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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 progress made and challenges faced in the implementation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) be noted. (b) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Place, the Region, Climate Change and Rural Affairs, be delegated authority to accept the UKSPF Inter-Authority Agreement 2025-26.
RESOLVED (a) That the Strategic Commissioning Plan 2025-35 (Appendix A) and associated Action Plan (pages 58-62) be approved, noting that each project within the plan will need to adhere to the governance arrangements in the Capital Strategy, and individual project business cases will need to be considered and approved by Cabinet for inclusion in the capital programme prior to any commencement. (b) That the ‘Social Services Capital Programme Indicative Spend Profile’ be noted, including the anticipated match funding requirements, as outlined at Appendix B, noting the need to adhere to the governance arrangements in the approved Capital Strategy with each approval subject to affordability. (c) That the Social Services Capital Programme Governance arrangements (Appendix C) be approved. (d) That Cabinet reviews the Strategic Commissioning Plan 2025-35 in two years’ time.
RESOLVED That the award of a construction contract to C Wynne and Sons Ltd be approved for the redevelopment of the former Haverfordia House site, Haverfordwest for 25 affordable homes to increase the Authority’s housing stock, the 12-bed reablement facility and communal spaces. Cabinet approval is on condition that the Housing with Care Fund grant application receives Panel approval for 100% of the build costs for the reablement element of this development. If this grant funding is not forthcoming, the Cabinet approval is reneged, with further funding options re-presented to a future Cabinet for consideration.
RESOLVED (a) That the pressures faced by Children’s Services and the resulting increase in routine unpaid work be noted. (b) That it be noted that a further update will be provided in light of the outcome of both Welsh Government and Accelerated Change Programme bids for additional staffing, and the impact of the deployment of those resources.
RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 to consider Appendix B as it involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Act; and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the current plan to pursue the potential acquisition of additional children’s residential capacity in-county be supported. (b) That in accordance with the governance arrangements within the Capital Strategy, the feasibility and due diligence be undertaken in respect of both projects up to a maximum cost of £260,000 be approved, in addition to the £80,000 that has already been made available for this purpose, with the remainder being funded initially from the Programme for Administration reserve. (c) That it be noted that a full options appraisal will include the possibility of not making the acquisitions. (d) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Young Persons, Community, Wellbeing and Future Generations, be delegated authority to submit a non-binding offer or letter of intent/Heads of terms in order to be able to progress with the due diligence required in respect of project 2. (e) That the possible need to provide an element of match funding to Welsh Government grant funding (via the Housing with Care Fund and/or Integration and Rebalancing Capital Fund) in order to make one or more acquisition, be noted.
RESOLVED (a) That the following be recommended to Council: (i) That the Officer responses to representations received on the Pembrokeshire County Council’s Local Development Plan (LDP) 2 Deposit Plan 2, as set out in Appendix A.1, A.2 and A.3 to the report, be agreed. (ii) That a limited number of proposed changes (Focussed Changes) and minor edits to the LDP 2 Deposit Plan 2 in response to representations received,– as set out in Appendix B.1, B.2 and B.3 to the report, be agreed. (iii) That proposed edits to Other Documents such as the Candidate Site Register and Background Papers as set out in Appendix B.4, and edits to the Habitats Regulations Assessment as set out in Appendix B.5, be agreed. (iv) That the LDP 2 Deposit Plan 2 and supporting documentation be agreed for submission to Welsh Government subject to the Focussed Changes. (v) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to address any further minor edits needed to the documentation, prior to being submitted for Examination and prior to being consulted upon as part of the Focussed Changes consultation. (vi) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to consult on the Focussed Changes and provide a response to the Inspector conducting the Examination on any representations received. (vii) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to represent the Council’s position at the forthcoming Examination. (b) That the funding of additional costs, up to a maximum of £30,000, be agreed, should Examination costs exceed the £200,000 in the Planning reserve, from an alternative reserve.
RESOLVED That it be agreed to support the Volunteering: A Strategy for Pembrokeshire 2025-2030.
RESOLVED That the draft Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meeting held on 1 May 2025 be noted.
RESOLVED That the proposal to extend the catchment area of Waldo Williams Primary School to include the location of the new school site on Scarrowscant Lane, with the catchment area for Fenton Community Primary School realigned accordingly, be approved.
RESOLVED (a) That the Regional Transport Delivery Plan (RTDP), as set out at Appendix A of the report, be endorsed. (b) That the use of the Council’s statutory powers to progress delivery of the Regional Transport Delivery Plan schemes and interventions be approved.
RESOLVED That Pembrokeshire County Council’s Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (LFRMS) be approved for publishing on receipt of approval from Welsh Government.
The following declarations were made: Item 4 – UK Shared Prosperity Fund: 6-monthly update Councillor Michelle Bateman declared a personal interest by virtue of being a Trustee of the VC Gallery. Item 5 – Social Services Strategic Commissioning Plan 2025-2035 Councillor Paul Miller declared a personal and prejudicial interest by virtue of being involved in the care market in Pembrokeshire, but stated that he had dispensation to speak but not vote. Item 10 – Volunteering: A Strategy for Pembrokeshire 2025-2030 Councillor Jon Harvey declared a personal interest by virtue of his wife being employed by PAVS. Item 11 – Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board Minutes Councillor Tessa Hodgson declared a personal interest by virtue of having two close family members who work in education in Pembrokeshire.
The Leader Moved the Minutes; 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 28 April 2025 be approved as a correct record.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the progress made and challenges faced in the implementation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) be noted. (b) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Place, the Region, Climate Change and Rural Affairs, be delegated authority to accept the UKSPF Inter-Authority Agreement 2025-26.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Procurement and Revenue Services which outlined the fourth six-monthly update on progress in implementing the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) in Pembrokeshire. Councillor Paul Miller, the Deputy Leader, introduced the report and stated that it outlined the three-year SPF programme which concluded in 2025. He highlighted that during the last financial year, £23 million was distributed over that period, and the report outlined where the money had been allocated. He explained that the next report in this series would be a regional evaluation report, which would allow Cabinet to review the programme in more detail, such as impacts. Councillor Miller added that a single year 2025-26 grant process was now in place, and highlighted the Inter-Authority Agreement that was outlined within the Recommendation. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Tessa Hodgson. The Leader sought clarification in regards to the Inter-Authority Agreement. In response, Councillor Miller explained that Swansea was the lead Authority for the region, and that they controlled the central administration functions in terms of reporting back to UK Government. He stated that the Agreement detailed how the Authorities involved worked together and who was responsible for what. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the progress made and challenges faced in the implementation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) be noted. (b) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Place, the Region, Climate Change and Rural Affairs, be delegated authority to accept the UKSPF Inter-Authority Agreement 2025-26.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Strategic Commissioning Plan 2025-35 (Appendix A) and associated Action Plan (pages 58-62) be approved, noting that each project within the plan will need to adhere to the governance arrangements in the Capital Strategy, and individual project business cases will need to be considered and approved by Cabinet for inclusion in the capital programme prior to any commencement. (b) That the ‘Social Services Capital Programme Indicative Spend Profile’ be noted, including the anticipated match funding requirements, as outlined at Appendix B, noting the need to adhere to the governance arrangements in the approved Capital Strategy with each approval subject to affordability. (c) That the Social Services Capital Programme Governance arrangements (Appendix C) be approved. (d) That Cabinet reviews the Strategic Commissioning Plan 2025-35 in two years’ time.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Services and Housing which outlined the Social Services Strategic Commissioning Plan for 2025-2035, as well as the associated Action Plan. Councillor Tessa Hodgson, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Social Care and Safeguarding, introduced the report and stated that it provided detail about the background and context for the work undertaken, which included the West Wales Population Needs Assessment 2022, the Market Stability Report 2022, and the Housing and Accommodation Needs Assessment for adults and older people. She explained that the Plan had been informed by the Welsh Government policy objective of rebalancing and eliminating profit, as well as aligning with the Authority’s Programme for Administration. She then outlined the commissioning intentions of the Plan, as well as the strong strategic intent with accompanying actions within the Plan. Councillor Hodgson also referred to the range of Welsh Government grant funding streams, as well as the Authority’s Capital Strategy and the potential borrowing requirement over the Medium Term Financial Plan. She highlighted that Social Care was one of the three key priority areas identified in the Capital Strategy, and that over time Cabinet would need to prioritise the available Capital investment. She explained that each project would need to adhere to the Governance Framework within the Capital Strategy to be included in the Capital Programme, and that project business cases would be presented to Cabinet on a case-by-case basis. She concluded by mentioning that the Plan was an evidence-based commissioning plan, that provided for a range of solutions to mitigate demand and market risks. Councillor Hodgson explained that early intervention and prevention was a critical component of the strategy and would mitigate demand risks to a degree, and that growing Pembrokeshire's range of statutory services was required to ensure that the most appropriate interventions were available to residents when they required it. Councillor Tessa Hodgson Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Michelle Bateman. Councillor Michelle Bateman referred to the changing demographics in Pembrokeshire and believed it was right that the Authority was being proactive, and looking forward to the future about how to mitigate certain impacts. She stated that she was happy to support the Plan, as it was future-proofing what was needed in Pembrokeshire. Councillor Rhys Sinnett believed the Plan to be central to the work of the Authority moving forward over the next decade. He then questioned whether there were checkpoints along the way to ensure that the Authority was clear on the demographics and level of demand, and whether that was in line with what was predicted. He also questioned how the Plan would be kept under regular review and amended as necessary. Councillor Hodgson thanked Councillors Bateman and Sinnett for their comments, and stated that it was an ambitious strategic plan, and acknowledged that things would change over time in regards to demographics, particularly the projections of people over 80-85 due to location. She suggested that a checkpoint be determined by Cabinet, but believed that regular updates would be received. Councillor Sinnett stated that he would like to see some steps put into the Plan where it be reviewed annually or every two years by Cabinet, simply to retain oversight of the changing demographics and the market. Councillor Hodgson stated that she would be happy with that and asked for some feedback from Cabinet in regards to a review of the Plan. Councillor Paul Miller stated that he was supportive of the Plan, and also stated his support for Cabinet to review the Plan, as suggested by Councillor Sinnett. He believed that a review every two years would be suitable. Councillor Tessa Hodgson then Moved the following additional Recommendation: That Cabinet reviews the Strategic Commissioning Plan 2025-35 in two years’ time. The Seconder, Councillor Michelle Bateman, was content with this addition. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [8] Abstentions: Councillor Paul Miller [1] There were no votes against. RESOLVED (a) That the Strategic Commissioning Plan 2025-35 (Appendix A) and associated Action Plan (pages 58-62) be approved, noting that each project within the plan will need to adhere to the governance arrangements in the Capital Strategy, and individual project business cases will need to be considered and approved by Cabinet for inclusion in the capital programme prior to any commencement. (b) That the ‘Social Services Capital Programme Indicative Spend Profile’ be noted, including the anticipated match funding requirements, as outlined at Appendix B, noting the need to adhere to the governance arrangements in the approved Capital Strategy with each approval subject to affordability. (c) That the Social Services Capital Programme Governance arrangements (Appendix C) be approved. (d) That Cabinet reviews the Strategic Commissioning Plan 2025-35 in two years’ time.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the award of a construction contract to C Wynne and Sons Ltd be approved for the redevelopment of the former Haverfordia House site, Haverfordwest for 25 affordable homes to increase the Authority’s housing stock, the 12-bed reablement facility and communal spaces. Cabinet approval is on condition that the Housing with Care Fund grant application receives Panel approval for 100% of the build costs for the reablement element of this development. If this grant funding is not forthcoming, the Cabinet approval is reneged, with further funding options re-presented to a future Cabinet for consideration.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined the need to award a construction contract for 25 flats, communal spaces and 12-bed reablement, at the former ‘The Haverfordia House’ site in Haverfordwest. Councillor Michelle Bateman, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing, introduced the report and stated that the new facility would offer high quality sheltered housing for people over 55, with a warden service and short-term reablement centre, which would provide support for relearning skills needed to enable people to return home. She explained that the scheme had been through a two-stage tender process, which had allowed the contractor to work with the Team on design and value engineering options. Councillor Bateman then acknowledged concerns around the high costs involved with the development, with one of the issues being high construction costs, with flats in particular being expensive. She then referred to the data outlined in the report, which outlined the highest demand being for one bed properties, and expressed the importance of using data to inform the development programme. Councillor Bateman added that the incentive scheme was being reviewed for those who were under occupying, and wished for it to be noted that homeless figures were high with people in temporary accommodation. She explained that as part of the Programme for Administration, the Authority had committed to improving sheltered housing, and that this construction project was one step further to fulfilling that commitment. She also referred to the challenges surrounding the changing demographics in Pembrokeshire, particularly around the ageing population and the housing need relating to that aspect.She added that the housing side would be joint funded by the Social Housing Grant and the Housing Revenue Account, and that funding had been sought from the Housing with Care Fund to fund the reablement side. Councillor Michelle Bateman Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Guy Woodham. Councillor Alistair Cameron referred to the high construction costs but acknowledged that the facility would be built to a high standard. He then sought clarification from the Director of Resources in regards to his comments within the report. In response, the Director of Resources explained that it was difficult to demonstrate value for money as it was quite a complex matter. He explained the CIPFA four pillars of financial resilience and referred to the high unit costs on this type of project, but that this was just one element of value for money. He then outlined the various other aspects of value for money that needed to be considered, such as external funding sources, the requirements to comply with and the impacts of the development. He also added that there had been some elements of this development where more had been spent now to reduce spending in the future, which meets the requirements of the Wellbeing and Future Generations Act. He highlighted that it was difficult to demonstrate value for money, and recommended that the project needed to be looked at in its entirety. The Leader referred to the Social Housing Grant that was part of this development, which would bring down the contribution of the Authority. Councillor Paul Miller sought clarification as to whether evaluation had been done in regards to the financial standing of the contractor at stage one, and whether it could be done again at stage two. He sought reassurance that evaluation was taking place at this stage to ensure that the Team was comfortable with the risks associated with the contractor and in terms of mitigating such risks. In response, the Director of Resources explained that there was a Contract Monitoring Officer who liaises with the Housing Team on all projects, and ensured regular checks. He added that there was going to be a further financial check on this project before anything was signed. Councillor Miller also stated that the reablement beds were a positive aspect, and sought clarification in regards to the remaining flats in the facility and what the target market would be, as well as how the allocations process would work to ensure the right people went into those units. In response, Councillor Bateman explained that the accommodation would be for people over 55, but wished to note that the average age over 55 was 71, and that they had higher levels of need from the warden service. She then explained that the warden service was really helpful, as it provided a link between the tenants and other services, as well as having a wider wellbeing function in terms of the shared facilities. She added that this facility would replace some of the ageing, more unsuitable accommodation, as they were not fit for current needs and the increasing needs in regards to physical and mental health. She also referred to the design of the spaces, which would ensure the ability for future adaptations to be made, so that people could stay in their homes for longer periods of time. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the award of a construction contract to C Wynne and Sons Ltd be approved for the redevelopment of the former Haverfordia House site, Haverfordwest for 25 affordable homes to increase the Authority’s housing stock, the 12-bed reablement facility and communal spaces. Cabinet approval is on condition that the Housing with Care Fund grant application receives Panel approval for 100% of the build costs for the reablement element of this development. If this grant funding is not forthcoming, the Cabinet approval is reneged, with further funding options re-presented to a future Cabinet for consideration.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the pressures faced by Children’s Services and the resulting increase in routine unpaid work be noted. (b) That it be noted that a further update will be provided in light of the outcome of both Welsh Government and Accelerated Change Programme bids for additional staffing, and the impact of the deployment of those resources.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined Phase 2 of Operation SALUS. Councillor Marc Tierney, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Young Persons, Community, Well-being and Future Generations, introduced the report and stated that it outlined an update on the improvement and development activities that the Service intended to create. He stated that the report reflected on the increased demand being faced in Pembrokeshire, as well as the need to move to an improved position in terms of prevention. He referred to Welsh Government support in the form of grants, as noted in the report, along with the improvements that had already been made in terms of children and residential care. Councillor Tierney also stated that although numbers were continuing to rise, which was not unique to Pembrokeshire, the Service was able to bring seven young people back into the County in the last 18 months, which would provide a much better outcome for those children receiving care. Councillor Marc Tierney Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Tessa Hodgson. Councillor Alistair Cameron referred to the good news within the report, but highlighted the additional funding of £1.5 million revenue funding, and sought clarification as to how confident Officers were in terms of receiving the additional funding, and when it would be received. In response, the Head of Children’s Services stated that he was quite confident that the Authority would receive a significant amount of money from Welsh Government, and explained that Welsh Government had now introduced a guaranteed 25% of the money being available to Local Authorities based on a funding formula, therefore £233,000 was guaranteed to be deployed for eliminate or prevention related projects. He anticipated that he would hear back from Welsh Government in the next two to three weeks on the outcome of the full bid process. Councillor Cameron referred to the gap in funding that would require further future Council Tax rises or cuts to services, to which the Head of Children’s Services explained that if the projects and posts created as a result of the grant money pays off in the way that they were designed to, which would prevent children coming into care and support more children leaving care, then that shortfall in the resource would start to reduce. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that it would be difficult to understand what improvement looked like due to the increasing demand, and questioned whether it would be useful to look at the informal qualitative data in terms of feedback and the opinions of frontline staff, for example. She believed that if all aspects worked, then a decline in numbers would be seen, however, she would not want people to think that the data did not show that decline, as it was a long-term aim, therefore the data may take time to prove that things were working. She asked for reassurance that the matter would not be judged too quickly, as it was a long-term aim in regards to prevention, and that such changes take time to embed and show impact. In response, the Head of Children’s Services stated that it was an important point to raise, as it was unlikely that any discernible difference would be seen in the first 12 months, but hoped that changes would be seen beyond that timeframe. He also agreed with the comments made regarding frontline staff, and stated that it was important to listen to staff and colleagues from other agencies. Councillor Tierney then stated that it was his intention to see how that progress of softer interventions could work, as well as listening to staff and talking to people about their experiences, and that of service users. Councillor Paul Miller referred to early intervention and sought reassurance that through the Plan, there would be close collaborative working with the teams in schools who dealt with Education Welfare Officers, and that school colleagues were offered more support, particularly in relation to harder cases. In response, the Head of Children’s Services assured Members that colleagues in Social Care and Education currently worked closely in the prevention space, and explained that the Plan would provide additional resource that would allow for more capacity to work closer for longer periods of time, both with colleagues and families, as well as to provide feedback to referrers. He also mentioned the 0-25’s Preventions Board that had been established between Education and Social Care, and highlighted that a pilot prevention project was currently being developed. Councillor Miller then sought reassurance that there was genuine collaboration between Social Care and Education, and that Education colleagues were amending, reviewing and developing their support in conjunction with the work of colleagues in Social Care. The Chief Executive explained that the 0-25’s Preventions Board was co-Chaired by the Director of Social Care and Housing and the Director of Education. He stated that, in regards to the Prevention Agenda, he was comfortable that Children’s Services, Youth and the Education Team were fused as one team in delivering that agenda. The Director of Education further explained that as a result of the prevention support, the Directorate was re-shaping the school attendance strategy, and working with schools around the attendance issues faced. He also explained that the support given to schools was also being re-shaped in relation to mental health and wellbeing, and the use of trauma informed practice, which runs across both Directorates. The Head of Children’s Services wished to add that the Safeguarding Education Manager worked closely with Social Care Operational Staff, where there was weekly contact with the front of house Team to discuss concerns and referrals. He also highlighted the current work taking place between the two Directorates on the design of a programme of school readiness support, that they would seek funding for and pilot. Councillor Miller then highlighted types of attendance issues and questioned whether it was a resource issue or whether tougher sanctions on families were needed. He also asked how much support was in place for families to ensure that children were able to access important education. In response, the Director of Education believed that further work was needed, particularly around prosecution and the final tougher measures with families. He stated that that work was starting to take place, and explained that the Directorate needed to ensure the support and participation from schools in order to take those tougher steps when required. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED (a) That the pressures faced by Children’s Services and the resulting increase in routine unpaid work be noted. (b) That it be noted that a further update will be provided in light of the outcome of both Welsh Government and Accelerated Change Programme bids for additional staffing, and the impact of the deployment of those resources.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the public be excluded from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 to consider Appendix B as it involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Act; and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the current plan to pursue the potential acquisition of additional children’s residential capacity in-county be supported. (b) That in accordance with the governance arrangements within the Capital Strategy, the feasibility and due diligence be undertaken in respect of both projects up to a maximum cost of £260,000 be approved, in addition to the £80,000 that has already been made available for this purpose, with the remainder being funded initially from the Programme for Administration reserve. (c) That it be noted that a full options appraisal will include the possibility of not making the acquisitions. (d) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Young Persons, Community, Wellbeing and Future Generations, be delegated authority to submit a non-binding offer or letter of intent/Heads of terms in order to be able to progress with the due diligence required in respect of project 2. (e) That the possible need to provide an element of match funding to Welsh Government grant funding (via the Housing with Care Fund and/or Integration and Rebalancing Capital Fund) in order to make one or more acquisition, be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Social Care and Housing which outlined the current strategic plan to develop in-house residential provision for Young People Looked After, who require such care in Pembrokeshire. Councillor Marc Tierney, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Young Persons, Community, Well-being and Future Generations, introduced the report and outlined the two projects, the first of which related to a single building that would provide three or four beds for children, along with land and additional outbuildings that would provide a greater opportunity to support young people. He explained that in relation to Project 1, Cabinet was being asked to approve an indicative initial budget of £150,000, to coverdesign development to RIBA Stage 3 with the appointment of a multidisciplinary consultant team, a business case resource and invasive surveys included within the design development. In regards to Project 2, he explained that the Authority had secured regional funding to the value of £80,000 via the Integrated Rebalancing Care Fund, to cover the costs of legal due diligence exercises to date. He added that it was estimated that financial due diligence exercises would cost approximately £82,000 plus VAT. Councillor Tierney then stated that the development of an in-house children's residential home was viewed by the Senior Leadership Team as being one of the top priorities for the Council for the next two to three years. Councillor Marc Tierney Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Tessa Hodgson. Councillor Paul Miller referred to the financials outlined in the report and raised concern around that level of expenditure, due to the feasibility and due diligence element, and sought clarification in regards to the governance arrangements associated with that aspect. In response, the Head of Children’s Services referred to the Project Board that had recently been established, which would feed into higher levels of governance, as well as having the Section 151 Officer as the senior response Officer for this particular project, with the Director of Social Care and Housing retaining overall responsibility for the wider programme within the Directorate. The Director of Resources then explained that as the Section 151 Officer, he was heavily involved in the project, along with the Deputy Section 151 Officer. He then referred to the figures in the report and stated that they were the maximum figures, and that Officers would be looking for value for money, and therefore anticipated that the figures would be lower than outlined. At this juncture, Cabinet considered excluding the public from the meeting in accordance with Section 100A (4) of the Local Government Act 1972, to consider Appendix B as it 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. Councillor Paul Miller Moved to exclude the public; Seconded by the Leader. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] 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 to consider Appendix B as it involved the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Act; and that the public interest in maintaining the exemption outweighs the public interest in disclosing the information. The webcast was paused at this juncture. Having convened in private session in accordance with Paragraph 14 of Part 4 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, Cabinet considered the exempt Appendix. The webcast was resumed at this juncture. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the current plan to pursue the potential acquisition of additional children’s residential capacity in-county be supported. (b) That in accordance with the governance arrangements within the Capital Strategy, the feasibility and due diligence be undertaken in respect of both projects up to a maximum cost of £260,000 be approved, in addition to the £80,000 that has already been made available for this purpose, with the remainder being funded initially from the Programme for Administration reserve. (c) That it be noted that a full options appraisal will include the possibility of not making the acquisitions. (d) That the Director of Resources, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Young Persons, Community, Wellbeing and Future Generations, be delegated authority to submit a non-binding offer or letter of intent/Heads of terms in order to be able to progress with the due diligence required in respect of project 2. (e) That the possible need to provide an element of match funding to Welsh Government grant funding (via the Housing with Care Fund and/or Integration and Rebalancing Capital Fund) in order to make one or more acquisition, be noted.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the following be recommended to Council: (i) That the Officer responses to representations received on the Pembrokeshire County Council’s Local Development Plan (LDP) 2 Deposit Plan 2, as set out in Appendix A.1, A.2 and A.3 to the report, be agreed. (ii) That a limited number of proposed changes (Focussed Changes) and minor edits to the LDP 2 Deposit Plan 2 in response to representations received,– as set out in Appendix B.1, B.2 and B.3 to the report, be agreed. (iii) That proposed edits to Other Documents such as the Candidate Site Register and Background Papers as set out in Appendix B.4, and edits to the Habitats Regulations Assessment as set out in Appendix B.5, be agreed. (iv) That the LDP 2 Deposit Plan 2 and supporting documentation be agreed for submission to Welsh Government subject to the Focussed Changes. (v) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to address any further minor edits needed to the documentation, prior to being submitted for Examination and prior to being consulted upon as part of the Focussed Changes consultation. (vi) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to consult on the Focussed Changes and provide a response to the Inspector conducting the Examination on any representations received. (vii) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to represent the Council’s position at the forthcoming Examination. (b) That the funding of additional costs, up to a maximum of £30,000, be agreed, should Examination costs exceed the £200,000 in the Planning reserve, from an alternative reserve.
Cabinet considered a report by the Head of Planning which outlined the submission of the Pembrokeshire Local Development Plan (LDP) 2 Deposit Plan 2 for examination. Councillor Jacob Williams, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Planning and Regulatory Services, introduced the report and explained that the next stage of the process, following the public consultation, was for the Authority to submit the LDP and supporting documentation, including any focus changes and proposed Council responses, for examination to Planning and Environment Decisions Wales (PEDU). He then outlined the updated progress timetable in regards to the delivery agreement of the plan, with the submission anticipated for August 2025. He added that the Examination was envisaged to commence in October 2025, with the publication of the Inspector's Report in September 2026, and the adoption of the plan in October/November 2026. Councillor Jacob Williams Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by the Leader. Councillor Alistair Cameron referenced the process of the LDP and that during the process, circumstances may change in different localities. He questioned whether the plan could be amended during the process if changes were to arise. In response, Councillor Williams stated that there was a long period of development, leading up to the adoption of the plan, that would not necessarily take into account ward level issues as they arise. He added that once the plan had been adopted, there would be the potential to amend it. The Head of Planning explained that there were now limited opportunities to make changes to the plan, given the current stage. She added that there were provisions available within the current LDP as well as the emerging LDP, that provide the opportunity for certain development proposals to come forward, but in terms of adding it as a change to the emerging LDP, it was considered too late. Councillor Williams wished to highlight that Councillor Cameron was referring to the reduced parking provision in Kilgetty. Councillor Michelle Bateman welcomed the plan and stated that she was pleased that the next stage of the LDP2 was progressing, and believed that the previous delay had allowed for significant changes to be considered within the plan, in relation to housing demand and town centres for example. The Leader agreed with Councillor Bateman and stated that it was very positive that most of the concerns raised by Welsh Government had been dealt with. He then referred to agricultural [Amended by Minute 17 of Cabinet – 07.07.25] land classification and the need to justify that, and questioned what Welsh Government required in that regard and how the Authority was dealing with it. In response, the Director of M&S Town Planning Consultancy explained that Welsh Government required a clarification as to how the Authority had approached the selection of sites, in relation to agricultural land classification. She added that there was a detailed explanation in the representation response, and that Officers would see how Welsh Government would comment on that aspect when they had the opportunity, and believed that the additional information would assist with the clarification. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the following be recommended to Council: (i) That the Officer responses to representations received on the Pembrokeshire County Council’s Local Development Plan (LDP) 2 Deposit Plan 2, as set out in Appendix A.1, A.2 and A.3 to the report, be agreed. (ii) That a limited number of proposed changes (Focussed Changes) and minor edits to the LDP 2 Deposit Plan 2 in response to representations received,– as set out in Appendix B.1, B.2 and B.3 to the report, be agreed. (iii) That proposed edits to Other Documents such as the Candidate Site Register and Background Papers as set out in Appendix B.4, and edits to the Habitats Regulations Assessment as set out in Appendix B.5, be agreed. (iv) That the LDP 2 Deposit Plan 2 and supporting documentation be agreed for submission to Welsh Government subject to the Focussed Changes. (v) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to address any further minor edits needed to the documentation, prior to being submitted for Examination and prior to being consulted upon as part of the Focussed Changes consultation. (vi) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to consult on the Focussed Changes and provide a response to the Inspector conducting the Examination on any representations received. (vii) That authority be delegated to the Head of Planning to represent the Council’s position at the forthcoming Examination. (b) That the funding of additional costs, up to a maximum of £30,000, be agreed, should Examination costs exceed the £200,000 in the Planning reserve, from an alternative reserve.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That it be agreed to support the Volunteering: A Strategy for Pembrokeshire 2025-2030.
Cabinet considered a report by the Assistant Chief Executive which outlined the Volunteering Strategy produced by Pembrokeshire Association of Voluntary Services (PAVS). Councillor Paul Miller, the Deputy Leader, introduced the report and stated that the strategy had been developed with PAVS as the lead organisation, and that the Authority had been involved in devising the strategy, and that an action plan would follow. Councillor Paul Miller Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Marc Tierney. Councillor Michelle Bateman stated that there was a strong volunteer base within the County, and highlighted the people that were willing to step up and do good within their communities in Pembrokeshire. Councillor Marc Tierney agreed with Councillor Bateman and thanked PAVS for bringing the strategy forward, and stated that it was important to acknowledge the work that volunteers do, in terms of delivering community and statutory services. He added that it was important that the Authority gave the strategy its full endorsement. Councillor Rhys Sinnett raised concern around demographic changes, as well as the bureaucracy around becoming a volunteer, and suggested the need to consider such aspects moving forward. Councillor Bateman referred to the National Eisteddfod that was coming to Pembrokeshire in 2026, and suggested that it was a good step into volunteering if people were interested, and believed that it would reinvigorate the volunteering community within Pembrokeshire. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That it be agreed to support the Volunteering: A Strategy for Pembrokeshire 2025-2030.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the draft Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meeting held on 1 May 2025 be noted.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Resources which outlined the draft Minutes of Meeting of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board held on 1 May 2025. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Minutes; Seconded by Councillor Rhys Sinnett. The vote, undertaken by way of a show of hands, was carried. RESOLVED That the draft Minutes of the Sustainable Communities for Learning Strategic Programme Board meeting held on 1 May 2025 be noted.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That the proposal to extend the catchment area of Waldo Williams Primary School to include the location of the new school site on Scarrowscant Lane, with the catchment area for Fenton Community Primary School realigned accordingly, be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Director of Education which outlined amendments to the school catchment area for Waldo Williams Primary School, so that the new school site sits within its boundary. Councillor Guy Woodham, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Education and Welsh Language, introduced the report and stated that it was proposed that, with effect from September 2025, the catchment area for Waldo Williams Primary School be extended marginally eastwards to include the location of the new school site on Scarrowscant Lane, with the catchment area for Fenton Community Primary School realigned accordingly, as outlined in Appendix C to the report. He added that the Authority’s Integrated Transport Unit did not envisage this change to have an impact on transport provision, and that extending the catchment area would therefore merely formalise access to the school in the future. He explained that the current and proposed extended catchment area of Waldo Williams Primary School, was wholly included within the secondary catchment of Haverfordwest High VC School. Councillor Guy Woodham Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Jon Harvey. The Leader believed the change to be logical given the school’s new location. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That the proposal to extend the catchment area of Waldo Williams Primary School to include the location of the new school site on Scarrowscant Lane, with the catchment area for Fenton Community Primary School realigned accordingly, be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED (a) That the Regional Transport Delivery Plan (RTDP), as set out at Appendix A of the report, be endorsed. (b) That the use of the Council’s statutory powers to progress delivery of the Regional Transport Delivery Plan schemes and interventions be approved.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Head of Infrastructure and Environment which outlined the Regional Transport Delivery Plan (RTDP). Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that it sought endorsement of the RTDP as set out in Appendix A, as well as seeking approval of the use of the Council’s statutory powers to progress delivery of the RTDP schemes and interventions. He then highlighted that the RTDP provides a prioritised list of schemes that were grouped into six themes, as follows: • Active travel, cycling and walking Schemes • Multi-modal Schemes • Public Transport Schemes • Roads and Parking Schemes • Resilience Schemes • ULEV schemes Councillor Sinnett then referred to the 30 individual schemes that the Authority had submitted, and explained that some projects may not be funded, but hoped that a number of the schemes would be moved forward in some way, and added that the submitted schemes had been ordered in regards to priority. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Paul Miller. Councillor Paul Miller wished to highlight the positives in the report, such as the new train station and bus interchange from Milford Haven, which was linked to the Authority’s long-standing ambition to bring a direct high-speed rail service to Pembrokeshire. He also wished to highlight that he recognised the long-standing challenges faced by commuters on the Milford Haven to Haverfordwest route, and added that it was in the plan for further study work to take place and hoped that some proposals could be brought forward that would make a positive difference. The Leader stated his support for the plan and mentioned that the Corporate Joint Committee (CJC) was now involved, which he believed made sense, and referred to the good working relationships with CJC colleagues. He also supported all projects being submitted, in case there was a slippage in money that would allow more projects to be funded. Councillor Miller wished to clarify that the projects he mentioned were phase one projects that would be funded, and that the funding for the longer list of projects was to be determined. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED (a) That the Regional Transport Delivery Plan (RTDP), as set out at Appendix A of the report, be endorsed. (b) That the use of the Council’s statutory powers to progress delivery of the Regional Transport Delivery Plan schemes and interventions be approved.
Decision as recorded
RESOLVED That Pembrokeshire County Council’s Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (LFRMS) be approved for publishing on receipt of approval from Welsh Government.
Cabinet considered a report by the Interim Head of Infrastructure and Environment which outlined the Authority's Local Flood Risk Management Strategy. Councillor Rhys Sinnett, the Cabinet Member with responsibility for Residents’ Services, introduced the report and stated that Section 10 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 required all Lead Local Flood Authorities in Wales to develop, maintain, apply and monitor a strategy for local flood risk management in its area. He explained that the Local Strategy would be reviewed in six years’ time, with the management plan being reviewed every two years. He also referred to a recent public consultation that was generally positive, with the most common criticism being that the report was long, complex and did not focus in detail on local issues. Councillor Sinnett stated that the report needed to be complex due to the issues being faced in terms of flood risk management. He also referred to the ongoing flood schemes in certain areas, as outlined in the report. Councillor Rhys Sinnett Moved the Recommendation; Seconded by Councillor Alistair Cameron. The Leader questioned whether the proposed plan would put an action plan in place for the specific schemes mentioned, and whether they would be monitored moving forward. In response, Councillor Sinnett stated that not every affected area could be protected, as very complex calculations were undertaken by the Government regarding the numbers of properties that needed to be at risk before funding was even able to be applied for. He added that the local strategy focused on sources of flood risk but also acknowledged and considered other sources of flood risk, including the sea, larger water courses and sewers. The vote, undertaken by way of a roll call, was carried. The votes were recorded as follows: For the Motion: Councillors Jon Harvey, Paul Miller, Michelle Bateman, Alistair Cameron, Tessa Hodgson, Rhys Sinnett, Marc Tierney, Jacob Williams and Guy Woodham [9] There were no votes against or abstentions. RESOLVED That Pembrokeshire County Council’s Local Flood Risk Management Strategy (LFRMS) be approved for publishing on receipt of approval from Welsh Government.
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