Wrthi'n llwytho
Y penderfyniadau fel y mae cofnodion y cyngor yn eu cofnodi. Bydd crynodeb mewn iaith glir yn dilyn pan fydd wedi'i ysgrifennu.
RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be supported and a review of the Winter Maintenance plan be undertaken, including a review of the auxiliary salt storage options, and this review be brought back to Cabinet ahead of the 2026-27 season.
RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be not upheld; and that Cabinet notes that a scheme at the Pembroke barrage and associated infrastructure refurbishment works has been fully considered and implemented, and that the scheme has now been completed.
RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be accepted on the provision that Hywel Dda Health Board be approached to agree to be joint partner with the Council on the project, and subject to the Health Board’s agreement.
RESOLVED That the model Pay Policy 2025/2026 be recommended to governing bodies for adoption.
RESOLVED That Option 3, as outlined in the report, be approved which involves the delivery of the following: a) Acknowledge that the scheme is required to be delivered, in light of the work undertaken to date and the results of the WG Roads Review 152 and Pre Application Consultation. However, taking into account funding priorities and the immediate risk to the A487. Pause the scheme prior to submitting planning application, and review the position in the next 18-24 months. b) Maintain the currency of background information (i.e. environmental surveys) for a period of 2 years utilising PCC revenue budgets and Regional Transport Plan (RTP) funding, with a view of future progression of the Scheme to planning application as the scheme is required in the long term. c) Review the options available for improvements, including passing places and signage, to the diversion route implemented during road closures as a result of storm/ flooding impacts at Newgale in the short term through the Regional Transport Plan Funding. d) Continue to review external funding options to support the delivery of the construction phase of the project.
RESOLVED That the Invitation and Evaluation of tenders to establish a four-year framework for the provision of Traffic Management Services be approved; and the award of the framework be delegated to the Director of Place.
RESOLVED a) That Option 1 be supported which includes the continued provision of Ironman Wales Pembrokeshire; and agrees to enter into the Host Agreement for 2027-2029, with option to extend for a further two years 2030-2031. b) That the option to extend the host agreement for a further two years be delegated to the Cabinet member at the relevant time.
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 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 then resumed at this juncture. Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that he had nothing further to add, other than to reiterate that the recommendations had been moved and that all Members had been given the opportunity to comment through the Services Overview and Scrutiny meeting, the Events Advisory Group, or individually. He confirmed that no feedback had arisen that would materially alter the proposed course of action. The Leader agreed that the matter had been thoroughly examined over recent weeks and months. 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, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Guy Woodham [7] Against the Motion: Councillors Tessa Hodgson and Jacob Williams [2] There were no abstentions. RESOLVED a) That the recommendations following the Cabinet meeting on 19 August 2025 surrounding consultation with the Events Advisory Board, Pembrokeshire County Council Members and Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee has been actioned and that no significant comments have been received in relation to the Long Course Weekend host agreement 2025 – 2029, be noted b) That, given no significant points of concern surrounding the contents of the Host Agreement have arisen following the above consultations, the Host agreement be continued and the Council’s ability to terminate, acting reasonably, on giving 12 months’ written notice be not actioned. [The meeting adjourned for a short break at 12:20 and reconvened at 12:36]
RESOLVED That the performance information in the Corporate Scorecard and Social Care Scorecard be noted.
RESOLVED That the Council’s Corporate Risk Register as at the end of Quarter 3 (December 2025), and Audit Wales’ Review of the Corporate Risk Management Arrangements in Pembrokeshire County Council be noted.
RESOLVED 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 3 2025-26 be approved.
RESOLVED a) That Option 1 (£1.46 per week/£75.99 per annum representing a 4.60% increase) be recommended to Council as the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2026-27. b) That 5.00% for 2027-28 and 7.50% for 2028-29 be recommended to Council as the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2027-28 and 2028-29, for inclusion in the Medium-Term Financial Plan 2026-27 to 2028-29. c) That the Revised Draft County Council Budget for 2026-27, including service pressures, proposed budget savings, movement in earmarked reserves and the General Fund working balance, be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. d) That the updated Strategy for Holding and Utilising Reserves be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. e) That the indicative Capital Programme for 2026-27 to 2029-30 and the Capital Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. f) That the prudential indicators for capital and revenue estimates for 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. g) That utilisation of the new Welsh Government MRP flexibility to bridge the projected funding gap and balance the budget for 2026-27 be not endorsed, but its inclusion in the MRP policy for 2026-27 to enable it to be utilised if required be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. h) That the Medium-Term Financial Plan 2026-27 to 2028-29 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. i) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance & Efficiencies, be granted authority to make amendments to the County Council Budget report for 2026-27, prior to it being considered by Council on 20 February 2026. j) That the report be adopted as the Cabinet’s proposals for the County Council Budget for 2026-27, to be recommended to Council for approval, subject to the amendment that Appendix I(i) be included in the papers.
RESOLVED a) That the Treasury Management Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30, including the Policy on Borrowing in Advance of Need, the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy, the Treasury Limits, the Prudential Indicators and Borrowing Requirements be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. b) That the Annual Investment Strategy for 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. c) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance & Efficiencies, be granted authority to make amendments to the Treasury Management Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30 and The Annual Investment Strategy for 2026-27 to 2029-30, prior to it being considered by Council on 20 February 2026.
RESOLVED That the response and action plan to the Panel’s report and recommendations be endorsed prior to approval by Council in March 2026.
RESOLVED a) That the content of this report, in the context of the overall budget position, be noted. b) That the pitch fee rents on Gypsy Traveller sites be increased by CPI of 3.8% from 6 April 2026. c) That service charges for Gypsy Traveller sites where water and sewerage are non-metered be increased as follows: · £14.24 for Withybush · £16.60 for Kingsmoor · £16.60 for Castle Quarry · £60.00 for Waterloo All charges being per week over 48 weeks from 6 April 2026. d) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the head of service and Cabinet Member for Housing, be granted delegated authority to introduce a separate pitch fee rent for new pitches or where improvements have been undertaken and/or significant differential is seen in pitch sizes within and/or between the sites.
The Leader invited Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, to provide a statement in respect of an incident held at Milford Haven Comprehensive School. Councillor Woodham acknowledged the event which occurred at the school the previous week, recognising the tremendous work that the school and emergency services provided in addressing the incident. He further added that the teacher involved in the incident has been discharged from the hospital and is recovering well and that himself and all Cabinet Members wish her a speedy recovery. The school has re-opened and at the time of the announcement, no further incidences had been reported. Councillor Woodham also added that support is available at the school for anyone impacted by the events and that he has been given assurances that there is no ongoing risk at the school or any other school in Pembrokeshire.
None were received.
The following declaration/s was made: Item 7 - National Teachers' Pay Policy - 2025/2026 Councillor Tessa Hodgson declared a personal interest by virtue of having two close family members who are teachers. Councillor Huw Murphy declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Governor at Ysgol Bro Ingli.
The Leader Moved the Minutes; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The vote was taken by way of a show of hands and carried. RESOLVED That the Minutes of the Cabinet Meeting held on 12 January be approved as a correct record.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be supported and a review of the Winter Maintenance plan be undertaken, including a review of the auxiliary salt storage options, and this review be brought back to Cabinet ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Cabinet considered a joint report by the Head of Transport and Environment and the Highways Group Manager which outlined the Notice of Motion (NOM) submitted by Councillor Huw Murphy to Council on 12 December 2025, relating to a Review of the Poor Weather Strategy. The Notice of Motion was submitted as follows: A Notice of Motion (NoM) requesting that Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) Highways Department review their poor weather strategy, especially in relation to snow and ice conditions. That PCC look to reinstate/return an auxiliary/reserve salt tip to North Pembrokeshire, which in snow and icy conditions can be utilised to keep primary routes open to enable emergency services to attend calls, key workers to go to work and for HGV’s to be able to attend farms to collect milk as three examples. Historically, North Pembrokeshire had a “salt tip” located Nr Crymych and it’s a well-known fact that the A478 between Crymych & Cardigan and between Crymych & Clunderwen becomes difficult for motorists, especially HGV’s and Coaches (school buses), becoming treacherous during periods of snowfall and ice An auxiliary salt tip again located in North Pembrokeshire would enable North Pembrokeshire roads to be subject of quicker and regular gritting than currently occurs, keeping roads open and safer for road users. The recent heavy snowfall highlighted a weakness in the current highway gritting and snow clearing strategy in relation to North East Pembrokeshire and areas of the Preseli Mountains, which generally suffer the worst weather when it comes to snow and ice. Prompt gritting and deployment of snow ploughs for the A478, A487, B4332 and B4329 especially are critical for North East Pembrokeshire communities and communities near the Preseli Mountains. The originator of the Motion, Councillor Murphy, stated that he looked forward to hearing the Officer’s presentation on the matter later in the year, nothing that North East Pembrokeshire has a unique weather climate which was what prompted the submission of his Motion. In response to the NOM, Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that the severe weather experienced over the past six months had created significant challenges across the county, with some areas more affected than others. He noted that the Council already operated an annually reviewed Winter Maintenance Plan but recommended Option One, a formal officer?led review of the Plan for the forthcoming winter season. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be supported and a review of the Winter Maintenance plan be undertaken, including a review of the auxiliary salt storage options, and this review be brought back to Cabinet ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be not upheld; and that Cabinet notes that a scheme at the Pembroke barrage and associated infrastructure refurbishment works has been fully considered and implemented, and that the scheme has now been completed.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Transport and Environment which outlined the Notice of Motion (NOM) submitted by Councillors Aaron Carey and Jonathan Grimes to Council on 12 December 2025, relating to Flooding in Pembroke and a Flood-resilience Plan for Pembrokeshire. The Notice of Motion was submitted as follows: 1. That this Council notes with concern the repeated and increasingly severe flooding experienced in our coastal, estuarial and river-fringe communities over recent weeks — in particular the flooding events affecting the Commons / Castle Pond area. 2. That the Council further notes that, according to correspondence from the Coastal, Rivers & Drainage Team Manager, the tipping gate at the barrage remains out of operation until mid-January due to mechanical issues; meanwhile high tide, heavy rain, wind-driven tidal surges and overspill at the sluice have combined to overwhelm the drainage/outfall infrastructure. 3. That we recognise the current maintenance schedule (delayed till after the summer season) and the justification given — but further that such planning failed to foresee the likelihood of severe winter storm and surge events, which climate change makes more frequent and more intense. 4. That this Council therefore calls on the Cabinet to commission an urgent review of: · the adequacy of the current drainage/outfall and tidal-sluice infrastructure (barrage tipping gate, sluice/sluice-valve, flap valve, outfall capacity) for current and projected climate/tide conditions; · the maintenance scheduling policy for coastal and estuarial flood-risk assets, with a view to ensuring critical maintenance is completed before winter high-tide / storm-surge season, rather than — as at present — being delayed until after summer for “recreational / biodiversity” reasons. 5. That, pending the outcome of the review, the Council should allocate appropriate emergency capital funding to remediate the barrages / sluices / outfalls at risk of failure or blockage — to safeguard residents, properties, highways and public amenities from further flooding. 6. That, further, this Council resolves to publish a public flood-resilience plan for the County, identifying all coastal and river-fringe “hotspots”, maintenance schedules, responsible teams, and a transparent timeline for upgrades or remedial works — so residents have clarity and confidence in flood prevention measures. In response to the NOM, Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that the paper before Members summarised the work undertaken in the Pembroke area over the past six months. He confirmed that refurbishment work on the barrage had been completed on Friday, and that further works on the Commons area were planned to begin shortly. He explained that the initial assessment indicated the potential for significantly higher expenditure than budgeted, and the Council had been required to choose between purchasing new hydraulic rams or refurbishing the existing equipment. The cost of new rams would have been three to four times higher, at approximately £150,000, and funding of this scale was not available within the coastal flooding capital budget. For this reason, refurbishment had been pursued, and local Members had been kept informed throughout the process. Councillor Sinnett reported that the barrage work had now been completed, with only the remaining Commons works to be undertaken. He noted that the paper summarised the full process and confirmed that all reasonable decisions and actions had been taken and completed. He concluded that the requirements of the Notice of Motion had been satisfied and therefore recommended that the NOM not be upheld. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Marc Tierney. The Leader presented a written submission on behalf of Councillor Aaron Carey which raised several questions in relation to the report. Councillor Carey acknowledged the substantial work undertaken on the Pembroke Barrage, including the recent refurbishment, but noted that severe flooding continued to occur despite the infrastructure being operational during high?tide events. He questioned whether the upgraded systems were sufficiently resilient to withstand increasingly extreme weather linked to climate change. He highlighted the combined effects of tidal conditions, heavy rainfall and storm surges, noting that such events were becoming more frequent. Councillor Carey expressed concern regarding the long?term prioritisation of maintenance for critical flood?risk infrastructure and asked whether previous maintenance schedules had been adequate, and whether they would remain appropriate in future. He further queried what safeguards were being put in place to ensure that emergency capital funding would be readily available to address weaknesses in flood defences both in Pembroke and across the county. Referring to operational challenges during recent flooding, he noted that teams working in adverse conditions had not been aware of the location of a culvert until informed by a member of the public. While the culvert was subsequently cleared, he queried why staff did not have access to mapping information that would better support their work and help minimise flood impact. Councillor Carey concluded by emphasising the need for a robust, public?facing flood resilience plan. He asked when the final version of the plan would be published and how residents would be kept informed of future flood?risk management measures. He stressed the importance of continued investment in long?term flood resilience. The Head of Transport and Environment responded to the questions raised, confirming that the Flood Resilience Plan, approved by Cabinet last year, was currently with Welsh Government awaiting formal sign?off. Once approved, the Plan would be published, noting that a draft version remained accessible through previous Cabinet documentation. She advised that the Plan covered the whole county. From a technical perspective, she reported that during the recent incident there had been remaining capacity within the Mill Pond. Although works were ongoing, the sluice gates remained open during low tide, which allowed water to discharge. She emphasised that the structure formed part of a tidal estuary system and that opening the gates during both high and low tide would have increased flooding in Pembroke and the Commons, as tidal water would have entered the system alongside stormwater. The asset operated as designed to prevent tidal ingress from exacerbating flooding beyond the estuary. The Coastal, Rivers & Drainage Team Manager stated that she recognised the increasing likelihood and frequency of extreme weather events and noted that the recent repair and refurbishment works placed the Council in a strong position for ongoing maintenance of the barrage and associated infrastructure. She confirmed that long?term maintenance of critical flood infrastructure had been appropriately prioritised. The Council, as a local flood authority, had duties under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 to maintain and oversee critical flood assets, and maintained oversight of all flood?risk infrastructure in the county. She reiterated that the Local Flood Risk Management Strategy was also with Welsh Government for approval, after which it would be published on the Council’s website and updated as required. The Leader stated that Cabinet had been kept fully informed of the barrage works and related infrastructure issues. He noted that significant flooding had occurred on the Commons due to heavy rainfall and some blocked sluice gates, although capacity had remained within the Mill Pond and Castle Ponds. He welcomed the completion of the refurbishment works, which had been delayed from the summer at the request of local Members to avoid impacts on tourism and local businesses, a decision made before the unexpectedly prolonged period of rainfall. Councillor Marc Tierney queried how data on heavy, often localised rainfall was monitored alongside tidal flow and Mill Pond capacity, noting the importance of providing residents with timely information to help them adapt to emerging conditions. The Head of Transport and Environment replied that live data was available from the system and monitored by the Drainage Team, including information from the Cleddau Bridge. This allowed officers to respond quickly during severe weather. She explained that the most challenging scenarios occurred when significant rainfall coincided with high tidal surges, as seen in the autumn, and that balancing the two pressures on the infrastructure was critical. She confirmed that data was monitored continuously during such events and that any possible advance actions to mitigate impacts were undertaken. 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, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be not upheld; and that Cabinet notes that a scheme at the Pembroke barrage and associated infrastructure refurbishment works has been fully considered and implemented, and that the scheme has now been completed.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be accepted on the provision that Hywel Dda Health Board be approached to agree to be joint partner with the Council on the project, and subject to the Health Board’s agreement.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the Notice of Motion (NOM) submitted by Councillor Huw Murphy to Council on 12 December 2025, relating to Policy for Epi-pens to become part of School First Aid Equipment. The Notice of Motion was submitted as follows: A Notice of Motion (NoM) that Pembrokeshire County Council (PCC) work with all schools to develop a policy where all schools hold epi-pens as part of their first aid equipment. PCC can negotiate on behalf of our schools with the suppliers of such equipment to achieve best value through bulk purchasing. The immediate availability of epi-pens in an emergency involving a pupil on school premises has the potential reduce the risk of a tragic outcome. As some background in relation to this NoM is that the April 2025 meeting of the Schools O&S Committee debated the subject of epi-pens. The current policy from Welsh Government states that it’s a matter for individual School Governing bodies to decide whether to stock epi-pens for use in an emergency should a pupil suffer anaphylactic shock, and should they wish to purchase epi-pens then each school does this on an individual basis. The Schools O&S Committee in April 2025 resolved to write to Welsh Government (WG) to highlight the epi-pens issue, which the Chair of the Schools O&S did. Since April 2025 the Schools O&S Committee have received no update from WG and a period of nearly 8 months has elapsed. The safety and well-being of pupils is a matter of priority and in view of the lack of response (I would argue lamentably so) from WG I feel PCC should proceed to develop our own policy to ensure that every LA school in Pembrokeshire hold epi-pens for use in an emergency hence this NoM. The originator of the Motion, Councillor Murphy, stated that he welcomed the opportunity to attend and hoped Cabinet would adopt the Notice of Motion. He thanked the governors of Ysgol Bro Ingli, particularly Ms Henrietta Penn, for raising the issue, noting that he supported it as a fellow governor. He referred to the estimated cost of £14,000 per school to hold additional adrenaline auto?injectors and suggested this might be reduced through existing school funds. As the Council’s Safeguarding Champion, he emphasised that the proposal was fundamentally a safeguarding matter and queried why Welsh schools could not hold spare auto?injectors when schools elsewhere in the UK could. Councillor Murphy noted recent discussions highlighting safeguarding as the Council’s highest priority and stated that strengthening access to emergency medication would enhance pupil safety. He concluded by reiterating his support for the Motion and thanking the school for bringing the issue forward. In response to the NOM, Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that the safeguarding and welfare of learners was paramount and that the intent behind the Motion was widely supported. However, he explained that Welsh Government guidance placed the decision to stock emergency adrenaline auto?injectors with individual school governing bodies, not local authorities. Current UK and Wales guidance also restricted the use of epi-pens to pupils already known to be at risk and with prior authorisation, despite emerging research suggesting there may be wider benefits to coordinated provision. He noted that the Council could not mandate schools to stock epi-pens and that implementation would require significant training, administration, logistical planning and could have insurance implications, particularly for smaller schools already managing budget and workload pressures. The estimated cost remained approximately £14,000 per school, though he acknowledged comments made about potential reductions. Councillor Woodham highlighted research indicating that a joint approach with Hywel Dda University Health Board could strengthen prescribing, training and consistency. He referred Members to the three options set out in the agenda: to decline the NOM, to accept it in full despite inconsistent school uptake, or to accept it subject to a partnership with the Health Board. He confirmed that Cabinet supported the intention of the Motion and that Option 3 offered the most practical route to successful implementation. He then Moved the recommendation that the Notice of Motion be accepted, on the condition that Hywel Dda University Health Board agreed to act as a joint partner with the Council Seconded by the Leader. Councillor Jacob Williams queried the three options set out within the report, noting that Option 1 explicitly acknowledged that the Council could not mandate schools to adopt the policy. He stated that this limitation would equally apply to Options 2 and 3 yet was not reflected in their wording. He suggested that, if Cabinet proceeded with Option 3, a provision should be added to make clear that implementation would ultimately depend on decisions taken by individual governing bodies. The Leader responded that the Motion called for the Council to work with all schools to develop a policy, rather than to mandate one, but invited the Cabinet Member to clarify. Councillor Guy Woodham explained that while policy development was within the Council’s remit, governing bodies retained the statutory power to decide whether to hold epi-pens. He emphasised that Cabinet supported the intention of the Motion and believed the most effective way forward was joint working with Hywel Dda University Health Board. He stated that any future recommendation for a mandated approach would need to be considered alongside Welsh Government guidance and could require engagement with governing bodies should concerns arise. He noted that schools could reject certain council policies, such as teachers’ pay policies, but typically accepted them, and a similar pattern might emerge here. He reiterated that the approach sought to recognise both the importance of the Motion and the constraints of the current framework. Councillor Jacob Williams reiterated that he supported efforts to increase the likelihood of school uptake but stressed that the Motion’s wording implied full implementation by all schools, which the Council could not enforce. He asked that any decision under Option 3 explicitly acknowledge that adoption would remain at the discretion of individual governing bodies. Councillor Murphy stated that his Notice of Motion was intended to be adopted with the understanding that the decision to implement it would ultimately rest with individual school governing bodies. He noted that this was consistent with other areas, such as teachers’ pay, where governing bodies retained final decision?making authority, even though in practice they almost always followed council recommendations. He further added that governing bodies would make the final determination on stocking auto?injectors, and that future changes in Welsh Government policy could strengthen safeguarding requirements. He agreed with the Cabinet Member for Education and Welsh Language’s explanation that responsibility ultimately lay with each governing body and emphasised that his intention was to make this clear. Councillor Marc Tierney asked for clarification on responsibility when a pupil experiences a severe, previously unknown allergic reaction, noting public concern about how such emergencies are managed. The Director of Education explained that in such circumstances the school would be expected to call 999, with emergency call handlers providing guidance and clinical responsibility passing immediately to the NHS, including the dispatch of an ambulance. When Councillor Tierney asked whether NHS staff would instruct school staff to administer an EpiPen if one was available on site, the Director of Education confirmed that his understanding was that they would not, and that any administration would be carried out by emergency medical personnel. Councillor Michelle Bateman observed that if schools held epi-pens but were not permitted to use them unless a pupil had a known, diagnosed allergy, this was an important consideration when making recommendations to governing bodies. She queried whether advice would therefore only apply to schools with pupils who had confirmed allergies. Councillor Woodham responded that the Council was not mandating epi-pens but seeking to work with Hywel Dda University Health Board to determine whether improvements to current practice were possible, and any approach would follow clinical guidance. He noted that if the Health Board advised that epi-pens were unnecessary in schools without known allergy cases, that position would be adopted. The Director of Education added that any future policy would cover schools with learners who had diagnosed allergies, and that schools without such pupils would not be expected to hold epi-pens, though this could change as pupil needs changed over time. Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that the discussion risked becoming overly focused on process rather than outcomes, emphasising that the priority must be protecting children’s lives. He noted that effective response to anaphylaxis required both access to epi-pens and staff trained and willing to administer them. He argued that the Council should press ahead as strongly as possible in partnership with Hywel Dda University Health Board and should also lobby Welsh Government to change current regulations, stressing that bureaucratic barriers must not prevent action to safeguard pupils. 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, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be accepted on the provision that Hywel Dda Health Board be approached to agree to be joint partner with the Council on the project, and subject to the Health Board’s agreement.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the model Pay Policy 2025/2026 be recommended to governing bodies for adoption.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the model Pay Policy 2025/2026. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and explained that all schools must maintain a policy compliant with the School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions (Wales) document, which is updated annually. The national model policy, agreed jointly by all 22 Welsh local authorities and teaching unions, included a 4% uplift to all pay points from September 2025 and the removal of application requirements for progression to the upper pay scale in line with Independent Wales, Pay Review Body recommendations. Councillor Paul Miller asked for the cost of implementing the teachers’ pay uplift and whether it would be fully funded by Welsh Government. Councillor Alistair Cameron responded that education budget pressures for the coming year included provision for the uplift. The Director of Education confirmed that the uplifts were built into the Council’s budget and that any additional in?year costs were funded through Welsh Government grants distributed to schools. When Councillor Miller requested the total monetary value of the uplift, the Director advised that the overall figures were not yet confirmed in the budget report and would be circulated when available. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. 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, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the model Pay Policy 2025/2026 be recommended to governing bodies for adoption.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That Option 3, as outlined in the report, be approved which involves the delivery of the following: a) Acknowledge that the scheme is required to be delivered, in light of the work undertaken to date and the results of the WG Roads Review 152 and Pre Application Consultation. However, taking into account funding priorities and the immediate risk to the A487. Pause the scheme prior to submitting planning application, and review the position in the next 18-24 months. b) Maintain the currency of background information (i.e. environmental surveys) for a period of 2 years utilising PCC revenue budgets and Regional Transport Plan (RTP) funding, with a view of future progression of the Scheme to planning application as the scheme is required in the long term. c) Review the options available for improvements, including passing places and signage, to the diversion route implemented during road closures as a result of storm/ flooding impacts at Newgale in the short term through the Regional Transport Plan Funding. d) Continue to review external funding options to support the delivery of the construction phase of the project.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Transport and Environment which provided an update on the progress of the Coastal Adaptation Scheme at Newgale, as well as clarified direction on the next steps. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that it provided an update on progress with the Newgale Coastal Adaptation Scheme, which addresses increasing risks from sea?level rise, storms and coastal change affecting the A487, a strategic route to St Davids. He explained that national policy, technical studies and the Welsh Government Roads Review all confirmed that the existing coastal road was unsustainable in the long term. The Council had therefore developed a preferred, policy?compliant option involving managed realignment and a replacement inland route, which had undergone appraisal, statutory pre?application consultation and early contractor involvement. He noted that Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority had given positive pre?application feedback, accepting the need for a new road in principle. Councillor Sinnett highlighted that no construction funding had yet been secured, and that the Council’s capital programme faced significant pressures. The report presented four options and recommended Option 3 as the most proportionate and financially responsible approach, noting that it acknowledged the long?term need for the scheme, protected the significant investment already made, managed financial exposure, preserved flexibility to progress quickly when funding improved, supported communities through targeted short?term resilience measures, and provided a balanced response under the Well?being of Future Generations Act. He also pointed out a minor amendment correcting “division” to “diversion,” within the recommendation. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that the recommended option struck the right balance between acknowledging the long?term need for a permanent solution at Newgale and recognising that immediate pressures were less acute. She welcomed the opportunity to continue reviewing the situation and seeking alternative funding and was particularly pleased that the recommendation included improvement works to diversion routes, noting that poor weather and heavy traffic on narrow back roads created difficulties for local residents. She supported ongoing monitoring and felt the approach was the most appropriate given current financial constraints and the relative stability of the location in recent years. Councillor Rhys Sinnett added that he had recently driven the diversion routes with local Members and described the area as a network of narrow lanes with limited passing places. He agreed that any improvements to support residents during A487 closures would be beneficial and hoped these could proceed if Cabinet approved the recommendation. Councillor Jacob Williams stated that he could not support the recommendation because the first bullet point “acknowledge that the scheme is required to be delivered” was not a position he agreed with. He accepted that the proposed pause would allow the scheme to be revisited in 18–24 months, though he doubted funding circumstances would improve and maintained that the assertion that the scheme “is required” was a value judgement he did not share. The Leader asked whether amending the wording to “acknowledging the scheme may be required” would address the concern. Councillor Rhys Sinnett responded that evidence consistently indicated the road would eventually fail and that the need for a solution was clear, even if the timing was uncertain. He supported pausing rather than implying the situation was stable. The Leader added that climate change evidence and previous reports all pointed to the necessity of future intervention and that pausing was a pragmatic response while monitoring financial pressures and awaiting potential shifts in national priorities following the forthcoming Welsh Government elections. He therefore indicated support for the recommendation. Councillor Marc Tierney stated that the report clearly set out, in the context of the Well?being of Future Generations Act, the long?term trajectory facing coastal areas due to climate change, with stronger storms and rising tidal levels increasingly affecting vulnerable communities. He emphasised the strategic importance of the A487 in linking the county town with St Davids, and the Council’s duty to ensure communities along the west coast were not repeatedly and severely impacted by coastal change. He supported pausing the scheme, reviewing it and seeking funding opportunities so that the Authority was prepared when future impacts inevitably occurred, noting recent examples of similar coastal road failures elsewhere in the UK. He stressed the importance of maintaining engagement with the communities most affected. The Head of Transport and Environment cautioned that although the road remained passable at present, there was ongoing risk; if a severe storm compromised the road’s sub?base, repair costs could escalate from thousands to millions of pounds. She advised Cabinet that while the scheme was paused, the underlying risk to the A487 remained and could materialise if conditions aligned. 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 Guy Woodham [8] Against the Motion: Councillor Jacob Williams [1] There were no abstentions. RESOLVED That Option 3, as outlined in the report, be approved which involves the delivery of the following: a) Acknowledge that the scheme is required to be delivered, in light of the work undertaken to date and the results of the WG Roads Review 152 and Pre Application Consultation. However, taking into account funding priorities and the immediate risk to the A487. Pause the scheme prior to submitting planning application, and review the position in the next 18-24 months. b) Maintain the currency of background information (i.e. environmental surveys) for a period of 2 years utilising PCC revenue budgets and Regional Transport Plan (RTP) funding, with a view of future progression of the Scheme to planning application as the scheme is required in the long term. c) Review the options available for improvements, including passing places and signage, to the diversion route implemented during road closures as a result of storm/ flooding impacts at Newgale in the short term through the Regional Transport Plan Funding. d) Continue to review external funding options to support the delivery of the construction phase of the project.
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RESOLVED That the Invitation and Evaluation of tenders to establish a four-year framework for the provision of Traffic Management Services be approved; and the award of the framework be delegated to the Director of Place.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Transport and Environment which outlined the proposal to invite and evaluate tenders to establish a four?year framework with up to three ranked suppliers for the provision of Traffic Management Services, and to delegate the award of the framework to the Director of Place in accordance with the Authority’s Contract Procedure Rules (Rule 1.30). Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that the Council had spent an average of £705,000 per year on these services over the past four years, and that the scale of the contract required Cabinet approval. He explained that the current framework would expire on 31 March and procurement needed to begin to ensure continuity. The objective was to secure a cost?effective arrangement guaranteeing consistent and safe traffic management provision to support maintenance and improvement of the highway network. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [8] Abstentions: Councillor Marc Tierney [1] There were no votes against. RESOLVED That the Invitation and Evaluation of tenders to establish a four-year framework for the provision of Traffic Management Services be approved; and the award of the framework be delegated to the Director of Place.
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RESOLVED a) That Option 1 be supported which includes the continued provision of Ironman Wales Pembrokeshire; and agrees to enter into the Host Agreement for 2027-2029, with option to extend for a further two years 2030-2031. b) That the option to extend the host agreement for a further two years be delegated to the Cabinet member at the relevant time.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Transport and Environment which outlined that the current Host Agreement with Ironman Wales is due to expire after the 2026 event, and that Ironman has submitted proposed Heads of Terms for a new Agreement covering 2027–2029, with an optional two?year extension. The report sought Cabinet’s consideration of whether the Authority should enter into a new Host Agreement for that period. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that the current Host Agreement for the Pembrokeshire event would expire this year, with the 2026 event being the final one delivered under existing arrangements. Ironman had submitted Heads of Terms proposing a new Host Agreement for 2027–2029, with an option for a further two?year extension, forming a potential three?plus?two?year contract. He added that while some residents were not supportive of Ironman, the majority appeared to value the event and the significant economic benefits it brought to the county. He described it as a well?established brand that provided a positive platform to promote Pembrokeshire to a wide audience, as reflected in the economic assessment. Although concerns were raised regularly, primarily through the Member Events Strategy Group and Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, no one had approached him to request that the event cease. He confirmed that negotiations with Ironman were ongoing and that further discussions were required, including efforts to secure continued financial support from Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Tenby Town Council and Pembrokeshire County Council. He concluded by noting that Cabinet would need to consider whether to move into private session to discuss the exempt appendices. Cabinet considered excluding the public from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A (4) of the Local Government Act 1972, as Appendices A and B 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 Head of Law and Governance advised that while Cabinet could choose to place documents in the public domain if it considered this to be in the public interest, the Authority had generally supported the expectation of commercial confidentiality during negotiations. She noted that Ironman was a global company and releasing financial or commercial information could affect its negotiations elsewhere. She added that Cabinet should also consider whether commercial partners who had previously offered concessions might be less willing to do so in future if sensitive information was made public. She emphasised that the decision was a matter of balance for Cabinet, weighing transparency against potential impacts on ongoing and future commercial negotiations. Councillor Tessa Hodgson stated that she believed the discussion should remain in public session. Having reviewed the appendices, she saw no material that warranted exclusion of the press and public. She emphasised the importance of transparency when public funds were being spent and noted that, as there were no competitive tendering exercise or competing bids, there was no commercial sensitivity that required confidentiality. She also highlighted that the previous Host Agreement, approved under an Individual Cabinet Member decision, had been entirely public and its financial details were readily accessible. She therefore urged Cabinet to remain in public session. The Head of Transport and Environment explained that the figures referenced by Councillor Hodgson related specifically to Appendix?B, while Appendix?A contained the Heads of Terms supplied by Ironman Wales. She clarified that the financial elements within Appendix?B could be discussed publicly, but that the Heads of Terms were considered commercially confidential. The Leader noted that Appendix?A set out the proposed terms from Ironman and questioned how commercially sensitive they were in practice. He observed that Appendix?B detailed the proposed financial contributions from the Council, the National Park Authority and Tenby Town Council, as well as the Council’s in?kind support, and acknowledged the importance of transparency when public funds were involved. Councillor Hodgson reiterated that she did not consider Appendix?A to contain material requiring exclusion of the press and public, stating that Cabinet should only enter into private session where a strong commercial justification existed, and emphasised that any commitment to confidentiality must remain a Cabinet decision. The Head of Transport and Environment responded that the request for confidentiality related to the potential impact of publishing the Heads of Terms on Ironman’s negotiations with other authorities elsewhere in the UK and globally, noting that the terms offered to the Council might differ significantly from those presented in other regions. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation to move into private session to discuss the appendices; Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. Councillor Paul Miller stated that he was not persuaded that the public interest in withholding the information outweighed the public interest in disclosure. He believed most of the material could be published, suggesting that only limited redactions might be necessary where third?party financial contributions were involved. He indicated he was broadly in favour of disclosure but accepted that Cabinet would need to move into private session to determine precisely which elements, if any, should remain confidential. The Head of Law and Governance advised that a private session would be required to allow open discussion of any exemptions. Councillor Miller agreed, noting that he would seek only minimal redactions before publication. The Chief Executive asked whether any contributing organisations had requested confidentiality and the Public Realm Manager confirmed that Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority’s contribution was already public and that Tenby Town Council had not yet been contacted. Councillor Jacob Williams added that the organisations involved were public bodies whose financial contributions would ordinarily be public information, and therefore he saw no barrier to disclosure. Councillor Marc Tierney asked for clarification on whether reports provided to other public bodies would be identical in structure and detail to the report before Cabinet, noting that differences in content could affect what should or should not be disclosed. He observed that the current report had been reviewed through legal channels, with a determination that some information should remain confidential, and sought clarity on the basis for that assessment to avoid undermining future negotiations. He stated that while headline figures might be releasable, he wished to understand whether any elements within the documentation were commercially sensitive to the event organisers or third parties beyond Pembrokeshire and therefore could not be disclosed at this stage. The Leader stated that, having reviewed the Heads of Terms, he recognised that although they were understandably high?level, they did contain certain details that the organisers might prefer not to be placed in the public domain, particularly where disclosure could affect Ironman’s negotiations with other host areas. He noted that the decision rested with Cabinet rather than the organisers but acknowledged that this potential impact created some concern. On the basis of the discussion, Councillor Rhys Sinnett withdrew his Motion to exclude the public from the meeting. Councillor Tessa Hodgson acknowledged the positive aspects of the events, including strong public support and the economic benefits they brought to Tenby, and she commended the atmosphere and organisation of last year’s long?course finish. However, she stressed that the impact on residents in the south of the county, including her own ward and neighbouring areas, was significant. She noted that many people experienced major disruption, being unable to get home from work, carry out daily activities or access their hobbies etc, and that some businesses were forced to close due to road closures and reduced customer access. She emphasised the need for greater consideration, empathy and balance in planning these events, and while she recognised ongoing efforts such as route reviews and regular meetings, she remained concerned that the burden on affected communities was not being sufficiently addressed. The Leader stated that while he recognised the concerns raised by Councillor Hodgson, he was also mindful of the significant economic benefit the Ironman event brought to Pembrokeshire, noting the report’s estimate of £7.3?million. He asked officers to confirm whether any objections had been raised through consultation or via the Events Advisory Board. The Head of Transport and Environment confirmed that all Members had been invited to comment on the proposed future Host Agreement, and restated that the matter had been considered by the Events Advisory Board and Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, with no material objections received. She noted that discussions had focused primarily on balancing the event’s impacts on local communities and businesses with the wider benefits it generated. She added that the event contributed positively to several Well?being of Future Generations Act objectives, highlighting the strong participation in Ironman Kids, the high number of local entrants in the main event, and the broader legacy effect, which had helped stimulate further fitness, leisure and triathlon activity across the county. Councillor Marc Tierney emphasised the importance of continued engagement with communities, noting that it was essential to listen to, understand and meaningfully respond to local concerns about the event. He sought reassurance that this approach would remain central to all future discussions with organisers. The Head of Transport and Environment confirmed that debrief sessions were held with community stakeholders after each event, with all feedback reviewed and passed to the organiser for action. She explained that local businesses and residents were notified in advance each year, and that walk?arounds with emergency services and town and community councils ensured all stakeholders were aware of planned arrangements and any changes. She also noted that while issues had arisen in previous years, organisers had acted to address concerns and that, as a single?day event, Ironman minimised disruption as far as possible, though some impact was inevitable and had to be acknowledged. The Public Realm Manager noted that the one?day Ironman road closure had a different and generally lesser impact than the three?day closure associated with Long Course Weekend. He stated that while some communities were affected, organisers had consistently engaged with residents and businesses, including attending local meetings to address concerns and identify opportunities, as demonstrated in Amroth. He added that Ironman was an established event with recognised economic benefits and a positive legacy for local sport and emphasised that organisers remained open to further discussions to improve community engagement and support areas experiencing negative impacts. Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that Option?1 was recommended, proposing that the Council enter into a new three?year Host Agreement with Ironman Wales, Pembrokeshire (2027–2029), with an option to extend for a further two years to 2030–31. He explained that this would include both financial and in?kind contributions as set out in the Heads of Terms, with the final agreement reflecting those terms and associated financial details. He noted that the Director of Place would have delegated authority to agree minor amendments, and that the Cabinet Member at the relevant time would hold delegated authority to approve the optional two?year extension. He added that negotiations with Ironman Wales would continue with the aim of reducing costs where possible. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. 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, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Guy Woodham [7] Against the Motion: Councillors Tessa Hodgson and Jacob Williams [2] There were no abstentions. RESOLVED a) That Option 1 be supported which includes the continued provision of Ironman Wales Pembrokeshire; and agrees to enter into the Host Agreement for 2027-2029, with option to extend for a further two years 2030-2031. b) That the option to extend the host agreement for a further two years be delegated to the Cabinet member at the relevant time.
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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 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 then resumed at this juncture. Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that he had nothing further to add, other than to reiterate that the recommendations had been moved and that all Members had been given the opportunity to comment through the Services Overview and Scrutiny meeting, the Events Advisory Group, or individually. He confirmed that no feedback had arisen that would materially alter the proposed course of action. The Leader agreed that the matter had been thoroughly examined over recent weeks and months. 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, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Guy Woodham [7] Against the Motion: Councillors Tessa Hodgson and Jacob Williams [2] There were no abstentions. RESOLVED a) That the recommendations following the Cabinet meeting on 19 August 2025 surrounding consultation with the Events Advisory Board, Pembrokeshire County Council Members and Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee has been actioned and that no significant comments have been received in relation to the Long Course Weekend host agreement 2025 – 2029, be noted b) That, given no significant points of concern surrounding the contents of the Host Agreement have arisen following the above consultations, the Host agreement be continued and the Council’s ability to terminate, acting reasonably, on giving 12 months’ written notice be not actioned. [The meeting adjourned for a short break at 12:20 and reconvened at 12:36]
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Transport and Environment which presented the outcomes of the engagement with the Events Advisory Board, Council Members whose wards are affected by the Long Course Weekend, and the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that the Long Course Weekend Host Agreement had previously been considered as a restricted item, though he felt there was less justification for confidentiality in this case. He explained that, following last year’s governance issues, consultation had been carried out with the Events Advisory Group, all Members, and the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee. No significant concerns had been raised, aside from a query about whether the agreement could be varied, which the report confirmed was possible by mutual agreement or where required by external direction. He advised that Cabinet now had two options: to allow the Host Agreement to continue by not invoking the termination clause, or to cease support by triggering the clause, which would affect events from 2027 onwards and require 12 months’ notice. As no substantive concerns had emerged, he recommended that Cabinet do not activate the termination clause. He referred to the recommendations, confirming that consultation had been completed and no issues had arisen that would warrant ending the agreement. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. Cabinet then considered excluding the public from the meeting accordance with Section 100A (4) of the Local Government Act 1972, as Appendix A 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 Leader invited comments and questions, noting the information contained in Appendix?A and querying whether Cabinet should move into private session to protect the confidentiality of the Host Agreement with Activity Wales. He observed that the document had remained confidential when considered previously by the Scrutiny Committee. Councillor Rhys Sinnett agreed, stating that, given the approach taken in earlier discussions and to maintain the confidentiality of the Host Agreement in its current form, Cabinet should move into private session. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation to exclude the public; Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. 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, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Guy Woodham [6] Against the Motion: Councillors Paul Miller, Tessa Hodgson and Jacob Williams [3] There were no 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 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 then resumed at this juncture. Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that he had nothing further to add, other than to reiterate that the recommendations had been moved and that all Members had been given the opportunity to comment through the Services Overview and Scrutiny meeting, the Events Advisory Group, or individually. He confirmed that no feedback had arisen that would materially alter the proposed course of action. The Leader agreed that the matter had been thoroughly examined over recent weeks and months. 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, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney and Guy Woodham [7] Against the Motion: Councillors Tessa Hodgson and Jacob Williams [2] There were no abstentions. RESOLVED a) That the recommendations following the Cabinet meeting on 19 August 2025 surrounding consultation with the Events Advisory Board, Pembrokeshire County Council Members and Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee has been actioned and that no significant comments have been received in relation to the Long Course Weekend host agreement 2025 – 2029, be noted b) That, given no significant points of concern surrounding the contents of the Host Agreement have arisen following the above consultations, the Host agreement be continued and the Council’s ability to terminate, acting reasonably, on giving 12 months’ written notice be not actioned. [The meeting adjourned for a short break at 12:20 and reconvened at 12:36]
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RESOLVED That the performance information in the Corporate Scorecard and Social Care Scorecard be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Corporate Planning Manager which detailed performance information in the Corporate Scorecard 2025-26 and the Social Services and Housing Directorate Scorecard. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that call?handling performance had continued to decline, with December’s average answering time rising to 15 minutes 32 seconds and only around 50% of calls answered, which he described as a concern for a public?facing service. He noted that while further digital service improvements were planned, these would take time and would not meet the needs of all residents. Although the 2026–27 budget included a £250,000 saving for contact?centre staffing, already achieved through reduced staff numbers, proposals were being developed for a time?limited increase in staffing funded from the improvement budget. He welcomed the increase in leisure centre visits and membership and reported that the Council tax collection rate for December 2025 was 0.93% lower than the previous year due to the reclassification of self?catering properties. In social care, he highlighted several positive trends: the number of adults awaiting assessment had fallen to a quarter of the previous year’s figure; improved screening at the front door had reduced referrals requiring assessment from 176 to 79 year?on?year; and investment in reablement had contributed to a 79% reduction in the number of people requiring ongoing long?term care. He concluded by noting a welcome reduction in adults waiting for domiciliary care. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. Councillor Marc Tierney stated that early signs of positive progress in children’s services’ prevention work were now emerging. He acknowledged ongoing challenges in supporting looked?after young people, but reported improving support for foster carers, with increasing numbers expressing an interest in fostering. He highlighted the forthcoming foster carers’ summit, aimed at hearing directly from carers about their experiences. He emphasised that the service was beginning to shift from responding solely to immediate demand toward a stronger early?prevention focus, which he described as a positive development. Councillor Tessa Hodgson reported a positive position in both adult and children’s social care budgets, which were expected to come in on or slightly under budget. She emphasised the importance of reablement, noting that Welsh Government grant funding had enabled the service to expand, allowing most people completing reablement to return home without the need for ongoing statutory support. She highlighted ongoing collaborative work with the Health Board and Third Sector, and drew attention to improved safeguarding outcomes, with a new front?door approach and revised team structures leading to fewer inquiries reaching the statutory threshold, demonstrating more effective screening and better use of resources. The Leader stated that the investment of time, resources and effort was now beginning to show clear benefits, both financially and in the quality of services provided to residents. He noted concerns regarding contact?centre waiting times, acknowledging complaints received, and asked what short?term actions were being taken to reduce delays ahead of future AI?driven improvements. In response, Councillor Alistair Cameron confirmed that additional staffing hours would be introduced as a temporary measure, funded through the improvement budget within the 2026-27 plan. The Chief Executive described contact?centre performance as unacceptable and outlined measures to improve capacity, including increasing hours for experienced part?time staff, diverting certain calls directly to frontline services, and reducing contact?centre demand by addressing waste?collection?related call volumes through improved staffing and additional vehicles. He stated that these combined short? to medium?term actions should lead to improved performance within 6-12 months, ahead of longer?term technology?led solutions. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the performance information in the Corporate Scorecard and Social Care Scorecard be noted.
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RESOLVED That the Council’s Corporate Risk Register as at the end of Quarter 3 (December 2025), and Audit Wales’ Review of the Corporate Risk Management Arrangements in Pembrokeshire County Council be noted.
Cabinet considered a joint report by the Director of Resources and the Chief Audit, Risk & Information Officer which outlined the Council’s Corporate Risk Register as at the end of Quarter 3 (December 2025), and Audit Wales’ Review of Corporate Risk Management Arrangements in Pembrokeshire County Council. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that the Corporate Risk Register for December?2025 set out the key risks at the end of quarter three and showed that the overall risk profile had remained stable. The highest?scoring risk continued to relate to nutrient neutrality requirements, while opportunity risks linked to AI, the Vanguard methodology and the 0–25 prevention agenda were highlighted as having strong potential benefits. He noted that Audit Wales had recently reviewed the Council’s corporate risk management arrangements, finding improvements in culture and practice, while recommending clearer risk appetite, strengthened escalation criteria and enhanced reporting. Work was under way to address the recommendations, with oversight from the Governance and Audit Committee. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. Councillor Rhys Sinnett asked for clarification on the risk relating to delivery of the Mental Health Act and how it was being managed. Councillor Tessa Hodgson responded that the issue stemmed from ongoing recruitment challenges, which were being felt nationally, and that the Council continued to work with neighbouring authorities to explore regional support. The Director of Social Care and Housing added that there was a nationwide shortage of Approved Mental Health Practitioners and the Council was actively recruiting while also supporting existing staff to train into these roles. He confirmed that HR colleagues were working to make roles more attractive, including through golden?hello and competency payments, which had helped secure some additional capacity. He emphasised that, despite these efforts, the shortage remained a significant and persistent risk that would continue to feature on the register. Councillor Marc Tierney asked about horizon?scanning and whether any emerging risks were not yet reflected in the Corporate Risk Register, noting that most risks appeared static and seeking clarity on where movement might be expected in future updates. The Chief Audit, Risk and Information Officer replied that the register was reviewed monthly and informed by national risk?management networks and confirmed that no significant risks were missing. He explained that, while the Authority tended to be risk?averse in reducing scores, performance data would increasingly be used to determine whether risks could safely be de?escalated. He noted that Audit Wales had recommended clearer thresholds for escalation and de?escalation, and that work was under way to link financial and performance information more closely to risk assessments, enabling scores to move up or down as conditions changed over the coming year. The Leader asked how the recommendations from the Audit Wales review were being addressed. The Chief Audit, Risk and Information Officer responded that progress would be monitored by the Governance and Audit Committee, and that the aim was to complete all actions by the end of March?2026. He noted that many elements were already in place, including an e?learning module explaining escalation and de?escalation processes, although this had not been considered in the Audit Wales review. He added that some refinements to the module were planned to improve clarity for Members and officers and confirmed that all outstanding recommendations should be fully implemented within the coming weeks. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Council’s Corporate Risk Register as at the end of Quarter 3 (December 2025), and Audit Wales’ Review of the Corporate Risk Management Arrangements in Pembrokeshire County Council be noted.
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RESOLVED 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 3 2025-26 be approved.
Cabinet considered a joint report by the Head of Finance & Revenue Services and the Head of Resources & Procurement which outlined the projected Budget Outturn position from Quarter 3 2025-26 and an update on the Medium-Term Financial Plan 2025-26 to 2028-29. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that the projected quarter?three out?turn was £322.6m, placing the Council £4m (approximately 1%) within budget, a significantly stronger position than in previous years. He explained that this improvement was primarily due to reduced capital finance costs and greater stability in social care, particularly within children’s services. Social Care and Housing was projected to be £0.287m under budget, with children’s services showing an underspend of £0.688m, including £2.341m less spent on residential care owing to fewer children entering such placements, partially offset by increased fostering, which he described as both financially beneficial and better for children’s welfare. Adult services had underspends in most areas, though supported accommodation for adults with learning disabilities was forecasting a £2.125m overspend linked to moves toward more independent, cost?effective provision. Education was projected to be £0.275m under budget, while an overspend in the Chief Executive’s department reflected restructuring that would ultimately deliver £1.4m in staffing savings. The Director of Place and Assistant Chief Executive’s area showed a £0.649m underspend. He highlighted that improved capital project profiling and market?related delivery delays had reduced capital financing costs by £4.429m, supported by lower?than?assumed borrowing requirements. He thanked finance staff and project managers for their work. Finally, he noted ongoing Council Tax arrears work, with 453 properties having moved from business rates to Council Tax, all but 52 now brought into Council Tax from April 2023, though some appeals to the Valuation Office Agency had temporarily placed accounts on hold. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The Leader welcomed the position reported, noting that it was positive to see most departments operating within their budgets at quarter three, reflecting the effectiveness of sound budget setting and ongoing financial discipline. He emphasised that maintaining spending within agreed limits was fundamental to strong financial management and highlighted the impact of the prevention and Vanguard programmes, which were now delivering clear financial and service benefits. He thanked officers and teams across the Council for their work in achieving a more stable and sustainable financial outlook. Councillor Tessa Hodgson agreed with the Leader’s comments, noting that last year’s right?sized budget for social care had been vindicated, with the service now on budget at quarter three and in a stronger position than in previous years. She highlighted that the prevention agenda was delivering financial benefits but, more importantly, better outcomes, including more community?based provision and support enabling adults and young people to remain at home for longer. Councillor Marc Tierney added that alongside right?sizing the budget, the service was now driving greater efficiency, particularly through a renewed focus on reunifying young people with their families wherever possible. He explained that this approach, supported by advocacy networks and strengthened support for foster families, was beginning to show clear benefits and would help sustain ongoing efficiencies within children’s services. Councillor Rhys Sinnett queried the finance team on the sustainability of current capital?related savings, noting that underspends arising from reprofiling and delayed project starts would not continue indefinitely, and asked when these temporary savings would diminish. In response, the Chief Executive explained that, excluding capital slippage, the Council was forecast to be around £0.5m underspent across revenue service areas, which he described as an excellent position. He confirmed that capital slippage represented a one?off temporary saving, as the Council still intended to deliver the projects concerned. Looking ahead, he stated that slipping projects would not create an unexpected financial pressure, as future capital financing requirements had already been planned for, and the Council would not face an unanticipated rise in costs beyond what was built into the medium?term financial plan. 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, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED 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 3 2025-26 be approved.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED a) That Option 1 (£1.46 per week/£75.99 per annum representing a 4.60% increase) be recommended to Council as the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2026-27. b) That 5.00% for 2027-28 and 7.50% for 2028-29 be recommended to Council as the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2027-28 and 2028-29, for inclusion in the Medium-Term Financial Plan 2026-27 to 2028-29. c) That the Revised Draft County Council Budget for 2026-27, including service pressures, proposed budget savings, movement in earmarked reserves and the General Fund working balance, be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. d) That the updated Strategy for Holding and Utilising Reserves be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. e) That the indicative Capital Programme for 2026-27 to 2029-30 and the Capital Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. f) That the prudential indicators for capital and revenue estimates for 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. g) That utilisation of the new Welsh Government MRP flexibility to bridge the projected funding gap and balance the budget for 2026-27 be not endorsed, but its inclusion in the MRP policy for 2026-27 to enable it to be utilised if required be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. h) That the Medium-Term Financial Plan 2026-27 to 2028-29 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. i) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance & Efficiencies, be granted authority to make amendments to the County Council Budget report for 2026-27, prior to it being considered by Council on 20 February 2026. j) That the report be adopted as the Cabinet’s proposals for the County Council Budget for 2026-27, to be recommended to Council for approval, subject to the amendment that Appendix I(i) be included in the papers.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the Revised Draft Pembrokeshire County Council Budget for 2026-27 and the Revised Draft Medium Term (MTFP) 2026-27 and 2028-29. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and explained that the public consultation on the budget had been completed, with responses set out in the relevant appendices, and confirmed that the funding gap had increased from £13.6m to £14.7m. He outlined additional one?off costs for secondary school improvement (£100k) and vehicle operator licence compliance (£300k), alongside further investment of £200k each in building maintenance, highway maintenance, and gully clearing. Turning to next year’s pressures, he highlighted that social care and schools account for 70% of the Council’s budget, with social care pressures totalling £10m, including £1.3m for children’s services and £8.8m for adults’ services, driven by pay awards, contract inflation and increased demand, set against demographic trends showing substantial growth in the 85+ population and in dementia prevalence. Schools faced £4.6m in demand and pay pressures following the in?year rebasing of £1.8m, with 47 of 61 schools still reliant on reserves and supported through licensed deficit recovery plans. He further reported a £3.7m reduction in pension costs following an actuarial review and confirmed that discretionary fees and charges would rise by 3.8%, while the reduction in the second?home premium had widened the funding gap by £1.3m. To close the overall gap, each department had been asked to develop 5% savings proposals, categorised from green (efficiencies) through to deep red (risk of statutory failure). He outlined two Council Tax options and confirmed he would recommend Option 1: a 4.6% increase (£1.46 per week for Band D), together with adjustments to the Medium?Term Financial Plan proposing future rises of 5% and 7.5%. He advised that the Council should not use Welsh Government MRP flexibility at this stage but retain it for future consideration and further noted that Appendix I(i) had been omitted in error and would be added before submission to Council. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Rhys Sinnett. The Leader stated that he supported the proposed 4.6% Council Tax increase, noting that while the administration wished to avoid raising Council Tax where possible, considerable work had been undertaken with officers to keep the rise to the lowest achievable level. He acknowledged that this had been made possible in part by an improved Welsh Government settlement, secured through the agreement between Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru in the Senedd, which he welcomed. The Leader emphasised that the proposal avoided red and deep?red savings measures, thereby protecting key services, while still enabling additional investment in resident services, including pothole repairs and gully maintenance, areas he noted were frequent sources of public complaints. He highlighted that the recommended option represented around half the increase applied last year, amounting to £1.46 per week for a Band D property, and confirmed that, if approved, Cabinet would recommend this position to Council on 20 February, where the final decision on Council Tax would be taken. Councillor Rhys Sinnett noted that the position had improved significantly compared with six months earlier, due to the enhanced Welsh Government settlement and pension?related savings, which had eased much of the financial pressure. He welcomed the ability to reinvest in core resident services, including highways, drainage and waste, allowing the Council to take a more proactive approach to maintenance. He added that waste services were now strengthening, with improved staffing and four new vehicles supporting a more resilient fleet. He concluded that the outlook for his portfolio was positive and confirmed his support for the 4.6% Council Tax increase. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that the proposed budget represented a fair and balanced approach, maintaining a secure financial footing while responding to public feedback calling for investment in front?facing services. She welcomed that many of the savings’ proposals focused on doing things differently, generating income or redesigning services, rather than cutting staff or provision, particularly within the green and amber categories. She noted that this reflected a wider transformation and prevention?based mindset across the Council. Referring to comparative data, she highlighted that 39% of the Council’s spend is on social care, significantly above the Welsh average of 30%, due to Pembrokeshire’s demographic profile, including higher proportions of looked?after children, adults under 65 with disabilities, and older adults. She further added that this demonstrated the demographic pressures driving social care costs and observed that only 25% of the budget remained for all other services, before concluding that the overall position was positive. 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, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED a) That Option 1 (£1.46 per week/£75.99 per annum representing a 4.60% increase) be recommended to Council as the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2026-27. b) That 5.00% for 2027-28 and 7.50% for 2028-29 be recommended to Council as the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2027-28 and 2028-29, for inclusion in the Medium-Term Financial Plan 2026-27 to 2028-29. c) That the Revised Draft County Council Budget for 2026-27, including service pressures, proposed budget savings, movement in earmarked reserves and the General Fund working balance, be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. d) That the updated Strategy for Holding and Utilising Reserves be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. e) That the indicative Capital Programme for 2026-27 to 2029-30 and the Capital Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. f) That the prudential indicators for capital and revenue estimates for 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. g) That utilisation of the new Welsh Government MRP flexibility to bridge the projected funding gap and balance the budget for 2026-27 be not endorsed, but its inclusion in the MRP policy for 2026-27 to enable it to be utilised if required be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. h) That the Medium-Term Financial Plan 2026-27 to 2028-29 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. i) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance & Efficiencies, be granted authority to make amendments to the County Council Budget report for 2026-27, prior to it being considered by Council on 20 February 2026. j) That the report be adopted as the Cabinet’s proposals for the County Council Budget for 2026-27, to be recommended to Council for approval, subject to the amendment that Appendix I(i) be included in the papers.
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RESOLVED a) That the Treasury Management Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30, including the Policy on Borrowing in Advance of Need, the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy, the Treasury Limits, the Prudential Indicators and Borrowing Requirements be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. b) That the Annual Investment Strategy for 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. c) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance & Efficiencies, be granted authority to make amendments to the Treasury Management Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30 and The Annual Investment Strategy for 2026-27 to 2029-30, prior to it being considered by Council on 20 February 2026.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the Treasury Management Governance Arrangements which are required to be approved on an annual basis. Councillor Alistair Cameron, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that it set out the Treasury Management Governance Arrangements for 2026–27, detailing how the Council would manage borrowing, investments, cash flow and financial risk in a prudent and compliant manner. He explained that the strategy comprised four core elements: prudential indicators confirming the affordability of the capital programme; the Treasury Management Strategy governing borrowing and investment; the Minimum Revenue Provision policy for debt repayment; and the Annual Investment Strategy for secure management of surplus cash. He highlighted the scale of the capital programme, £490?million between 2026–27 and 2029–30, including £176.7?million of new borrowing, and confirmed that modelling indicated it remained affordable within the Council’s agreed financing cap. Forecast borrowing rates were noted, and he emphasised the ongoing requirements for CIPFA compliance, regular reporting, scrutiny, and specialist external advice. Councillor Alistair Cameron Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Marc Tierney. There were no questions therefore Cabinet proceeded to the vote. 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, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED a) That the Treasury Management Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30, including the Policy on Borrowing in Advance of Need, the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy, the Treasury Limits, the Prudential Indicators and Borrowing Requirements be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. b) That the Annual Investment Strategy for 2026-27 to 2029-30 be endorsed and recommended to Council for approval. c) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance & Efficiencies, be granted authority to make amendments to the Treasury Management Strategy 2026-27 to 2029-30 and The Annual Investment Strategy for 2026-27 to 2029-30, prior to it being considered by Council on 20 February 2026.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the response and action plan to the Panel’s report and recommendations be endorsed prior to approval by Council in March 2026.
Cabinet considered a report by the Corporate Business and Policy Manager which outlined the Council’s response and action plan to the Panel’s report and recommendations prior to Council approval in March 2026. The Leader introduced the report and stated that the Independent Panel Performance Assessment had been carried out in October?2025 and that Cabinet was now asked to endorse the Council’s Response and Action Plan before it proceeded to Council in March. He welcomed the Panel’s largely positive findings, noting that the Council was meeting its statutory duties and was recognised as a well?run organisation with strong values, effective leadership, sound governance and constructive partnership working, particularly in the face of financial pressures. The Panel had made seven recommendations relating to scrutiny, capacity, leadership, economic regeneration, resource prioritisation, communications and transformation. The Leader Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that she was pleased to see the building maintenance apprenticeship programme highlighted in the report, noting that it represented a proactive and effective response to longstanding recruitment challenges and was already delivering clear benefits. Councillor Marc Tierney added that he agreed with the importance of highlighting the building maintenance apprenticeship programme and welcomed the recent press release showcasing its success. He emphasised that the Council must do more to communicate the positive work it delivers, noting that the Authority spends £320?million each year on services that support residents across the county. While misinformation was common, there was also much positive work taking place, and he stressed the Council’s role in helping the public better understand the services provided and how they benefit local communities. 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, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the response and action plan to the Panel’s report and recommendations be endorsed prior to approval by Council in March 2026.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED a) That the content of this report, in the context of the overall budget position, be noted. b) That the pitch fee rents on Gypsy Traveller sites be increased by CPI of 3.8% from 6 April 2026. c) That service charges for Gypsy Traveller sites where water and sewerage are non-metered be increased as follows: · £14.24 for Withybush · £16.60 for Kingsmoor · £16.60 for Castle Quarry · £60.00 for Waterloo All charges being per week over 48 weeks from 6 April 2026. d) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the head of service and Cabinet Member for Housing, be granted delegated authority to introduce a separate pitch fee rent for new pitches or where improvements have been undertaken and/or significant differential is seen in pitch sizes within and/or between the sites.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Housing and Public Protection which outlined the intention to increase Gypsy and Traveller Site rents (pitch fees) and service charges (including water and sewerage) for 2026-2027. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing, introduced the report and stated that it proposed increases to pitch fees and service charges on the Council’s Gypsy and Traveller sites in line with inflation. She highlighted ongoing site improvement works supported by over £1?million of Welsh Government funding, with further upgrades planned over the next two years. She noted continued difficulties with unmetered water charges, as D?r Cymru could not install individual meters without major pipework upgrades. The Council would therefore install its own meters during pitch improvements to move towards full cost recovery. She also reported strengthened engagement with residents through the new liaison officer. Councillor Bateman Moved the recommendations to note the report, apply a 3.8% CPI pitch?fee increase from 6?April?2026, update weekly service charges for unmetered water and sewerage at each site, and delegate authority to set separate fees for new or improved pitches;Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. The Leader queried why the proposed service charge for Waterloo was significantly higher than the other sites. Councillor Michelle Bateman explained that Waterloo functioned effectively as a double pitch, but only one family currently occupied it, meaning the full water usage was attributable to that household. In contrast, water consumption at other sites could not be accurately allocated to individual pitches, resulting in less precise cost distribution. She confirmed that the higher charge at Waterloo reflected a more accurate calculation of usage for that specific site. 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, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED a) That the content of this report, in the context of the overall budget position, be noted. b) That the pitch fee rents on Gypsy Traveller sites be increased by CPI of 3.8% from 6 April 2026. c) That service charges for Gypsy Traveller sites where water and sewerage are non-metered be increased as follows: · £14.24 for Withybush · £16.60 for Kingsmoor · £16.60 for Castle Quarry · £60.00 for Waterloo All charges being per week over 48 weeks from 6 April 2026. d) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the head of service and Cabinet Member for Housing, be granted delegated authority to introduce a separate pitch fee rent for new pitches or where improvements have been undertaken and/or significant differential is seen in pitch sizes within and/or between the sites.
Rhaid i gynghorwyr ddweud pan fydd ganddyn nhw gysylltiad personol â rhywbeth sy'n cael ei drafod, fel swydd, eiddo neu aelod o'r teulu. Mae buddiant sy'n rhagfarnu yn ddigon cryf i'r cynghorydd adael yr ystafell fel arfer a pheidio â chymryd rhan.
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