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RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendix 1 involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 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. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered Appendix 1, with information given and questions answered by the Chief Executive and Councillor Miller. The webcast was then resumed. Councillor Miller wished to highlight how big an endeavour the Celtic Freeport was and referred to the amount of turbines that would be involved. He stated that it was an enormous project with great potential to transform Pembrokeshire. The Leader agreed that it would be transformational. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Neil Prior, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. DECISIONS (a) That, having due regard to the integrated impact assessment, delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive (in consultation with the Deputy Leader) to agree any variations that may be required to the draft Full Business Case set out in Appendix 1 to the report, and to approve its submission to the UK and Welsh Governments. (b) That, subject to confirmation from UK and Welsh Government regarding appropriate retention of Non-Domestic Rates, delegated authority be granted to the two billing authorities and the Chief Executive (in consultation with the Deputy Leader) to agree final amendments to the draft Freeport Business Case (FBC), as advised by the two governments, to enable the Government to confirm acceptance of the FBC. (c) That delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive to enter into a new Memorandum of Understanding to continue with the programme of next steps identified in this report, noting that further reports will be brought back to Members on the points referenced therein. Reason for Recommendation: Freeport status will act as a catalyst for significant economic growth within the locality and the wider region linked to the emerging off-shore wind sector and wider renewables agenda. Celtic Freeport will also support work to decarbonise industry, housing and transport at local regional and national levels helping to meet the net zero carbon targets. Green economic growth will help to address structural issues of poverty and deprivation in the local and regional economy stimulating the local supply chain and increasing the skills and qualifications of the resident population.
The following declarations were made: Item 3 – Response to Day-Opportunities Update Call-in Councillor Joshua Beynon declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being a Trustee of the VC Gallery, elected via independent appointment. Councillor Michelle Bateman declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being a Trustee of the VC Gallery. Councillor Paul Miller declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being the Director of Neyland CIC. Item 4 - Celtic Freeport Final Business Case Approval Councillor Tessa Hodgson declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of her husband working for the Milford Haven Port Authority.
[Having declared personal and prejudicial interests, Councillors Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon and Paul Miller left the meeting for this item of business.] The Leader introduced the report of the Director of Social Care and Housing and stated that the matter had been referred back to Cabinet, following a call-in from Members of the Independent Group. He then outlined the decisions from the Cabinet meeting on 9 September 2024 that were subsequently called-in, as well as the reasons for the call-in outlined by the Independent Group. He also referred to the Extraordinary meeting of the Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee that took place on 23 September 2024, where the call-in was discussed and the following recommendations were made: a) That Cabinet be asked to review the decision on keeping Day Centres in Crymych and Narberth open whilst a pilot is undertaken using a community enterprise model. b) That Cabinet be asked to consider the change in priority since the announcement of South Quay funding and what bridging alterations can be considered whilst the opening of South Quay is awaited. Councillor Tessa Hodgson, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Social Care and Safeguarding, added that Members of the Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee had many questions and concerns on the matter, answered by herself, the Director of Social Care and Housing and the Head of Adult Care. She stated that since the Overview and Scrutiny meeting, the Chair of the Committee had been in contact to determine when the suggested pilot would take place, to which she explained that the time between now and next spring would allow the Authority to trial different ways of working at both Bro Preseli and Lee Davies centres, in partnership with the Social Enterprise Model. Councillor Hodgson added that it was worth remembering and reflecting on the numbers of people attending Day Centres, which was said to have dropped dramatically since the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as how to move to a different model of providing Day Opportunities, and one that was sustainable for the future. Councillor Tessa Hodgson Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jacob Williams. Councillor Neil Prior suggested that it would be useful to be reminded of the considerable work that was currently taking place in regards to Day Opportunities, as well as how the Authority was working with the individuals who may be affected. Councillor Hodgson agreed and mentioned that all service users had received an assessment with a senior social worker as well as taster sessions in different venues, and highlighted the work undertaken to develop community opportunities for people to attend. The Head of Adult Care then added that not all the care plans had been signed by family members at this point, as many families were awaiting the outcome of the Cabinet meeting. She then wished to assure Members that the support of South Wales Advocacy had been secured to ensure that the users’ voices were heard, and that their choice was the priority. She then referred to the assessments that had been carried out with service users and the process involved. The Leader referred to the sessions outlined in the report that had taken place at the VC Gallery and the Pembroke Dock Community Centre, and sought assurance that despite the potential outcome for the Anchorage building to be closed, the service would continue to be provided. He also wished for Officers to elaborate on the condition of the Anchorage building, the proposal for the Pembroke Dock Library, as well as the dedicated transport to Meadow Park from the Anchorage. He also sought clarification in regards to the cost to keep the Anchorage open, compared to the cost of the alternatives. In response, the Head of Adult Care stated that the cost to retain the Anchorage building was approximately £500,000 to completely refurbish the building. She then outlined the works required, estimated by a structural engineer, which would cost circa £295,000 for two years. She highlighted that any additional asbestos would have additional costs, and the Anchorage would need to be closed for at least three months to undertake that work, and raised a concern that people would need to be moved whilst that work was taking place. In regards to the Pembroke Dock Community Centre option, it was said to be operational and a popular option according to staff, hence why the attendance numbers had slightly decreased at the Anchorage, as the Community Centre was a preferred option for some individuals. The Head of Adult Care then referred to the extensive negotiations with the Pembroke Dock Library and advised that they would be happy to facilitate a dedicated space and were awaiting next steps, following the decision of Cabinet. She also referred to Meadow Park as another option, as well as engaging with the VC Gallery regarding availability. She stated that contracts were not in place at this time, due to the pending decision of Cabinet, but also referred to joint ventures at the VC Gallery and highlighted that they were happy to work with the Authority. In relation to transport from the Anchorage to Meadow Park, it was stated that there was a dedicated bus that already took individuals to the Anchorage and to activities within the community, and explained that the same bus would be utilised for the journey from the Anchorage to Meadow Park. She highlighted that there would be minimal stops so that individuals would be on the bus for the least amount of time as possible. The Head of Adult Care also referred to the flexible times that the service could be run, in order to avoid traffic. The Leader referred to the potential closure date of the building, and sought assurance that contracts could be put in place quickly, if Cabinet was to approve the decision. The Head of Adult Care assured Members that an outline contract was in place for the Pembroke Dock Community Centre, the contract with the VC Gallery would be sorted as a matter of urgency, and that she was waiting for Pembroke Dock Library to respond to the expectation of the Authority utilising the space from 1 November 2024. The Leader then sought clarification in regards to the current staff at the Anchorage and what was in place for them. The Head of Adult Care stated that the relationship between the staff and the individuals involved was exceptional, and that the service was not losing any of the staff. She explained that staff would carry on working in the alternative locations, and that sessions were due to take place in the next two weeks with HR, Unions and the staff to discuss their preferences. The Leader then wished to re-emphasise that the service was not being closed, just the building, and that alternatives were in place. He stated that he understood that change was extremely difficult for people with particular needs, but was reassured with the answers given by the Head of Adult Care. The Head of Adult Care also wished to add that the views of people wishing to stay together had been facilitated where possible. The Leader then asked for the role of the South Wales Advocacy Service to be outlined. The Head of Adult Care explained that the service would provide support to both the individual and social worker in regards to the conversation around care plans, and to ensure that the voice of the service user was heard. He also wished for clarity in regards to the support involved if individuals were to attend alternative locations, to which the Head of Adult Care confirmed that taster sessions in the alternative locations had taken place, then if an individual moved location, there would be a transition period for them to familiarise themselves with their new environment. She highlighted that there were a number of individuals who already attended to the VC Gallery on certain days as part of their care plan, and would therefore be used to the location. She explained that the support offered for transitions would involve a gradual approach over the next few weeks. The Leader stated that it was important to monitor how the individuals get on with the change. Councillor Guy Woodham asked whether Cabinet could be assured that they would be kept informed on how successful this change would hopefully be, as well as how the alternative provision was received. The Head of Adult Care stated that all individuals would be reviewed after one month at their new provision, and that the care plans would be reviewed for individuals as well, with staff raising any concerns as a matter of priority. Councillor Hodgson stated that she would be happy to report back to Cabinet and suggested an update in three months’ time, in order for the changes to take effect, but would be led by Cabinet colleagues. The Leader stated that this would be a sensible approach and agreed with Councillor Woodham’s request. Councillor Hodgson suggested that the update report also be taken to Overview and Scrutiny. Councillor Woodham supported this, but was flexible in regards to when the report came to Cabinet and Scrutiny, in order for Officers to collate meaningful data to update Members. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [5] There were no votes against or abstentions. DECISIONS (a) That the information set out in the report in relation to the motion, parts a) and b) passed by the Social Care and Overview Scrutiny Committee on 23rd September 2024, be noted. (b) That the information be used to adopt a final decision on Bro Preseli, Lee Davies and Anchorage Day Centres, following Cabinet’s decision to adopt option 2, as set out in the Day Opportunities’ report to Cabinet on 9th September 2024, as follows: a) Close the Anchorage Day Centre with effect from 1 November 2024. b) Establish social enterprise models in Bro Preseli and Lee Davies Centre with effect from 1st April 2025 and end existing Service Level Agreements with Lee Davies and Bro Preseli by this date. Reason for Decisions: To provide clarity on future day opportunity reconfiguration.
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RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendix 1 involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 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. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered Appendix 1, with information given and questions answered by the Chief Executive and Councillor Miller. The webcast was then resumed. Councillor Miller wished to highlight how big an endeavour the Celtic Freeport was and referred to the amount of turbines that would be involved. He stated that it was an enormous project with great potential to transform Pembrokeshire. The Leader agreed that it would be transformational. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Neil Prior, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. DECISIONS (a) That, having due regard to the integrated impact assessment, delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive (in consultation with the Deputy Leader) to agree any variations that may be required to the draft Full Business Case set out in Appendix 1 to the report, and to approve its submission to the UK and Welsh Governments. (b) That, subject to confirmation from UK and Welsh Government regarding appropriate retention of Non-Domestic Rates, delegated authority be granted to the two billing authorities and the Chief Executive (in consultation with the Deputy Leader) to agree final amendments to the draft Freeport Business Case (FBC), as advised by the two governments, to enable the Government to confirm acceptance of the FBC. (c) That delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive to enter into a new Memorandum of Understanding to continue with the programme of next steps identified in this report, noting that further reports will be brought back to Members on the points referenced therein. Reason for Recommendation: Freeport status will act as a catalyst for significant economic growth within the locality and the wider region linked to the emerging off-shore wind sector and wider renewables agenda. Celtic Freeport will also support work to decarbonise industry, housing and transport at local regional and national levels helping to meet the net zero carbon targets. Green economic growth will help to address structural issues of poverty and deprivation in the local and regional economy stimulating the local supply chain and increasing the skills and qualifications of the resident population.
[Having declared a personal and prejudicial interest, Councillor Tessa Hodgson left the meeting for this item of business.] Cabinet considered a report by the Chief Executive which outlined the business case for the Celtic Freeport. Councillor Paul Miller, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Place, the Region and Climate Change, introduced the report and gave a broad overview of the Celtic Freeport and its background. He believed that this opportunity revolved around future clean, green and renewable energy sources, and in particular the potential for Pembrokeshire to play a key role in the exploitation of wind energy through floating offshore wind turbines. He also referred to investment, growth and job creation and stated that the outlined business case for the Celtic Freeport was an integral part of ensuring that. Councillor Miller then mentioned that the Celtic Freeport would offer tax sites which would allow for rate benefits, employment tax benefits and capital allowance benefits. He then referred to the benefits the Freeport would offer to Pembrokeshire as a whole, and wished to clarify that this would not affect Worker’s Rights Regulations. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Joshua Beynon. The Chief Executive then outlined the bid process to date, and stated that there was a delay in the business case being judged by Government, due to the General Election in the summer, therefore it had not yet been endorsed, but the outcome was expected as soon as possible during the autumn. He then referred to the recent Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting, where the Business Case was extensively discussed in open and private session, and wished emphasise that no substantive observations or requests for any changes were made. Councillor Michelle Bateman sought clarification as to how the Celtic Freeport would be advertised to the layperson in Pembrokeshire, as the information Members received through meetings and briefings was quite complicated, and believed it important to provide the information in a less complex way to the public, in regards to what the Celtic Freeport would mean for the County. In response, Councillor Miller stated that some work would need to be done to determine what would best. He highlighted that engagement work had been undertaken with the target industry, who were said to be on board. He mentioned that some press releases had gone out to the public, but agreed that more could be done. The Leader referred to non-domestic rates and asked whether the Authority was any further forward in regards to how this would work. Councillor Miller explained that there would be money available, and that discussions about how this would be allocated would need to take place. He stated that the Celtic Freeport would create an investment plan, and highlighted the need for the Authority to be clear on its objectives in order to feed into the plan. Councillor Miller believed that it was important to invest in things of most economic benefit to Pembrokeshire. He also believed that the Freeport provided the right forum to have such discussions in order to arrive at evidence led investments, and referred to the role of the Public Funds Committee, which would ensure that Pembrokeshire’s voice was heard in those discussions. The Leader agreed and referred to the good working relationship with Neath Port Talbot Members, as well as the Milford Haven Port Authority and the various partners, and stated that it was an exciting opportunity. Cabinet then considered excluding the public from the meeting to consider the exempt Appendix 1. The Leader Moved the exclusion of the public; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The vote was taken by a roll call and was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Neil Prior, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendix 1 involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 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. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered Appendix 1, with information given and questions answered by the Chief Executive and Councillor Miller. The webcast was then resumed. Councillor Miller wished to highlight how big an endeavour the Celtic Freeport was and referred to the amount of turbines that would be involved. He stated that it was an enormous project with great potential to transform Pembrokeshire. The Leader agreed that it would be transformational. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Neil Prior, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. DECISIONS (a) That, having due regard to the integrated impact assessment, delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive (in consultation with the Deputy Leader) to agree any variations that may be required to the draft Full Business Case set out in Appendix 1 to the report, and to approve its submission to the UK and Welsh Governments. (b) That, subject to confirmation from UK and Welsh Government regarding appropriate retention of Non-Domestic Rates, delegated authority be granted to the two billing authorities and the Chief Executive (in consultation with the Deputy Leader) to agree final amendments to the draft Freeport Business Case (FBC), as advised by the two governments, to enable the Government to confirm acceptance of the FBC. (c) That delegated authority be granted to the Chief Executive to enter into a new Memorandum of Understanding to continue with the programme of next steps identified in this report, noting that further reports will be brought back to Members on the points referenced therein. Reason for Recommendation: Freeport status will act as a catalyst for significant economic growth within the locality and the wider region linked to the emerging off-shore wind sector and wider renewables agenda. Celtic Freeport will also support work to decarbonise industry, housing and transport at local regional and national levels helping to meet the net zero carbon targets. Green economic growth will help to address structural issues of poverty and deprivation in the local and regional economy stimulating the local supply chain and increasing the skills and qualifications of the resident population.
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