News

12.5% council tax increase still an option

Published

8 years ago

December 14, 2017

A POTENTIAL 12.5% increase in council tax, as well as 5% and 8% increases, are to be debated by the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committees in the New Year.

Pembrokeshire County Council’s draft budget was presented to a meeting of full council today (Dec 14).

The increases in council tax are part of the council’s budget and the Cabinet member for Finance, Cllr Bob Kilmister said this was the earliest they had presented the budget to the council and praised the work of the finance team.

He highlighted a number of issues surrounding each option but other councillors were concerned about a potential 12.5% increase and suggested they should go with the 5% increase.

Cllr Kilmister added: “With the details of the final offer made public the increased wage bill will be £957, 857 meaning that the funding gap has risen (from 17.6m) to £18.6m.

“We are £14.8m short, Welsh Government fund all authorities on the basis they charge the average council tax in Wales. The funding gap will continue to rise if we don’t do anything about it.

“We have to do something about this or face draconian cuts to services. The only option that offers protection to school budgets is option 3 but we will still need to identify savings to bridge the funding gap.

“We are £14.8m short and we need to raise our income and that requires us to make difficult decisions. 31 is the number needed to make the budget on March 8, it is in your hands, I am just pointing out what I believe is the right direction.”

A question that had been tabled later on in the agenda by Cllr John Davies was asked to be brought forward by Cllr David Bryan about how many people paid council tax in previous years.

It was revealed that the number of council tax properties in 2017/18 was 61,429. Of those paying 100% was 34,181, a percentage of 55.64%.

Those who were paying with a discount of 50% or 25% was 14,849, a percentage of 24.17%.

The number of properties with 100% discount was 8350, a percentage of 13.39%.

There were 2258 houses which had a partial reduction and 1791 exempt properties.

Cllr John Davies said: “It is disingenuous to blame the past. The last administration raised council tax by 5%.

“Just over half the tax payers pay council tax in full, it is disproportionate to put the burden on those that pay the council tax.

“We have to convince ourselves that we are part of an authority that provides efficient services. It is a false premise to believe that raising council tax will improve services.

“I am happy to support option 1, how can we justify taking more off the people in Pembrokeshire. Option 1 is a realistic and fair option, it may be painful for the executive but there has always been challenges.”

Council Leader David Simpson was questioned on what his preferred option would be by Cllr Sam Kurtz but the leader responded saying he would prefer the option that the chamber comes up with in the March meeting.

Former Leader Cllr Jamie Adams said he was not confident in the current administration to make difficult decisions adding: “To expect the public to put their hands in their pockets, which are becoming increasingly empty, is unfair. You have to be up for that challenge and I don’t believe you are. I believe we should look at 5% as it would be unfair and unsustainable for our communities to expect them to pay more.”

Cllr Michelle Bateman said: “We are talking about hits to hardworking families with a 12.5% increase but if we don’t do this the cuts are going to hit them harder. If we can’t subsidise some of the bus routes that will hit the vulnerable people. This will hit them more than an increase in council tax.”

Council voted to pass the recommendation to send the budget to all Overview and Scrutiny Committees with a small number voting against.

Community

Three Amigos Easter Run roars through Pembrokeshire

Published

3 hours ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

MOTORCYCLE enthusiasts turned out in force today (Saturday, March 28) as the popular Three Amigos Easter Run returned to the roads of Pembrokeshire.

The annual ride, now a firm favourite in the local biking calendar, saw a colourful convoy of motorbikes travel through towns and countryside, drawing crowds of spectators along the route.

Riders of all ages and backgrounds took part, with everything from classic machines to modern superbikes on display. Many participants embraced the Easter theme, with bikes decorated and riders donning festive outfits, adding to the atmosphere of the day.

The event is not only a celebration of the region’s strong motorcycling community but also an opportunity to bring people together, with families lining the streets to watch the procession pass through.

Organisers said the run once again highlighted the camaraderie among bikers and the support the event receives from local communities.

One rider said: “It’s a brilliant day every year. The turnout has been fantastic, and it’s great to see so many people out supporting us.”

The Three Amigos Easter Run has grown steadily in popularity, becoming a key date in the Easter weekend calendar and a showcase for Pembrokeshire’s vibrant biking scene.

With fine weather and strong attendance, this year’s event is expected to be remembered as one of the best yet.

Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald

Community

Classic car show returns to Carew airfield this summer

Published

4 hours ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Hundreds of vehicles, family attractions and local traders set for popular annual event

THE PEMBROKESHIRE CLASSIC CAR CLUB will once again bring a spectacular display of vintage motoring to Carew Airfield this summer, as its annual show returns on Saturday (June 6).

The much-anticipated event, running from 10:00am to 3:00pm, is expected to attract large crowds from across Pembrokeshire and beyond, with organisers promising a full day of entertainment for all ages.

Hundreds of classic cars will be on display, ranging from iconic British models to American classics, offering enthusiasts the chance to get up close to some of the finest vehicles on the road.

Alongside the cars, visitors can enjoy a wide range of attractions including craft stalls, food vendors, trade stands and free face painting for children, making it a popular day out for families.

The event will take place at Carew Airfield, a location well known for hosting large-scale gatherings, with easy access and ample space for exhibitors and visitors alike.

Organisers are encouraging car owners, traders and exhibitors to get involved, with applications now open for those wishing to showcase vehicles or run stalls on the day.

Admission prices have been kept affordable, with family tickets priced at £10, while adults and OAPs pay £5 and children £3. Both cash and card payments will be accepted.

A spokesperson for the club said the show continues to grow year on year, adding: “It’s a great opportunity to bring the community together, celebrate classic cars, and support local traders in a fantastic setting.”

For exhibitor and trade enquiries, contact [email protected]. Stall holders and car boot sellers can apply via [email protected].

Community

Residents evacuated after Carmarthenshire fire as investigation continues

Published

4 hours ago

March 28, 2026

Tom Sinclair

EMERGENCY SERVICES remain at the scene of a serious property fire in Kidwelly as investigations continue and efforts are made to make the building safe.

The fire broke out on Lady Street in the early hours of Tuesday (March 24), prompting a multi-agency response involving Dyfed-Powys Police, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and Carmarthenshire County Council.

As a precaution, neighbouring properties were evacuated due to safety concerns, with residents temporarily displaced while the structural integrity of the affected building is assessed.

Safety work underway

Contractors were due to begin work at 9:00am on Thursday (March 27) to stabilise the structure and allow investigators to safely access the site. Authorities say the priority is to ensure the building is secure so residents can return to their homes as soon as possible.

However, officials have stressed that this will not happen until the site is deemed safe.

Lady Street remains closed while the work is carried out, with disruption expected to continue in the area.

Appeal for information

Police have thanked the local community for their patience and support during the ongoing incident.

Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone with CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage recorded between 11:00pm on Monday (March 23) and 4:00am on Tuesday (March 24).

Anyone with information is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.