At this month’s meeting of Manorbier Community Council, Clr. Ray Hughes was elected as Chair, after being nominated by Clr. Graham Clark, and seconded by Clr. Phil Kidney. No other nominations were received, and Clr. Hughes accepted the nomination and made his declaration of Office.

Clr. Kidney then nominated Clr. Rob Hall as Vice Chair, and again, with no other nominations received, he accepted.

Clr. Hughes thanked the Council for its achievements during the last two years, during such unpredicted times.

Councillors congratulated Clr. Kidney on his recent election win as County Councillor for the newly formed Manorbier and Penally Ward.

Clr. Hall proposed to commence the co-option process, advertising two positions of each ward and the closing date for applications being June 3. Clr. Barry seconded the proposal with all councillors in full agreement.

Matters Arising - The Council were advised that several volunteers had commenced tending to the Bier House and garden to the rear such. All volunteers will receive a copy of the Council’s risk assessment, and it was further agreed that the doors will remain off and stored in Clr. Hughes’ barn for one year, following such the situation will be readdressed as to whether the doors should be replaced or not.

Clr. Hall proposed that the Council purchase two commemorative rose bushes/ shrubs to be planted in the garden, to the vale of £75, with all councillors in full agreement.

Planning applications - NP/22/0211/FUL: New two storey 3 bedroom dwelling, at plot 5, Grove Crescent, Jameston - Following consideration of all the information presented by the Planning Authority, Manorbier Community Council resolved to support this application.

NP/22/0233/FUL: Demolition of conservatory and erection of extension to rear of property, at Willow House, Manorbier - members resolved to support this application, noting that the dwelling is in a rural area with no near neighbours that would be effected by the proposed alterations.

Other matters - Electronic Speed Signs: a grant had been approved by Pembrokeshire County Council, with the locations confirmed and the local authority making checks to ensure the requisite services are available.

Jameston Play Park: An Enhancing Pembrokeshire Grant application is in the process, which will be considered by Pembrokeshire County Council in the Autumn.

Seating overlooking Manorbier Beach: benches have arrived and the slabs will be installed as soon as possible.

Beavers Hill Crossing - safety improvements and possible installation of road safety ramps/signs - No further information at present.

Improvements to footpath in Manorbier (Vicarage Fields to Post Office) - No further information at present.

Manorbier Community Hub: Councillors were asked to consider a further donation to towards the building of the Community Hub.

Clr. Kidney proposed that Manorbier Community Council pay a donation of £5,000 towards the building costs of the new Hub facility; Clr. Clark seconded the proposal with all councillors in full favour.

Safety around the school: The consideration of a footpath in the school/station area to enable safe passage to the school and railway station was considered, after the Council was advised that concerns had been raised regarding the lack of pavement around the school area.

Members acknowledged that this matter had been brought to the Council’s attention numerous times in the past, and requested that a letter be sent to local MP Simon Hart requesting assistance on the matter.

Members were asked to consider better signage around the school area depicting the speed limits and general road safety, with possible speed calming measures to be put in place.

Clr. Kidney advised councillors that 20mph signs are scheduled to be erected in the area, and that he would make enquiries as to when the works will be carried out.