Pembrokeshire grants from second home council tax is “spent out”

THE enhancing Pembrokeshire grants generated from second home council tax is “spent out” this year demonstrating its success, cabinet heard today.

Cabinet member for finance Cllr Bob Kilmister said it was not great news for those looking to apply for funding now but it was “heartening to see the amount of money we are able to give out under this scheme.”

Cabinet members approved that latest allocations made by the  Enhancing Pembrokeshire grant panel in September where 13 applications were considered.

Just one was rejected – a community bid to take over the White Hart pub in St Dogmaels – but Cllr Kilmister said the council would continue to work with those involved to look for a suitable solution.

Approved applications include £2,436 for Amroth Community Council’s plan to develop a fitting tribute and commemoration to Exercise Jantzen’ the rehearsals for the Normandy D Day landings; £30,752 towards  the Bridge Meadow Trust’s plan for a bridge linking a circular walk in Haverfordwest; Hayscastle Community Project’s plan for a booklet and other improvements will receive £6,563 and £11,707 will go towards enhancements at The Bus Stop Narberth Youth Project.

There was also £30,000 for Pembroke and Monkton History Association’s plan for  a statue of William Marshal on horseback, embracing the historical and cultural heritage of the town and £36,243 towards Saundersfoot Chamber for Tourism’s relaunch of major events for the village.

A total of £196,265.45 was awarded to schemes at the September meeting.

A project bid by the St Brides Coastal History Group was deferred to the next panel for further information.

The community element of the second home tax is available to provide funding for new projects that help address the negative impact of second homes with the amount raised and allocated based on the number of such homes in an area.