, and the current coverage was greater than 60%. It was acknowledged that those figures were down to the dedication of the Team and the support they had been able to offer the providers involved resulting in only 1.23% of Milford Haven area properties not being able to access fibre broadband, which was a huge success. It was noted that rural figures were still lower but this had been affected by the collapse of Broadway Partners. [Councillor Huw Murphy left the meeting at this juncture]
Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to questions submitted by Councillor Delme Harries prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: I have recently received a list of 22 working streetlights that will be removed within the Bro Gwaun ward. One small community will possibly be left in the dark with 9 working streetlights being removed. In 2008 Cabinet approved a report which included decommissioning streetlights which do not comply with current standards when they exceed their lifecycle. In 2016 it was recommended to: 1) Decommissioning and removal of lighting that does not comply with current Code of Practice and/ or local policy- progress. 2) Convert existing all night lanterns to LED – subject to business case and obtaining “spend to save” funding What was the result of this recommendation which was due to be implemented over a period of 3 years and why some 8 years later we now seem to be progressing with this work, without any consultation with the affected residents, because the budget dictates that we need to remove lighting as soon as possible to maximise savings rather than wait for lanterns to fail. Had this work been completed by 2019 how much would we have saved from 2019 to 2024? Could you confirm what savings will now be made by removing these streetlights and the actual costs in removing these working streetlights? In response, Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that work to decommission non-compliant street lighting was required to deliver part of the savings itemised in this year’s budget which was approved by Cabinet in March 2024. The decision recorded by Cabinet on 28 February 2016 was that the street lighting review be noted and the following be implemented: (a) Decommissioning and removal of lighting that does not comply with the current Code of Practice and/ or local policy upon reaching the end of its life. (b) Converting existing all night lanterns to LED, subject to a business case being made and obtaining “spend to save” funding. Members were advised that since that date, any lighting that did not comply with the local policy was removed once it reached end of life or was no longer economically repairable. The annual saving from removing the lights was comparatively small; energy costs were currently approximately £40 per light per annum, with an additional £30 per annum for minor maintenance. However, with several hundred non-compliant lights still in the County, the overall saving was potentially significant. It was stated that current estimations for the one-off cost of removing the lights would be around £20 per unit, but this may vary based on travelling times between sites. It was added that “Spend to Save” funding to convert all compliant lighting to LED was sourced via a SALIX interest-free loan in late 2020 and all remaining lighting was converted by October 2023. It was noted that LED lights have approximately one-third of the running costs of older lighting, the conversion costs are around £200 per unit. Councillor Harries raised his first supplementary question which expressed concern around the time taken to implement the policies and highlighted that additional money that could have been saved had the policies been introduced back when they were agreed. In response Councillor Sinnett agreed that it was an interesting point and stated that the acceleration of policy implementation had been driven by the required savings targets. For Councillor Harries’ second supplementary question he expressed that past Councillors had fought hard to secure street lighting in rural areas and he feels the implementation of the policies were a step back and could lead to safety concerns and rural crime. Councillor Sinnett advised that any specific concerns can be raised by local communities through petitions and where grave concern arises, backed up by police concern and supporting evidence, re-consideration of removal would be deliberated. Councillor Sinnett provided further information regarding the methodology and consultation of street lighting removal along with a proposal for town and community councils to consider taking on the cost of them, in specific circumstances.
Councillor Paul Miller, the relevant Cabinet Member, responded to a question submitted by Councillor Viv Stoddart prior to the meeting in accordance with the provisions of Council Procedure Rule 4.18 as follows: In a recent public meeting held last month the question was raised as to progress with plans for a new Milford Haven train station and public transport interchange. I recall attending a 4theRegion meeting in 2014 when the preliminary design for the town's new station was on the authority's drawing board. Ten years on, will the Cabinet member for Place, the Region and Climate Change update Council as to progress with this project? In response, Councillor Paul Miller stated that although progress had been slow, it was now starting to move at pace. The Council had committed £137,000 of funding to match a Welsh Government grant of £1.1m in the current financial year to take the new Milford Haven public transport interchange to final design stage. It was added that separately that Great Western Railway (GWR) had been speeding up services to West Wales, not yet all the way to Pembrokeshire but currently on direct trains between London and Carmarthen, with the hope this would be extended to Pembrokeshire in 2025/26. Councillor Miller added that he would be attending a meeting with GRW and Henry Tufnell MP to discuss how further acceleration of those plans could be implemented. [Councillor Miller’s connection dropped so the opportunity for a supplementary question was lost. ]
A Notice of Motion was submitted by Councillor Huw Murphy in the following terms: There is currently a significant and severe shortage in suitable applicants coming forward to be on-call Fire Fighters (retained) for the Mid & West Wales Fire Service. Currently there are vacancies for on-call fire fighters at all Fire Stations throughout the region, which impacts considerably upon the safety of both residents and visitors who may need the assistance of the Fire Service. Pembrokeshire is heavily reliant on our on-call firefighters. In recognition of the vital work performed by our on-call Fire Fighters (retained not full time employees of the service) and to encourage others to consider undertaking this vital role within our communities this Notice of Motion proposes that Pembrokeshire County Council offers every retained Fire-Fighter working and living in Pembrokeshire a 10% reduction in the Council Tax they pay after achieving a qualifying period of service annually, to be determined by the Chief Fire Officer. Upon the terms of Council Procedure Rule 4.19, the Motion having been Moved by Councillor Alan Dennison; Seconded by Councillor Brian Hall then stood referred to Cabinet.
Rhaid i gynghorwyr ddweud pan fydd ganddyn nhw gysylltiad personol â rhywbeth sy'n cael ei drafod, fel swydd, eiddo neu aelod o'r teulu. Mae buddiant sy'n rhagfarnu yn ddigon cryf i'r cynghorydd adael yr ystafell fel arfer a pheidio â chymryd rhan.
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Yn rhestru cynghorwyr presennol y cyngor yn unig. Nid yw aelodau cyfetholedig, swyddogion a chyn-gynghorwyr yn cael eu dangos.