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News

Mammoth Pembrokeshire council tax rise lower than expected

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COUNCIL TAX in Pembrokeshire is to rise by less than a mooted 16.3%, to 12.5%, after an 11th-hour alternative budget proposal was narrowly-backed.

It was recommended the council tax rate in Pembrokeshire increased by 16.3 per cent at its March 7 meeting of full council.

The 16.3% rate would have seen the basic council tax level – before town/community precepts and the police precept are included – rise by £219.02 for the average Band D property, taking it to £1,561.98.

Pembrokeshire is currently facing a projected funding gap of £31.9m, partly due to a lower-than-expected Provisional Local Government Settlement.

That figure has increased from £27.1m in December, and £28.4m in January, when it was described as “by far the highest funding gap in our history,” by Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance Cllr Alec Cormack.

At the March 7 meeting there was a call by deputy leader Cllr Paul Miller for an eleventh-hour change to the budget.

He proposed a 12.5% increase, partly using additional reserves of £1.5m, as well as £1m target for council efficiency savings.

Cllr Miller said that would see a weekly council tax increase for the average property of £3.22, or £167.86 a year.

Members backed Cllr Miller’s amendment, by 30 votes to 26, with one abstention.

The final council tax bill for residents would be higher than this as town and community council precepts and the police precept would be added; with second home-owners and empty property owners facing even higher bills as both have a premium rate.

The premium rate on second homes for the next financial year is 200%, effectively a treble rate, with a more complicated approach on empty properties of 100% after 24 months, 200% after 36 months, and 300% after five years.

The 12.5% rise comes on top of previous increases of 12.5%, 9.92 per cent, five per cent, 3.75 per cent, five per cent and 7.5 per cent.

The county had faced the possibility of even higher increases, of 18.94 per cent, and an eye-watering 20.98%, before Cabinet members backed the 16.3 per cent rate proposal last month.

Neighbouring Ceredigion backed a council tax increase of 11.1% on February 29.

High tensions and political manoeuvring at County Hall

  • Understanding Thursday’s epic meeting – by Tom Sinclair

TODAY’S full council meeting at Pembrokeshire County Council was marked by high tensions and political manoeuvring as councillors faced a critical decision on the budget and Council Tax proposals. The meeting centred around whether the Council would accept the proposed budget, including a contentious 12.5% Council Tax increase, amidst threats of a coalition between Independent Group councillors and Conservatives to block the budget.

Initially, there was no agreement on a deal to resolve the impasse, leading to a compromise proposal by the Cabinet to adopt a 12.5% Council Tax rise. This proposal sparked a heated debate, requiring more officer input than usual, with significant contributions from the Monitoring Officer and Head of Legal, Rhian Young, and the Director of Resources, Jon Haswell. Young addressed allegations of “strongarm” tactics by officers against certain councillors, explaining the legal and procedural consequences of not setting a budget. Haswell expressed his reservations about the Council Tax rise but emphasised the need for a balanced budget.

The debate saw various procedural twists, including attempts to suspend standing orders to introduce amended budget proposals. These amendments aimed to reduce the proposed Council Tax increase from 16.31% to 12.5% through a combination of measures, including using more reserves and restructuring back-office functions.

The discussion also featured a mix of technical difficulties, pointed critiques, and strategic political moves. Councillor Jamie Adams attempted to shift the debate towards broader issues with local government funding and criticised the administration’s past reluctance to raise Council Tax more boldly. However, Cllr Tessa Hodgson countered Adams’s points, focusing on the present administration’s priorities and responsibilities, especially regarding Social Care.

The amended budget, proposing a 12.5% Council Tax rise, ultimately passed with a vote of 32-26, narrowly averting a crisis. This outcome reflects the Council’s challenging position, balancing fiscal responsibility with political realities. Conservative Group Leader Di Clements expressed concerns about the process and the reliance on trust for last-minute budget changes.

The meeting highlighted the complex dynamics within Pembrokeshire County Council, including tensions between different political factions, the critical role of council officers in guiding procedural and legal matters, and the challenging task of setting a budget in a politically charged environment. The approval of the 12.5% Council Tax rise, while resolving the immediate budgetary crisis, sets the stage for future debates on fiscal strategy and governance within the Council.

Entertainment

Newport Winter Wonderland is the ideal treat for the family this Christmas holiday

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THERE is still a chance to attend the Newport Winter Wonderland and experience a magical winter experience. Located next to Friars Walk Shopping Centre (NP20 1UH), the festive attraction opened its doors on Thursday, November 21, and will run until Sunday, January 5, closing only on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Visitors can look forward to a real ice rink under cover, ensuring skating fun whatever the weather. Alongside the rink, a large Christmas funfair offers thrills and entertainment for all ages, while stalls serving various Christmas foods promise festive treats to keep everyone warm and satisfied.

For those looking to unwind, a fire pit provides a cosy spot for roasting marshmallows, and a licensed bar offers seasonal drinks to enjoy. Entry to the Winter Wonderland is free, with tickets required only for specific attractions.

Families can also meet Santa Claus himself, making it a perfect outing for creating cherished holiday memories.

For more details, including ticket bookings and opening hours, visit www.newportwinterwonderland.co.uk.

Make sure to wrap up warm and head down to Newport Winter Wonderland for a truly festive day out this Christmas season.

Festive fun: Newport Winter Wonderland features an ice rink, funfair, and Santa Claus (Pic: Herald).

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Crime

Arrest after fatal Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

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A MAN has been arrested following a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire, on Monday (December 23), which claimed the life of 38-year-old Aaron Jones.

The incident happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm while Aaron was walking his dog. Police said the vehicle involved, a blue car with noticeable damage, was travelling northbound through the village at the time of the collision.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that the vehicle believed to have been involved has now been located, and a 27-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, failing to stop for a collision, and failing to report a collision.

Specially trained officers are supporting Aaron’s family, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are appealing to anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.”

The road remains closed while investigations continue, and residents can expect an increased police presence in the area.

Anyone with dashcam footage, doorbell camera recordings, or CCTV footage from the area is urged to check their recordings and contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

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Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

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WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”

What a pleasant surprise: The fantastic news is delivered (Pic: Lord Nelson Hotel)
The Lord Nelson Hotel in Milford Haven on carnival day
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