A CALL to support Pembrokeshire rural communities, “to ensure no part of our county is forgotten,” has been backed by councillors.

At the July meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council, members heard a notice of motion submitted by Cllr Delme Harries, Bro Gwaun county councillor and vice-chair of council, calling for a working group for supporting rural areas.

Cllr Harries’ motion said: “It is increasingly evident that while significant effort and investment has been directed toward revitalising our towns, many of our rural areas are being left behind.

“These communities are the backbone of our agricultural economy, custodians of our landscape, and home to vital heritage and culture and the Welsh language. It is time we restore balance and give our rural communities the attention, voice, and opportunities they deserve.

“To ensure that no part of our county is forgotten, I propose that we establish a dedicated cross-chamber working party focused on reigniting our rural areas — supporting rural enterprise, connectivity, housing, access to essential services and how we can help young people to live and work locally.”

Members agreed the notice be sent to the council’s services overview and scrutiny committee, meeting on September 23.

A report for members at the meeting said: “Over recent years, considerable investment and policy focus have been directed toward revitalising town centres across Pembrokeshire. This has been a strategic response to well-documented challenges, including the decline of high streets, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the need to stimulate local economies and enhance public spaces.

“Much of this work has been made possible through the successful drawdown of substantial external grant funding. This funding has enabled the council to make meaningful progress in addressing key issues affecting town centres, delivering visible improvements and supporting economic recovery in urban areas.

“At the same time, there is growing recognition of the distinct and evolving challenges faced by our rural communities. These areas are integral to Pembrokeshire’s agricultural economy, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship. They also play a vital role in sustaining the Welsh language and traditional ways of life.

“The Notice of Motion invites the council to consider how best to ensure that rural communities receive appropriate attention and support. It also prompts reflection on if more can be done to ensure that future planning and investment decisions are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all parts of the county.”

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Harries said: “Our rural communities deserve more than lip service,” adding his motion was “not just about policy but about fairness and dignity”.

He said there was a need to get “around the table” and work with groups such as the national park, the farming unions and organisations like Pembrokeshire Local Action Network for Enterprise and Development (Planed).

He was supported by Amroth county councillor Cllr Alec Cormack, who, cited the example of the award-winning farm diversification to create Paternoster Farm Restaurant near Hundleton, as an example of improving the rural economy.

Members backed a recommendation to establish a politically balanced Rural Communities Working Group, along with requesting officer support and relevant resources to initiate and coordinate the group’s work, if needed.