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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 request for a full structural survey not be supported. (b) That the request for an examination of the potential of the Market Hall be supported.
RESOLVED (a) That the history of the Community Asset Transfer for this site, as submitted in previous reports reviewed by the Cabinet, be noted. (b) That authority be delegated to the Assistant Chef Executive to conclude the transfer of this asset on a long lease basis, with appropriate and suitable measures in place for the protection of the asset, the Council’s interest and the delivery of the business plan.
RESOLVED That Option 1, as set out in the report, be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That the Capital Business Case (CBC) for the Local Places for Nature (LPfN) grant programme 2023-2025 as set out in Appendix A to the report, be noted. (b) That projects which will be delivered by the Council, be approved in order for the projects to be accepted onto the Council’s capital investment programme. (c) That the award of grants to the relevant parties for projects which will be delivered by third parties, be approved. (d) That authority be delegated to the Assistant Chief Executive to award further grants from the LPfN funding for 2023-24 and 2024-25.
RESOLVED That the draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved.
RESOLVED That the approved Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meeting held on 14 June 2023, be noted.
RESOLVED (a) The contents of the report be noted. (b) That the Budget and the draft Medium Term Financial Plan be endorsed following approval by the Joint Committee. (c) That the decisions made in relation to the Second Language Acquisitions (SLA’s) for 2023-2024, the contribution from reserve for 2023-24, in lieu of the Local Authority contributions, be approved. (d) That the utilisation of the £1.492m reserves and balances from ERW to create a Partneriaeth working balance of £0.100m and a Partneriaeth reserve of £1.392m, be endorsed.
RESOLVED That the School Transport Policy remain unchanged for 2024-25, and that further due diligence be required, particularly in relation to its alignment with the Welsh in Education Strategic Plan.
RESOLVED That the report be noted.
RESOLVED That the Leisure Services provision currently located at the former Tasker Milward School site be discontinued, and that the areas occupied by those facilities be repurposed as part of the redevelopment of Portfield School.
RESOLVED That the Regional Maternity and Early Years Strategy be approved and adopted.
RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, capital, capital rollover, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2024-25 to 2027-28 Medium Term Financial Plan ((MTFP) update) for Quarter 1 2023-24 be approved. (b) That the proposed virements greater than £0.100m be approved. (c) That the moratorium on all non-essential expenditure which is now in force, be noted. The Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s) will now implement in-year savings measures to address the projected overspend for 2023-24. (d) That it be noted that under the Chief Executive, Directorates are working with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s), in consultation with the Director of Resources and Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative Budget gap of £20.0 million for 2024-25 and £46.9 million across the period of the MTFP. (e) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the MTFP and that this will be reported to Members quarterly.
RESOLVED (a) That the further progress report on Operation Nightingale 2023 be noted. (b) That option 2b be endorsed, which will see Adult Services sustain the additional staffing, whilst refining and redesigning processes to aid timely and effective transfers of patients out of hospital.
RESOLVED (a) That the invitation for and evaluation of tenders via the Communities and Housing Investment Consortium (CHIC) Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), be approved. (b) That authority be delegated to the Director of Social Services & Housing for the subsequent award of a contract in accordance with the Authority’s Contract Procedure Rules.
RESOLVED (a) That the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) update be noted. (b) That all funding decisions be subject to confirmation of UKSPF funding by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) through Swansea Council. (c) That the maximum grant be capped at £550k per bid by Cabinet. (d) That the applications set out in Annex B Table B1 be approved in principle up to their full grant request, or the grant cap whichever is the lesser, subject to satisfactory completion of final review including detailed budget examination. (e) That the application listed in Annex B Table B2 be rejected. (f) That the applications set out in Annex C Table C1 be approved in principle up to their full grant request or the grant cap whichever is the lesser, subject to satisfactory completion of final review by the Director of Resources including resolution of queries, and detailed budget examination, with funding for these projects ring-fenced for two months, after which the funds are to be released to other applications. (g) That Option 2 (second Open Call) be chosen. (h) That authority be delegated to the Director of Resources to advertise an Open Call. (i) That the applications in Table D2 of Annex D be considered for addition to Table D1 and subject to the delegation at Decision (h). (j) That all applications shown shaded in Annex D be rejected on the grounds that they fail to meet the minimum quality threshold. (k) That authority be delegated to the Director or Resources, in conjunction with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to agree the precise amount of grant awards in respect of applications submitted through the Open Call, provided this is below the grant cap or grant request approved by Cabinet. (l) That authority be delegated to the Director of Resources, in conjunction with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to increase the grant approval up to 10% on individual budget lines where justified, limited to 5% of the total grant request for the project, to accommodate changes in project design or budgets, subject to funds being available. (m)That one or more Subsidy Scheme(s) be developed and notified to simplify the process of compliance with the Subsidy Control Act 2022 in relation to UKSPF grant awards.
The following declaration was made: Item 5 – Disposal of Council Land as a Community Asset Transfer: Gelliswick Bay Councillor Tessa Hodgson declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of her mother being a Member of the Hakin and Hubberston forum for Invest Local, which had been involved in the project. Councillor Alec Cormack sought clarification as to whether Members would need to declare an interest in item 15, UK Shared Prosperity Fund: 6-monthly update, by virtue of the fact that the Council had submit various applications for funding. The Head of Law and Governance / Monitoring Officer stated that it was not necessary for Members to declare an interest merely by being a Councillor, unless there had been direct involvement with any of the applications.
Councillor Jon Harvey Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Guy Woodham. The vote was taken by way of a show of hands and carried. RESOLVED That the Minutes of the Cabinet Meeting held on 3 July 2023 be approved as a correct record.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the request for a full structural survey not be supported. (b) That the request for an examination of the potential of the Market Hall be supported.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Chief Property Officer which outlined the Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Michael Williams to Council on 13 July 2023, regarding a structural survey of the Tenby Market Building. The Notice of Motion was submitted as follows: That Pembrokeshire County Council initiate a full structural survey of Tenby market building to establish the condition of the building, together with an examination of its potential. The building is a listed building of considerable historical significance in the Town centre, which has sadly lacked investment over many years. In response to the Notice of Motion, Councillor Paul Miller, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Place, the Region and Climate Change, introduced the report and stated that he agreed with Councillor Williams that the Market building had more potential and that the time was right for an assessment of the building, with various options for its future to be brought back to Cabinet in due course. Councillor Paul Miller 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 (a) That the request for a full structural survey not be supported. (b) That the request for an examination of the potential of the Market Hall be supported.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the history of the Community Asset Transfer for this site, as submitted in previous reports reviewed by the Cabinet, be noted. (b) That authority be delegated to the Assistant Chef Executive to conclude the transfer of this asset on a long lease basis, with appropriate and suitable measures in place for the protection of the asset, the Council’s interest and the delivery of the business plan.
[Having previously declared a personal and prejudicial interest in this item of business, Councillor Tessa Hodgson withdrew from the meeting.] Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Chief Property Officer which outlined a Community Asset Transfer (CAT) disposal. Councillor Paul Miller, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Place, the Region and Climate Change, introduced the report and stated that he was supportive of the disposal and highlighted that it was a great opportunity for Hakin and Hubberston to create something sustainable that invests in their communities for the future. Councillor Paul Miller 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, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Guy Woodham [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the history of the Community Asset Transfer for this site, as submitted in previous reports reviewed by the Cabinet, be noted. (b) That authority be delegated to the Assistant Chef Executive to conclude the transfer of this asset on a long lease basis, with appropriate and suitable measures in place for the protection of the asset, the Council’s interest and the delivery of the business plan.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That Option 1, as set out in the report, be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Chief Property Officer which outlined financial support for Haverfordwest Town Museum in establishing a temporary pop-up museum within Haverfordwest town centre. Councillor Paul Miller, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Place, the Region and Climate Change, introduced the report and stated that as a result of the ongoing regeneration of Haverfordwest Castle, the museum located within the Castle required alternative premises and it was for the Council to assist and support the move. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Rhys Sinnett. Councillor Sinnett agreed with Councillor Miller, as well as Option 1 as outlined in the report, and stated that it was an important project to support. The Leader sought clarification as to whether the findings of the recent archaeological dig would be presented in the museum. Councillor Miller stated that he was unsure of what would be presented in the museum, but explained that the findings were due to be re-buried elsewhere. Councillor Alec Cormack also expressed his support for Option 1, as outlined in the report, and that it was fair of the Council to cover the costs of the temporary move. The Head of Law and Governance then raised that in order to maintain the confidentiality of the information contained within the exempt Appendix, Cabinet would need to resolve to go into Private Session to exclude the public. Councillor Paul Miller Moved to exclude the public from the meeting; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried The Webcast of the meeting was then paused. In Private session, Members discussed the financial details of the support on offer. The Webcast of the meeting then resumed. 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 Option 1, as set out in the report, be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Capital Business Case (CBC) for the Local Places for Nature (LPfN) grant programme 2023-2025 as set out in Appendix A to the report, be noted. (b) That projects which will be delivered by the Council, be approved in order for the projects to be accepted onto the Council’s capital investment programme. (c) That the award of grants to the relevant parties for projects which will be delivered by third parties, be approved. (d) That authority be delegated to the Assistant Chief Executive to award further grants from the LPfN funding for 2023-24 and 2024-25.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Planning which outlined the Capital Business Case (CBC) for the Local Places for Nature (LPfN) grant programme 2023-2025. Councillor Jon Harvey, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Planning and Housing Delivery, introduced the report and highlighted the amount of funding received, as well as the projects that would benefit from the grant, as outlined in Appendix A to the report. He stated that all projects would enhance nature and biodiversity in the local area, with some projects being delivered directly by the Council, whilst others would be delivered by third parties. He then thanked the team for their hard work in securing the grant award. Councillor Jon Harvey Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Neil Prior. The Leader praised the programme and the positive change it enabled within the County. 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 Capital Business Case (CBC) for the Local Places for Nature (LPfN) grant programme 2023-2025 as set out in Appendix A to the report, be noted. (b) That projects which will be delivered by the Council, be approved in order for the projects to be accepted onto the Council’s capital investment programme. (c) That the award of grants to the relevant parties for projects which will be delivered by third parties, be approved. (d) That authority be delegated to the Assistant Chief Executive to award further grants from the LPfN funding for 2023-24 and 2024-25.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Democratic Services which outlined the draft Cabinet Forward Work Programme for October 2023 to March 2024. The Leader, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Matters, introduced the report and highlighted the upcoming items that would be deliberated by Cabinet at their meetings over the next six months. The Leader Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors 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 draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the approved Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meeting held on 14 June 2023, be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Resources which outlined the approved Minutes of Meeting of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board held on 14 June 2023. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and highlighted that the main focus of the last meeting of the Board was the Mutual Investment Model approach to fund the Milford Haven School projects, and whether it should be continued or whether Capital Funding should be considered as an alternative approach. Councillor Woodham also outlined the timelines for getting a further report to Cabinet and subsequently Council in October 2023. Councillor Woodham sought clarification as to whether there was an update on the financial information regarding the Milford Haven School projects. In response, the Interim Director of Resources stated that the information was still being collated and would be available within the week. Councillor Woodham accepted this and asked that it be brought to an informal Cabinet session for Members to have sight of the information. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation. Councillor Woodham then asked for reassurance in relation to the proposed timeline in getting the financial information to Council in October, as outlined in the draft Minutes, in order for a decision to be made in regards to the funding arrangements for the project. In response, the Chief Executive suggested that due to various challenges, the matter may be moved to a November timeline, but stated that he would discuss this with the Interim Director of Resources and once a feasible plan was established, would go back to Councillor Woodham outside of the meeting. Councillor Woodham accepted this and asked that extraordinary meetings also be considered. The Recommendation was Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. Councillor Cormack supported the comments made by Councillor Woodham and stated that it was essential for the update report to go to full Council as soon as possible, in order to confirm the way forward for the projects in Milford. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the approved Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meeting held on 14 June 2023, be noted.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) The contents of the report be noted. (b) That the Budget and the draft Medium Term Financial Plan be endorsed following approval by the Joint Committee. (c) That the decisions made in relation to the Second Language Acquisitions (SLA’s) for 2023-2024, the contribution from reserve for 2023-24, in lieu of the Local Authority contributions, be approved. (d) That the utilisation of the £1.492m reserves and balances from ERW to create a Partneriaeth working balance of £0.100m and a Partneriaeth reserve of £1.392m, be endorsed.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the Partneriaeth Budget for 2023-2024. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that there had been a number of changes to the draft budget, following the 18 May confirmation of Welsh Government funding for 2023-2024, and referenced the changes as outlined in the report. Councillor Guy Woodham 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, 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) The contents of the report be noted. (b) That the Budget and the draft Medium Term Financial Plan be endorsed following approval by the Joint Committee. (c) That the decisions made in relation to the Second Language Acquisitions (SLA’s) for 2023-2024, the contribution from reserve for 2023-24, in lieu of the Local Authority contributions, be approved. (d) That the utilisation of the £1.492m reserves and balances from ERW to create a Partneriaeth working balance of £0.100m and a Partneriaeth reserve of £1.392m, be endorsed.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the School Transport Policy remain unchanged for 2024-25, and that further due diligence be required, particularly in relation to its alignment with the Welsh in Education Strategic Plan.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Infrastructure and Environment which outlined future changes to the School Transport Policy. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that the Policy remained unchanged, but that it was a requirement by Welsh Government that the Policy be reviewed by Cabinet in September, and highlighted that the Policy would be applied from the following September (2024).Councillor Woodham explained that further work needed to be done in relation to the Welsh Medium School catchment areas, to establish the potential costs in relation to any changes to the Transport Policy. He accepted that Officers required more time to be able to undertake that piece of work to inform a further review of the Policy, with the results being presented to Cabinet in 2024. He clarified that the implementation of any changes in 2024 would have the commencement date of September 2025. 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 School Transport Policy remain unchanged for 2024-25, and that further due diligence be required, particularly in relation to its alignment with the Welsh in Education Strategic Plan.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the report be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the creation of a new Regional Partnership for Sport and Physical Activity in West Wales, and subsequent changes to the funding model for Sport Wales and Local Authorities. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that the report was for information only regarding the creation of a new Regional Partnership for Sport and Physical Activity in West Wales and subsequent changes to the funding model for Sport Wales and Local Authorities. He highlighted that the context behind the formation of a Regional Partnership for sport and physical activity, was the national vision for sport in Wales and also the Sport Wales Strategy, which envisaged a Wales where everyone was active. He explained that Sport Wales had identified the need to change, where everyone had the opportunity to have a lifelong enjoyment of sport. He stated that despite multiple efforts and interventions, some people were still unable to access opportunities to participate and enjoy being physically active. Councillor Woodham then highlighted the key points as outlined in the report, including expectations, progress to date, implications to the funding mechanism and timescales. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Tessa Hodgson. Councillor Hodgson welcomed the report and the aims of the Regional Partnership. She sought reassurance that the needs of Pembrokeshire residents were at the centre of the work of the Regional Partnership. In regards to the outlined Organisations that supported the work, she believed them to not be inclusive, as there was no representation for women’s sports, or sports for people with disabilities or for people from minority communities. She asked for reassurance that such groups would be fully represented going forward. In response, Councillor Woodham agreed and stated that the development of the Partnership was still in its early stages. He explained that he also had some concerns over Regional working, but was very confident personally that the Authority was very focused on delivering the best outcomes for the residents of Pembrokeshire. He stated that he would expect to see more diverse partners coming on board as the Partnership developed. The Chief Executive stated that Councillor Hodgson made some very relevant points and stated that the Authority would monitor her observations where equality was concerned, as the Partnership progressed. In regards to Board composition, as outlined on page 151 of the Agenda, the Chief Executive referred to the specific representatives for equality, young people and community, and that hopefully Members would be reassured by the outlined allocations. The Sports Pembrokeshire Team Leader explained that there were National Partners that sat across all five Regional and Sports Partnerships, which included Disability Sport Wales and Street Games Wales, and were said to be strong advocates for the tackling of inequalities that existed within sport. He also explained that the Authority had a proven track record of being able to shape and support the people of Pembrokeshire from a strategic perspective and aligned resources accordingly, as well as having an influencing position within the Partnership with regard to the identification of the priorities for the Region. Councillor Paul Miller stated that he was an advocate for working regionally, but raised a concern around investment being prioritised in areas other than Pembrokeshire, and sought reassurance that this would not be the case. In response, the Sports Pembrokeshire Team Leader stated that it was a legitimate concern but raised that the creation of the five regional entities would ensure that resources would be allocated on a regional basis. Councillor Miller reiterated his concerns and did not wish for a concentration of facilities based solely in Carmarthenshire, as that would not be a good outcome for the residents of Pembrokeshire. He asked Councillor Woodham and the relevant Officers to be vocal at meetings of the Regional Partnership, on behalf of the people of Pembrokeshire. Councillor Alec Cormack sought clarification in regards to the logic behind the proposed structure of the Partnership, as outlined in the report, and whether ‘limited by guarantee’ implied that the body would try to make access to private loans or other financial opportunities. In response, the Sports Pembrokeshire Team Leader explained that the outlined structure was put in place to potentially broaden the opportunity for access to private funding from sponsorship, as well as to potentially gain charitable status in the future, which would widen the scope for various networks for funding. Councillor Rhys Sinnett sought reassurance that start-up costs for the new organisation would be from Welsh Government and that no existing budgets would be reduced to cover the costs. The Sports Pembrokeshire Team Leader assured Members that such costs would be covered by Sports Wales, as confirmed by the Regional Manager for Sports Partnerships. He also mentioned that indicative budgets had been put in place for the next financial year. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the report be noted.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the Leisure Services provision currently located at the former Tasker Milward School site be discontinued, and that the areas occupied by those facilities be repurposed as part of the redevelopment of Portfield School.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the repurposing of the Tennis Dome and Artificial Turf Pitch (ATP) located on the former Tasker Milward school site. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and outlined the key points within the report including the background of the matter, the location and repurposing plans, the educational and leisure matters to consider and the available options. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alec Cormack. Councillor Cormack expressed his full support for the change and supported Option two as outlined on page 250 of the Agenda. He stated that it was an opportunity to create a better environment for children to learn in, and that the outcome of the special school must be the priority. Councillor Rhys Sinnett expressed that the Authority was committed to working with tennis clubs in the County to offer support to help facilitate or provide alternative sites. He stated that he had a meeting with Tennis Wales at the end of the month and would bring this matter forward. Councillor Paul Miller agreed with Councillor Sinnett and for the long term, he was keen to support Tennis Wales, as well as local clubs and communities, to develop a new indoor tennis facility in Pembrokeshire. In regards to the Tasker Milward Charity Trust, he sought clarification in regards to the proposed end date for discussions, as well as whether there was a final vision for the site. The Chief Executive responded and explained that the Trust was currently undergoing various checks with the Charity Commission with regards to a transaction. He stated that he expected progress over the next three to six months, but highlighted that surveys and evaluations were required. Councillor Miller stated he was happy to support the matter but wished to see progress as soon as possible. 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 Leisure Services provision currently located at the former Tasker Milward School site be discontinued, and that the areas occupied by those facilities be repurposed as part of the redevelopment of Portfield School.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the Regional Maternity and Early Years Strategy be approved and adopted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined the new strategy regarding the regional approach to Maternity and Early Years services (0-7 years) in West Wales. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that the Early Years Integration Programme was a Welsh Government funded programme, with the programme being focussed on delivering on the commitment to develop a more joined-up, responsive early year’s system that puts the unique needs of each child at its heart, which covers the period of life from birth to seven years. He then went on to outline the main issues, which included working with the Early Intervention Foundation, the progress of the strategy, consultations with professionals and families across the region and the aims of the strategy. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors David Simpson, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alec Cormack, Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior and Rhys Sinnett [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the Regional Maternity and Early Years Strategy be approved and adopted.
The Leader announced that Item 15, UK Shared Prosperity Fund: 6-monthly update, would be moved to the end of the meeting, as it was likely that the meeting would move into Private Session in order for the confidential appendices to be discussed.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, capital, capital rollover, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2024-25 to 2027-28 Medium Term Financial Plan ((MTFP) update) for Quarter 1 2023-24 be approved. (b) That the proposed virements greater than £0.100m be approved. (c) That the moratorium on all non-essential expenditure which is now in force, be noted. The Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s) will now implement in-year savings measures to address the projected overspend for 2023-24. (d) That it be noted that under the Chief Executive, Directorates are working with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s), in consultation with the Director of Resources and Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative Budget gap of £20.0 million for 2024-25 and £46.9 million across the period of the MTFP. (e) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the MTFP and that this will be reported to Members quarterly.
Cabinet considered a report by the Deputy Chief Finance Officer which outlined the Quarter 1 2023-24 projected Budget Outturn position, as well as an update on the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2024-25 to 2027-28. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, introduced the report and highlighted that the Net Revenue Expenditure Budget of £287.6 million for the year was approved by the Council on 2 March 2023, but stated that the projected outturn at Quarter 1 was £292.4 million, which represented a projected overspend of £4.8 million, which was said to be deeply concerning after only a single quarter. He stated that in line with the approved Budget Strategy for 2023-2024 and beyond, a moratorium on all non-essential expenditure was now in place, with the aim to try to bring the Budget back into balance by the year end, with any use of reserves being a last resort. Councillor Cormack then went on to highlight inflation, future year pressures, increased demand for Council services, opportunities for more cost effective provision, school budgets, Capital financing costs, and budget savings, as outlined in the report. He concluded by highlighting the much harder job of trying to close the budget gap this year than the last. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. Councillor Harvey commented that it was a difficult position to be in and raised some concerns regarding overspends. Councillor Tessa Hodgson referenced severe service pressures, specifically within Social Care, and stated that as a demand led service it was the Council’s responsibility to provide the service to those people who had an assessed need. She highlighted that the service was trying to identify savings where possible, as well as ensure that the taxpayers’ money was being spent wisely. She stated that the year’s challenges must not be underestimated. Councillor Cormack wished to highlight one key point in relation to demand changes, and stated that it was important for the budget setting process going forward to anticipate potential changes better, in order to set a Budget that was achievable. Councillor Rhys Sinnett stated that Welsh Government needed to accept their share of budget challenges that Local Authorities were also facing. The Leader stated that he had made representations at a recent meeting with the Finance Minister for Wales and would continue to do so. Councillor Cormack agreed with Councillor Sinnett and stated that it was important for Welsh Government to review any areas where they could reduce costs, but would make the point at a future meeting with other Cabinet Members for Finance. The Leader stated that it was important for all Cabinet Members to put across their points at the Regional meetings and highlighted the excellent working relationship with Members of the Senedd since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Chief Executive then commented on the report and stated that Pembrokeshire was not in a unique position and highlighted that all 22 Local Authorities were failing in regards to the in-year pressure, as well as the budgetary gap for the following year’s Budget. He also stated that the Budget set by Council in March 2023 was based on appropriate judgements and assumptions made at that point in time, with the best information available. He then commented on Social Care demographics and the difficulty in forecasting accurately. 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 Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, capital, capital rollover, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2024-25 to 2027-28 Medium Term Financial Plan ((MTFP) update) for Quarter 1 2023-24 be approved. (b) That the proposed virements greater than £0.100m be approved. (c) That the moratorium on all non-essential expenditure which is now in force, be noted. The Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s) will now implement in-year savings measures to address the projected overspend for 2023-24. (d) That it be noted that under the Chief Executive, Directorates are working with the relevant Portfolio Cabinet Member(s), in consultation with the Director of Resources and Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative Budget gap of £20.0 million for 2024-25 and £46.9 million across the period of the MTFP. (e) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the MTFP and that this will be reported to Members quarterly.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the further progress report on Operation Nightingale 2023 be noted. (b) That option 2b be endorsed, which will see Adult Services sustain the additional staffing, whilst refining and redesigning processes to aid timely and effective transfers of patients out of hospital.
[Councillor Paul Miller left the meeting at this juncture due to connectivity issues.] Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Services and Housing which outlined the progress of the emergency operational footing that was established under Operation Nightingale 2023. Councillor Tessa Hodgson, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Social Care and Safeguarding, introduced the report and highlighted that Operation Nightingale had made a significant difference in improving patient flow from Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest, and that the plan going forward for staff recruited to the Operation, was that they be assimilated into current vacancies subject to their qualifications and skills. She then proceeded to highlight the three options available, as outlined on pages 483-484 of the Agenda, as a result of Welsh Government confirming that they were unable to agree funding for the business case for their ‘Further, Faster’ Programme. Councillor Tessa Hodgson Moved the Recommendation and Option 2b; Seconded by Councillor Neil Prior. Councillor Alec Cormack wished for the personal perspective of the Director of Social Services and Housing in regards to the three options outlined in the report to be provided. The Director responded and stated that in relation to Option 1, he believed it was not sustainable due to the level of demand from hospitals and within the community. In regards to Options 2a and 2b, he stated that 2b was the preferred option due to the confidence in being able to assimilate staff into permanent vacant posts over the next year, subject to a restructuring of the hospital patient flow processes and assessment capacity. In regards to Option 3, he believed that it was not a sustainable option given the current budget pressures, due to having to sustain additional staffing and reflect the additional pressure on an ongoing basis within the Medium Term Financial Plan. Councillor Cormack appreciated the Director’s perspective and stated that he would support Option 2b. Councillor Neil Prior stated his support for the work undertaken so far and its continuation, as well as the idea of undertaking an independent review, but expressed that he was keen to ensure that public sector partners were involved to share the responsibility as well as the financial burden. Councillor Hodgson thanked Councillor Prior for his comments and stated that the Authority already worked positively with all external partners, as well as having a very strong community response in Pembrokeshire. She agreed that the Operation needed to be a shared endeavour and highlighted the strengthened partnership with health colleagues. The Director of Social Services and Housing agreed with the comments made by Councillors Prior and Hodgson and stated that the matter was a whole systems issue, not just about social care or health, but about working in partnership with the resources available, to ensure efficient and effective work. He stated that partnership and collaboration was key to the challenge Pembrokeshire was facing. [Councillor Paul Miller re-joined the meeting at this juncture.] Councillor Rhys Sinnett highlighted the importance of harnessing the power of the local community to support the work of the Authority. He also stated his support for Option 2b. The Chief Executive expressed his gratitude to Withybush Hospital and Hywel Dda University Health Board for dealing with the ongoing crisis in relation to the reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete. He then referenced continuing the same level of support for the Health Board, as well as extending out into the Voluntary Sector, the Community Sector and the Public Services Board to examine processes and new initiatives in the absence of the necessary funding, in order to meet the increasing demand over time. 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] Abstention: Councillor Paul Miller [1] There were no votes against. RESOLVED (a) That the further progress report on Operation Nightingale 2023 be noted. (b) That option 2b be endorsed, which will see Adult Services sustain the additional staffing, whilst refining and redesigning processes to aid timely and effective transfers of patients out of hospital.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the invitation for and evaluation of tenders via the Communities and Housing Investment Consortium (CHIC) Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), be approved. (b) That authority be delegated to the Director of Social Services & Housing for the subsequent award of a contract in accordance with the Authority’s Contract Procedure Rules.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Services and Housing which outlined an invitation to tender for Installation Contractors for Council Housing Decarbonisation Retrofit Programme. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing Operation and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and stated that it outlined the need to invite, evaluate, delegate and award a tender for contractors to install decarbonisation retrofit solutions to the Council’s housing stock. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. Councillor Alec Cormack wished to point out that the funds associated with the Programme were from Welsh Government and that there would be no implications for the County. He then stated his support. 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 invitation for and evaluation of tenders via the Communities and Housing Investment Consortium (CHIC) Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), be approved. (b) That authority be delegated to the Director of Social Services & Housing for the subsequent award of a contract in accordance with the Authority’s Contract Procedure Rules.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) update be noted. (b) That all funding decisions be subject to confirmation of UKSPF funding by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) through Swansea Council. (c) That the maximum grant be capped at £550k per bid by Cabinet. (d) That the applications set out in Annex B Table B1 be approved in principle up to their full grant request, or the grant cap whichever is the lesser, subject to satisfactory completion of final review including detailed budget examination. (e) That the application listed in Annex B Table B2 be rejected. (f) That the applications set out in Annex C Table C1 be approved in principle up to their full grant request or the grant cap whichever is the lesser, subject to satisfactory completion of final review by the Director of Resources including resolution of queries, and detailed budget examination, with funding for these projects ring-fenced for two months, after which the funds are to be released to other applications. (g) That Option 2 (second Open Call) be chosen. (h) That authority be delegated to the Director of Resources to advertise an Open Call. (i) That the applications in Table D2 of Annex D be considered for addition to Table D1 and subject to the delegation at Decision (h). (j) That all applications shown shaded in Annex D be rejected on the grounds that they fail to meet the minimum quality threshold. (k) That authority be delegated to the Director or Resources, in conjunction with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to agree the precise amount of grant awards in respect of applications submitted through the Open Call, provided this is below the grant cap or grant request approved by Cabinet. (l) That authority be delegated to the Director of Resources, in conjunction with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to increase the grant approval up to 10% on individual budget lines where justified, limited to 5% of the total grant request for the project, to accommodate changes in project design or budgets, subject to funds being available. (m)That one or more Subsidy Scheme(s) be developed and notified to simplify the process of compliance with the Subsidy Control Act 2022 in relation to UKSPF grant awards.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Director of Resources which outlined the first six-monthly update on progress in implementing the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in Pembrokeshire, as well as views expressed by the UKSPF Panel, and approval of awards of funding to organisations to deliver UKSPF interventions. Councillor Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance, firstly referred to the legal text regarding the private appendices, as outlined within the report. He stated that restricting information was not done lightly, and highlighted that other Authorities of the south-west Wales region had treated the UKSPF information as confidential, and that he had been advised to do the same in Pembrokeshire. Councillor Alec Cormack then Moved that Cabinet move into to exclude the public under Paragraph 14, Part 4, of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972; Seconded by Councillor Rhys Sinnett. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The Webcast of the meeting was then paused. Councillor Cormack introduced the exempt appendices and discussed the financial information regarding the various applications. The Webcast of the meeting then resumed in Open Session. Councillor Cormack introduced the report and stated that UKSPF was a complex programme established by the UK Government to achieve the ambitions set out in the Levelling Up Policy. He then outlined the key points highlighted in the report, which included information regarding anchor projects, open call projects, total applications received, and the process of the applications considered by the UKSPF Panel, including feedback. He highlighted that the Panel's recommendation was that it would be preferable to hold a second open call, rather than simply continue to mechanistically allocate funds in score sequence, until the funds were exhausted. Councillor Alec Cormack Moved the Recommendation with Amendments to (e) and (g) as follows: (e) That the application listed in Annex B Table B2 be rejected. (g) That Option 2 (second Open Call) be chosen. Councillor Paul Miller referred to Recommendation (c), that the maximum grant be capped at £550k per bid by Cabinet, and stated that this cap did not apply to anchor projects, only to projects within the open call section. The Recommendation was 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 UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) update be noted. (b) That all funding decisions be subject to confirmation of UKSPF funding by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) through Swansea Council. (c) That the maximum grant be capped at £550k per bid by Cabinet. (d) That the applications set out in Annex B Table B1 be approved in principle up to their full grant request, or the grant cap whichever is the lesser, subject to satisfactory completion of final review including detailed budget examination. (e) That the application listed in Annex B Table B2 be rejected. (f) That the applications set out in Annex C Table C1 be approved in principle up to their full grant request or the grant cap whichever is the lesser, subject to satisfactory completion of final review by the Director of Resources including resolution of queries, and detailed budget examination, with funding for these projects ring-fenced for two months, after which the funds are to be released to other applications. (g) That Option 2 (second Open Call) be chosen. (h) That authority be delegated to the Director of Resources to advertise an Open Call. (i) That the applications in Table D2 of Annex D be considered for addition to Table D1 and subject to the delegation at Decision (h). (j) That all applications shown shaded in Annex D be rejected on the grounds that they fail to meet the minimum quality threshold. (k) That authority be delegated to the Director or Resources, in conjunction with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to agree the precise amount of grant awards in respect of applications submitted through the Open Call, provided this is below the grant cap or grant request approved by Cabinet. (l) That authority be delegated to the Director of Resources, in conjunction with the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance, to increase the grant approval up to 10% on individual budget lines where justified, limited to 5% of the total grant request for the project, to accommodate changes in project design or budgets, subject to funds being available. (m)That one or more Subsidy Scheme(s) be developed and notified to simplify the process of compliance with the Subsidy Control Act 2022 in relation to UKSPF grant awards.
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