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RESOLVED That a referral be made to the Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee encouraging it to conduct a review of the Poverty Strategy Working Group and recommend that there be Member input on that Working Group. It was then Moved by Councillor Simon Hancock that the Action Log be noted; Seconded by Councillor Claire George. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the Action Log be noted.
RESOLVED That the Forward Work Programme be noted.
RESOLVED That Cabinet be recommended to consider the following: (i) applying 50% discretionary relief for properties over 140 days but not attaining 182, meaning they effectively pay 100% Second Homes Council Tax. Those below 140 days continue to pay 150%. 150% to remain 300% to remain (ii) 90% to fund elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities. (iii) 8% for the Affordable Housing programme (iv) 2% for the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant scheme [The meeting then adjourned at 3:07pm and reconvened at 3:22pm]
RESOLVED That the progress made and future plans, in delivering the Leisure Strategy 2018–2028 and the Library Service Strategy 2021-2026, be noted.
RESOLVED (a) That the Property Team be encouraged to continue to implement best practice sharing procedures such as a tenants’ forum. (b) That the positive work on biodiversity across the farms estate be commended with reference to its contribution to the Authority’s wider duties and consideration given to how it can be improved upon in the next county farms policy review. (c) That Cabinet be recommended to undertake a timely review of the building repairs in regards to County Farm buildings and houses.
The following declarations of interest were made: Agenda item 8 – Leisure and Library Strategy Councillor Michele Wiggins declared a personal interest by virtue of being a member of the Pembroke Leisure Centre and Pembroke Dock Library. Agenda item 9 – Review of Council Tax Premiums Councillor Bethan Price declared a personal interest by virtue of owning a holiday let but advised it was not a second home as it had planning restrictions on and that she was in correspondence with the Valuation Office on the property. Councillor Alistair Cameron declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of owning a holiday let in Saundersfoot but advised that he had a dispensation to speak but not vote on the matter. Councillor Viv Stoddart declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of having a property that was currently empty.
Moved by Councillor Simon Hancock; Seconded by Councillor Michael James The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Minutes of the Meeting held on 10 June 2025 be approved as a correct record.
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RESOLVED That a referral be made to the Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee encouraging it to conduct a review of the Poverty Strategy Working Group and recommend that there be Member input on that Working Group. It was then Moved by Councillor Simon Hancock that the Action Log be noted; Seconded by Councillor Claire George. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the Action Log be noted.
The Committee considered the Action Log of actions arising from the last meeting. It was noted that all actions had been completed. The Chair welcomed any questions from Members regarding the updates contained within the action log. In terms of the action relating to the Membership of the Poverty Strategy Working Group, the Committee noted that the matter was not within the remit of the Committee and should be a matter for the Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee. It was Moved by Councillor Aled Thomas that a referral be made to the Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee encouraging it to conduct a review of the Poverty Strategy Working Group and recommend that there be Member input on that Working Group. Seconded by Councillor Viv Stoddart. Members spoke in support of the referral on the basis of concerns that there was a democratic deficit of elected Members on the Working Group. Councillor Claire George requested that the use of abbreviations be avoided to provide clarity to the public. This point was noted. The votes, undertaken by way of a roll-call, were carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Simon Hancock, Michael John, Claire George, Bethan Price, Aled Thomas, Alan Dennison, Michele Wiggins, Viv Stoddart, Huw Murphy , Michael Williams, Joshua Beynon and Michael John [12] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That a referral be made to the Social Care Overview and Scrutiny Committee encouraging it to conduct a review of the Poverty Strategy Working Group and recommend that there be Member input on that Working Group. It was then Moved by Councillor Simon Hancock that the Action Log be noted; Seconded by Councillor Claire George. The votes, undertaken by way of a show of hands, were carried. RESOLVED That the Action Log be noted.
A public submission was received in respect of the item of business relating to the Review of Council Tax Premiums. The Chair advised that the submission would be considered under the item relating to this matter later in the Agenda.
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RESOLVED That the Forward Work Programme be noted.
The Committee considered the Forward Work Programme and noted changes to the scheduled programme. The Head of Democratic Services explained that two agenda items: Insurance Strategy Policy and Enforced Sales Procedure for long-term problematic empty homes, were not presented as expected. She acknowledged the delay was unsatisfactory, especially as an assurance had been given in June that the latter would be included. The Head of Service and Cabinet Members had been invited to comment on the delay. The Chair read a statement from Councillor Jacob Williams, who explained that the report was undergoing further legal review and was not ready for scrutiny. The item was scheduled for the 18 November committee meeting. The agenda item would be retitled “Empty Properties Strategic Plan including Enforced Sales Procedure”, expanding its scope beyond enforced sales. He assured Members the item had not been “kicked into the long grass.” Councillor Aled Thomas raised concerns about the delay. He felt the reasoning for postponement was weak, given a draft plan had been published in June and remained publicly available. He expressed frustration that Members were being asked to vote on empty property premiums in the October Council meeting without the full strategy. He suggested postponing the vote to the December Council, if legally permissible. He gave advance notice of his intent to pursue this postponement. In response, the Head of Procurement and Revenue Services stated that the matter was planned to be taken to October Council. He acknowledged the issue and agreed to explore flexibility in the timeline. He explained that legal advice recommended setting premiums well in advance to inform residents noting that changes could impact the Council Tax base and Welsh Government funding timelines. Moved by Councillor Claire George; Seconded by Councillor Michael James The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Forward Work Programme be noted.
The Committee agreed to change the order of business in the following order.
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RESOLVED That Cabinet be recommended to consider the following: (i) applying 50% discretionary relief for properties over 140 days but not attaining 182, meaning they effectively pay 100% Second Homes Council Tax. Those below 140 days continue to pay 150%. 150% to remain 300% to remain (ii) 90% to fund elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities. (iii) 8% for the Affordable Housing programme (iv) 2% for the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant scheme [The meeting then adjourned at 3:07pm and reconvened at 3:22pm]
[Councillor Alistair Cameron reiterated his declaration of a personal and prejudicial interest due to owning a holiday let property but advised that he had a dispensation to speak. As reference was made to the Valuation Office Agency during the debate, Councillor Simon Hancock declared a personal interest by virtue of being the Council’s nominee on the Valuation Tribunal.] The Chair introduced this item and advised that the Head of Procurement and Revenue Services, Revenue and Benefits Manager and Corporate Planning Manager were in attendance for this item along with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies. The Chair then invited Mr Andrew Richardson to present his submission in relation to the Council Tax Premiums item. Mr Richardson introduced himself and thanked the Committee for the opportunity to speak. He noted that his wife Rachel, who was present, is from a Welsh-speaking farming family with deep roots in Pembrokeshire. The speaker acknowledged the privilege of owning two properties, including one in St. David’s. He referred to the Council’s recent consultation, stating that 43% of respondents opposed any second home premium, and 42% believed it should not exceed 100%. He thanked the Council for reducing the premium to 150% but urged further reductions to 100% or lower. He argued that the policy is not working, as the number of second homes has not decreased. Instead, there has been a shift from non-domestic rates to Council tax premiums, which he believes undermines the policy’s intent. He criticised the use of the revenue generated, stating that only 6% goes directly to affordable housing, while the rest is absorbed into general budgets like homelessness and education. He described this as misleading and not aligned with the policy’s stated purpose. Mr Richardson suggested that the Council is focusing on the wrong problem. He pointed out that new houses are being built across the county, but they are unaffordable for local people. Speaking personally, he described the financial burden of the 150% premium on his property in St David’s. He explained that he and his wife built their home using local labour and suppliers, and they actively contribute to the community by supporting local businesses and volunteering. He challenged the idea that selling second homes would solve affordability issues, noting that even at a discount, such homes would still be out of reach for many locals. He concluded by asking the Council to reconsider the fairness and effectiveness of the current policy. He suggested that exceptions to the premium should be considered for those with deep local connections. The Chair thanked Mr Andrews for his contribution and comments and invited questions from Members. In response to a question from Councillor Huw Murphy on what exceptions could be considered, Mr Richardson suggested that exceptions to the premium should be considered for people born and raised in Pembrokeshire and for Welsh speakers, given the cultural significance and local connections. [Having declared a personal and prejudicial interest in the Empty Homes Premium, Councillor Viv Stoddart withdrew from the meeting at this juncture.] The Committee then considered the report by the Head of Procurement and Revenue Services on the review of Council Tax premiums. The report recommended that the Committee reviews the interim results of the consultation, supporting data contained within the Briefing Note and the cover report, and it reports its observations to Cabinet. The Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies presented the report advising that Council has recently completed its annual consultation on Council tax premiums, which concluded at the end of August. The analysis of the responses is still ongoing. He stated that the Council Tax Working Group is scheduled to meet on Friday to consider the report and the consultation outcomes. The Group will provide its observations to Cabinet, which will then review the report at its October meeting and make recommendations to Council regarding the level of Council tax premiums for 2026–2027. The Cabinet Member stated that it is currently planned that Council will make a decision on 9 October concerning both the level of Council tax premiums and the allocation of the revenue generated during the 2026–2027 period. A suggestion to defer this decision was raised by Councillor Thomas, and officers have agreed to examine the feasibility of such a deferral. However, it was noted that any delay could have serious implications for operational planning and the ability to provide adequate notice to affected parties. Officers have assured Members that all necessary information will be made available in advance of the October meeting to enable an informed decision to be made. Members were also advised that Welsh Government has launched a consultation on proposed refinements to the classification of self-catering properties. This consultation may have implications for the Council’s own policy review. It is scheduled to close in mid-November, with outcomes expected in the new year. Finally, it was noted that the number of properties subject to the second homes premium has increased. This rise is attributed to a reduction in the number of self-catering properties listed under non-domestic rates, following reclassification by the Valuation Office Agency. Not all reclassified properties are liable for the premium, as some qualify for exemptions—such as properties that are for sale (Class 1), those with planning restrictions on occupancy (Class 6), or properties that have become main residences. The Corporate Planning Manager then presented the results of the consultation, highlighting the key points in the report and the associated Appendices. He drew Members’ attention to the need to have due regard to the statutory guidance for making a decision on Council tax premiums and their use. The Committee then discussed the contents of the report and the following key points were raised: Councillor Huw Murphy welcomed the Welsh Government’s consultation on self-catering property classifications, though noted it was overdue. He referred to his Notice of Motion in 2023 to reduce the letting threshold from 182 to 140 days, arguing that such a change is necessary due to pressures on the rural tourism economy. While expressing respect for the Council’s leadership and acknowledging the efforts of the former Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, Councillor Murphy stated his Group’s support for retaining the 300% Council tax premium on second homes, despite preferring a lower rate, to keep general Council tax levels affordable for all residents. He proposed increasing the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Fund allocation to 4%, with a corresponding reduction in general revenue; recommended discretionary relief for second homes used in tourism that meet 140 days of occupancy but fall short of 182 days, suggesting these properties pay an effective rate of 100% Council tax. Councillor Murphy raised concerns about the fairness of holiday let properties registered under non-domestic rates receiving 100% small business rate relief and therefore paying no tax. It was estimated that if these 1,800 properties paid standard Council tax, it could generate approximately £3.6 million in revenue, potentially reducing the need for high premiums on second homes. He stated that there was a projected £2.2 million budget surplus and suggested this should allow some relief for ratepayers. In that regard he Moved the following: (i) applying 50% discretionary relief for properties over 140 days but not attaining 182, meaning they effectively pay 100% Second Homes Council Tax. Those below 140 days continue to pay 150%. 150% to remain 300% to remain (ii) 90% to fund elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities. (iii) 6% for the Affordable Housing programme (iv) 4% for the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant scheme Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison. Councillor Denison raised a question about appeals to the Valuation Office Agency noting that there were 183 current appeals. The Head of Procurement and Revenue Services confirmed that successful appeals would result in refunds and that the Council is pausing premium charges for properties with valid appeals pending. Councillor Aled Thomas expressed concern over the effectiveness of the second homes premium, noting that while last year’s data suggested a decline in second homes, current figures show an increase. He criticised the administration for attributing housing issues to tourism while failing to address the number of empty properties held by the Council itself. He requested clarity on how many Council-owned properties are currently vacant and how much empty property tax has been paid from the Housing Revenue Account to the Council’s general fund. Councillor Thomas called for a clear plan to reduce this reliance and questioned the lack of progress in building affordable homes using this funding. He also raised concerns about new Welsh Government legislation on nitrates, which may halt housing development, further undermining claims that the Council is actively addressing housing needs. In response, the Cabinet Member acknowledged the request for data on empty Council properties and committed to providing the information to Members. He clarified that the rise in second homes is largely due to reclassification by the Valuation Office Agency, and noted that some premium revenue is being used to support housing-related initiatives. The nitrate issue was confirmed as a serious concern currently affecting development in Pembrokeshire and everything possible was being done to resolve the issue as soon as possible. Councillor Michael John referred to the unfairness over the Welsh Government’s blanket approach to second home and holiday let taxation, arguing that it fails to distinguish between commercial investment properties (such as Airbnb lets) and family-owned homes used occasionally by relatives. He noted that many inherited homes cannot realistically meet the 182-day letting threshold and called for a more nuanced policy. He questioned whether the Welsh Government has addressed the differences between types of second homes and suggested that, in the absence of meaningful reform, the Council should consider leading change—potentially by adopting a 140-day threshold. Councillor John further highlighted the emerging risk posed by new Welsh Government legislation on nitrates, particularly in marine zones around Milford Haven, and asked whether this issue had been addressed in planning discussions. In response, the Head of Procurement and Revenue Services clarified that the Welsh Government’s current consultation includes proposals to average letting days over multiple years, allow charitable donations, and introduce a phased transition from business rates to Council tax. However, it does not address the distinction between types of second homes. Officers confirmed that the Council could raise this issue in its consultation response. Councillor Michael Williams considered that the second homes Council tax premium has not delivered its intended outcomes, particularly in terms of increasing housing supply. However, he stated that this is not a reason to abandon the policy, but rather to examine why it has failed to support housing provision. He expressed caution against endorsing the proposal by Councillor Murphy without seeing the full details and the financial implications on Council tax levels. Councillor Mike James raised a question about how the Council is engaging with religious organisations regarding long-term empty properties. In response, the Revenues and Benefits Manager explained that under current legislation, properties owned by religious organisations and intended for future use by the church are exempt from Council tax. Councillor James followed up by asking how churches demonstrate future use of such properties. The Revenues and Benefits Manager responded that this issue had been addressed in a recent Welsh Government consultation, which proposed introducing a time limit on such exemptions. The outcome of that consultation is still pending, but changes may be introduced in the future to prevent indefinite exemptions. Councillor Alan Dennison asked about individuals switching their primary residence designation for financial benefit. In response, the Revenues and Benefits Manager, confirmed that the Council conducts thorough checks to ensure that claims of main residency are legitimate and not made solely to avoid Council tax premiums. For clarity, Councillor Huw Murphy reiterated his proposed a motion in the following terms: to retain the 150% Council tax premium on second homes, while introducing 50% discretionary relief for properties let for more than 140 days but fewer than 182 days, resulting in an effective 100% Council tax rate for those properties. Properties let for fewer than 140 days would continue to pay the full 150% premium. The 300% premium on long-term empty properties would remain, subject to the necessary documentation being provided. He also proposed a revised allocation of second homes premium revenue: 90% to the general fund, 4% to the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Fund (up from 2%), and 6% to affordable housing. Councillor Joshua Beynon then suggested a minor amendment, proposing that the additional 2% originally allocated to the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Fund instead be redirected to affordable housing, increasing its share to 8%. Councillor Murphy accepted this amendment as did Councillor Alan Dennison, the seconder. Councillor Michael John reiterated his earlier point regarding the Welsh Government consultation, suggesting that the Council’s response should differentiate between commercially operated holiday lets (e.g. B&Bs) and family-owned second homes with strong local connections. He proposed that such differentiation could be based on criteria similar to those used for assessing local housing need. He suggested this be considered by the Council Tax Working Group before the consultation response is finalised. The Cabinet Member for Finance, responded to a question raised earlier by Councillor Michael Williams, confirming that the proposed discretionary relief for properties let between 140 and 182 days would have financial implications. Specifically, it would result in either a higher general Council tax rate or further cuts to Council services, as the number of properties affected is currently unknown. The Cabinet Member also raised concerns about the practical implementation of the proposed discretionary relief and asked officers to comment on its feasibility. Councillor Claire George referred to a lost opportunity between non-domestic rates verses Second Homes Council Tax. She raised concerns about the disparity between how the Council treats commercial holiday lets and private second homes. Noting that individuals operating holiday lets for profit—often under non-domestic rates—are treated more favourably than residents who use their properties occasionally or seasonally. She requested that the Council Tax Working Group explore how this imbalance might be addressed. Councillor George highlighted the impact of the current policy on charitable community groups, citing an example where a group rents out a property to fund local services but is now penalised for not meeting the 182-day threshold. She argued that such cases warrant greater discretion. She also raised concerns about the farming community, many of whom were encouraged to diversify by converting outbuildings into small holiday lets. These properties are often unsuitable for long-term use and cannot meet the 182-day requirement yet are now subject to second home premiums. This, she argued, unfairly affects farmers’ retirement plans and income. Finally, she urged the Council to consider how planning policy and other regulatory levers—such as restrictions on converting outbuildings and the impact of Section 106 contributions—may be unintentionally discouraging development and called for a more joined-up approach across Council departments to ensure that all policies support, rather than hinder, local housing and economic goals. The Head of Procurement and Revenue Services advised Members to consider the legal and administrative implications of introducing a local threshold (e.g. 140 days) for second home Council tax relief. Currently, the 182-day threshold is set by the Welsh Government, and assessments are carried out by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) under a service-level agreement. If the Council was to adopt its own threshold, he stated it would be responsible for managing appeals related to that threshold, which would result in additional administrative costs. Furthermore, legal advice previously obtained by the Authority indicated that any alternative threshold would need to be clearly justified. Councillor Michael Williams sought clarification on whether legislation has been enacted to allow local authorities to adopt a 140-day threshold. Officers confirmed that no such legislative change has been made. The 182-day threshold remains in place, and any local application would fall under discretionary relief, not statutory change. Councillor Williams also raised concerns about the financial impact of reducing the second home premium and he questioned whether adopting Councillor Murphy’s proposal would similarly shift the financial burden onto those least able to pay. Officers confirmed that any reduction in premium income would need to be offset either by increased general Council tax or cuts to services. [Councillor Michele Wiggins left at this juncture.] Councillor Joshua Beynon referred to the added bureaucracy and cost of devising our own discretionary scheme and supported waiting the outcome of Welsh Government’s consultation. He urged against making frequent, incremental changes to tax policy, arguing that this prevents proper evaluation of long-term impacts. The Motion as amended was then put to the vote. The votes, undertaken by way of a roll-call, were carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Simon Hancock, Michael John, Claire George, Bethan Price, Aled Thomas, Alan Dennison, Huw Murphy and Michael John [8] Abstentions: Councillors Michael Williams and Joshua Beynon [2] There were no votes against. RESOLVED That Cabinet be recommended to consider the following: (i) applying 50% discretionary relief for properties over 140 days but not attaining 182, meaning they effectively pay 100% Second Homes Council Tax. Those below 140 days continue to pay 150%. 150% to remain 300% to remain (ii) 90% to fund elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities. (iii) 8% for the Affordable Housing programme (iv) 2% for the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant scheme [The meeting then adjourned at 3:07pm and reconvened at 3:22pm]
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RESOLVED That the progress made and future plans, in delivering the Leisure Strategy 2018–2028 and the Library Service Strategy 2021-2026, be noted.
The Committee considered a report by the Head of Cultural, Leisure and Registration Services on the Pembrokeshire Leisure Strategy 2018 – 2028 and the Pembrokeshire Libraries Strategy 2021 – 2026. The Chair welcomed the Leisure Services Manager and the Libraries Manager for this item. The Cabinet Member for Residents’ Services introduced the item and provided a strategic overview of the two services. Firstly, he provided an overview of the Leisure Strategy, highlighting new sports facilities, energy efficiency measures, increased participation, and income growth from membership. He stated that income has risen from £3.97 million in 2018-19 to £5.34 million in 2024-25, a 35% increase with a forecast of £5.79 million in 2025-26, noting that this was against a backdrop of the service contributing significantly to Council savings over that period of time. He also referred to a separate report on the social value of leisure services which equated to £5.2 million in 2023-24 or £160 per person and advised that the report outlining this would be circulated to Members after the meeting for information. Despite these successes, he stated that challenges remain, particularly regarding the ageing leisure estate. A long-term investment plan is being developed, with updates expected at the October Cabinet meeting, including proposals to extend the lifespan of the Tenby and Pembroke swimming pools. Furthermore, he stated that the Council has explored alternative delivery models but concluded that in-house provision remains the most effective and equitable approach, especially given performance levels and workforce legislation constraints. The Committee then discussed the report and the following key points were raised: The Chair sought clarification on how the social value figure was calculated. In response, the Leisure Services Manager explained the figure was produced using the social value study conducted by Sheffield Hallam University, which used advanced metrics to quantify the social return on investment of sport and physical activity. This includes measuring the non-market economic, social, and environmental value generated by leisure services. It was noted that organisations like Sport Wales and Sport England use this model, and it helps demonstrate the potential cost savings to the NHS and other public services if people remain physically active. The Leisure Services Manager acknowledged that the methodology behind the calculations is complex but emphasised that the findings are robust and credible. Councillor Alan Dennison sought clarification on the reference to the Welsh speaking population referenced on page 59 of the report. Councillor Aled Thomas provided an explanation and it was suggested that the wording could be made clearer. Councillor Dennison queried the deficit figures on membership growth. The Leisure Services Manager advised that membership had grown by over 300 last year but pointed out that the figures did fluctuate monthly. Councillor Huw Murphy praised the use of the Sheffield Hallam University social value study, which shows that every £1 invested in leisure services generates £4 in health and wellbeing savings. He asked about the cost of GP-referred sessions under the National Exercise Referral Scheme and whether charges could be increased. In response, the Leisure Services Manager confirmed that the sessions currently cost £3, a rate set under a national framework. He noted that while the funding covers most facility hire, it was not enough to expand the programme, and any price changes are subject to Public Health Wales. He added that although the programme is effective, more preventative work is needed to reduce demand. Councillor Michael Williams applauded the work of the Team and praised the superb facilities in Tenby provided within limited constraints. The Cabinet Member then presented the performance and strategic direction of library services in Pembrokeshire. He advised that the current library strategy, originally covering 2021–2023, has been extended to March 2026 due to delays in the Welsh Government’s cultural strategy and changes to public library standards. A new strategy for 2026–2030 is being developed, informed by the 2024 Library Needs Assessment. He reported that the service faced a 20% budget cut in the current financial year, prompting changes such as staff reductions, partnerships with town and community councils, and the expansion of community-managed libraries. Despite these challenges, a new library has opened in Narberth, and performance remains strong. The needs assessment highlighted that residents highly value libraries, not just for books but also as warm spaces, digital access points, and community hubs. While there is some support for relocating or sharing premises, the public is strongly opposed to closures or replacing staff with technology. He highlighted that the mobile and home library services have been reduced but still support rural communities. Survey data shows that 93% of adults felt libraries made a positive difference to their lives, and 98% of children said libraries helped them learn. Looking ahead, the Cabinet Member emphasised that further cuts would be unsustainable, and any future savings would need community and Council support. He expressed a strong personal commitment to keeping all libraries open. The Committee then discussed the report and the following key points were noted: The Chair stated that some of the data in the library report appeared outdated, referencing figures from 2020. He strongly agreed that the 20% budget cut to the library service was unsustainable and emphasised that such a reduction could not be repeated in 2025–26 without damaging the infrastructure of the service, if the service was to remain viable. In referring to the loss of 6.6 full-time equivalent posts in library management over the past decade, he questioned how realistic it is to continue delivering on key objectives. He also asked whether there is an impact report available on the four libraries that operate as Life Hubs, and whether there is evidence of the added value they bring to communities. In response, the Libraries Manager confirmed that no formal impact assessment has yet been carried out on the Life Hubs within libraries, but agreed it would be valuable and committed to taking it forward. Regarding the loss of library management posts, she acknowledged that capacity is now a serious concern. While the Team continues to prioritise key objectives, the ability to deliver on all aspirations is becoming increasingly difficult she added. Much of the service’s work is grant-funded, which requires significant time for applications, delivery and reporting; and delays in national guidance also impacted planning. Councillor Alan Dennison referred to the provision of physiotherapists in leisure centres and the Leisure services Manager responded that there were ongoing conversations with the Health Board on this and he explained that there were many joint working opportunities which he outlined. Councillor Dennison raised concerns about the long-term security of Milford Library and suggested exploring a relocation to Milford Leisure Centre or other sites which offer better accessibility and parking. In response, officers confirmed that alternative sites had been explored, including the Leisure Centre, Customs House, and the International Seafarers building, but these were deemed unsuitable due to space or accessibility issues. The former Unite building and old post office were noted as potential future options, pending further investigation. It was noted that discussions are ongoing with Milford Haven Town Council and the Port Authority regarding future funding. Councillor Dennison also asked about the cost of the library needs assessment. Officers confirmed that the consultants were paid £25,000 for the work. Councillor Huw Murphy referred to the missed opportunity of reducing the grant awarded to Visit Pembrokeshire, in the region of £52,000, which could have been given to the Library Service. Councillor Bethan Price highlighted that although St David’s Library is small and only open two days a week (plus Saturdays run by volunteers), it is one of the most well-used libraries in Pembrokeshire relative to its size. She also raised concerns about the lack of artificial turf provision at St David’s Leisure Centre, noting it is the only site in Pembrokeshire without a 3G or AstroTurf pitch. In response, the Leisure Services Manager explained that the 2018 Leisure Strategy had already identified this gap and the local community is exploring options, with the Council supporting discussions around feasibility and funding. In response to a question from Councillor Michael James on the future of the Mobile Library Service, the Libraries Manager reported that the service now operates with just one vehicle, covering eight routes and 58 villages every four weeks, focusing on areas with the highest demand. In addition, the Library at Home service continues to support vulnerable and geographically isolated residents. She advised that the current mobile library vehicle is 10 years old and due for replacement within two years. The Council is exploring the purchase of an electric vehicle, with an expression of interest submitted for Welsh Government grant funding. Councillor Claire George enquired as to how the service measured itself. In response, the Library Services Manager explained that performance is measured primarily through the Welsh Public Library Standards, which include core entitlements and quality indicators. The Council submits a self-assessment annually in June, with feedback from an external assessor provided in September. While Welsh Government does not publish formal league tables, the reports do include comparative data across the 22 Welsh authorities. Pembrokeshire performs very strongly in areas like customer service. However, the service consistently fails on two key standards: the number of qualified staff and the amount spent on library resources, particularly books. Over the past decade, the book fund has been reduced by two-thirds, impacting the ability to meet this standard. Councillor Michael John commended the service which was extremely important to rural communities. It was noted that the closure of libraries could lead to a Judicial Review, if challenged, as is happening in Caerphilly. Councillor Dennison questioned the accuracy of a statement in the Red Quadrant report (page 132), which claimed that 27 Lower Super Output Areas in Pembrokeshire are among the 10% most deprived in Wales. In response, the Cabinet Member acknowledged that deprivation is measured in multiple ways, not just financial. In Pembrokeshire, peripherality and access to services are also key factors, which may explain the rankings. They noted that while the methodology is robust, it may not always align with local perceptions. The Chair Moved the recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison. The votes, undertaken by way of a roll-call, were carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Simon Hancock, Michael John, Claire George, Bethan Price, Aled Thomas, Alan Dennison, Viv Stoddart, Huw Murphy, Michael Williams, Joshua Beynon and Michael John [11] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the progress made and future plans, in delivering the Leisure Strategy 2018–2028 and the Library Service Strategy 2021-2026, be noted.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED (a) That the Property Team be encouraged to continue to implement best practice sharing procedures such as a tenants’ forum. (b) That the positive work on biodiversity across the farms estate be commended with reference to its contribution to the Authority’s wider duties and consideration given to how it can be improved upon in the next county farms policy review. (c) That Cabinet be recommended to undertake a timely review of the building repairs in regards to County Farm buildings and houses.
The Committee considered a report from the County Farms Working Group on their recent site visits and the findings of the Group following the visits. Councillor Aled Thomas, Chair of the Working Group presented the report. He explained that the Working Group was a sub-group of the Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee, and was reporting back following a recent site visit to several county farms. He explained that Members found the visits valuable, offering direct insight from tenants and helping shape future policy. The Group highlighted the potential of the County Farms estate to support housing, biodiversity and nitrate mitigation, aligning with wider Council priorities. Three recommendations were put forward: (a) That the Property Team is encouraged to continue to implement best practice sharing procedures such as a tenants’ forum. (b) That the positive work on biodiversity across the farms estate be commended with reference to its contribution to the Authority’s wider duties and consideration given to how it can be improved upon in the next county farms policy review. (c) That Cabinet undertake a timely review of the building repairs in regards to County Farm buildings and houses. Councillor Thomas Moved the Recommendations; Seconded by Councillor Alan Dennison. The Operational and Strategic Estate Manager confirmed that the County Farms Policy Review is now underway, alongside a review of biodiversity across the estate. He noted that the farms could play a future role in supporting nitrate mitigation for planning and development across the county. He stated that more information will be shared as these reviews progress, and feedback from Members would be welcomed. Councillor Dennison raised concerns about Steynton Farm in his ward, where the farmhouse is vacant and at risk of disrepair. Councillor Thomas confirmed the Group could consider a future visit to assess the situation at the farm. Councillor Michael James praised the Working Group’s commitment and collaboration with housing officers, noting the importance of supporting both tenants and property conditions. The votes, undertaken by way of a roll-call, were carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Simon Hancock, Michael John, Claire George, Bethan Price, Aled Thomas, Alan Dennison, Viv Stoddart, Huw Murphy , Michael Williams and Michael John [10] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Property Team be encouraged to continue to implement best practice sharing procedures such as a tenants’ forum. (b) That the positive work on biodiversity across the farms estate be commended with reference to its contribution to the Authority’s wider duties and consideration given to how it can be improved upon in the next county farms policy review. (c) That Cabinet be recommended to undertake a timely review of the building repairs in regards to County Farm buildings and houses.
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.
Caiff datganiadau eu darllen o'r cofnodion unwaith y byddan nhw wedi'u cyhoeddi.
Yn rhestru cynghorwyr presennol y cyngor yn unig. Nid yw aelodau cyfetholedig, swyddogion a chyn-gynghorwyr yn cael eu dangos.