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RESOLVED That the draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved, subject to the following additions for the October meeting: · Revised Programme for Administration · Update on the nitrates issue
RESOLVED (a) That the progress made against the Memorandum of Understanding be noted. (b) That the completion of a revised strategy for Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEETs) be endorsed. (c) That it be recommended that the Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language and a Member from the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee are retained on the Transition and Schools Partnership Committee.
RESOLVED (a) That the School Transport Policy remains unchanged for 2026/27, and that further work be completed during the 2025/26 academic year to further develop and evaluate options to amend the policy. (b) That a new School Transport Appeals Panel be implemented. (c) That improvements be made regarding the provision of information about School Transport Policy and school transport eligibility.
RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendix 1A 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 the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the development and submission of the Regional Transport Fund Year 1 programme applications to the Corporate Joint Committee (CJC) and Welsh Government as per Appendix 1A be approved, to fund the development and delivery of a number of transport schemes and initiatives in 2026 – 27, with sign-off of the final grant submission to be delegated to the Director of Place and Assistant Chief Executive; and (a) That it be noted that the Milford Haven Public Transport Interchange was previously agreed at Cabinet (October 2024) for Pembrokeshire County Council match funding in the 2026/27 financial year of £659,010.00. (b) That it be noted that the Newgale Coastal Adaptation Scheme as previously agreed at Cabinet (September 2024), is currently proceeding with Pre-Application Consultation (PAC) and could potentially apply for planning permission in 2025. However, a Cabinet Decision is required on the next steps of the project post-PAC. (c) That the inclusion in the Capital Programme of those schemes identified in Appendix 1A for the 2026-2027 financial year be approved. (d) That £200,000 be earmarked within the Programme for Administration reserve for the purposes of securing and enabling a direct rail connection to London Paddington on the Milford Haven line and that authority be delegated to the Director of Place/Assistant Chief Executive to expend up to that sum and enter into any agreements as may be necessary with any of Great Western Railways, Transport for Wales, Welsh Government and the UK Government to enable such a direct rail connection.
RESOLVED That the performance information in the Corporate Scorecard (data at June 2025) and Social Care Scorecard (data at June 2025) be noted.
RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, revenue rolling budget, capital, capital re-profile and capital scheme updates, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2026-27 to 2028-29 MTFP update) for Quarter 1 2025-26, be approved. (b) That it be noted that, under the Chief Executive, Directorates are working with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s), in consultation with the Director of Resources and Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative budget gap of £18.3 million for 2026-27 and £50.6 million across the period of the Medium-Term Financial Plan. (c) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the Medium Term Financial Plan and that this will be reported to Members quarterly.
RESOLVED (a) That the Corporate and Financial Planning Timetable for 2026-27 be noted. (b) That each element of the proposed Budget Strategy for 2026-27 and beyond be considered, and that any financial risks and challenges highlighted be noted. (c) That the Budget Strategy for 2026-27 and beyond be approved.
RESOLVED That the Council’s Corporate Risk Register for Quarter 2 of the 2025-26 financial year be noted.
RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendices A, B and B(i) 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 the exempt Appendices. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the direct award of a new contract under the Crown Commercial Services G Cloud 14 Framework Agreement be approved for the provision of software required for a new Financial Information Management System (FIMS) to TechnologyOne for a period of 3 years (with an optional +1 year) at a maximum cost of £189,837pa (subject to annual CPI uplift). (b) That the Capital Bid for two- year project implementation costs at a maximum of £1,053,500, to be funded from the initiative fund reserve, be approved; and that the Capital programme be updated accordingly. (c) That the delegation to the Director of Resources to directly award a new contract per the Procurement Act 2023 Schedule 5 for the provision of software to OneAdvanced required to maintain our existing FIMS for the duration of the project implementation, at a contract value of £565,737.28 (including annual uplift), be approved. The direct award and subsequent entry into the contract will be subject to there being no successful legal challenge to the Transparency Notice or to the Contract Award Notice and to consultation with the Head of Law and Governance to ensure acceptability of the contract terms.
RESOLVED That the proposed updates to the Corporate Debt Recovery Policy be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That a grant of Levelling Up Fund to The St Mary’s Pembroke Bell Restoration Project Fund (registered charity no. 1205082) not to exceed £154,491.30, be authorised. (b) That it be agreed to enter into a legal agreement with The St Mary’s Pembroke Bell Restoration Project Fund (registered charity no. 1205082) to govern the delivery of the St Mary’s Pembroke bells project, with a commencement date of 1 April 2025.
RESOLVED (a) That the report be noted. (b) That Cabinet advocates for the Local Growth Fund to apply in Wales and for it to be implemented by Local Authorities in a similar way to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
RESOLVED (a) That entry into the golden brick agreement and development agreement with Persimmon Homes Ltd in order to effect the purchase of 21 affordable housing units by the Council be authorised, subject to property, legal, finance and construction colleagues being satisfied as to the due diligence that has been conducted, and subject to the Director of Resources’ approval of an exception to the requirement to invite tenders in accordance with the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules. The price payable under the golden brick agreement will be up to £301,967.82 and under the development agreement will be £1,207,871.30. (b) That the purchase of four Intermediate properties be authorised, if they become available at a cost of no more than £896,000, to help increase the supply of affordable housing in Pembrokeshire. (c) That authority be delegated to the Head of Law and Governance to agree the final terms of the golden brick agreement and development agreement.
RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendix A involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 14 and 16 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 Paragraphs 14 and 16 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the decision to acquire phase 2 of up to 16 units at Hook, Pembrokeshire, be delegated to the Director of Place and Assistant Chief Executive, subject to the purchase price specified in Appendix A.
The following declarations were made: Item 5 – The Memorandum of Understanding for the Delivery of Post-16 Education in Pembrokeshire Councillor Tessa Hodgson declared a personal interest by virtue of having several close family members working in education in Pembrokeshire. Councillor Michelle Bateman declared a personal interest by virtue of having a child at Ysgol Bro Gwaun that would be transitioning out next year. Item 6 – Revision of School Transport Policy Councillor Michelle Bateman declared a personal interest by virtue of having a child at Ysgol Bro Gwaun that would be transitioning out next year.
The Leader Moved the Minutes; Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. The vote was taken by way of a show of hands and carried. RESOLVED That the Minutes of the Cabinet Meeting held on 7 July 2025 and the Minutes of the Extraordinary Cabinet Meeting held on 19 August 2025, be approved as a correct record.
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RESOLVED That the draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved, subject to the following additions for the October meeting: · Revised Programme for Administration · Update on the nitrates issue
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Democratic Services which outlined the draft Cabinet Forward Work Programme for October 2025 to March 2026. The Leader outlined the Cabinet Forward Work Programme for the next six months, but highlighted that it would be subject to various changes during that time period. He then wished to add the following for the October meeting: · Revised Programme for Administration · Update on the nitrates issue The Leader Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved, subject to the following additions for the October meeting: · Revised Programme for Administration · Update on the nitrates issue
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RESOLVED (a) That the progress made against the Memorandum of Understanding be noted. (b) That the completion of a revised strategy for Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEETs) be endorsed. (c) That it be recommended that the Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language and a Member from the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee are retained on the Transition and Schools Partnership Committee.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the Memorandum of Understanding for the Delivery of Post-16 Education in Pembrokeshire. The Director of Education introduced the report and stated that it outlined the progress on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for post-16 education in Pembrokeshire and the updated membership for the newly renamed Transition and Schools Partnership Committee, formerly the A-Level Committee. He stated that the MoU, endorsed in March last year, aimed to support learners through effective transitions via impartial guidance, collaborative planning, and data sharing. While progress had been made, he stated that concerns remained over the rising number of NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) learners, now above the Welsh average. He added that a draft strategy and improved tracking were proposed to address this, with the Committee’s revised structure ensuring broader support for both academic and vocational pathways. The Leader Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. The Leader asked for more detail around what could be done in terms of reducing the number of people who were not in education or employment. In response, the Director of Education stated that the focus was on improving transitions from school to post-16 pathways, with programmes such as Pre-Engagement Programme (PETS), funded by UKSPF, and support from Future Works through training and employment opportunities. However, he stated that earlier intervention and better tracking were needed to maintain engagement with at-risk learners after they leave school, ensuring they continue into education, training, or work and don’t get lost in the system. Councillor Mark Tierney asked for details around the voice of the young person through this process, as well as vocational training and the role of employers, to ensure that courses and training were being offered that were relevant for the future skills need in the County. In response, the Director of Education stated that the voice of the learner was extremely important throughout this process. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the progress made against the Memorandum of Understanding be noted. (b) That the completion of a revised strategy for Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEETs) be endorsed. (c) That it be recommended that the Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language and a Member from the Schools and Learning Overview and Scrutiny Committee are retained on the Transition and Schools Partnership Committee.
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RESOLVED (a) That the School Transport Policy remains unchanged for 2026/27, and that further work be completed during the 2025/26 academic year to further develop and evaluate options to amend the policy. (b) That a new School Transport Appeals Panel be implemented. (c) That improvements be made regarding the provision of information about School Transport Policy and school transport eligibility.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Head of Infrastructure and Environment which outlined the school transport policy which would apply for the 2026/27 academic year, as well as plans for a more detailed review to identify potential future changes to the policy. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that this was the annual review of the School Transport Policy, set for the 2026–27 academic year, which proposed minimal changes while maintaining alignment with current Welsh Government guidance. He wished to highlight a key amendment, correcting the reference year of the Learner Travel (Wales) Measure to 2009. He stated that the policy outlined growing financial pressures, with the school transport budget now around £9 million annually. He added that a public consultation and Overview and Scrutiny Committee discussion revealed increasing challenges in meeting parental expectations, and that the only proposed change was to streamline the appeals process by removing the initial stage, allowing appeals to go directly to the Inclusion Panel, improving efficiency and response times. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Tessa Hodgson. Councillor Michelle Bateman referred to the significant increase in cost and sought clarification on the breakdown of those costs, as well as the increase in the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) provision. She also referred to behaviour on buses, and sought clarification as to how robust the Authority was in dealing with behaviour on school transport. In response, the Integrated Transport Unit Strategy Manager stated that the rising costs of mainstream school transport was largely due to increased operator contract rates, driven by driver shortages and higher fuel prices. She explained that costs were more complex for ALN provision, and stemmed from growing demand and the need for bespoke transport arrangements. She stated that pupils were often placed in centres across the County based on availability rather than proximity, resulting in longer, individualised routes that could not be shared. She added that reduced timetables and non-school settings further contributed to the need for tailored transport, increasing overall expenditure. Councillor Bateman suggested that there was a need to better anticipate future demand for ALN provision across schools to reduce reliance on costly, long-distance transport. She understood that matching pupils to available places locally was challenging, especially at the primary level, but investing in increased capacity within existing ALN departments may be more sustainable than transporting pupils across the County. In regards to behaviour on buses, the Integrated Transport Unit Strategy Manager stated that behaviour on school transport was monitored continuously, with several mainstream routes now equipped with CCTV to support follow-up on specific incidents. She added that a pupil code of conduct was in place and enforced, in close collaboration with schools, to promote safe and respectful behaviour on buses. Councillor Marc Tierney believed that anything to streamline the appeals process was welcome to ensure that it was robust and clear, but sought clarification in regards to the funding of that aspect, and questioned whether the necessary information would be gathered at the outset to avoid delays. In response, Councillor Sinnett stated that the appeals process change was expected to reduce delays and bureaucracy, with appeals going directly to the Inclusion Panel, and that the panel's size allowed for shared responsibility. The Director of Education explained that streamlining the process would make it quicker for parents, and added that the Inclusion Panel meets fortnightly, therefore decisions could be made quickly when required. He added that by requesting all necessary information at the start, particularly in relation to ALN, the panel could make informed decisions more efficiently. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the School Transport Policy remains unchanged for 2026/27, and that further work be completed during the 2025/26 academic year to further develop and evaluate options to amend the policy. (b) That a new School Transport Appeals Panel be implemented. (c) That improvements be made regarding the provision of information about School Transport Policy and school transport eligibility.
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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 1A 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 the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the development and submission of the Regional Transport Fund Year 1 programme applications to the Corporate Joint Committee (CJC) and Welsh Government as per Appendix 1A be approved, to fund the development and delivery of a number of transport schemes and initiatives in 2026 – 27, with sign-off of the final grant submission to be delegated to the Director of Place and Assistant Chief Executive; and (a) That it be noted that the Milford Haven Public Transport Interchange was previously agreed at Cabinet (October 2024) for Pembrokeshire County Council match funding in the 2026/27 financial year of £659,010.00. (b) That it be noted that the Newgale Coastal Adaptation Scheme as previously agreed at Cabinet (September 2024), is currently proceeding with Pre-Application Consultation (PAC) and could potentially apply for planning permission in 2025. However, a Cabinet Decision is required on the next steps of the project post-PAC. (c) That the inclusion in the Capital Programme of those schemes identified in Appendix 1A for the 2026-2027 financial year be approved. (d) That £200,000 be earmarked within the Programme for Administration reserve for the purposes of securing and enabling a direct rail connection to London Paddington on the Milford Haven line and that authority be delegated to the Director of Place/Assistant Chief Executive to expend up to that sum and enter into any agreements as may be necessary with any of Great Western Railways, Transport for Wales, Welsh Government and the UK Government to enable such a direct rail connection.
[Councillor Paul Miller joined the meeting at this juncture.] Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Head of Infrastructure and Environment which outlined the Regional Transport Development Plan Funding Submission for 2026/2027. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and referred to the submission of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Year One programme within the Regional Transport Development Plan (RTDP), seeking £9.53 million in funding from Welsh Government and the Corporate Joint Committee (CJC), with a match funding contribution of £278,300 from the Authority. He explained that this followed 18 months of collaborative work at both local and regional levels to develop the Regional Transport Plan (RTP) and RTDP, which outlined a five-year strategy to promote sustainable transport, economic growth, and environmental improvements. He stated that additional funding requests included £200,000 from the Programme for Administration Reserve to support rail connectivity between Milford Haven and London, and that Cabinet had previously approved £659,000 for the Milford Haven Passenger Transport Interchange, scheduled to begin in 2026. Councillor Paul Miller stated that he was pleased to see the continued move to the regional devolution of the RTP and its delivery, and believed there was more work to be done to develop that process, but stated that it was a positive move to the new regional approach.Councillor Miller also welcomed progress on the Milford Haven Public Passenger Transport Interchange, describing it as a consumer-focused and strategically valuable scheme. He highlighted ongoing efforts to facilitate the potential reinstatement of direct rail services between Milford Haven and London Paddington, noting positive engagement with the Department for Transport, Welsh Government, and Transport for Wales. Councillor Miller explained that the interchange had been designed to accommodate Great Western Railway intercity trains, and a provisional allocation of £200,000 from the Programme for Administration Reserve had been made to support enabling investment if required, and hoped that over the next six months a decision would be taken by the Department for Transport in conjunction with the Welsh Government. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Paul Miller. The Leader expressed support for the regional approach to transport delivery through the Corporate Joint Committee (CJC), following a productive meeting in Swansea attended by key officers. He welcomed the collaboration across the region, while emphasising the importance of advocating for Pembrokeshire’s interests, particularly in relation to improved connectivity. Although disappointed by the reduced funding allocation compared to previous years, he acknowledged the substantial investment available and expressed a preference for regional-level dissemination over historical national-level funding mechanisms. Councillor Sinnett also welcomed the regional approach to transport delivery via the CJC, and emphasised the importance of securing investment for Pembrokeshire. While also disappointed by reduced regional funding, he supported the regional-level allocation over previous national mechanisms and believed that collaboration across Local Authorities was progressing well. The Leader acknowledged the value of the regional approach to transport funding through the CJC and welcomed the presence of Cabinet Secretary Ken Skates and local MP Torsten Bell at the recent meeting in Swansea. He reiterated the Administration’s commitment to improving connectivity, not only through transport initiatives such as active travel and public transport, but also via digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas. He commended the Deputy Leader and the wider team for their ongoing efforts in advancing both physical and digital connectivity, noting the positive progress made to date. Councillor Miller also referred to the ongoing commitment to improving connectivity, highlighting successes in digital infrastructure, particularly the widespread rollout of full fibre broadband and physical transport investments, such as the Llanddewi Velfrey bypass. He emphasised the potential benefits of securing direct rail services from London Paddington to Milford Haven, alongside the development of the new station. He then asked Officers to expand on the strategic connectivity challenges around the road network, particularly regional bottlenecks, and called for greater pressure on national agencies to address these issues. In response, the Interim Head of Infrastructure and Environment explained that there were several transport schemes outlined in the Regional Transport Plan that fall outside the direct delivery capacity of Local Authorities and instead sit with Welsh Government, the Trunk Road Agency, or Transport for Wales. She stated that Officers were actively collaborating with these agencies to advocate for progress on the regionally significant projects and key infrastructure improvements at bottleneck locations. She added that the collective regional approach strengthened the case for investment, ensuring that such requests carry greater weight than if made by individual Authorities alone. Councillor Miller reaffirmed his support for a regional approach to transport planning, emphasising the importance of prioritising strategic road network improvements beyond Pembrokeshire’s boundaries. He acknowledged that effective transport connectivity often depended on infrastructure outside the County and expressed a willingness to allocate part of Pembrokeshire’s funding share to support such regional priorities. Cabinet considered excluding the public from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A (4) of the Local Government Act 1972, as Appendix 1A 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. Councillor Paul Miller Moved to exclude the public; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] 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 1A 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 the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the development and submission of the Regional Transport Fund Year 1 programme applications to the Corporate Joint Committee (CJC) and Welsh Government as per Appendix 1A be approved, to fund the development and delivery of a number of transport schemes and initiatives in 2026 – 27, with sign-off of the final grant submission to be delegated to the Director of Place and Assistant Chief Executive; and (a) That it be noted that the Milford Haven Public Transport Interchange was previously agreed at Cabinet (October 2024) for Pembrokeshire County Council match funding in the 2026/27 financial year of £659,010.00. (b) That it be noted that the Newgale Coastal Adaptation Scheme as previously agreed at Cabinet (September 2024), is currently proceeding with Pre-Application Consultation (PAC) and could potentially apply for planning permission in 2025. However, a Cabinet Decision is required on the next steps of the project post-PAC. (c) That the inclusion in the Capital Programme of those schemes identified in Appendix 1A for the 2026-2027 financial year be approved. (d) That £200,000 be earmarked within the Programme for Administration reserve for the purposes of securing and enabling a direct rail connection to London Paddington on the Milford Haven line and that authority be delegated to the Director of Place/Assistant Chief Executive to expend up to that sum and enter into any agreements as may be necessary with any of Great Western Railways, Transport for Wales, Welsh Government and the UK Government to enable such a direct rail connection.
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RESOLVED That the performance information in the Corporate Scorecard (data at June 2025) and Social Care Scorecard (data at June 2025) be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined performance information in the Corporate Scorecard 2024-25 (data at June 2025) and the Social Services and Housing Directorate Scorecard (data up to June 2025). Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that it highlighted key performance data for the Authority, notably, telephone answering times had increased due to staff reductions agreed in the last budget, with efforts underway to shift more customer interactions online, particularly for Council house repairs. He stated that Council tax collection rates had declined, partly due to the reclassification of 233 self-catering properties, prompting the recruitment of an additional staff member to manage appeals. He highlighted that recycling performance stood at 73.2% for Quarter 1, exceeding the Welsh Government target. He also added that in Social Services, adult reassessment waiting lists had reduced, domiciliary care hours had slightly declined, and the number of looked-after children had risen to 320. Councillor Cameron stated that homelessness applications had also increased, though the number of individuals supported remained stable. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the performance information in the Corporate Scorecard (data at June 2025) and Social Care Scorecard (data at June 2025) be noted.
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RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, revenue rolling budget, capital, capital re-profile and capital scheme updates, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2026-27 to 2028-29 MTFP update) for Quarter 1 2025-26, be approved. (b) That it be noted that, under the Chief Executive, Directorates are working with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s), in consultation with the Director of Resources and Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative budget gap of £18.3 million for 2026-27 and £50.6 million across the period of the Medium-Term Financial Plan. (c) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the Medium Term Financial Plan and that this will be reported to Members quarterly.
Cabinet considered a report by the Deputy Chief Finance Officer which outlined the County Council Budget Quarter 1 Monitoring Report for 2025-26. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated thatthe approved budget for 2025–26 was £326.6 million, with a projected outturn of £324.4 million, indicating a £2.2 million underspend. He stated that this marked a significant improvement compared to previous years and reflected effective financial management, particularly within Social Care and Housing, which was currently only £45,000 over budget, and that residential care for children was now under budget. He highlighted that Capital financing costs had also reduced by £3.4 million due to market capacity limitations and improved financial profiling, alongside increased investment income of £0.26 million. However, he stated that challenges remained, including pressures from National Insurance contributions, NJC and teachers’ pay awards, and a projected funding gap of £18.3 million next year, rising to £50.6 million over the Medium-Term Financial Plan. He added that education budgets were under review, with contingency and transitional funding allocated to support schools in deficit. He highlighted that overall, 75% of planned savings were on track, with Directors tasked with identifying alternatives where needed. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Rhys Sinnett. The Leader welcomed the positive financial position reported for Quarter 1, noting that staying within or under budget significantly improved the Council’s ability to plan ahead. He acknowledged the historical challenges of overspending and praised the efforts of Officers and Directorates in achieving greater financial discipline. The Chief Executive highlighted the significant progress in Social Care, crediting collaboration across teams and partners. He emphasised the importance of prevention work, particularly for the 0–25 age group, as part of the long-term transformation agenda. He stated that the adoption of the Vanguard Methodology had supported savings and improved financial sustainability, and while full in-year savings would not be realised due to implementation timelines, the baseline budget reductions would be achieved, placing the Council on a stronger financial footing. The Leader acknowledged the behind-the-scenes work driving transformation and efficiency, particularly through the Vanguard Methodology and the Transformation and Innovation Board. Despite reduced staffing and financial pressures, he highlighted that Teams were delivering positive outcomes. He praised the progress made so far but stressed the importance of maintaining momentum and avoiding complacency, noting that it was still early in the financial year. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, revenue rolling budget, capital, capital re-profile and capital scheme updates, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2026-27 to 2028-29 MTFP update) for Quarter 1 2025-26, be approved. (b) That it be noted that, under the Chief Executive, Directorates are working with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s), in consultation with the Director of Resources and Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative budget gap of £18.3 million for 2026-27 and £50.6 million across the period of the Medium-Term Financial Plan. (c) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the Medium Term Financial Plan and that this will be reported to Members quarterly.
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RESOLVED (a) That the Corporate and Financial Planning Timetable for 2026-27 be noted. (b) That each element of the proposed Budget Strategy for 2026-27 and beyond be considered, and that any financial risks and challenges highlighted be noted. (c) That the Budget Strategy for 2026-27 and beyond be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the corporate and financial planning timetable and budget strategy, leading to the Budget for 2026-27 and Medium-Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2026-27 to 2028-29. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that the Welsh Government’s financial settlement for 2026–27 was expected earlier this year, enabling draft budget discussions to begin in December. He stated that all Services had been asked to identify an additional 5% in savings, compounding previous years’ reductions. He added that a cap of 5.3% on Capital financing costs remained in place to manage spending pressure, and that the assumed Aggregate External Funding (AEF) increase was 2%, but a funding gap of £18.3 million for 2026–27 and £50.6 million over the medium term remained. He stated that Member workshops would support Councillors in understanding Directorate challenges ahead of budget decisions. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The Leader acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the Welsh Government’s indicative 2% settlement and the challenges it posed for budget planning. He noted that Council Tax decisions were made later in the year, adding to the complexity, but despite this, progress on budget setting was encouraging. He stated that the additional 5% savings requirement across all Directorates would likely impact service delivery, and the full implications would become clearer once the final settlement was announced. Councillor Cameron highlighted that it was fortunate that Welsh Government was bringing forward the settlement for next year, allowing more time for planning. He added that he wished for all Members to be fully engaged in this budget setting process, as it was the Council’s responsibility as a whole. The Leader agreed with the importance of Member engagement in the budget-setting process and highlighted the Administration’s continued commitment to transparency through seminars and public sessions. He noted that those who participate gain a strong understanding of the financial challenges and decisions ahead, reinforcing that final budget approval was a full Council responsibility. Councillor Marc Tierney acknowledged the scale of the budget-setting task outlined in Appendix A and raised concerns about resourcing, given the need to balance strategic planning with day-to-day operations, and how this would continue moving forward. In response, Councillor Cameron acknowledged the significant pressure on staff, especially given the demands of the current financial system. He praised the dedication of public sector workers and affirmed that, despite the challenges, resources would be prioritised to support this critical work, recognising it as one of the Council’s top priorities. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Corporate and Financial Planning Timetable for 2026-27 be noted. (b) That each element of the proposed Budget Strategy for 2026-27 and beyond be considered, and that any financial risks and challenges highlighted be noted. (c) That the Budget Strategy for 2026-27 and beyond be approved.
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RESOLVED That the Council’s Corporate Risk Register for Quarter 2 of the 2025-26 financial year be noted.
Cabinet considered a joint report by the Director of Resources (Risk Champion), and the Chief Audit, Risk and Information Officer which outlined the Corporate Risk Register for Quarter 2 of the 2025-26 financial year. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that the Corporate Risk Management Group met on 4 August and added four new risks to the register, the most significant being the risk to development in Pembrokeshire due to nutrient neutrality requirements. He stated that additional risks included business continuity, emergency planning, and the delivery of statutory services under the Mental Health Act 1983. He highlighted the three opportunities that were also identified, aligned with the Council’s transformation agenda: the use of artificial intelligence, the Vanguard methodology, and the 0–25 prevention programme. He stated that Audit Wales had completed its review of the Council’s risk management arrangements, with the final report to be presented to the Governance and Audit Committee. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The Chief Audit, Risk and Information Officer added that the next phase of the Council’s risk management process would involve a detailed analysis of risk data over the next three months, including trend analysis to assess whether current risk scores could be reduced. He stated that this work followed the Corporate Scorecard review and aimed to bring risks back within tolerance, and that updates would be provided at the next Cabinet meeting. The Leader thanked Officers for their work on the Risk Register and highlighted the significance of the newly added risk relating to nutrient neutrality, which posed a major challenge to development within the Council’s administrative area. He stated that a dedicated report on this issue would be brought to Cabinet in October. Councillor Jacob Williams added that a Members’ seminar on the nutrient neutrality issue was also being arranged. Councillor Rhys Sinnett raised concerns about the availability and resilience of Approved Mental Health Professionals (AMHPs) and highlighted the lengthy training required, as well as the risk of staff turnover undermining efforts to maintain adequate numbers. He questioned whether current arrangements were robust enough to handle this aspect, especially given the potential impact of staff leaving soon after training. In response, the Director of Social Services and Housing firstly clarified that AMHPs in this context were typically registered Social Workers who undergo extensive post-qualification training, often equivalent to a Master’s degree over two years. He stated that while funding and infrastructure existed to support internal development through a "Grow Your Own" approach, there remained a shortage of AMHPs across Wales. He stated that efforts to improve recruitment included increasing competency payments, which had helped attract a few more professionals; however, internal recruitment could strain other parts of the system, making this a matter of managing risk and prioritising critical services. He added that despite the challenges, the role was described as rewarding, with support available for those interested in progressing. Councillor Sinnett then asked whether there was a scheme in place to retain staff after funding their AMHP training, to prevent them from leaving for better-paid roles elsewhere. The Director of Social Services and Housing explained that there was an expectation, supported by the Workforce Development Grant, that staff who receive funding for AMHP training would remain with the Authority for a period afterward. He stated that in Pembrokeshire, most trainees were already long-term employees with strong local ties, and the Authority had not experienced significant staff loss following training. He added that many senior staff had progressed through this internal development approach. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Council’s Corporate Risk Register for Quarter 2 of the 2025-26 financial year be noted.
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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 Appendices A, B and B(i) 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 the exempt Appendices. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the direct award of a new contract under the Crown Commercial Services G Cloud 14 Framework Agreement be approved for the provision of software required for a new Financial Information Management System (FIMS) to TechnologyOne for a period of 3 years (with an optional +1 year) at a maximum cost of £189,837pa (subject to annual CPI uplift). (b) That the Capital Bid for two- year project implementation costs at a maximum of £1,053,500, to be funded from the initiative fund reserve, be approved; and that the Capital programme be updated accordingly. (c) That the delegation to the Director of Resources to directly award a new contract per the Procurement Act 2023 Schedule 5 for the provision of software to OneAdvanced required to maintain our existing FIMS for the duration of the project implementation, at a contract value of £565,737.28 (including annual uplift), be approved. The direct award and subsequent entry into the contract will be subject to there being no successful legal challenge to the Transparency Notice or to the Contract Award Notice and to consultation with the Head of Law and Governance to ensure acceptability of the contract terms.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the procurement of a new Financial Information Management System (FIMS), due to the requirement to replace the existing system. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that FIMS was the Council’s largest and most critical IT system, used across all Directorates, including schools, for financial management. He stated that the current system, eFin, launched in 2021 after a delayed three-year implementation, was now being phased out by the supplier, One Advanced. Following a market test, he explained that TechnologyOne was selected as the preferred replacement, and that the new system would cost £189,837 annually plus a £13,500 implementation fee, with a 26-month rollout requiring a dedicated project team costing £1,040,000 (capitalised). He added that to ensure continuity, a temporary contract with One Advanced would cost £565,737. He stated that Option four was recommended, as detailed in the report. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation, with the inclusion of the word ‘successful’ in Recommendation C; Seconded by the Leader. The Leader noted that the incoming supplier had a better financial contract and a good track record with other Local Authorities; however, the existing supplier must be retained temporarily during the transition to ensure continuity. He sought clarification as to how this transitional arrangement would work. In response, the Deputy Chief Finance Officer/Deputy S151 Officer explained that implementing a new financial management system was a major undertaking due to its scale and integration with multiple Council services. She stated that with over a thousand users, the project involved extensive data migration, system mapping, and end-user training. Due to the current contract ending in December and the new system not being implemented by that time, she explained that the Council must extend its contract with the existing supplier to ensure continuity and a smooth transition. The Leader acknowledged that negotiations with the current supplier had led to a substantial reduction in the renewal fee, and commended the team for successfully securing a better deal. Cabinet considered excluding the public from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A (4) of the Local Government Act 1972, as Appendices A, B and B(i) 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. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved to exclude the public; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] 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 Appendices A, B and B(i) 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 the exempt Appendices. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the direct award of a new contract under the Crown Commercial Services G Cloud 14 Framework Agreement be approved for the provision of software required for a new Financial Information Management System (FIMS) to TechnologyOne for a period of 3 years (with an optional +1 year) at a maximum cost of £189,837pa (subject to annual CPI uplift). (b) That the Capital Bid for two- year project implementation costs at a maximum of £1,053,500, to be funded from the initiative fund reserve, be approved; and that the Capital programme be updated accordingly. (c) That the delegation to the Director of Resources to directly award a new contract per the Procurement Act 2023 Schedule 5 for the provision of software to OneAdvanced required to maintain our existing FIMS for the duration of the project implementation, at a contract value of £565,737.28 (including annual uplift), be approved. The direct award and subsequent entry into the contract will be subject to there being no successful legal challenge to the Transparency Notice or to the Contract Award Notice and to consultation with the Head of Law and Governance to ensure acceptability of the contract terms.
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RESOLVED That the proposed updates to the Corporate Debt Recovery Policy be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the update to the Corporate Debt Recovery Policy (Version 3), in line with the Internal Audit recommendation in January 2025 that the Corporate Debt Policy is updated to “clarify the arrangements in place for the collection of debt across the Council”. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and just wished to highlight that the report had recently been to the Policy and Pre-decision Overview and Scrutiny Committee for their views. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The Leader sought clarification as to the main changes of the Policy. In response, the Director of Resources explained that the Policy had been updated to reflect current practices, similar to how financial and contract procedure rules were periodically revised. He stated that since the last update in 2021, there had been changes in debt management processes, and the revised document ensured staff were aligned with how debt recovery was currently handled. Councillor Rhys Sinnett sought clarification as to how many complaints were received regarding the Policy and the approach taken. In response, the Director of Resources stated that he would get back to Councillor Sinnett with that information. Councillor Sinnett then acknowledged the sensitivity of debt recovery, especially during challenging times, and emphasised the importance of balancing compassion with the Council’s operational needs. Councillor Cameron added that he recognised the need for the Council to recover funds to maintain services but also acknowledged the financial pressures residents face due to the cost-of-living crisis. He expressed confidence that Officers were handling debt recovery sensitively and responsibly, and stressed the importance of ongoing oversight given the challenges involved. Councillor Michelle Bateman wished to highlight the importance of supporting residents alongside debt recovery efforts, mentioning the LIFT (Low Income Family Tracker) initiative. She stated that this tool helps families maximise their income by identifying unclaimed benefits and support, which could reduce debt caused by system complexity or lack of awareness. She stressed that while debt recovery was necessary, it was reassuring that such support was available, especially given the estimated £68 million in unclaimed benefits across the County. Councillor Sinnett added that that many people may avoid opening official letters, missing out on important support information. He also stressed the importance of offering face-to-face or verbal communication alongside written notices, as a multi-channel approach could be more effective in helping people engage with debt recovery processes. Councillor Cameron reinforced the importance of seeking early advice when facing debt and praised the Citizens Advice Bureau for their ongoing support. He urged residents not to ignore official letters and to take advantage of available help, including benefit entitlements, especially during financially difficult times. He also mentioned attending the Bureau’s upcoming annual meeting, highlighting its role in community support. Councillor Marc Tierney wished to highlight the vital role of the third sector, particularly Pembrokeshire Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB), in supporting residents facing financial hardship. He mentioned the upcoming launch of CAB’s poverty report and efforts to reach non-claimants of benefits. He added that with £68 million in unclaimed support locally, early signposting to ensure people access all available help was important. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the proposed updates to the Corporate Debt Recovery Policy be approved.
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RESOLVED (a) That a grant of Levelling Up Fund to The St Mary’s Pembroke Bell Restoration Project Fund (registered charity no. 1205082) not to exceed £154,491.30, be authorised. (b) That it be agreed to enter into a legal agreement with The St Mary’s Pembroke Bell Restoration Project Fund (registered charity no. 1205082) to govern the delivery of the St Mary’s Pembroke bells project, with a commencement date of 1 April 2025.
Cabinet considered a report by the Assistant Chief Executive which outlined the Levelling Up Fund (LUF) Round 3 project Eastgate to Westgate: Levelling Up Pembroke Town, which included the restoration of the bells of St Mary’s Church, Pembroke. Councillor Paul Miller, the Deputy Leader, introduced the report and referred to the Levelling Up Round 3 funding for Pembroke Town Centre, confirming the Administration’s commitment to delivering the project in full, though with some re-profiling, particularly around the East End School site, to better support transport investment. He stated that while the broader project was delayed, Officers had found a way to allow St. Mary’s Church to proceed with its bell restoration element, and that the associated risk was considered low. Councillor Miller stated that he remained confident that the full project would go ahead, with the delay being part of a necessary adjustment process. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The Leader praised the impressive work done by volunteers and skilled professionals, supported by significant fundraising, and expressed his support for the restoration scheme, noting its value to the town and the positive progress being made. Councillor Rhys Sinnett sought clarification in regards to the Council’s £171,000 financial commitment to the St. Mary’s Church project, specifically whether the figure included a sufficient contingency to avoid cost overruns, and asked for reassurance that the budget was robust and well-planned. In response, Councillor Miller clarified that the total project cost was around £170,000, with the Council’s maximum contribution set at £154,500. He stated that this operates as a grant, and any cost overruns would be the responsibility of the project’s delivery organisation, not the Council. He stated that the report confirms that the Council’s financial commitment was capped and protected against unexpected increases. The Leader added that skilled contractors were already in place for the St. Mary’s Church project, working within an agreed budget, and that delaying approval could lead to increased costs if retendering becomes necessary. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That a grant of Levelling Up Fund to The St Mary’s Pembroke Bell Restoration Project Fund (registered charity no. 1205082) not to exceed £154,491.30, be authorised. (b) That it be agreed to enter into a legal agreement with The St Mary’s Pembroke Bell Restoration Project Fund (registered charity no. 1205082) to govern the delivery of the St Mary’s Pembroke bells project, with a commencement date of 1 April 2025.
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RESOLVED (a) That the report be noted. (b) That Cabinet advocates for the Local Growth Fund to apply in Wales and for it to be implemented by Local Authorities in a similar way to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Procurement and Revenue Services which outlined the six-month update of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. Councillor Paul Miller, the Deputy Leader, introduced the report and referred to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF), highlighting its wide-reaching impact across Pembrokeshire through anchor projects and grant schemes. He noted visible improvements in town centres and carbon reduction efforts, such as solar panel installations, and stated that while future funding through the Local Growth Fund remained uncertain for Wales, he was optimistic about continued investment. He also emphasised the importance of ongoing review and learning, but viewed the scheme overall as a successful and positive contributor to community development. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The Leader suggested that the report was slightly negative and stressed the importance of lobbying Welsh Government to ensure a future funding scheme was put in place. He noted that the recommendation already reflected this, aiming for a Local Growth Fund to be implemented in Wales in a way similar to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the report be noted. (b) That Cabinet advocates for the Local Growth Fund to apply in Wales and for it to be implemented by Local Authorities in a similar way to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
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RESOLVED (a) That entry into the golden brick agreement and development agreement with Persimmon Homes Ltd in order to effect the purchase of 21 affordable housing units by the Council be authorised, subject to property, legal, finance and construction colleagues being satisfied as to the due diligence that has been conducted, and subject to the Director of Resources’ approval of an exception to the requirement to invite tenders in accordance with the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules. The price payable under the golden brick agreement will be up to £301,967.82 and under the development agreement will be £1,207,871.30. (b) That the purchase of four Intermediate properties be authorised, if they become available at a cost of no more than £896,000, to help increase the supply of affordable housing in Pembrokeshire. (c) That authority be delegated to the Head of Law and Governance to agree the final terms of the golden brick agreement and development agreement.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Services and Housing which outlined the development of a ‘Package Ready’ scheme of Affordable housing at Sandyhill, Saundersfoot. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing, introduced the report and stated that the Authority had an opportunity to acquire up to 25 affordable homes within a 72-unit development in Saundersfoot, including 21 social rented units, secured via a golden brick and development agreement with Persimmon Homes, and potentially four intermediate homes at 70% market value. She explained that the homes would meet Welsh Housing Standards and address local housing needs in an area dominated by second homes. She added that the initiative was part of a Section 106 agreement and complements broader efforts to expand affordable housing through various Council-led schemes. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. Councillor Rhys Sinnett expressed his support for the proposal to increase affordable social housing in a challenging area of the County, noting the Local Member’s backing due to concerns about housing access for local residents. He viewed the initiative as a positive step forward and was happy to endorse it. The Leader also stated his support for the affordable housing proposal, noting the high local demand and the value of securing units at just over £71,000 each. He outlined the Council’s broader efforts to expand affordable housing through building, turnkey developments, open market purchases, and various funding sources, including second homes tax revenue. He also mentioned progress on schemes in St. David’s and Newport, and stated that he was pleased with the direction of the housing programme. The Housing Strategy and Affordable Housing Manager noted that significant work had gone into progressing the Affordable Housing scheme and hoped that it would now move forward. He also confirmed that development had already begun, with the first open market units expected in early 2026. He added that the social housing units were being delivered in phases, integrated throughout the site. Councillor Marc Tierney welcomed efforts to reduce the housing waiting list and acknowledged the use of Section 106 funds and Second Homes Council Tax income to support affordable housing. He noted the public interest in the Second Homes Council Tax premium and sought clarification as to how many properties had been delivered using that funding. In response, Councillor Bateman explained that due to restrictions on the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), Ministerial approval was needed to use Second Homes Council Tax income for housing. She stated that while no properties had yet been purchased using that funding, it had been allocated to specific schemes. She added that other funding sources, like Transitional Accommodation Capital Programme, had enabled the purchase of 47 properties in 2023–24 and 57 in 2024–25, and that a portion of the second homes fund was now ring-fenced for housing, with some built-in flexibility. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That entry into the golden brick agreement and development agreement with Persimmon Homes Ltd in order to effect the purchase of 21 affordable housing units by the Council be authorised, subject to property, legal, finance and construction colleagues being satisfied as to the due diligence that has been conducted, and subject to the Director of Resources’ approval of an exception to the requirement to invite tenders in accordance with the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules. The price payable under the golden brick agreement will be up to £301,967.82 and under the development agreement will be £1,207,871.30. (b) That the purchase of four Intermediate properties be authorised, if they become available at a cost of no more than £896,000, to help increase the supply of affordable housing in Pembrokeshire. (c) That authority be delegated to the Head of Law and Governance to agree the final terms of the golden brick agreement and development agreement.
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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 A involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 14 and 16 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 Paragraphs 14 and 16 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the decision to acquire phase 2 of up to 16 units at Hook, Pembrokeshire, be delegated to the Director of Place and Assistant Chief Executive, subject to the purchase price specified in Appendix A.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Services and Housing which outlined the proposal to enter into an agreement for the acquisition of up to 16 new build housing units as an off-the-shelf deal at Harcourt Close, Hook. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing, introduced the report and stated that the Authority had the opportunity to acquire up to 16 new affordable homes at Harcourt Close in Hook as part of the second phase of the development, following the successful purchase of 15 homes across phases one and two. She stated that these homes were allocated under a local lettings policy and were now tenanted, and that the remaining properties in phase two would be available for off-the-shelf purchase upon completion. She explained that the proposed mix included one, two and three-bedroom energy-efficient homes, all expected to achieve EPC ratings of A or B, and feature solar panels to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. She added that funding for the acquisition was already included in the Authority’s housing budget, and value-for-money checks would be conducted. She also highlighted that the proposal was supported by both the Community Council and the Local Member. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. Cabinet considered excluding the public from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A (4) of the Local Government Act 1972, as Appendix A involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 14 and 16 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 Leader Moved to exclude the public; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] 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 A involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraphs 14 and 16 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 Paragraphs 14 and 16 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. 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, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the decision to acquire phase 2 of up to 16 units at Hook, Pembrokeshire, be delegated to the Director of Place and Assistant Chief Executive, subject to the purchase price specified in Appendix A.
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