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The decisions as the council's minutes record them. A plain-language summary follows once it has been written.
RESOLVED That authority be delegated to the Head of Law and Governance in consultation with the Leader: (a) To prepare the job description, contractual terms and appointment process for the post of Senior Coroner and to make arrangements to suitably advertise the post; (b) To take all necessary steps to progress the appointment of a Senior Coroner; (c) To establish a panel in consultation with Carmarthenshire County Council and the Chief Coroner’s office, in order to draw up a short-list, interview applicants and to appoint the successful applicant as the Senior Coroner for Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. The panel will include on behalf of Pembrokeshire County Council the Head of Law and Governance/Legal Services Manager and the Leader.
RESOLVED That the approved Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meeting, held on 22 March 2024 and 27 March 2024, be noted.
RESOLVED (a) That the budget and the draft Medium Term Financial Plan be endorsed following approval by the Joint Committee. (b) That the use of Partneriaeth Reserves of £0.618m be used to fund redundancies, be approved.
RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendix A involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Act; and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered Appendix A. The webcast was then resumed. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the award of the Stage 2 construction for ‘Portfield School Redevelopment’ as detailed in this report to Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd, be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That overnight Motorhome stop overs trial for motorhomes in a specific off street parking place for a maximum of one night be introduced – namely Goodwick Moor car park, Goodwick and to vary The Pembrokeshire County Council (Off Street Parking Places Order 2011) from 1st March 2025 (subject to legal and planning process). (b) That the introduction of a trial at Western Way, Pembroke be reviewed three months after the start of the Goodwick Moor trial. This will be dependent on the initial review of Goodwick Moor. [Western Way is also linked to a Ferry Port.] (c) That a report be brought to Cabinet after a full 18 months of the trial to give full details of the scheme and findings.
RESOLVED That Option 1 be progressed as it is consistent with the instruction given in 2018, and Welsh Government have shown their support for the scheme through funding and the outcome of the Roads Review.
RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, revenue rolling budget, capital, capital rollover, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2025-26 to 2028-29 Medium Term Financial Plan update) for Quarter 1 2024-25 be approved. (b) That the proposed virements 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 2024-25. (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 Finance, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative budget gap of £31.4 million for 2025-26 and £78.2 million across the period of the Medium-Term Financial Plan. (e) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and that this will be reported to Members quarterly.
RESOLVED (a) That the Corporate and Financial Planning Timetable for 2025-26 be noted. (b) That each element of the proposed Budget Strategy for 2025-26 and beyond be considered, noting any financial risks and challenges highlighted. (c) That the Budget Strategy for 2025-26 and beyond be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That the progress and proposed next steps in relation to the development and improvement of Children’s Services, be noted. (b) That the importance of a sustained early intervention and prevention approach be noted, both to safely reduce the number of young people looked after and to create the conditions for a sustainable Children’s Services delivery model. (c) That the key elements of the action plan that has been implemented in response to the recently published Child Practice Review, and the mechanisms by which progress against this plan will be monitored, be noted.
RESOLVED That Cabinet support option 2 contained within the report: Close the Anchorage Day Centre with effect from 1 November 2024. Establish social enterprise models in Bro Preseli and Lee Davies Centre with effect from 1st April 2025. End existing Service Level Agreements with both Centres.
RESOLVED That the draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved, subject to the following amendments: · That a review of the St David’s Waste and Recycling Centre be included on the agenda for December’s meeting. · That a report on the Milford Haven Passenger Transport Interchange be included on the agenda for October’s meeting.
The following declarations were made: Item 13 – Day Opportunities Update Councillor Michelle Bateman declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being a Trustee of the VC Gallery. Councillor Joshua Beynon declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being a Trustee of the VC Gallery, elected via independent appointment. Councillor Paul Miller declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being the Director of Neyland CIC.
The Leader highlighted that the application number in relation to Decision 17 / Minute 27 from the 11 July 2024 meeting, was incorrect. He stated that the correct application number was PS020 Barnham Road, not PS019. The Leader Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The vote was taken by way of a show of hands and carried. RESOLVED That the Minutes of the Cabinet Meeting held on 11 July 2024, and the Minutes of the Extraordinary Cabinet Meeting held on 1 August 2024, be approved as a correct record, subject to the above amendment.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That authority be delegated to the Head of Law and Governance in consultation with the Leader: (a) To prepare the job description, contractual terms and appointment process for the post of Senior Coroner and to make arrangements to suitably advertise the post; (b) To take all necessary steps to progress the appointment of a Senior Coroner; (c) To establish a panel in consultation with Carmarthenshire County Council and the Chief Coroner’s office, in order to draw up a short-list, interview applicants and to appoint the successful applicant as the Senior Coroner for Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. The panel will include on behalf of Pembrokeshire County Council the Head of Law and Governance/Legal Services Manager and the Leader.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Law and Governance which outlined a recruitment process leading to the appointment of a Senior Coroner for the Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire area. The Leader introduced the report and stated that the area currently had an interim Senior Coroner who had been in the post since 2020, and this recruitment would be to appoint a person into the permanent position, under the coroner and Justice Act 2009. The Leader Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Paul Miller. Councillor Jacob Williams stated that he was pleased that there would be Elected Member involvement in the process, and sought clarification as to whether Carmarthenshire County Council would do the same. The Head of Law and Governance was unsure and stated that she would find out that information and get back to Members outside of the meeting. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That authority be delegated to the Head of Law and Governance in consultation with the Leader: (a) To prepare the job description, contractual terms and appointment process for the post of Senior Coroner and to make arrangements to suitably advertise the post; (b) To take all necessary steps to progress the appointment of a Senior Coroner; (c) To establish a panel in consultation with Carmarthenshire County Council and the Chief Coroner’s office, in order to draw up a short-list, interview applicants and to appoint the successful applicant as the Senior Coroner for Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire. The panel will include on behalf of Pembrokeshire County Council the Head of Law and Governance/Legal Services Manager and the Leader.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the approved Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meeting, held on 22 March 2024 and 27 March 2024, be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which referred to the approved Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meetings, held on 22 and 27 March 2024. On behalf of Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, Councillor Rhys Sinnett introduced the Minutes and stated that the main piece of work was around Portfield School and highlighted that the redevelopment contract would be discussed under Item 7 of the Cabinet meeting. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Paul Miller. 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 22 March 2024 and 27 March 2024, be noted.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the budget and the draft Medium Term Financial Plan be endorsed following approval by the Joint Committee. (b) That the use of Partneriaeth Reserves of £0.618m be used to fund redundancies, be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlinedthe Partneriaeth Budget for 2024-25. On behalf of Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, Councillor Joshua Beynon introduced the report and referred to the Local Authority Education Grant, where there was the potential of £0.618 million in redundancy costs to be funded from the Partneriaeth Reserve. He stated that the report sought for the budget to be agreed, as well as the approval of the redundancy arrangements. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior and Jacob Williams [7] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the budget and the draft Medium Term Financial Plan be endorsed following approval by the Joint Committee. (b) That the use of Partneriaeth Reserves of £0.618m be used to fund redundancies, be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendix A involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Act; and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered Appendix A. The webcast was then resumed. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the award of the Stage 2 construction for ‘Portfield School Redevelopment’ as detailed in this report to Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd, be approved.
Cabinet considered a joint report by the Director of Education and the Head of Infrastructure and Environment which outlined the award of the Stage 2 main construction contract for ‘Portfield School Redevelopment’, to Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd. On behalf of Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, Councillor Joshua Beynon introduced the report and stated that it outlined the costing, the envelope of funding from the Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, as well as the background of the matter, with previous decisions by Cabinet and Council highlighted.He stated that the Full Business Case had been approved by Welsh Government on 23 July 2024 and the report sought for Cabinet to approve the final stages of the project. Cabinet then considered excluding the public from the meeting to consider the exempt Appendix A. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved the exclusion of the public; Seconded by the Leader. The vote was taken by a roll call and was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 as Appendix A involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Act; and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered Appendix A. The webcast was then resumed. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the award of the Stage 2 construction for ‘Portfield School Redevelopment’ as detailed in this report to Morgan Sindall Construction and Infrastructure Ltd, be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That overnight Motorhome stop overs trial for motorhomes in a specific off street parking place for a maximum of one night be introduced – namely Goodwick Moor car park, Goodwick and to vary The Pembrokeshire County Council (Off Street Parking Places Order 2011) from 1st March 2025 (subject to legal and planning process). (b) That the introduction of a trial at Western Way, Pembroke be reviewed three months after the start of the Goodwick Moor trial. This will be dependent on the initial review of Goodwick Moor. [Western Way is also linked to a Ferry Port.] (c) That a report be brought to Cabinet after a full 18 months of the trial to give full details of the scheme and findings.
Cabinet considered a report by Head of Infrastructure and Environment which outlined the introduction of an overnight Motorhome stop overs trial for motorhomes in a specific off-street parking place, namely Goodwick Moor car park, Goodwick. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that it highlighted the process of receiving views from the Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Visit Pembrokeshire and the trade representatives, and as a result, the report outlined the amended proposal to introduce a trial of 18 months for overnight stopover for motorhomes and camper vans at Goodwick Moor car park. He stated that this trial would allow the opportunity to also, in turn, review the suitability of using Western Way car park in Pembroke Dock. Following discussions with local organisations, Councillor Sinnett stated that the maximum stay would be for one night only, not the two nights suggested in the report. He highlighted that he would like to bring the result of the trial back to Overview and Scrutiny or consideration, and then on to Cabinet. Councillor Sinnett also highlighted that a list of questions had been received from Councillor Di Clements in relation to this trial, and asked the Public Realm Manager to summarise and give his answers. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation with an Amendment to include ‘for a maximum of one night’; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. The Public Realm Manager highlighted that in regards to the data, the Goodwick Moor car park had been managed since 27 May 2024, where around a thousand motorhomes had used the car park since that time. He then referred to the cost associated with the planning application and the advertising cost of the variation order. He also highlighted that there was no loss of income for this car park as it was a zero charge car park, therefore it would be an additional income stream for the Authority, with a £10 charge for overnight use. He then referred to the fact that this trial was to manage the existing demand, and went on to outline the detail of the trial which included aspects such as the cost, rubbish collection, signage on site, enforcement and the views of the users. Councillor Neil Prior believed the trial to be a good opportunity but also a challenge, and was disappointed that it was not progressing further. He suggested that with more meaningful data, as a result of the summer period, it would be beneficial to bring that to Overview and Scrutiny. He also suggested that the timescales be reduced, but was supportive of the trial nonetheless. Councillor Jacob Williams stated that he was not keen on the title of the scheme. He then sought clarification as to how many pitches had been given up for this specific use. Councillor Williams also referred to the overnight fee and stated that he would be supportive of a higher charge. The Head of Infrastructure and Environment recognised the comments made by Councillor Williams in relation to the title of the scheme. The Public Realm Manager stated that Goodwick Moor was an open car park with no marked bays, but stated that the planning conditions would need to be looked into in relation to a six metre separation zone. He highlighted that dedicated bays for this trial in Goodwick Moor would not be required. Councillor Williams questioned whether any number of motorhomes could park in Goodwick Moor and suggested that the income estimation was not based on any certain figures. In response, the Public Realm Manager explained that this was an aspect that the trial would eventually determine, and whether it would allow the current demand to be managed or potentially create more demand. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that given the current budget position, it was right to look at opportunities to bring income into the Authority and that this scheme was a good way of doing so. She highlighted that the level of data being brought in from the trial was really positive and that there was a good balance between supporting tourism sites and the van community. She then sought clarification as to whether there were different arrangements for overnight lorries from the ferries. In response, the Public Realm Manager stated that there was a problem with lorries parking overnight but the issue had eased since the ferry times had changed, and highlighted that there was currently no major conflict. In response to Councillor Prior’s point regarding timescales, the Head of Infrastructure and Environment stated that the programming of the scheme would be looked at, but suggested that the timeline could be quite tight with the data collection and reporting required. The Leader stated that motorhomes were an important part of the tourism industry, and having the trial operating adjacent to a ferry port made a lot of sense. He also referred to the collection of data, and that it could signify whether the trial be extended to Pembroke Dock, as outlined in the report. He then stated his support for the recommendation. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That overnight Motorhome stop overs trial for motorhomes in a specific off street parking place for a maximum of one night be introduced – namely Goodwick Moor car park, Goodwick and to vary The Pembrokeshire County Council (Off Street Parking Places Order 2011) from 1st March 2025 (subject to legal and planning process). (b) That the introduction of a trial at Western Way, Pembroke be reviewed three months after the start of the Goodwick Moor trial. This will be dependent on the initial review of Goodwick Moor. [Western Way is also linked to a Ferry Port.] (c) That a report be brought to Cabinet after a full 18 months of the trial to give full details of the scheme and findings.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That Option 1 be progressed as it is consistent with the instruction given in 2018, and Welsh Government have shown their support for the scheme through funding and the outcome of the Roads Review.
Cabinet considered a report by Head of Infrastructure and Environment which outlined an update on the Newgale Coastal Adaptation scheme. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that the scheme had significantly developed over the past five years since the latest update to Cabinet in December 2018, during which time there had been a number of events that had taken place, including: COVID, stakeholder engagement, the Roads Review and significant cost increases in the construction industry. Councillor Sinnett then referred to the detail of the road at Newgale, Government support and cost of the scheme. He highlighted that any scheme funding would be at an 85% intervention rate and therefore a balance would need to be found to reduce the match funding rate to as close to zero as possible. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Neil Prior. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that the strategic route to the St David's peninsula from the South and Mid Pembrokeshire must be retained, and that she would not be supportive of any option that did not maintain that link. The Head of Infrastructure and Environment wished to highlight that since 2018, there had been regular updates to Cabinet in relation to the grant funding, and went on to outline the data within the report in relation to sea level rise and the need for adaptation. The Leader wished to clarify that the same plan was being progressed and that the report was simply outlining the potential funding from Welsh Government. The Head of Infrastructure and Environment explained that there was a substantial amount of funding available to progress the study work for the scheme, which would be completed in Spring 2025, as well as the need to progress a bid for the scheme in 2024 as part of the Transport Grant bids. Therefore, the report was written to ascertain Cabinet support, in order to progress both bids and to ensure that Members were happy with the work being undertaken. The Leader stated his support for the recommendation as a way forward. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That Option 1 be progressed as it is consistent with the instruction given in 2018, and Welsh Government have shown their support for the scheme through funding and the outcome of the Roads Review.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, revenue rolling budget, capital, capital rollover, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2025-26 to 2028-29 Medium Term Financial Plan update) for Quarter 1 2024-25 be approved. (b) That the proposed virements 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 2024-25. (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 Finance, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative budget gap of £31.4 million for 2025-26 and £78.2 million across the period of the Medium-Term Financial Plan. (e) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the Medium Term Financial Plan (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 Monitoring Report 2024-25 in relation to the County Council Budget. Councillor Joshua Beynon, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that the approved revenue net expenditure budget for 2024-25 was £303.5 million, and the projected outturn at Quarter 1 2024-25 was £306.4 million, representing a projected overspend of £2.9 million. He highlighted that the main areas of concern continued to be Children’s Services, with a projected overspend of £3.310 million. He then outlined the detail around the high risk aspects of Children's Services. He explained that between Children's Services, Adult Services and Homelessness, there was a projected overspend of £5.2 million. Councillor Beynon also referred to Teachers Pension funding and Pay Award pressures and the increase yet to be determined by Welsh Government. He explained that the budget savings for 2024-25 remained challenging to implement, with 88% being identified as on track for delivery at Quarter 1, and highlighted that where a budget saving was not met, and an alternative budget saving was not identified, this would put additional pressure on the 2024-25 budget and the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP). He also referred to a reduction in the Capital Programme of £7.2 million for 2024-25 from £151.3 million to £144.1 million. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Tessa Hodgson. Councillor Paul Miller sought clarification as to whether anything had come out of the Capital Programme, or whether it was just reprofiling expenditure for the current financial year. Councillor Beynon confirmed that estimates had been amended, as outlined on page 206, therefore it was just a reprofiling of expenditure. Councillor Tessa Hodgson wished to reference the pressures that Children’s Services were under, particularly around the numbers of children requiring residential placements, which could be extremely expensive. She highlighted that it was an area of high risk for the Service, but the report on Children’s Services later on in the Agenda detailed various measures being put in place to address some of the issues. Councillor Beynon wished to highlight that the issues around Social Care was a national problem, and referred to the difficulties being faced by rural areas in having to send people on placements further away, which were ultimately more costly for the Authority. He then outlined the plans in place within Social Care, specifically the Vanguard work and the launch of West Lodge, however, he explained that there was no way of accurately assessing how many children could require care. Councillor Michelle Bateman sought clarification as to when there would be information regarding teacher pay and the NJC offer. The Director of Resources stated that negotiations were continuing and as soon as there was more information it would be brought to Cabinet. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Budget Monitoring Report (revenue, revenue rolling budget, capital, capital rollover, reserves, budget savings, revenue collections, treasury management and 2025-26 to 2028-29 Medium Term Financial Plan update) for Quarter 1 2024-25 be approved. (b) That the proposed virements 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 2024-25. (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 Finance, to identify potential savings to assist in addressing the indicative budget gap of £31.4 million for 2025-26 and £78.2 million across the period of the Medium-Term Financial Plan. (e) That it be noted that work will continue to update and refresh the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) and that this will be reported to Members quarterly.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Corporate and Financial Planning Timetable for 2025-26 be noted. (b) That each element of the proposed Budget Strategy for 2025-26 and beyond be considered, noting any financial risks and challenges highlighted. (c) That the Budget Strategy for 2025-26 and beyond be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the corporate and financial planning timetable and budget strategy, leading to the Budget for 2025-26 and Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP) 2025-26 to 2028-29, being approved by Council on 20 February 2025. Councillor Joshua Beynon, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, introduced the report and stated that the corporate and financial planning timetable would be updated throughout the budget planning process, with updates being provided in budget reports to Cabinet and Council.He explained that whilst alternative budget proposals had been built into the timetable for 2025-26, the provisional dates and process may be amended following consideration by the Constitutional Review Committee. An early budget consultation exercise was also said to be currently live, and Councillor Beynon encouraged everyone to share their views by completing it. He stated that a second budget consultation exercise would take place between November 2024 and January 2025, as well as Facebook live sessions with himself and the Director of Resources planned throughout the budget planning process. Councillor Joshua Beynon Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. Councillor Michelle Bateman urged members of the public to engage with the consultation process, as it outlined useful information regarding the budget and it was helpful for the Authority to have a steer from the public. The Leader agreed and stated that public engagement was very beneficial to the Authority in terms of setting the budget, as well as engagement from the wider membership of the Council. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Corporate and Financial Planning Timetable for 2025-26 be noted. (b) That each element of the proposed Budget Strategy for 2025-26 and beyond be considered, noting any financial risks and challenges highlighted. (c) That the Budget Strategy for 2025-26 and beyond be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the progress and proposed next steps in relation to the development and improvement of Children’s Services, be noted. (b) That the importance of a sustained early intervention and prevention approach be noted, both to safely reduce the number of young people looked after and to create the conditions for a sustainable Children’s Services delivery model. (c) That the key elements of the action plan that has been implemented in response to the recently published Child Practice Review, and the mechanisms by which progress against this plan will be monitored, be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined the context, progress and proposed next steps in relation to the development and improvement of Children’s Services. Councillor Tessa Hodgson, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Social Care and Safeguarding introduced the report and stated that it included details of several initiatives which were already implementing positive changes, both in terms of outcomes for children and budget savings. She highlighted that the budget required for Children's Services had increased over the last four to five years, with a doubling of placement numbers in the last 18 months, from 18 to 38, with several factors driving the increase: poverty, the National transfer scheme for unaccompanied asylum seeking children, and the Welsh Government's elimination of profit agenda. Councillor Hodgson also highlighted that the Authority’s first residential children’s home, West Lodge, was now registered and fully staffed. She also referred to the dedicated Children's Commissioning Team, the ‘Step-up-step-down’ initiative, the Special Guardianship No Detriment Policy and a restructure of the Childcare Assessment Team. Councillor Tessa Hodgson Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. The Head of Children’s Services further outlined the level of demand, the drivers of the demand, development improvements, Operation SALUS, and the Action Plan as highlighted in the report. The Leader commended the Service on their work, especially in regards to improvement. He then asked for the reasons behind the pressures on Children’s Services. In response, the Head of Children’s Services stated that the key reason was poverty and that there was evidence of a direct link between rates of poverty and the number of children going into care. He also referred to families being on the edge of living in poverty as a result of the cost of living crisis, as well as the effects of inflation adding pressure to those families. In regards to asylum-seeking children, the Head of Children’s Services explained that it was mandated by the Home Office that the Authority was required to take in a minimum of 23 young people. The Leader sought clarification as to whether funding was received from the UK Government for asylum-seeking children. In response, the Head of Children’s Services stated that per-night funding was received, however it was not enough to cover the cost of what was actually spent, which was said to be openly accepted by the Home Office. Councillor Rhys Sinnett sought a view as to whether there was a retrenchment in relation to core activity from external partners, which was in turn impacting the demand on the service. He also referred to the schemes and initiatives mentioned and questioned what else could be done in terms of best practice, in order to have a more positive impact on early intervention and whether this would provide short-term or medium to long-term relief. The Chief Executive wished to comment on the largest areas of overspend within the Authority, as well as efficiencies being made, year on year increase in demand in Adult Services largely to do with the demographic, demand on Children’s Services, and preventative measures. In response to Councillor Sinnett’s question, the Chief Executive explained that the Head of Children’s Services and the Director of Social Care and Housing were looking at best practice and referred to Neath Port Talbot Council’s Parenting Advocacy Network, and that such networks could be implemented in Pembrokeshire. He highlighted that the challenge from a corporate perspective was how it could be delivered given the real pressure on resources. The Head of Children’s Services stated that there were pressures on partners, statutory and third sector, who were focusing solely on their core business. He explained that certain projects had to end due to funding and referred to the narrow time frame to apply for some grant funding from Welsh Government. He also highlighted that receiving only six to twelve months’ worth of funding made it difficult to make medium to long-term change. In regards to best practice, the Head of Children’s Services believed it to be time spent with families at an earlier stage, building relationships and having a greater understanding of the issues. He also outlined the schemes currently being implemented in Pembrokeshire, including a parent and baby project that would assess expectant parents very early on to determine the type of intervention work and support required. Councillor Paul Miller sought the view of the Head of Children’s Services in relation to a more radical and more decisive intervention for babies, and whether they would potentially have a better chance of a permanent, long-term foster placement in this instance. The Head of Children’s Services explained that the parent and baby project would serve that purpose, and that intervening before a baby was born would allow the assessment work to start early, giving the Service a better idea of what support or care the family or child would need. He also referred to a new framework relating to foster carers that were also registered adopters, in order to prevent babies needing to be constantly moved. Councillor Sinnett sought clarification as to what the Public Services Board (PSB) was doing in relation to this matter. Councillor Neil Prior, the Chair of the PSB, stated that it was a statutory requirement to have the PSB but explained that there was no budget. He then outlined the work currently being undertaken in regards to sharing resources between Partners, as well as collaborative working. He stated that he was encouraged that good progress was being made for long-term outcomes. The Head of Children’s Services also outlined the importance of the alignment between Children's Services and the PSB. He then highlighted an action plan for the Service that would continue to be monitored and developed, as well as certain schemes and platforms that were currently being explored. Councillor Michelle Bateman commented on the link between poverty and the increase in demand on Children’s Services, and referenced the reduction of public spending and how that also had an impact on lower income families. She then referred to recruitment and was pleased to see that West Lodge was fully staffed, but sought clarification as to how fragile retention and recruitment was within Children’s Services. In response, the Head of Children's Services explained that the number of people seeking to train as Social Workers was at its lowest, with a 30% year on year reduction of people undertaking the Social Worker degree. In order to tackle this, he highlighted a scheme that would encourage agency staff to find permanent positions, as well as training opportunities provided by the Authority. He explained that Pembrokeshire had a relatively stable workforce, but that there was still more work to be done. He also referred to West Lodge 2 recruitment and the challenge around the private sector. The Director of Social Care and Housing then outlined some research that showed what it takes to safely reduce the number of young people going into care. He also referred to available schemes, ongoing work as part of the Authority’s Target Operating Model, Partnership working and the wider corporate efforts being made to respond to the demand being faced within the Service. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED (a) That the progress and proposed next steps in relation to the development and improvement of Children’s Services, be noted. (b) That the importance of a sustained early intervention and prevention approach be noted, both to safely reduce the number of young people looked after and to create the conditions for a sustainable Children’s Services delivery model. (c) That the key elements of the action plan that has been implemented in response to the recently published Child Practice Review, and the mechanisms by which progress against this plan will be monitored, be noted.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That Cabinet support option 2 contained within the report: Close the Anchorage Day Centre with effect from 1 November 2024. Establish social enterprise models in Bro Preseli and Lee Davies Centre with effect from 1st April 2025. End existing Service Level Agreements with both Centres.
[Having declared personal and prejudicial interests, Councillors Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon and Paul Miller left the meeting for this item of business.] Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined an updated position relating to the proposed closures/exit from existing Service Level Agreements of the following Day Centres in Pembrokeshire: • The Anchorage, Pembroke Dock • Bro Preseli, Crymych • Lee Davies Centre, Narberth Councillor Tessa Hodgson, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Social Care and Safeguarding introduced the report and stated that it outlined the role and function of Day Services within a modern adult social care model, the engagement and consultation that had taken place to date, the attendance levels for each location, details relating to the alternative provision available, and the revised financial profile for 2024/25. Councillor Hodgson then outlined the background and context of the matter, including building maintenance, low attendance figures and consultation with the service users and their families. She explained that Day Centre users had had a one-to-one assessment with a senior Social Worker to assess where they would like to attend, and what activities would be best suited to their needs. Direct transport was said to be provided from the Anchorage to Meadow Park, if that option was chosen. Councillor Hodgson appreciated what a difficult, unsettling and stressful time it had been for families, their loved ones and also for the dedicated staff who work in the Day Centres. Councillor Tessa Hodgson Moved the Recommendation. The Head of Adult Care provided the details in regards to the background of the matter, particularly around the taster sessions offered, direct transport, and conversations with families. She highlighted that dependent on the decision, further conversations would be had with the families to speak about what was next for the Anchorage. She also stated that the Trustees of Bro Preseli and Lee Davies were happy to work with the Authority on next steps. The Leader sought clarification as to how the cohort of people from the Anchorage could be kept together, and whether the service users were happy to change locations, as well as what was being done to safeguard them. In response, the Head of Adult Care stated that there were two options that the Authority was proceeding with in order to keep the service users together, one of which was Meadow Park. She understood that Meadow Park was not a palatable option for everyone, however transportation back and forth would be included. She also referred to potential community options, such as the VC Gallery and Community Centres, and ensured that everything would be done to keep people together. The Head of Adult Care also explained that there were three options on the table, and that work would be done with families to ensure the best outcome for their loved ones. The Leader sought clarification as to what the alternatives were if the Anchorage was closed, and whether service users were happy to use such alternatives in the locality. The Head of Adult Care confirmed that the families would prefer the Anchorage to stay open, and referred to the open and difficult conversations had with service users and their families around the various options. She stated that options such as the VC Gallery had been well received, and that service users would be supported through the challenging transition period. The Leader agreed that support was absolutely key. Councillor Rhys Sinnett highlighted the sensitive nature of the matter and that it was important that any offer must preserve the peer groups and friendship groups as much as possible, as well as being close to people’s homes where possible.He believed that the outlined proposal sought to balance those needs as best as possible and he was reassured that there were alternative options, but understood that it was a difficult area for change. Councillor Hodgson agreed that it was about balance and that managing change was difficult, particularly for a vulnerable cohort of people. She then gave thanks to the Head of Adult Care and her team, as well as the staff at the Anchorage and other centres, who had been working tirelessly to support the service users. As a result of previous consultations, she highlighted that Meadow Park was the solution to keep the cohort together, with a bus journey from the Anchorage directly to Meadow Park, to avoid various stops. The Recommendation was Seconded by Councillor Rhys Sinnett. The Leader then read out the Reason for Recommendation as outlined in the report, as he believed it to be important to highlight. The Director of Social Care and Housing wished to clarify that the Anchorage would be closed in two of the outlined options, not in all three options as written in the Reason for Recommendation. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [5] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That Cabinet support option 2 contained within the report: Close the Anchorage Day Centre with effect from 1 November 2024. Establish social enterprise models in Bro Preseli and Lee Davies Centre with effect from 1st April 2025. End existing Service Level Agreements with both Centres.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved, subject to the following amendments: · That a review of the St David’s Waste and Recycling Centre be included on the agenda for December’s meeting. · That a report on the Milford Haven Passenger Transport Interchange be included on the agenda for October’s meeting.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Democratic Services which outlined the Cabinet Forward Work Programme for October 2024 to March 2025. The Leader introduced the report and stated that the draft Cabinet Forward Work Programme should be regarded as indicative, and that there would be instances where Cabinet would be asked to consider an issue that had not been anticipated in advance or where timescales changed. The Leader Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jacob Williams. Councillor Rhys Sinnett highlighted that a review of the St David’s Waste and Recycling Centre would be brought to December’s Cabinet meeting, following a report on the matter going to Overview and Scrutiny in November. Councillor Paul Miller also highlighted that a report on the Milford Haven Passenger Transport Interchange would be brought to the October meeting of Cabinet. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Joshua Beynon, Tessa Hodgson, Neil Prior, Rhys Sinnett and Jacob Williams [8] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the draft Cabinet forward work programme be approved, subject to the following amendments: · That a review of the St David’s Waste and Recycling Centre be included on the agenda for December’s meeting. · That a report on the Milford Haven Passenger Transport Interchange be included on the agenda for October’s meeting.
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