News

Independent Group opposed to ‘unprecedented’ Council Tax hike

Published

2 years ago

February 20, 2024

CABINET proposals recommending a significant increase in Council Tax rates by 16.31% for the fiscal year 2024/25 AND the following three years have been met with stern opposition by Independent Group of councillors, The Herald has learned.

The proposed year-or-year hikes, aimed at addressing the financial challenges faced by the cash-strapped County Council has sparked a wave of concern amongst many families who are already facing the cost-of-living crisis.

Councillor Andrew Edwards said: “The proposed increase in council tax stands as an unjust burden on the citizens of Pembrokeshire, particularly during a period marked by an escalating cost of living crisis and the onset of a confirmed recession.

Why is Pembrokeshire looking at a massive council tax hike?

“Despite a fall in inflation, the decision by the current administration to implement a significant tax hike seems not only disproportionate but also detrimental to the financial stability of our community.

“Such an increase is far from being just or sustainable, placing an undue strain on households already navigating the challenges of tightened budgets and economic uncertainty. Our communities deserve a lot better.”

Councillor Huw Murphy, representing the Independent Group, is completely against the proposed large hikes, highlighting the disproportionate burden it would place on Pembrokeshire’s residents compared to other Welsh counties.

According to the proposal detailed in the “Notice of the Meeting of Cabinet” published last week (Feb 13), a Band D property’s Council Tax would increase by £4.20 per week or £219.02 per annum, amounting to a 16.31% hike annually until 2027. This stark increase is a departure from last year’s indication of a manageable 7.5% rise over the Medium Term Financial Plan (MTFP).

The implications of adopting such a recommendation are profound, with a Band D property owner in Pembrokeshire facing an increase of £930.68 by 2027/28 compared to a scenario where Council Tax rises by just 7.5% annually. Cllr. Murphy has criticised the Cabinet’s rationale, citing a lack of evidence to justify such an “extraordinary amount” and points out the potential for Pembrokeshire to become the highest Council Tax authority in Wales, surpassing even Blaenau Gwent, currently holding that title.

The financial strain is attributed mainly to the Social Services Department’s increasing costs for ‘Out of County’ placements. However, Cllr Murphy told The Herald that most other departments are operating within budget, many even presenting a surplus. The stark contrast in proposed tax increases across Wales further fuels the debate, with Cardiff, Carmarthenshire, and Swansea proposing much lower increases, casting Pembrokeshire’s approach as exceptionally burdensome and potentially unfair to its residents.

Cllr Murphy says there is a broader concern regarding the impact of such increases on local households, potentially driving working families and pensioners into poverty.

The proposed tax rise starkly contrasts with the current inflation rate and projected pay increases, raising questions about the council’s consideration for the economic realities faced by its residents and the potential adverse effects on the county’s ability to attract and retain essential workers, including teachers.

The Independent Group has proposed amendments to the budget in hopes of mitigating the impact on residents but finds the reduction offered insufficient to address community concerns.

In a letter to Cllr Alec Cormack, the Cabinet Member for Corporate Finance for Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Huw Murphy said that there is no justification to support an annual Council Tax rise of 16.31% up to and including 2027.

He explained the matter had already resulted in fear and desperation entering many households and will drive many working families and pensioners on fixed incomes into poverty.

He wrote: “I am informed there appears to be no likely easing of pressure on PCC in respect of funding ‘Out of County’ placements by Social Services, with the presumption this will continue rising exponentially until 2027/28? Homelessness was a topic of conversation twelve months ago. However, homelessness numbers have decreased by 24% between March and December 2023. Therefore, there will come a point when (no one knows when), ‘Out of County’ placements will plateau if not decrease.

He continued: “I would be grateful for a written response providing an explanation with supporting evidence as to the need for applying a 16.31% Council Tax increase for not only 2024/25 but also for the following 3 years (MTFP), moving away from the presumption of a 7.5% Council Tax for the MTFP as recommended on Feb 13, 2023.

“The Independent Group met the Director of Resources and proposed amendments to your budget on Feb 13, and aspects of our proposals were deemed appropriate to offer a lower Council Tax rate than 16.31%. We are grateful for the assistance provided to us at this time.

“However, the reduction offered was insufficient to allay community concerns and we withdrew our proposals, leaving your Cabinet recommendation as the only current option.”

Cllr Murphy continued: “The need to consider imposing a higher than 7.5% Council Tax for 2024/25 will be debated and voted upon on March 7. However, I currently see no justification to ALSO recommend a 16.31% Council Tax rise for the following 3 years. If we go down this path I foresee significant community tension and disengagement between residents and PCC and a brief glance at social media over the last week will confirm this.

“There is huge concern by a majority of Councillors across the whole chamber with regards to the proposed 16.31% rise in Council Tax for 2024/25 and I am gravely concerned at your desire to now factor in an annual 16.31% Council Tax rise into the MTFP (until 2027).”There is huge concern by a majority of Councillors across the whole chamber with regards to the proposed 16.31% rise in Council Tax for 2024/25 and I am gravely concerned at your desire to now factor in an annual 16.31% Council Tax rise into the MTFP (until 2027).

“I do not want to see this authority reject a budget and the consequences this will bring upon Officers and ourselves.

“However, in life we sometimes have to make decisions that appear controversial, possibly unthinkable but if done in the best interests of our residents then that is what has to be done, and your recommended Council Tax rise of 16.31% is taking us to this point. Through many recent conversations it’s clear your Council Tax proposals needs to be reduced by a significant percentage to have the support of Council on March 7th, 2024.

“Therefore, should Council fail to agree a budget on March 7th, 2024 through the the loyalty of the majority of Councillors to the people of Pembrokeshire in defending them from an unaffordable Council Tax rise; then you as Cabinet lead for Finance, along with the Leader and other Cabinet members must bear full responsibility and with it the consequences as all Cabinet members voted for a 16.31% Council Tax rise in 2024/25 and the recommendation of an annual 16.31% Council Tax rise into the MTFP.

“Independent Group Councillors we are willing to work with Councillors across the Chamber to achieve the goal of protecting residents of all ages, be they rural or urban from the impact of your current proposals which will have far reaching and negative consequences if passed on March 7th”, Cllr Murphy added.

The Herald understands that the recommended 16.3% increase is for the tax year 2024-25 and not for future years.

This is at odds with the IPG’s letter.

Any Council Tax increases for future years were not, as The Herald understands, discussed at Cabinet.

Currently, the finance team and Pembrokeshire County Council is predicting increases of 7.5% from 2025-26 onwards continuing up to 2027-28.

However, this could be subject to change – of course.

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

6 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

6 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

7 hours ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.