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The decisions as the council's minutes record them. A plain-language summary follows once it has been written.
RESOLVED (a) That the Strategic Asset Management Strategy 2023-2030 be approved in principle and refer the Strategy to the Strategic Asset Management Group for comment. (b) That authority be delegated to the Deputy Leader to review feedback from the Strategic Asset Management Group, make changes as appropriate and formally approve the Strategy (c) That the terms of reference for the Corporate Asset Management Board (CAMB) be endorsed. (d) That in accordance with the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation, the establishment of a Corporate Programme Board be noted, with a further report setting out the terms of reference to be presented to a future meeting of Cabinet.
RESOLVED (d) That the Notice of Motion be adopted. (e) That Welsh Government be requested to undertake a further and wider independent review of the One Planet Development Policy. (f) That Welsh Government be requested to suspend the Policy on the One Planet Development on an all Wales basis whilst the review is undertaken and its finding are considered.
RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be not adopted, but that the footway areas continue to be monitored through routine safety inspection and remedial work is carried out should it become necessary.
RESOLVED (a) That the Notice of Motion be supported to improve controls on the promotion and management of public firework displays. (b) That it be agreed to lobby Welsh and UK Governments for stronger regulation of fireworks.
RESOLVED That the proposal to extend the catchment area of Ysgol Croesgoch with effect from September 2023 be approved. [Councillor Neil Prior left the meeting at this juncture].
RESOLVED That the proposal to invite and evaluate tenders for the design development and construction for the redevelopment of Portfield School using a two stage tender process under the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework, be approved and that authority be delegated to the Director of Community Services for the subsequent award of Stage 1 services. Further approval will be sought from Cabinet for the award of Stage 2. [Councillor Neil Prior re-joined the meeting at this juncture].
RESOLVED That the circulation of the model Pay Policy 2022-2023 to governing bodies for adoption be agreed.
RESOLVED (a) That all Pembrokeshire County Council funded toilets listed in Group 2 (where we are legally able to) be closed from 5 November 2023, unless a community asset transfer is agreed or a funding stream identified. (b) That should Pembrokeshire County Council funded toilet closures impact financially disproportionately on a particular Community Council, a report be brought back to Cabinet to determine whether there is a case for an exception. (c) That notice of the decision be given to Town and Community Councils and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority (where applicable) to allow time to develop funding arrangements should they wish to keep them open. If, before 5 November 2023, we receive an expression of interest to either fully fund the provision going forward, or a commitment that a community asset transfer will be in place by 31 March 2024, the facility will remain open until this date to allow for arrangements to be made (unless a usual winter closure is in place). (d) That subject to Council consideration and determination of the use of an element of the Second Homes Council Tax Premium to fund elements of the Council budget relating to affordable housing and the sustainability of local communities, this funding be used to fund the contract costs of the toilets in Group 2 for financial year 2023-24 while permanent arrangements are being made. (e) That any toilet which is declared surplus to requirements and closes but is serving, predominantly, the visitor economy will be temporarily retained until the outcome of any future decision on Welsh Government’s proposal for introducing a Visitor Levy is known. [Councillor Paul Miller left the meeting at this juncture].
RESOLVED (a) That the proposed increase in charges (outlined in Appendix A) be advertised via a Notice of Variation and implemented from 3 April 2023, be agreed. (b) That changes to Car Parking Permit charges be approved and implemented from 3 April 2023. (c) That the miscellaneous charging increases proposed be approved and implemented from 3April 2023. (d) That the car parking charging policy be updated to reflect changes. (e) That the feedback on the consultation on Variation Order No 14 to introduce a new off street parking place at County Hall car park into the parking order and schedule be noted and that a car park order be introduced from 3 April 2023 subject to due legal process.
RESOLVED That the Leisure Services fees and charges be increased by 5% plus Consumer Price Index (CPI).
RESOLVED (a) That the introduction of a comprehensive pre-application advice scheme, as set out in Appendix 1, be endorsed. (b) That the non-statutory fee rates, as set out in Appendix 1, be approved. (c) That the formal introduction of Planning Performance Agreements from 1April 2023 be agreed.
RESOLVED (a) That the report and scope of Operation Nightingale 2023 be noted and its aims supported. (b) That a further progress report will be provided for Cabinet in April 2023 be noted. (c) That a business case and request for funding is made to Welsh Government for one year funding for Operation Nightingale 2023 at an estimated cost of £2.5 million, be agreed. (d) That it be agreed that should there be a shortfall in Welsh Government meeting the costs of Operation Nightingale 2023 for the year 2023/24, a further report be presented to Cabinet to consider options.
RESOLVED That the Pembrokeshire County Council’s Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan 2022 – 2027 be approved for submission to Welsh Government.
RESOLVED (a) That the delivery of an Empty Homes Grant Scheme that will entail a 10% match funding from the Council towards the Welsh Government funding, which may be allocated from the Empty Homes Council Tax Premium, be supported. (b) That the proposed recruitment of additional staff capacity for Housing Standards Inspections in the delivery of the Empty Properties Scheme, utilising the Empty/Second Homes Council Tax Premium, be noted. (c) That authority be delegated to the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing to sign and seal the Service Level Agreement for the National Empty Homes Grant Scheme between Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and Pembrokeshire County Council. (d) That the following figures be added to the Capital Programme: £3,284,100 made up of £2,985,546 grant funding and £298,554 match funding and profile of spend will be £1,492,773 in 2023-24 and £1,492,773 in 2024-25. To note these are indicative figures which will be confirmed by Welsh Government on an annual basis based on empty property figures.
RESOLVED That the bid submission detailing the Decarbonisation Programme for the Council’s housing stock for 2022 – 2025 be approved, in order to claim the funding available from the Welsh Government’s Optimised Retrofit Programme; and that the Housing Revenue Account be used to match funding up to the overall scheme costs for improving the energy efficiency of Council housing.
RESOLVED That the allocation of Second Homes and Empty Properties Council Tax Premium be agreed to reduce pressures in the Housing Service sector, and to increase the supply of social and affordable housing in the County through a range of programme initiatives reported to Cabinet annually. To include: (a) Accelerating the pace of social and affordable housing delivery through support for ‘turn-key’ developments. (b) Development and support for an empty property grant scheme. (c) Development of an Affordable housing/shared ownership product for Pembrokeshire. (d) Support for the establishment and delivery of Community Led Housing Developments. (e) Funding to relieve pressure across homelessness through increasing housing acquisitions.
RESOLVED That the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing be delegated authority to progress and sign off the award of the contract under the Framework as set out in the report.
RESOLVED That the additions to the Capital Programme for 2022-23 to 2023-24, as set out in Appendix A, be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That the Revised Draft County Council Budget for 2023-24, including movement in earmarked reserves and the General Fund working balance, be approved. (b) That the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2023-24, inclusive of the increased Mutual Investment Fund (MIM) contribution, be recommended to Council as 7.50% (£93.69 per annum £1.80 per week), unless Recommendation (i) be rejected by Council, in which case it be recommended that there be a 12.9% increase in Council Tax. (c) That the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2024-25 to 2026-27, inclusive of the MIM contribution, be 7.50% for the remainder of the Medium Term Financial Plan 2023-24 to 2026-27. (d) That the indicative Capital Programme for 2023-24 to 2026-27 and the Capital Strategy 2023-34 to 2026-27 be approved. (e) That the prudential indicators for capital and revenue estimates for 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved. (f) That the Summary Medium Term Financial Plan 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved. (g) That the revised Strategy for Holding and Utilising Reserves be approved. (h) That the Council Tax Premiums for Second Homes and Long Term Empty Properties be retained for 2023-24 at their existing levels. (i) That the income generated from the Council Tax Premium for Second Homes be allocated for 2023-24 to 2027-28 as follows: (1) 75% to fund elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities; (2) 75% (of the remaining 25%) for the Affordable Housing programme; (3) 25% (of the remaining 25%) for the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant scheme. (j) That the Council Tax Premium for Second Homes be utilised until 2027-28 to provide funding for the Affordable Housing programme, the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant, and elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities, in accordance with section 14.2. (k) That the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) estimates for 2023-24 be approved. (l) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, be delegated authority to make amendments to the County Council Budget report for 2023-24, prior to it being considered by Council on 2 March 2023. (m)That the report be adopted as the Cabinet’s proposals for the County Council Budget for 2023-24, subject to the amendments at (l) above. [Councillor Michelle Bateman left the meeting at this juncture].
RESOLVED (a) That the Treasury Management Strategy 2023-24 to 2026-27, including the Policy on Borrowing in Advance of Need, the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy, the Treasury Limits, the Prudential Indicators and Borrowing Requirements, be approved, with an effective date of 1 April 2023. (b) That the Annual Investment Strategy for 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, capital, reserves, revenue collections and treasury management) for January 2023 (2022-23) be approved. (b) That the proposed virements greater than £0.050m be approved. (c) That the proposed appropriations from reserves, utilising earmarked reserve funding in place for specific services, be approved. (d) That the moratorium on all non-essential expenditure and the freeze on all non-essential recruitment will remain in place for the reminder of the financial year, be noted.
RESOLVED Thatthe Draft Procurement Strategy 2023 – 2027 and the Responsible Procurement Objectives as set out in the report, be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That the Leader be invited to review the Individual Cabinet Member (ICM) delegation in order to provide a streamlined means to approve Open Call applications to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). (b) That the UKSPF funding for the four Anchor projects detailed in Annexes A to D of the report be approved in principle, with authority delegated to the Director of Resources in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to approve the award of funding subject to satisfactory final completion of the detailed appraisal of each project. (c) That, subject to the approval of the Communities Anchor Project, the award of grants in excess of the limits set out in the Constitution under the grant scheme forming part of that Anchor Project, as described in Annex A, with authority delegated to the Director of Community Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Improvements and Communities. (d) That, subject to the approval of each of the Anchor Projects for Placemaking in Pembrokeshire, Business Support and People and Skills, the award of grants in excess of the limits set out in the Constitution under grant schemes forming part of these Anchor Projects, as detailed at Annexes B to D respectively, with authority delegated to the Director of Community Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change. (e) That in line with the UKSPF guidance, 4% of the UKSPF allocation be earmarked for administrative work in relation to the programme amounting to £765,039 from the UKSPF core budget and £159,692 from Multiply. (f) That six-monthly reports be received on progress in the implementation of the UKSPF in Pembrokeshire. (g) That the Integrated Impact Assessment at Annex F be noted.
The Leader announced that items 27 and 28 on the agenda had been withdrawn.
The following declarations were made: Item 7 – Review of School Catchment Area for Ysgol Croesgoch Councillor Neil Prior declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Local Authority Appointed Governor for Ysgol Croesgoch. Item 22 - Revised Draft County Council Budget 2023-24 and Summary Medium Term Financial Plan 2023-24 – 2026-27 Councillor Guy Woodham declared a personal interest by virtue of being employed by the Torch Theatre. Councillor David Simpson declared a personal interest by virtue of being an Ambassador for the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. Councillor Rhys Sinnett declared a personal interest by virtue of being on the Board of Management for the Torch Theatre.
Moved by Councillor Jon Harvey; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. The vote was taken by way of a show of hands and carried. RESOLVED That the Minutes of the Cabinet Meeting held on 9 January 2023 and the Minutes of the Extraordinary Cabinet Meeting held on 30 January 2023, be approved as a correct record.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Strategic Asset Management Strategy 2023-2030 be approved in principle and refer the Strategy to the Strategic Asset Management Group for comment. (b) That authority be delegated to the Deputy Leader to review feedback from the Strategic Asset Management Group, make changes as appropriate and formally approve the Strategy (c) That the terms of reference for the Corporate Asset Management Board (CAMB) be endorsed. (d) That in accordance with the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation, the establishment of a Corporate Programme Board be noted, with a further report setting out the terms of reference to be presented to a future meeting of Cabinet.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which outlined developments associated with the Council’s Property and Asset Management functions. Councillor Paul Miller, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Place, the Region and Climate Change, introduced the report and stated that the Strategy outlined how the Council could deliver a higher performing property function. The Director of Community Services stated that the Council’s assets were fundamental to how the Council enabled and delivered services and that the new Strategy had been developed over the last 12 months with the help of Consultants and various workshops with all Directorates. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation with an amendment to the effect: (a) That the Strategic Asset Management Strategy 2023-2030 be approved in principle and refer the Strategy to the Strategic Asset Management Group for comment. (b) That authority be delegated to the Deputy Leader to review feedback from the Strategic Asset Management Group, make changes as appropriate and formally approve the Strategy (c) That the terms of reference for the Corporate Asset Management Board (CAMB) be endorsed. (d) That in accordance with the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation, the establishment of a Corporate Programme Board be noted, with a further report setting out the terms of reference to be presented to a future meeting of Cabinet. Councillor Miller explained that he was keen for backbench Members to get the opportunity to engage and give their input into the Strategy. He highlighted that the Recommendation would also allow the Strategic Asset Management Group to have the opportunity to interrogate and scrutinise the Strategy. Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. Councillor Alec Cormack stated that he was keen to see a mechanism introduced that would allow local Members around the County to be included more in Council business, particularly with regard to decisions that affect certain areas. He highlighted that it was a great initiative and supported the Strategy. Councillor Jon Harvey stated his support for the Strategy and that it was important for backbench Members to be involved. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Strategic Asset Management Strategy 2023-2030 be approved in principle and refer the Strategy to the Strategic Asset Management Group for comment. (b) That authority be delegated to the Deputy Leader to review feedback from the Strategic Asset Management Group, make changes as appropriate and formally approve the Strategy (c) That the terms of reference for the Corporate Asset Management Board (CAMB) be endorsed. (d) That in accordance with the Leader’s Scheme of Delegation, the establishment of a Corporate Programme Board be noted, with a further report setting out the terms of reference to be presented to a future meeting of Cabinet.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (d) That the Notice of Motion be adopted. (e) That Welsh Government be requested to undertake a further and wider independent review of the One Planet Development Policy. (f) That Welsh Government be requested to suspend the Policy on the One Planet Development on an all Wales basis whilst the review is undertaken and its finding are considered.
Cabinet considered a joint report by the Director of Community Services and Head of Infrastructure which outlined a Notice of Motion that had been referred from Council on15 December 2022 in the following terms: The "One Planet Development" Policy was implemented by the One Wales Welsh Government in 2010 and sits within Planning Policy Wales and Technical Advice Note 6 - Planning for Sustainable Communities. The policy has the commendable objective that within the lifetime of a generation Wales should use only its fair share of the earth's resources, with its ecological footprint reduced to the global average availability of resources of 1.88 hectares per person. In principle, it's in line with this Council’s agreement to declare a climate emergency and to commit to making Pembrokeshire Council a net zero local authority. However, in practice is proving problematic for three specific reasons. • Many rural residents say the policy is being used as a way of overriding the Local Development Plan. This has resulted in considerable resentment by local people who find it difficult, if not impossible, to build a home for the younger generation on their land. • Tan 6 states that a new permanent dwelling in the countryside should only be allowed to support a rural enterprise which has been established for at least three years, profitable for at least one of them, have good prospects of remaining economically sustainable for at least five years and support a full-time job. Permission for an OPD application is not based on such a proven evidence base, but on a projected management plan to justify the development’s success over five years after permission is given. • An annual monitoring report has to be submitted to the Local Planning Authority to show compliance with the management plan. Failure to meet the terms of the management plan could result in enforcement proceedings. However, monitoring compliance is proving problematic due to the lack of expertise in LPAs. Therefore, Pembrokeshire County Council believes that the One Planet Development policy, although commendable in its intention when implemented ten years ago is proving flawed in practice. In view of the increased concern regarding the way in which this policy is being implemented, along with the cumulative impact of such developments, we call on the Welsh Government to review the policy and to consider a moratorium on OPD applications while such a review is held. In response to the Notice of Motion, Councillor Jon Harvey, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Planning and Housing Delivery, stated that the One Planet Council review was clear that residents of One Planet Development (OPD) sites and OPD applicants were interviewed as part of the review process, however it did not appear that Local Planning Authorities or local residents directly contributed to the review. Councillor Harvey stated that the review did consider the implications of OPD applications on Local Planning Authorities and concluded that improvements were required to the planning process to reduce burdens on planning departments and to make OPD’s more accessible to all. Councillor Harvey also stated that whilst the findings of the review were useful and provided context around the implementation of the OPD Policy, further and wider review work was required. In regards to the suggestion that the Welsh Government consider a moratorium on OPD applications while a review was held, such an approach would be for the consideration of Welsh Government. Councillor Jon Harvey Moved the Recommendation with an amendment to the effect: (a) That the Notice of Motion be adopted. (b) That Welsh Government be requested to undertake a further and wider independent review of the One Planet Development Policy. (c) That Welsh Government be requested to suspend the Policy on the One Planet Development on an all Wales basis whilst the review is undertaken and its finding are considered. Councillor Cormack stated that there was a danger of the OPD Policy being used as a way to work around planning restrictions in certain planning areas and within the National Park. Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (d) That the Notice of Motion be adopted. (e) That Welsh Government be requested to undertake a further and wider independent review of the One Planet Development Policy. (f) That Welsh Government be requested to suspend the Policy on the One Planet Development on an all Wales basis whilst the review is undertaken and its finding are considered.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be not adopted, but that the footway areas continue to be monitored through routine safety inspection and remedial work is carried out should it become necessary.
Cabinet considered a joint report by the Director of Community Services and Head of Infrastructure which outlined a Notice of Motion that had been referred from Council on15 December 2022 in the following terms: Since initially standing for council in 2012 I have had continuous complaints about the state of the paving slabs at Jogram Avenue and Paynter Street in Pembroke. Both of which are mostly council owned houses. It is requested that these paving slabs are replaced with tarmac. In response to the Notice of Motion, Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, stated that the Council carried out prioritisation of works as recommended in the 2016 Code “Well Managed Highway Infrastructure”, to prioritise maintenance works and repairs on the Public Highway. He stated that the carriageway and footway hierarchies had been established based on current usage across the County, and suggested that it would not be appropriate to apply a higher category to a specific area based on requests. However, if road hierarchies were reviewed and higher levels of service were applied, it would result in increased costs. He highlighted that the area outlined within the Notice of Motion was a Type 4 Residential Estate Footway and was therefore subject to annual safety inspections. Councillor Sinnett highlighted that inspection of the sites had not revealed any maintenance or safety defects in excess of the defined thresholds, therefore no remedial works were currently planned in the area. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The Leader sought clarification as to how many claims had been recorded in the last five years. In response, the Head of Infrastructure confirmed that there had been no official claims for the outlined location. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Notice of Motion be not adopted, but that the footway areas continue to be monitored through routine safety inspection and remedial work is carried out should it become necessary.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Notice of Motion be supported to improve controls on the promotion and management of public firework displays. (b) That it be agreed to lobby Welsh and UK Governments for stronger regulation of fireworks.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Housing and Public Protection which outlined a Notice of Motion that had been referred from Council on15 December 2022 in the following terms: Council resolves to write to the Welsh Government urging them to follow the Scottish Government’s lead in introducing tighter regulations and consideration of others over the use of fireworks. In particular, the Welsh Government is urged to discuss with the RSPCA and other stakeholders the following measures: • A limit on the sale of fireworks for Bonfire Night from 29 October to 5 November and a limit on the days they can be let off. At present, fireworks can be sold from 15 October to 10 November and this can prolong the period when fireworks are let off. The restrictions for the sale of fireworks for other traditional dates are only for a few days. • Enabling Councils to introduce firework control zones to provide better protection to vulnerable people and animals. Such zones are used elsewhere in the world. We feel they could be used effectively to protect animals, in particular in localised areas. An example is no fireworks being allowed near where horses are kept, sensitive wildlife areas, farms or zoos. • Investigate introducing a licensing system for the purchase and sale of fireworks by and to members of the public in order to place a sensible limit on access to fireworks. It would require those wishing to purchase fireworks to attend a training course and would improve safety and awareness of their impact. The impact of fireworks on animals and people should form part of any training course. • Reduce the maximum permitted noise level of fireworks for public sale from 120dB to 90dB. Setting the limit at 90dB would be consistent with the approach in other countries and would encourage manufacturers to design and produce quieter fireworks. The originator of the Motion, Councillor Alistair Cameron, highlighted that he did not wish to ban fireworks, but simply apply more controls. He stated that he supported the conclusions outlined within the report. In response to the Notice of Motion, Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing and Regulatory Services, stated that she agreed with the points raised by Councillor Cameron and understood the impact of fireworks on animals and vulnerable people. She highlighted that due to the Welsh Government being unable to control the use of fireworks, the report outlined the details of measures in place as well as the current enforcement responsibilities. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Neil Prior. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Notice of Motion be supported to improve controls on the promotion and management of public firework displays. (b) That it be agreed to lobby Welsh and UK Governments for stronger regulation of fireworks.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the proposal to extend the catchment area of Ysgol Croesgoch with effect from September 2023 be approved. [Councillor Neil Prior left the meeting at this juncture].
Cabinet considered a report by the Director for Education which outlined the school catchment area for Ysgol Croesgoch. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that as part of the preparation for the Council’s Welsh in Education Strategic Plan (WESP), a review was undertaken to ascertain the accessibility of Welsh Medium education provision. The review identified a number of areas in Pembrokeshire which were not served by a Welsh Medium primary school, as outlined in Appendix A to the report. He stated that there was an aspiration to address the areas during the lifetime of the forthcoming WESP, between September 2022 and August 2031. He stated that extending existing catchment areas where feasible, was one of the identified methods of achieving this. In regards to transport entitlement, Councillor Woodham stated that extending the catchment area for Ysgol Croesgoch would increase school transport entitlement, and may therefore result in increased costs. Given that this was dependent upon parental preference, he highlighted that it was difficult to quantify; however on the basis of the current provision and the size of the settlements within the extended catchment, it was estimated to be approximately £1,750 per pupil. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Neil Prior. Councillor Neil Prior stated his support and stated that providing a choice of schools would be positive for the St David’s peninsula and for the Welsh language. Councillor Paul Miller supported the recommendation and sought clarification in regards to the estimated costs of transport for pupils. In response, Councillor Woodham highlighted that the report outlined that it was estimated to be approximately £1,750 per pupil. He stated that he did not want to guess the potential travel costs and highlighted that funding pressures were going to exist for the foreseeable future. Councillor Woodham gave assurance that as such projects were implemented, the costs would be made clear to Cabinet and other Members. Councillor Miller suggested that a mechanism to track the projects that were being implemented around the WESP and what it was costing overall, would be useful. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the proposal to extend the catchment area of Ysgol Croesgoch with effect from September 2023 be approved. [Councillor Neil Prior left the meeting at this juncture].
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the proposal to invite and evaluate tenders for the design development and construction for the redevelopment of Portfield School using a two stage tender process under the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework, be approved and that authority be delegated to the Director of Community Services for the subsequent award of Stage 1 services. Further approval will be sought from Cabinet for the award of Stage 2. [Councillor Neil Prior re-joined the meeting at this juncture].
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which outlined tenders under the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework as part of a two stage tender process for the design development works and build for the redevelopment of Portfield School in Haverfordwest. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that a detailed feasibility study was undertaken in January 2021 to review a number of potential options for the redevelopment of Portfield School. He highlighted that the estimated cost for the project, which included the demolition of the former lower school building, was approved by Welsh Government inNovember 2022. Councillor Woodham stated that the project would be tendered using a two stage tender under the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework 2020, Lot 6. Councillor Woodham then outlined the following procurement timetable: · (Stage 1) Contractor Appointment: 30May 2023 · (Stage 2) Contractor’s design development and costings complete: June 2024 · New Build completion: March 2026 · Overall project completion: November 2026 Councillor Woodham also highlighted that the procurement strategy required the involvement of a contractor to develop the project through to Full Business Case approval. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Paul Miller. Councillors Paul Miller and Alec Cormack supported the proposal. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the proposal to invite and evaluate tenders for the design development and construction for the redevelopment of Portfield School using a two stage tender process under the South West Wales Regional Contractors Framework, be approved and that authority be delegated to the Director of Community Services for the subsequent award of Stage 1 services. Further approval will be sought from Cabinet for the award of Stage 2. [Councillor Neil Prior re-joined the meeting at this juncture].
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the circulation of the model Pay Policy 2022-2023 to governing bodies for adoption be agreed.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director for Education which outlined the model Pay Policy 2022-2023 to governing bodies for adoption. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that the Pay Policy was reviewed annually in line with the publication of the School Teachers’ Pay and Conditions Document and highlighted that consultation with regional Trade Unions had taken place through Partneriaeth. Councillor Woodham stated that as a result of discussions at a regional level regarding the consequences of the School Teachers Pay and Conditions Document (Wales) 2022, the following had been applied across the region: 1. A 5 % uplift has been applied to all pay points and allowances. 2. The introduction of a new provision which enabled Head Teachers to award the full time equivalent rate of allowance to part time teachers where appropriate. Councillor Woodham highlighted that the outlined policy addressed changes to the September 2022 Document and governing bodies needed to adopt an updated policy as a matter of urgency. He highlighted that the pay award had been built into the outline draft budget for 2023 to 2024 as a pressure. He then referred to a statement released on 9 February 2023 by the Minister for Education and Welsh Language, which presented a new enhanced pay-off for teachers and head teachers. He stated that in addition to the 5% pay rise, the new revised pay offer comprised of an additional 3%, which would be applicable to the 2022 to 2023 academic year. He stated that if the new offer was accepted, it was said that the Welsh Government would fully fund the cost of the 3% in 2023. He also stated that the Welsh Government and WLGA would continue discussions around how the cost of the consolidated 1.5% increase could be funded in future years, without impacting on school budgets. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the circulation of the model Pay Policy 2022-2023 to governing bodies for adoption be agreed.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That all Pembrokeshire County Council funded toilets listed in Group 2 (where we are legally able to) be closed from 5 November 2023, unless a community asset transfer is agreed or a funding stream identified. (b) That should Pembrokeshire County Council funded toilet closures impact financially disproportionately on a particular Community Council, a report be brought back to Cabinet to determine whether there is a case for an exception. (c) That notice of the decision be given to Town and Community Councils and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority (where applicable) to allow time to develop funding arrangements should they wish to keep them open. If, before 5 November 2023, we receive an expression of interest to either fully fund the provision going forward, or a commitment that a community asset transfer will be in place by 31 March 2024, the facility will remain open until this date to allow for arrangements to be made (unless a usual winter closure is in place). (d) That subject to Council consideration and determination of the use of an element of the Second Homes Council Tax Premium to fund elements of the Council budget relating to affordable housing and the sustainability of local communities, this funding be used to fund the contract costs of the toilets in Group 2 for financial year 2023-24 while permanent arrangements are being made. (e) That any toilet which is declared surplus to requirements and closes but is serving, predominantly, the visitor economy will be temporarily retained until the outcome of any future decision on Welsh Government’s proposal for introducing a Visitor Levy is known. [Councillor Paul Miller left the meeting at this juncture].
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which outlined the funding arrangements for public conveniences for 2023-24 onwards. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that he wished to save as many facilities as possible. He highlighted that support from other organisations, in regards to the provision of funding, was needed. Councillor Sinnett thenacknowledged that for a number of Town and Community Councils, the request may have come too late for them to consider actively increasing their precept in order to assist to support funding toilet provision. Councillor Sinnett stated that the report alsohighlighted steps taken to engage with colleagues within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, where toilets within National Park owned car parks were paid for from Pembrokeshire County Council funding. He stated that these 18 facilities were funded to the level of £170,000 per annum by the Council, which was said to be 28% of the overall budget line for the Council.Councillor Sinnett stated that whilst some negotiations had taken place in respect of the National Park Authority taking on the running and funding of the toilets in their areas, there was said to be no significant progress or agreement to report on. Councillor Sinnett stated that it was simply not possible for the Council to sustain the current level of provision from within the existing financial settlement. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. Councillor Paul Miller supported the Recommendation and stated that he did not wish to see widespread closures of public conveniences and recognised the value they had for both local people and visitors. He wished for the outlined Recommendation to lead to a sensible discussion with partners about where the costs should fall, in order to maintain an important public service provision. Councillor Alec Cormack stated that the outlined proposal had been built into the budget proposals and highlighted that the previous budget saving option for public conveniences had been removed from the list of budget savings measures for 2023 to 2024. He then stated that he welcomed options for other groups to consider paying the cost of maintaining and cleaning toilets, without necessarily going into a full Community Asset Transfer. Councillor Neil Prior stated that he was supportive of keeping the provisions open, especially in regards to the visitor economy. He highlighted that Llanrhian Community Council was willing to work with the Council and wished for partners to do the same to keep such facilities open. He stated that the Council had a responsibility across the wider public services to find a way to keep facilities open. Councillor Tessa Hodgson agreed with Councillor Miller and stated that the Council must endeavour to work with partners to keep as many toilets open as possible.She highlighted the importance of using funding streams wherever possible to maintain the service. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that the report highlighted the serious state of Council funding and referred to the difficult choices that needed to be made within each Directorate in order achieve a balanced budget. She also agreed that working with partners would provide support to keep facilities open. Councillor Jon Harvey agreed with his Cabinet colleagues and stated that the National Park Authority had recently increased their car parking permits by 100% at £140 per annum, and therefore urged the National Park Authority to consider funding public toilets. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That all Pembrokeshire County Council funded toilets listed in Group 2 (where we are legally able to) be closed from 5 November 2023, unless a community asset transfer is agreed or a funding stream identified. (b) That should Pembrokeshire County Council funded toilet closures impact financially disproportionately on a particular Community Council, a report be brought back to Cabinet to determine whether there is a case for an exception. (c) That notice of the decision be given to Town and Community Councils and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority (where applicable) to allow time to develop funding arrangements should they wish to keep them open. If, before 5 November 2023, we receive an expression of interest to either fully fund the provision going forward, or a commitment that a community asset transfer will be in place by 31 March 2024, the facility will remain open until this date to allow for arrangements to be made (unless a usual winter closure is in place). (d) That subject to Council consideration and determination of the use of an element of the Second Homes Council Tax Premium to fund elements of the Council budget relating to affordable housing and the sustainability of local communities, this funding be used to fund the contract costs of the toilets in Group 2 for financial year 2023-24 while permanent arrangements are being made. (e) That any toilet which is declared surplus to requirements and closes but is serving, predominantly, the visitor economy will be temporarily retained until the outcome of any future decision on Welsh Government’s proposal for introducing a Visitor Levy is known. [Councillor Paul Miller left the meeting at this juncture].
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the proposed increase in charges (outlined in Appendix A) be advertised via a Notice of Variation and implemented from 3 April 2023, be agreed. (b) That changes to Car Parking Permit charges be approved and implemented from 3 April 2023. (c) That the miscellaneous charging increases proposed be approved and implemented from 3April 2023. (d) That the car parking charging policy be updated to reflect changes. (e) That the feedback on the consultation on Variation Order No 14 to introduce a new off street parking place at County Hall car park into the parking order and schedule be noted and that a car park order be introduced from 3 April 2023 subject to due legal process.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which outlined changes to the current parking charges and the introduction of a new off street car park at County Hall. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that following consideration of the Council’s budget, it had previously been agreed that parking charges would be reviewed to achieve full cost recovery, in order to reduce pressures on the Capital and Revenue budgets. He highlighted that the potential for an increase in parking charges was also consulted upon through the Council Budget Consultation and stated that the report outlined the following proposals: • Parking Charges - Increased Parking Charges across existing charged for car parks, changes to Car Parking Permit charges and other Miscellaneous Charges. • Introducing a new off street car park at County Hall, Haverfordwest. Councillor Sinnett highlighted that the outlined proposals would provide some mitigation for local residents, workers and businesses, and would look for visitors to the County to shoulder some of the greatest share of the increases. He gave assurance that there were no proposals to change existing free car parks into chargeable ones or alter the charging period, with the exception of Riverside Haverfordwest, when the new facility would be available.Councillor Sinnett also stated that technological advances needed to be considered to improve the current payment methods for residents and visitors. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The Street Care and Parking Manager then highlighted the proposals, as outlined in the report, in regards to increasingparking charges across existing charged for car parks, which was due to be above inflation in some off street parking places. He also referred to changes to car parking permit charges, miscellaneous charges and the introduction of a new off street car park at County Hall. Councillor Jon Harvey sought clarification as to whether the funding would go towards parking enforcement. In response,the Street Care and Parking Manager stated that civil enforcement could not be paid for directly out of this particular income, but gave assurance that there was a sufficient amount of staff to carry out parking enforcement and highlighted that the Council were aware of specific hotspots where residential side streets were used for non-resident parking. The Head of Infrastructure then assured Councillor Harvey that work was ongoing on a town by town basis in regards to on-street parking provision. Councillor Alec Cormack sought clarification in regards to electric parking bays and the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) in Council car parks. In response, the Street Care and Parking Manager stated that ANPR could not be used for enforcement purposes but stated that the Council was working with the British Parking Association to discuss. He highlighted that Electric Vehicle charge points needed funding and stated that income was dependent on usage. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the proposed increase in charges (outlined in Appendix A) be advertised via a Notice of Variation and implemented from 3 April 2023, be agreed. (b) That changes to Car Parking Permit charges be approved and implemented from 3 April 2023. (c) That the miscellaneous charging increases proposed be approved and implemented from 3April 2023. (d) That the car parking charging policy be updated to reflect changes. (e) That the feedback on the consultation on Variation Order No 14 to introduce a new off street parking place at County Hall car park into the parking order and schedule be noted and that a car park order be introduced from 3 April 2023 subject to due legal process.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the Leisure Services fees and charges be increased by 5% plus Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which outlined changes to Leisure Services fees and charges. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that due to the current financial climate, the standard inflationary increase would be insufficient to contribute sufficiently towards the Authority’s statutory duty to set a balanced budget. He highlighted that the intention was that an above inflationary increase in fees and charges would enable the service to contribute to the overall Council budget requirements, without having to reduce service provision. Councillor Sinnett stated that during the Pembrokeshire County Council Budget 2023-24 Consultation, undertaken between 5 December 2022 and 12January 2023, the result considered most acceptable was an increase of fees by 5% (above CPI increase). He highlighted that this recommended option would strike the best balance between maximizing income generation and maintaining a service that was affordable and accessible. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Neil Prior. Councillor Jon Harvey sought calcification in regards to the level of increase that would be unaffordable for the public. The Head of Cultural, Leisure and Registration Services stated that it would be impossible to know the highest level until it was too late, but stated that the level would be consistently monitored and reports would be brought back to Cabinet to update Members. Councillor Guy Woodham sought clarification as to whether work was being done regarding concessions. In response, the Head of Cultural, Leisure and Registration Services stated that the drive for concessions for older people was to stay in shape and increasing these costs could have an effect on health and wellbeing, but stated that this aspect could be looked into for future years. Councillor Woodham then sought clarification in regards to how the exercise referral scheme was funded. In response, the Head of Cultural, Leisure and Registration Services stated that it was funded by Public Health Wales and the Council received a grant for the scheme. Councillor Tessa Hodgson suggested the use of 24/7 key codes and sought clarification as to whether that could reviewed. In response, the Head of Cultural, Leisure and Registration Services stated that hours were already extensive across the majority of centres. Councillor Alec Cormack stated his support for the increase. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Leisure Services fees and charges be increased by 5% plus Consumer Price Index (CPI).
The meeting adjourned at 12:00pm and reconvened at 12:13pm.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the introduction of a comprehensive pre-application advice scheme, as set out in Appendix 1, be endorsed. (b) That the non-statutory fee rates, as set out in Appendix 1, be approved. (c) That the formal introduction of Planning Performance Agreements from 1April 2023 be agreed.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Community Services which outlined the introduction of a non-statutory planning advice service. Councillor Jon Harvey, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Planning and Housing Delivery, introduced the report and stated that the statutory pre-application process had been introduced by the Planning Wales Act in 2015. He stated that the Regulations had a set of standard national fees for the purposes of the statutory pre-application service, which had been provided by the Council since the implementation in 2016. Councillor Harvey highlighted that in 2021 to 2022, the Council received a total of £13,640 in fees for the statutory pre-application advice service. However, it was said that providing responses to these pre-application cases did not fully recover cost incurred, including costs relating to site visits which were often required. Councillor Harvey then highlighted what the proposed non-statutory comprehensive pre-application advice service would include, as outlined in the report. Councillor Harvey stated that the introduction of the service and the use of Planning Performance Agreements, should commence no later than 1 April 2023. He highlighted that the introduction of these services would provide a source of income to achieve cost recovery for certain large scale planning applications and to provide developers with assurances in terms of timeframes, contacts and meetings. Councillor Jon Harvey Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. Councillor Rhys Sinnett sought assurance in regards to staff capacity to meet the demands of the pre-application service. In response, the Head of Planning stated that the Planning Department had cleared some of the backlog in regards to applications, which had therefore streamlined the current workload. Councillor Alec Cormack stated his support for the service but suggested that Welsh Government should increase the statutory fees, as the current fees were at a level that could not possibly cover the Council’s costs in regards to pre-applications. Councillor Harvey agreed and stated that the statutory fees were not suitable to support the time and costs of Officers. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the introduction of a comprehensive pre-application advice scheme, as set out in Appendix 1, be endorsed. (b) That the non-statutory fee rates, as set out in Appendix 1, be approved. (c) That the formal introduction of Planning Performance Agreements from 1April 2023 be agreed.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the report and scope of Operation Nightingale 2023 be noted and its aims supported. (b) That a further progress report will be provided for Cabinet in April 2023 be noted. (c) That a business case and request for funding is made to Welsh Government for one year funding for Operation Nightingale 2023 at an estimated cost of £2.5 million, be agreed. (d) That it be agreed that should there be a shortfall in Welsh Government meeting the costs of Operation Nightingale 2023 for the year 2023/24, a further report be presented to Cabinet to consider options.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined the emergency operational footing that had been established under Operation Nightingale 23. Councillor Tessa Hodgson, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Social Care and Safeguarding, introduced the report and stated that the report provided an update on Operation Nightingale, which was the emergency response initiated with the aim of increasing patient flow rate through Withybush Hospital, which enabled medically fit patients to be discharged with an appropriate package of care and support, and therefore improving that patient flow rate, freeing up beds and improving the health and wellbeing for people in need of care. She highlighted that the Council was currently looking at how to sustain the model into the short and medium term. Councillor Hodgson stated that the Operation was a national priority for Welsh Government and a meeting with the Minister was held to discuss the future of Social Care and Health and how the Council could work in a more integrated way. She then stated that the Council was in the process of submitting a Business Case to Welsh Government for additional funding, however, if funding was not received, the proposal was that the Council use the Social Care Equalisation Reserve or the Hardship Fund. Councillor Tessa Hodgson Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The Interim Director of Social Care and Housing stated that what had been achieved in the first few weeks of Operation Nightingale provided solid evidence of what could be achieved if the right amount of funding was diverted into the right areas of work. Councillor Michelle Bateman highlighted the importance of the report being in the public domain, as it showed the ongoing pressures on Council services and the budget, as well as highlighting the scale of the Operation. Councillor Jon Harvey stated that it was important to work with Hywel Dda University Health Board as it was crucial to the wellbeing and safety of people in Pembrokeshire. He also thanked the Social Care team for their hard work. Councillor Alec Cormack stated his support for the emergency response and hoped that the UK and Welsh Governments find the best way to resolve the underlying cause. Councillor Rhys Sinnett sought clarification in regards to the types of packages of care that were being offered, whether it be the complex packages or the basic levels of care and support people would require in order to be discharged. He also referred to the importance of ensuring the availability of occupational therapists once people were discharged and whether community engagement around care packages was being fully utilised. In response, the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing stated that various levels of packages were provided, however, the care required and needs assessments were becoming more complex. In regards to the availability of occupational therapists, the Interim Director stated that there were currently vacancies for occupational therapists, but highlighted that two therapists were recently recruited from overseas. In relation to community engagement, it was said that a group had been set up specifically to monitor the situation, as well as public communications being enhanced to seek support from the public for people being discharged. Councillor Hodgson then thanked the Chief Executive and the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing for initiating the response. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the report and scope of Operation Nightingale 2023 be noted and its aims supported. (b) That a further progress report will be provided for Cabinet in April 2023 be noted. (c) That a business case and request for funding is made to Welsh Government for one year funding for Operation Nightingale 2023 at an estimated cost of £2.5 million, be agreed. (d) That it be agreed that should there be a shortfall in Welsh Government meeting the costs of Operation Nightingale 2023 for the year 2023/24, a further report be presented to Cabinet to consider options.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the Pembrokeshire County Council’s Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan 2022 – 2027 be approved for submission to Welsh Government.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined Pembrokeshire County Council’s Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan 2022 – 2027. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and highlighted the following key points: • There had been a 50% increase in second homes since 2017-18, which was said to be 18% of all second homes in Wales. • In April 2022, there were over 3,500 available listings in Pembrokeshire on Airbnb compared to only 28 in April 2016. • 8.9% of housing in Pembrokeshire was unavailable for use, which was the second highest in Wales. Councillor Bateman also stated that there was currently a £417 difference in the rent between social housing and the private rented sector on a three bed property, which highlighted affordability issues. She also referred to the increase in homeless presentations and the increasing number in regards to the social housing register. She stated that in order for the plan to be successful, it needed to be embedded into the culture and strategic plans of the Authority. She highlighted that partnership working was key and the plan had also been produced in partnership with the Registered Social Landlord (RSL) the Third Sector and colleagues in Health. She stated that this was a long term plan with four main themes: increasing supply, homelessness prevention, tenancy sustainment and reducing the use of temporary accommodation. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. The Leader commended staff for their work under the current pressures. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Pembrokeshire County Council’s Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan 2022 – 2027 be approved for submission to Welsh Government.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the delivery of an Empty Homes Grant Scheme that will entail a 10% match funding from the Council towards the Welsh Government funding, which may be allocated from the Empty Homes Council Tax Premium, be supported. (b) That the proposed recruitment of additional staff capacity for Housing Standards Inspections in the delivery of the Empty Properties Scheme, utilising the Empty/Second Homes Council Tax Premium, be noted. (c) That authority be delegated to the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing to sign and seal the Service Level Agreement for the National Empty Homes Grant Scheme between Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and Pembrokeshire County Council. (d) That the following figures be added to the Capital Programme: £3,284,100 made up of £2,985,546 grant funding and £298,554 match funding and profile of spend will be £1,492,773 in 2023-24 and £1,492,773 in 2024-25. To note these are indicative figures which will be confirmed by Welsh Government on an annual basis based on empty property figures.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined the National Empty Homes Scheme Grant Funding for 2023-2024-2025. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and stated that Welsh Government had made funding available, along with the requirement of match funding, to deal with the issue of empty properties. She highlighted that the details of the grants were outlined in the report and that the match funding would come from the Empty Properties Premium. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the delivery of an Empty Homes Grant Scheme that will entail a 10% match funding from the Council towards the Welsh Government funding, which may be allocated from the Empty Homes Council Tax Premium, be supported. (b) That the proposed recruitment of additional staff capacity for Housing Standards Inspections in the delivery of the Empty Properties Scheme, utilising the Empty/Second Homes Council Tax Premium, be noted. (c) That authority be delegated to the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing to sign and seal the Service Level Agreement for the National Empty Homes Grant Scheme between Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and Pembrokeshire County Council. (d) That the following figures be added to the Capital Programme: £3,284,100 made up of £2,985,546 grant funding and £298,554 match funding and profile of spend will be £1,492,773 in 2023-24 and £1,492,773 in 2024-25. To note these are indicative figures which will be confirmed by Welsh Government on an annual basis based on empty property figures.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the bid submission detailing the Decarbonisation Programme for the Council’s housing stock for 2022 – 2025 be approved, in order to claim the funding available from the Welsh Government’s Optimised Retrofit Programme; and that the Housing Revenue Account be used to match funding up to the overall scheme costs for improving the energy efficiency of Council housing.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined the offer of funding related to the Optimised Retrofit Programme 3 for Council Housing. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and stated that the Council had received an offer for funding which related to the Optimised Retrofit Scheme, which would be match funded from the Housing Revenue Account. She highlighted that the report outlined the details in regards to how the funding would be utilised. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the bid submission detailing the Decarbonisation Programme for the Council’s housing stock for 2022 – 2025 be approved, in order to claim the funding available from the Welsh Government’s Optimised Retrofit Programme; and that the Housing Revenue Account be used to match funding up to the overall scheme costs for improving the energy efficiency of Council housing.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the allocation of Second Homes and Empty Properties Council Tax Premium be agreed to reduce pressures in the Housing Service sector, and to increase the supply of social and affordable housing in the County through a range of programme initiatives reported to Cabinet annually. To include: (a) Accelerating the pace of social and affordable housing delivery through support for ‘turn-key’ developments. (b) Development and support for an empty property grant scheme. (c) Development of an Affordable housing/shared ownership product for Pembrokeshire. (d) Support for the establishment and delivery of Community Led Housing Developments. (e) Funding to relieve pressure across homelessness through increasing housing acquisitions.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined the utilisation of Long-term Empty Dwellings and Dwellings Periodically Occupied Council Tax Premium for Delivery of Affordable Housing in Pembrokeshire. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and stated that it outlined how income generated from the Second Homes and Empty Homes Council Tax Premium could be utilised to support housing in Pembrokeshire. She stated that the outlined spending plan was part of a wider Housing Strategy for Pembrokeshire which was currently being developed and that it would include planning considerations as well as the measures from Welsh Government in regards to second homes and short term holiday lets. She stated that this programme was in addition to the Council’s own development programme. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. Councillor Jon Harvey stated his support and highlighted that the Council must ensure that sufficient monies were allocated for the delivery of social and affordable housing. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the allocation of Second Homes and Empty Properties Council Tax Premium be agreed to reduce pressures in the Housing Service sector, and to increase the supply of social and affordable housing in the County through a range of programme initiatives reported to Cabinet annually. To include: (a) Accelerating the pace of social and affordable housing delivery through support for ‘turn-key’ developments. (b) Development and support for an empty property grant scheme. (c) Development of an Affordable housing/shared ownership product for Pembrokeshire. (d) Support for the establishment and delivery of Community Led Housing Developments. (e) Funding to relieve pressure across homelessness through increasing housing acquisitions.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing be delegated authority to progress and sign off the award of the contract under the Framework as set out in the report.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined tenders for heating contractors to set up a framework agreement for the installation and replacement of heating systems within the Council’s Housing Stock. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operations and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and stated that the report clearly outlined the framework agreement. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Interim Director of Social Care and Housing be delegated authority to progress and sign off the award of the contract under the Framework as set out in the report.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the additions to the Capital Programme for 2022-23 to 2023-24, as set out in Appendix A, be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined new projects to be included in the current Capital Programme. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and outlined the full business cases for the Registrar’s System and the acquisition of a small care home. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Tessa Hodgson. Councillor Tessa Hodgson stated that she welcomed the acquisition of a small care home as placements outside of the County were expensive and stated that such placements were not usually the best place for a young person to be. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the additions to the Capital Programme for 2022-23 to 2023-24, as set out in Appendix A, be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Revised Draft County Council Budget for 2023-24, including movement in earmarked reserves and the General Fund working balance, be approved. (b) That the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2023-24, inclusive of the increased Mutual Investment Fund (MIM) contribution, be recommended to Council as 7.50% (£93.69 per annum £1.80 per week), unless Recommendation (i) be rejected by Council, in which case it be recommended that there be a 12.9% increase in Council Tax. (c) That the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2024-25 to 2026-27, inclusive of the MIM contribution, be 7.50% for the remainder of the Medium Term Financial Plan 2023-24 to 2026-27. (d) That the indicative Capital Programme for 2023-24 to 2026-27 and the Capital Strategy 2023-34 to 2026-27 be approved. (e) That the prudential indicators for capital and revenue estimates for 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved. (f) That the Summary Medium Term Financial Plan 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved. (g) That the revised Strategy for Holding and Utilising Reserves be approved. (h) That the Council Tax Premiums for Second Homes and Long Term Empty Properties be retained for 2023-24 at their existing levels. (i) That the income generated from the Council Tax Premium for Second Homes be allocated for 2023-24 to 2027-28 as follows: (1) 75% to fund elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities; (2) 75% (of the remaining 25%) for the Affordable Housing programme; (3) 25% (of the remaining 25%) for the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant scheme. (j) That the Council Tax Premium for Second Homes be utilised until 2027-28 to provide funding for the Affordable Housing programme, the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant, and elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities, in accordance with section 14.2. (k) That the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) estimates for 2023-24 be approved. (l) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, be delegated authority to make amendments to the County Council Budget report for 2023-24, prior to it being considered by Council on 2 March 2023. (m)That the report be adopted as the Cabinet’s proposals for the County Council Budget for 2023-24, subject to the amendments at (l) above. [Councillor Michelle Bateman left the meeting at this juncture].
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the revised Draft County Council Budget for 2023-24 and Summary Medium Term Financial Plan for 2023-24 – 2026-27. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and stated thateven at this late stage, budget assumptions could still change. He highlighted that 100% of the income from Council Tax Premiums for empty properties had been allocated to bringing empty properties back into use in 2022-23. He stated that no changes to either the rate or usage of the Empty Homes Premium was proposed for 2023-24. Councillor Cormack also highlighted that the Council hadbeen advised that, due to inflation in construction projects and interest rate rises, the projected annual revenue costs of the Mutual Investment Model (MIM), was likely to at least double and that in 2023 to 2024, £0.4 million funded by a 0.57% increase in Council Tax would be allocated to the MIM. Councillor Cormack then stated that subject to affordability, it was proposed that there would be a 10.1% CPI increase in the Capital Financing Costs Cap, to £15.98 million per annum. He also thanked all residents who responded to the budget consultation. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendations as written, with Recommendations (b) and (c) amended to the effect that: (b) That the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2023-24, inclusive of the increased Mutual Investment Fund (MIM) contribution, be recommended to Council as 7.50% (£93.69 per annum £1.80 per week), unless Recommendation (i) be rejected by Council, in which case it be recommended that there be a 12.9% increase in Council Tax. (c) That the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2024-25 to 2026-27, inclusive of the MIM contribution, be 7.50% for the remainder of the Medium Term Financial Plan 2023-24 to 2026-27. Seconded by the Leader. The Leader then thanked Councillors Cormack, all Officers, the Director of Resources and the Chief Executive for their hard work. Councillor Neil Prior also thanked Officers for their hard work. Councillor Michelle Bateman sought clarification as to whether there was any feedback from the Joint Negotiating Consultative Group at their meeting on 10 February 2023. In response, Councillor Cormack stated that there was no particular indication given with regard to Council Tax, but stated that the Group appreciated the openness of the Council throughout the budget process. The Leader added that the Group was supportive of the proposed recommendations. Councillor Bateman then stated that it was a budget of compromise and hoped that the result would be the best option for residents. Councillor Rhys Sinnett then sought clarification in regards to future budget setting processes and the difference in cost improvements between the 5% and 7.5% tax rise. In response, Councillor Cormack stated that it was difficult to predict future budget processes due to situations, such as the war in Ukraine and the increase within the energy market. In regards to the potential Council Tax rise, Councillor Cormack stated that the small amount of extra money to stop closures was good value, but believed that a 7.5% rise would be more beneficial. Councillor Guy Woodham sought clarification in regards to whether the Council would have the lowest level of Council Tax if a 7.5% tax increase was approved. He stated that this was an ongoing concern and that Pembrokeshire was disadvantaged by having the lowest Council Tax in Wales. In response, Councillor Cormack confirmed that would be the case but stated that with inflation decreasing in the future, Pembrokeshire would be in a better position to take higher increases of Council Tax. The Leader stated that he was not proud to have the lowest level of Council Tax in Wales, as it could not be spent on services for residents. Councillor Cormack then thanked the Director of Resources and his team for their hard work on the budget. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Revised Draft County Council Budget for 2023-24, including movement in earmarked reserves and the General Fund working balance, be approved. (b) That the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2023-24, inclusive of the increased Mutual Investment Fund (MIM) contribution, be recommended to Council as 7.50% (£93.69 per annum £1.80 per week), unless Recommendation (i) be rejected by Council, in which case it be recommended that there be a 12.9% increase in Council Tax. (c) That the level of Council Tax ‘Band D’ increase for 2024-25 to 2026-27, inclusive of the MIM contribution, be 7.50% for the remainder of the Medium Term Financial Plan 2023-24 to 2026-27. (d) That the indicative Capital Programme for 2023-24 to 2026-27 and the Capital Strategy 2023-34 to 2026-27 be approved. (e) That the prudential indicators for capital and revenue estimates for 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved. (f) That the Summary Medium Term Financial Plan 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved. (g) That the revised Strategy for Holding and Utilising Reserves be approved. (h) That the Council Tax Premiums for Second Homes and Long Term Empty Properties be retained for 2023-24 at their existing levels. (i) That the income generated from the Council Tax Premium for Second Homes be allocated for 2023-24 to 2027-28 as follows: (1) 75% to fund elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities; (2) 75% (of the remaining 25%) for the Affordable Housing programme; (3) 25% (of the remaining 25%) for the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant scheme. (j) That the Council Tax Premium for Second Homes be utilised until 2027-28 to provide funding for the Affordable Housing programme, the Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant, and elements of the Council’s budget relating to affordable housing and enhancing the sustainability of local communities, in accordance with section 14.2. (k) That the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) estimates for 2023-24 be approved. (l) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, be delegated authority to make amendments to the County Council Budget report for 2023-24, prior to it being considered by Council on 2 March 2023. (m)That the report be adopted as the Cabinet’s proposals for the County Council Budget for 2023-24, subject to the amendments at (l) above. [Councillor Michelle Bateman left the meeting at this juncture].
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Treasury Management Strategy 2023-24 to 2026-27, including the Policy on Borrowing in Advance of Need, the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy, the Treasury Limits, the Prudential Indicators and Borrowing Requirements, be approved, with an effective date of 1 April 2023. (b) That the Annual Investment Strategy for 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the annual Treasury Management Governance Arrangements. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and stated that with rising interest rates to the treasury function, it gave the Council the capability to deliver a revenue stream within the clearly defined risk parameters, as outlined in the report. He highlighted that the investment income achieved for the Treasury team over the last year, totalling £1.8 million, was £1.5 million over budget and had been one of the key factors after vacancy management, which had reduced the in-year budget deficit. Councillor Cormack also highlighted that the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy(CIPFA), had published a revised Prudential and Transit Treasury Code in December 2021, and formal adoption of those requirements was said be included in the strategy. He then stated that any increase to the net revenue stream percentage would considerably reduce the flexibility within future revenue budgets, therefore a review of affordability over the 15 year period was being undertaken and would subsequently be considered by Cabinet and the Senior Leadership Team. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation. Councillor Rhys Sinnett sought clarification in regards to the reporting mechanism of the strategy. The Director of Resources confirmed that the Treasury Management Strategy had been approved by full Council in the past, but the monitoring of the strategy was said to be a function of Cabinet and highlighted that it was included within the quarterly Budget Monitoring reports. He highlighted that the Budget Monitoring report was also considered by the Corporate Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Governance and Audit Committee on a quarterly basis. Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Treasury Management Strategy 2023-24 to 2026-27, including the Policy on Borrowing in Advance of Need, the Minimum Revenue Provision Policy, the Treasury Limits, the Prudential Indicators and Borrowing Requirements, be approved, with an effective date of 1 April 2023. (b) That the Annual Investment Strategy for 2023-24 to 2026-27 be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, capital, reserves, revenue collections and treasury management) for January 2023 (2022-23) be approved. (b) That the proposed virements greater than £0.050m be approved. (c) That the proposed appropriations from reserves, utilising earmarked reserve funding in place for specific services, be approved. (d) That the moratorium on all non-essential expenditure and the freeze on all non-essential recruitment will remain in place for the reminder of the financial year, be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the County Council Budget Monitoring Report for Quarter 3 – 2022-23. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and stated that the projected outturn for 2022 to 2023 as of January 2023, was forecast to be £264.7 million, which represented a projected underspend of £1.6 million, which was said to be an improvement of £3.5 million on the November 2022 position. He stated that this improved position reflected the full year impact of a continued high level of vacancies across all service areas, which had offset the pay award pressure that was estimated in November 2022. Councillor Cormack also stated that at January 2023, the projected vacancy saving was estimated at £4.4 million across all service areas (excluding Schools and HRA), which equated to around 2.4% of the total budgeted salary cost. Councillor Cormack then referred to the moratorium on all non-essential expenditure, the Social Care Equalisation Reserve, the Highways projected overspend and the projected net outturn for the Council Tax Reduction Scheme, as outlined in the report. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. Councillor Cormack also wished to state that in regards to unfilled vacancies, despite the Council managing without the outlined vacancies, it did not mean that the Council was overstaffed. He stated that the Council must get to a point where staff were not working past their contracted hours to ensure a proper work and home life balance for all staff. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, capital, reserves, revenue collections and treasury management) for January 2023 (2022-23) be approved. (b) That the proposed virements greater than £0.050m be approved. (c) That the proposed appropriations from reserves, utilising earmarked reserve funding in place for specific services, be approved. (d) That the moratorium on all non-essential expenditure and the freeze on all non-essential recruitment will remain in place for the reminder of the financial year, be noted.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED Thatthe Draft Procurement Strategy 2023 – 2027 and the Responsible Procurement Objectives as set out in the report, be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Financial Services which outlined the Draft Procurement Strategy for 2023-2027. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and stated that the Strategy attempted to meet the requirements of different procurement objectives, such as obtaining value for money, procuring responsibly, and supporting local small and medium enterprises and voluntary community and social enterprises. The Strategy also recognised that these objectives could sometimes be in conflict with one another and that achieving the best outcome would often depend on the circumstances surrounding a particular procurement exercise. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Neil Prior. The Head of Financial Services stated that with an annual spend externally on goods, services and works of approximately £220 to £230 million, the Council must ensure that funds were spent responsibly. Councillor Jon Harvey stated his support for the strategy. Councillor Neil Prior stated that he was keen to participate with the Strategy. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED Thatthe Draft Procurement Strategy 2023 – 2027 and the Responsible Procurement Objectives as set out in the report, be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Leader be invited to review the Individual Cabinet Member (ICM) delegation in order to provide a streamlined means to approve Open Call applications to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). (b) That the UKSPF funding for the four Anchor projects detailed in Annexes A to D of the report be approved in principle, with authority delegated to the Director of Resources in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to approve the award of funding subject to satisfactory final completion of the detailed appraisal of each project. (c) That, subject to the approval of the Communities Anchor Project, the award of grants in excess of the limits set out in the Constitution under the grant scheme forming part of that Anchor Project, as described in Annex A, with authority delegated to the Director of Community Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Improvements and Communities. (d) That, subject to the approval of each of the Anchor Projects for Placemaking in Pembrokeshire, Business Support and People and Skills, the award of grants in excess of the limits set out in the Constitution under grant schemes forming part of these Anchor Projects, as detailed at Annexes B to D respectively, with authority delegated to the Director of Community Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change. (e) That in line with the UKSPF guidance, 4% of the UKSPF allocation be earmarked for administrative work in relation to the programme amounting to £765,039 from the UKSPF core budget and £159,692 from Multiply. (f) That six-monthly reports be received on progress in the implementation of the UKSPF in Pembrokeshire. (g) That the Integrated Impact Assessment at Annex F be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the implementation of theUK Shared Prosperity Fund. Councillor Neil Prior, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Improvement and Communities, introduced the report and stated that the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) would provide funding towards four “Anchor” projects that would provide an immediate start in delivering in Pembrokeshire against some of the key components of the South West Wales Regional Investment Plan.Following the approval of the Investment Plan by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), UKSPF funding of £23 million was available to deliver the objectives of the Plan. Councillor Prior highlighted that the funding needed to be utilised by 31 March 2025 with the projects ideally being completed by 31 December 2024. Councillor Neil Prior Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. Councillor Alec Cormack suggested that, due to the potential overlap between Community Anchor projects and Enhancing Pembrokeshire projects, whether a single expression of interest form could be created in order to reduce the amount of paperwork for Officers. In response, Councillor Prior agreed that it would be beneficial to make the process as streamlined as possible. The External Funding Manager and Brexit Lead Officer stated that the idea of a single expression of interest form was being explored. He stated that flowcharts were being developed to explain the process and help potential applicants to understand where best to pitch their ideas. Councillor Prior sought clarification as to whether the 4% allocation earmarked for administrative work, as outlined in the report, was for the entire programme. The External Funding Manager and Brexit Lead Officer confirmed that this was the case. Councillor Prior also sought clarification in regards to what needed to be done to ensure that the projects could be launched as soon as possible. The External Funding Manager and Brexit Lead Officer stated that it was largely reliant on Swansea City Council, as they still needed to accept the grant on behalf of South-West Wales from DLUHC, as well a sign off the memorandum of understanding and put in place a service level agreement with each of the other three Authorities. He stated that the programme should start in April 2023. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Leader be invited to review the Individual Cabinet Member (ICM) delegation in order to provide a streamlined means to approve Open Call applications to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). (b) That the UKSPF funding for the four Anchor projects detailed in Annexes A to D of the report be approved in principle, with authority delegated to the Director of Resources in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to approve the award of funding subject to satisfactory final completion of the detailed appraisal of each project. (c) That, subject to the approval of the Communities Anchor Project, the award of grants in excess of the limits set out in the Constitution under the grant scheme forming part of that Anchor Project, as described in Annex A, with authority delegated to the Director of Community Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Improvements and Communities. (d) That, subject to the approval of each of the Anchor Projects for Placemaking in Pembrokeshire, Business Support and People and Skills, the award of grants in excess of the limits set out in the Constitution under grant schemes forming part of these Anchor Projects, as detailed at Annexes B to D respectively, with authority delegated to the Director of Community Services, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Place, the Region and Climate Change. (e) That in line with the UKSPF guidance, 4% of the UKSPF allocation be earmarked for administrative work in relation to the programme amounting to £765,039 from the UKSPF core budget and £159,692 from Multiply. (f) That six-monthly reports be received on progress in the implementation of the UKSPF in Pembrokeshire. (g) That the Integrated Impact Assessment at Annex F be noted.
This item of business was withdrawn.
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