MONTHS of turmoil at Neyland Town Council have culminated in frustration among residents, who are now calling for councillors to work together as a cohesive body.

The tension escalated following concerns that yet another town council meeting will be postponed next week due to the agenda not being published within the statutory three-day period. In response, residents have formed the Neyland Community Action Group to push for accountability and improved cooperation among councillors.

“For a long time now, there have been issues within our local council,” said Leah Unwin, a concerned resident. “I think it is time we came together as a community to push for some resolution.

“As it stands, there have been no meetings since October. No meetings mean agenda items are not dealt with, and the public cannot ask questions. Holding meetings is the most basic requirement of a council.

“As a town, we pay £100,000 per year for the local council to exist, directly from our council tax. We deserve a council that works for us.

“I am not personally concerned with the reasons for the deterioration in relationships within the council. The council is one body; it is up to them to work together. If they can’t, they need to ask themselves whether it is fair to us, the community, to continue in their roles.

“I feel strongly that any action taken against the council should be done collectively.”

This week, tensions among councillors reached a new low when Cllr Mike Harry sent an email to Cllr Brian Rothero, describing him as “an odious oaf.” Harry dismissed Rothero’s questions as “garbage” and criticized his alleged supporters, saying, “His cronies at the Foresters bar are hardly people of high respect in the community, so I’m not bothered by their opinions.”

The Neyland Community Action Group is now encouraging residents to share their views on what actions should be taken to address the ongoing dysfunction.

Community calls for change: Residents express frustration with Neyland Town Council (Pic: Herald).

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL have voted to revise and simplify the long-term empty properties council tax premium. 

Previously the premium increased incrementally. However, Members agreed in December that from April 1^st 2025 one rate of 300% will apply to all properties that have been empty for two years or more. 

Cllr Joshua Beynon, Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance and Efficiencies, said:

“The premium is in place to encourage the return of properties into use as much needed homes in Pembrokeshire and to reduce the impact of empty homes on the communities around them.”

The premium is in addition to the standard council tax charge and applies to all three elements – Council, Police & Crime Commissioner and Town & Community Councils.

Council taxpayers who are renovating their properties can apply for a council tax exemption which can be applied to the property for a maximum period of 12 months if the property requires major repair works or structural alteration.

This exemption means that no council tax is payable for this 12-month period.

If the exemption has already been awarded taxpayers can apply for a discretionary discount, which can be awarded up to the level of the long-term empty property premium. In such instances the standard council tax charge is still payable. 

Each case is considered on its own merits and taxpayers are required to provide written details of the works required together with photographic evidence. 

This discount is normally awarded for up to maximum period of 12 months.

If you wish to apply for this discount, email [email protected] or write to Revenue Services, County Hall, Haverfordwest, SA61 1TP.

Pembrokeshire County Council is also participating in the National Empty Homes Grant Scheme which will give owners of empty properties access to a grant of up to £25,000 if their property meets the required criteria and further information on this grant can be found online: https://www.nationalemptyhomesgrant.wales

Interest free loans are also available and further information on who is eligible can be found via https://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/private-housing/empty-home-loans

Residents in Pembrokeshire are being urged to prepare for potential travel disruption as a yellow weather warning for snow and ice is in place from 3am to 12pm. The Met Office has advised that areas above 100 metres could see a few centimetres of fresh snow, accompanied by icy patches that may create hazardous conditions.

What to Expect

The yellow warning, which indicates a medium likelihood of adverse weather with a low overall impact, highlights several potential issues:

• Travel disruption: Longer journey times are likely on roads, as well as delays to bus and train services.
• Icy conditions: Untreated roads, pavements, and cycle paths could develop icy patches, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
• Injuries: There’s a chance of injuries resulting from slips on icy surfaces.

Preparing for Snowy Conditions

To stay safe during the snowy spell, the following steps are recommended:

• Plan ahead: Allow extra time for your journey and check for any road closures or public transport delays. Amend your travel plans if necessary.
• Be prepared: If driving, ensure your car is stocked with essentials such as warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, an ice scraper or de-icer, a warning triangle, a high-visibility vest, and an in-car phone charger.
• Stay updated: Weather warnings can change quickly, so regularly check the forecast in your area for updates.

Driving in Icy Conditions

Navigating icy roads requires caution and preparation. Here are some tips for driving safely:

• Look well ahead for potential hazards and keep your speed low.
• Accelerate, brake, steer, and change gear as smoothly as possible to minimise the risk of skidding.
• Use a higher gear to help grip on packed ice and maintain traction.

Driving Safely in Snow

Snowy conditions call for additional precautions:

• • Use dipped headlights to improve visibility.
• • Accelerate gently and maintain a safe, steady speed.
• • When descending hills, use a low gear to maintain control.

As the weather warning remains in effect, residents are advised to exercise caution, especially in elevated areas, and to follow safety guidelines to minimise risks during the wintry spell.