Wrthi'n llwytho
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RESOLVED (a) That the revised Gambling Act 2005 Policy as set out in Appendix A be Approved. (b) That the policy be recommended to Cabinet for Approval. (c) That the policy be published.
RESOLVED (a) That the revised Statement of Licensing Policy as set out in Appendix A, incorporating the revised text to para 22.4 of the Policy as outlined at point 3.6 be Approved. (b) That the policy be recommended to Cabinet for Approval. (c) That the policy be published.
RESOLVED That the Licensing Annual Report to 31 December 2025 be noted. [Councillor Michele Wiggins left the meeting at this juncture.]
RESOLVED That the overarching Taxi Licensing Policy and updated taxi conditions be Approved. .
Moved by Councillor Tim Evans; Seconded by Councillor Vanessa Thomas. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Minutes of the meeting held on 15 May 2025, be approved as a correct record.
This item of business was not discussed as there were no items of business that required the exclusion of the public.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED (a) That the revised Gambling Act 2005 Policy as set out in Appendix A be Approved. (b) That the policy be recommended to Cabinet for Approval. (c) That the policy be published.
The Chair welcomed the Lead Licensing Officer to the meeting to present the 3-year review of the Gambling Act Policy to the Committee. In response to a question raised by the Chair regarding the number of responses that had been received following the consultation, the Lead Licensing Officer advised that 19 responses within an age group of 35+ had been received via the web page and corporate social media platforms. It was further noted that the younger age group were not engaging however there had been a decrease in gambling on the high street following the closure of two betting shops. In response to a concern raised by the Vice-Chair regarding test purchasing, the Lead Licensing Officer highlighted that the guidance now advised that most larger operators would have in house test purchasing arrangements in place. The Joint Cabinet Member for Communities advised that those operators undertake four test purchases per year, any failure was then repeated and investigated. The Lead Licensing Officer clarified that it was a requirement for these to take place. Further to a query raised by the Chair regarding the sale of lottery tickets, the Lead Licensing Officer advised that the Authority do not regulate the sale of National lottery tickets. Councillor Tim Evans then Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor David Bryan. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll-call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Bryan, Mark Carter, John Cole, Tim Evans, Nick Neumann, Billy Shaw, Vanessa Thomas, Michele Wiggins and Alun Wills [9]. Abstained: Councillor Aaron Carey [1]. There were no votes against. RESOLVED (a) That the revised Gambling Act 2005 Policy as set out in Appendix A be Approved. (b) That the policy be recommended to Cabinet for Approval. (c) That the policy be published.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED (a) That the revised Statement of Licensing Policy as set out in Appendix A, incorporating the revised text to para 22.4 of the Policy as outlined at point 3.6 be Approved. (b) That the policy be recommended to Cabinet for Approval. (c) That the policy be published.
The Lead Licensing Officer presented the review of the Council’s Statement of Licensing Policy to the Committee noting the requirement for Cabinet approval to be published. The Lead Licensing Officer explained that this was the five-year review and that the policy was used at meetings of the Sub-Committee when considering applications that were brought before them. The key points were highlighted as follows: · Welsh Government minimum pricing for alcohol in Wales would be increasing in October from .50p to .65p per unit. · Promotion of personal safety, safe space and ‘ask for Angela’ schemes which allowed vulnerable people to seek help discretely; · How premises could control use of external drinking areas; · Proxy sales and alcohol delivery; and · Use of Temporary Entertainment Notices (TENs). The Lead Licensing Officer advised that they had received 30 responses to the consultation with the most notable comment being regarding delivery of alcohol. It was noted that any applications received that include delivery of alcohol will be referred to the updated model pool of conditions which includes training. Councillor David Bryan raised a concern regarding the Cumulative Impact Areas (CIAs) that had been introduced within the Policy in order to manage the concentration of premises in Tenby and Haverfordwest. The Lead Licensing Officer advised that no formal review of the CIAs had taken place since 2018 and, in the absence of current data or substantiated concerns, the proposal had been to remove the CIAs from the Policy. The Lead Licensing Officer advised that they remained a feature of the Act that Authorities can utilise however, they could only be retained if there was evidential data to do so which had not been provided by the Police Authority. In response to a question raised by the Chair regarding complaints received, the Lead Licensing Officer advised that they were not receiving the volume of issues and highlighted that the nighttime economy had changed since the Pandemic. In response to further concerns raised by Councillor John Cole and the Chair regarding taxi drivers collecting and delivering alcohol, the Lead Licensing Officer advised that this was not included however, it was noted that this was a draft policy and could be included. Responding to a point raised by the Joint Cabinet Member for Communities regarding a presumption of granting of licence, the Lead Licensing Officer clarified that there was a presumption of grant unless there were representations brought before the Sub-Committee. In providing further clarity, the Head of Housing and Public Protection advised of the interrelationship of this policy with the Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) with the Community Safety Partnership. In response to a request made by Councillor David Bryan regarding the involvement of the Town Council in getting the Public Space Protection Order, could they be involved in discussions to remove the order, the Public Protection Manager advised that this would be for the Community Safety Partnership of which Councillor Bryan was a Member. The Chair then Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor David Bryan. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll-call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Bryan, Mark Carter, John Cole, Tim Evans, Nick Neumann, Billy Shaw, Vanessa Thomas, Michele Wiggins and Alun Wills [9]. Abstained: Councillor Aaron Carey [1]. There were no votes against. RESOLVED (a) That the revised Statement of Licensing Policy as set out in Appendix A, incorporating the revised text to para 22.4 of the Policy as outlined at point 3.6 be Approved. (b) That the policy be recommended to Cabinet for Approval. (c) That the policy be published.
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the Licensing Annual Report to 31 December 2025 be noted. [Councillor Michele Wiggins left the meeting at this juncture.]
The Committee considered a report by the Lead Licensing Officer regarding the Licensing Annual Report to the 31 December 2025. The Lead Licensing Officer advised that the report combined updates across the Licensing Act, Gambling Act, Taxi Licensing, Special Procedures, and Mobile Homes in order to provide a single overview of service activity. Members were advised that there are approximately 900 licensed premises, with numbers remaining broadly stable in line with national trends. In addition, the number of applications referred to Sub-Committee remained low, reflecting the effectiveness of the pre-application advice and mediation provided. During the year, Officers had carried out 426 compliance inspections, which were both regulatory and supportive in nature. Under the Gambling Act, the report highlighted a continued decline in land-based gambling premises, including betting shops. However, activity relating to permits and lotteries remained consistent. A total of 112 compliance inspections were undertaken, with returns submitted to the Gambling Commission. The Committee was informed that taxi licensing remains a busy area, with a slight decline in the number of licensed drivers, reflecting national patterns. While the trade in Pembrokeshire remains predominantly Hackney carriage, there has been a gradual increase in private hire operators, linked to the growth of app-based services. The vehicle fleet remains largely older diesel vehicles, although some adoption of hybrid and electric vehicles was emerging. During 2025, 164 compliance checks were carried out, and vehicle standards were reported to be improving. Members noted an increase in Sub-Committee activity relating to driver applications and conduct matters. Officers also outlined measures introduced to address “licence shopping”, including the reintroduction of in-person knowledge tests and requirements for drivers to demonstrate that they intend to operate primarily within Pembrokeshire. Members welcomed the continued programme of partnership enforcement activity with agencies such as the police and DVSA, particularly at schools, taxi ranks and public events. This work was reported to have been well received and to have contributed to improved compliance. The Committee also received an update on the introduction of the Special Procedures licensing regime, covering activities such as tattooing and piercing. Approximately 100 applications were processed during the transition period and Members were advised that they may be required to determine future applications and the Lead Licensing Officer reassured Members that training would be provided. It was further reported that responsibility for administering the Mobile Homes (Wales) Act had transferred to the Licensing team, with nine site licence renewals processed and compliance inspections undertaken during the year. Members noted that the Licensing service continues to operate with a small team managing a wide range of responsibilities. The importance of ongoing engagement with licence holders, including through newsletters and guidance, was highlighted as contributing to good levels of compliance and a low volume of complaints. Members commended the work of the Lead Licensing Officer and the Licensing Team noting they were a small team of team comprising of two full time Inspectors and two part time Inspectors. The Lead Licensing Officer highlighted the support received by the Technical Support Team who were predominantly part time. Councillor Mark Carter declared a personal interest in discussions regarding Mobile Homes as he and his wife own and operate a company that runs 15 mobile homes which had recently been licensed by the team. Councillor Vanessa Thomas then Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alun Wills. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the Licensing Annual Report to 31 December 2025 be noted. [Councillor Michele Wiggins left the meeting at this juncture.]
Y penderfyniad fel y'i cofnodwyd
RESOLVED That the overarching Taxi Licensing Policy and updated taxi conditions be Approved. .
The Committee considered a report by the Lead Licensing Officer regarding the Draft Taxi Licensing Policy. The Lead Licensing Officer advised Members that the Authority did not have a single overarching taxi licensing policy, and that the draft document aims to bring together existing conditions, procedures and guidance into a comprehensive framework aligned with Welsh Government standards. It was explained that the policy reflects national work towards harmonised taxi standards across Wales, providing a focus on safety, environmental sustainability, accessibility and improved customer experience. Although new national legislation is still in development, Officers had considered it appropriate to proceed with a local policy at this stage. The Lead Licensing Officer highlighted the key elements of the policy as follows: · Regular DBS update checks for drivers, · Adoption of the latest national suitability guidance, · Revised medical assessment requirements to align with other professional drivers, · Strengthened operator responsibilities, and · The inclusion of mandatory training materials covering safeguarding and passenger needs. Members discussed the proposals aimed at improving vehicle standards, including the proposal to introduce a minimum Euro 6 emissions standard for newly licensed vehicles. The Lead Licensing Officer explained that this would support environmental objectives whilst allowing a phased approach for the existing fleet. It was noted that the current fleet includes a significant proportion of older vehicles, and concerns had been raised regarding condition and reliability, although Officers confirmed that enforcement processes and inspection standards had recently been strengthened. The Committee then debated the contents of the report, with the key points highlighted as follows: In response to a concern raised by the Chair regarding garage capacity for the additional checks, the Lead Licensing Officer explained that all taxis were MOT’d through the Authority at least twice a year with a dedicated Mechanic. The Lead Licensing Officer advised Members that the garage was extremely busy which some drivers missing appointments which compounded the issue of limited appointments being available. The Chair sought clarity regarding a policy of dash cameras for Taxi drivers. The Lead Licensing Officer advised that, whilst this was not a mandatory requirement, they provided support in the provision of dash cameras as this was invaluable when dealing with any complaints or allegations. Following observations made by Councillor John Cole regarding the age of the fleet, the Lead Licensing Officer advised that the introduction of the Euro 6 Emissions would reduce the age of some vehicles. Councillor Cole highlighted that Euro 6 had been in place since 2015 which still allowed vehicles of 11 years to be utilised. The Chair sought clarification that, should a vehicle pass the MOT it would be licenced, the Lead Licensing Officer advised that this was not just about passing the MOT. The condition and cleanliness of the vehicle was also checked. In response to concerns raised by the Chair regarding the date of introduction of the policy, the Lead Licensing Officer confirmed that this policy was intended to be introduced from 1 January 2027 for new vehicles only and this would give them time to prepare for this. The Lead Licensing Officer advised that Members remain mindful that this was their livelihood and that the majority of drivers take great pride in their role and their vehicle. The Chair agreed that if the vehicles was road worthy and cared for, they should not deny them their role. It was recognised by Councillor Mark Carter that there had been comments received from the MOT station regarding an increase in the number of failures of vehicles and he highlighted that a 15 year old taxi was old enough. Councillor Carter raised further concerns on the parity with other driver roles including minibuses, coaches and school contracts. The Lead Licensing Officer advised that, should an age limit be introduced, the Authority would be at risk of losing a lot of the fleet. By introducing an emissions policy, this aligns with the vision of a greener taxi fleet and by default, introduces an age policy. In response to a question raised by Councillor Billy Shaw regarding classic cars which were available for weddings and special events, the Lead Licensing Officer advised that Wedding and funeral cars were exempt from licencing and that there was a policy for vehicles in exceptional condition. The Joint Cabinet Member for Communities clarified that the policy ensured that the vehicle was not just driveable, but also fit and proper to be used to carry passengers. The vehicle does not just need to pass the MOT, there was a list of expectations for the vehicle. In providing reassurance to Councillor Mark Carter and Members of the Committee, the Lead Licensing Officer explained that an Operator or Driver could be referred to the Licensing Sub-Committee for repeated MOT failures or suspensions on vehicles, particularly if a pattern was identified. In response to a question raised by Councillor Alun Wills regarding failure to attend MOT appointments, the Lead Licensing Officer explained that on the first failure, they were given another appointment, on the second occasion, they were suspended. In response to concerns highlighted by the Vice-Chair regarding if the electronic payment failed and a passenger did not have an alternative method of payment. The Lead Licensing Officer advised that this would be reviewed and represented to the Committee. Councillor Time Evans then Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Vanessa Thomas. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll-call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Bryan, Mark Carter, John Cole, Tim Evans, Nick Neumann, Billy Shaw, Vanessa Thomas and Alun Wills [8]. Abstained: Councillor Aaron Carey [1]. There were no votes against. RESOLVED That the overarching Taxi Licensing Policy and updated taxi conditions be Approved. .
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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