Pembrokeshire is facing a two-horse race for its leadership, with the latest challenger saying he will offer “ambition, dedication, passion, openness and integrity”.

The County Council leadership challenge follows current leader Cllr David Simpson officially stating he is to step down, with the role’s incumbent decided at the council’s forthcoming Annual General Meeting on May 10.

The first to throw her hat into the ring was Pembrokeshire Conservative group leader Councillor Di Clements.

She has now been joined by unaffiliated member Cllr Jon Harvey, Cabinet Member for Planning & Housing Delivery, and Pembroke St Mary North county councillor.

In officially announcing his running he said: “It would be an honour and privilege to become the next Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council – a privilege that I do not take lightly and I am committed to serving the residents of Pembrokeshire with ambition, dedication, passion, openness and integrity.

“As a council we need to tackle the crucial issues that define the fabric of our county and the wonderful communities that comprise it. Housing, education, social care and a vibrant economy along with the protection of our natural environment are the keystones on which our residents’ well-being and prosperity rest.

PCC leadership battle
The first to throw her hat into the ring was Pembrokeshire Conservative group leader Councillor Di Clements; who has now been joined by unaffiliated member Cllr Jon Harvey, (PCC)

“I am excited and positive about what we can collectively achieve over the coming months and years and how we can build on the successes that the current administration has achieved whilst being very mindful of the need to provide value for money in the delivery of essential services for the Pembrokeshire council tax-payer.

“There remains a pressing need for affordable housing in Pembrokeshire. Through strategic partnerships and innovative policies, I will work tirelessly to expand housing options to ensure access to quality homes that those in need can afford.

“Our new council house building programme will continue at pace and provide secure, energy efficient homes for those desperately in need of affordable housing.”

He added: “I will work to build as much consensus as possible within the council chamber, where we can work with a shared vision for Pembrokeshire, where we can overcome challenges and create a better future for our residents and future generations.”