A manifesto outlining the plans of Pembrokeshire’s cabinet over the next four years will be published – the first of its kind in 22 years.

Pembrokeshire County Council leader Clr. David Simpson said he was “delighted” to be the “first leader since 1996 to issue a programme of administration.”

Covering each of the nine cabinet portfolios the document features a plan for each area and the work to be carried out between 2018 and 2022.

“Since I was elected leader in May 2017 my cabinet and I have been working hard to assess where we are as a council,” he added.

The manifesto, which will be published for all to read, states: “This programme is designed to deliver positive and lasting change for Pembrokeshire, and we look forward to delivering it with our officers, councillors, partners from across the public, private and third sectors and most importantly with the communities and people of Pembrokeshire.

“This document sets out our aims and aspirations, but we recognise that the world is changing and we may need to adapt our course depending on external circumstances, so we will review the programme on an annual basis.”

At their meeting on Monday (April 16) each cabinet member gave a brief overview of their programme.

The housing plan, overseen by Clr. Pat Davies, includes a commitment to building more varied homes and “provide good quality housing to provide security, well-being and quality of life.”

Clr. Paul Miller’s portfolio includes economic development with a plan to work with partners on the Swansea Bay deal where there are tangible benefits for the county and an aim to keep leisure centres wholly owned by the council.

Social services, which comes under the remit of Clr. Tessa Hodgson, highlights a continued focus on prevention, ensuring safeguarding is top property and recruiting more foster carers.

The programme for education, steered by Clr. David Lloyd will develop last year’s Vision for Education and its aim for schools to resilient and self-improving as well as the delivery of the 21stCentury schools programme.

Clr. Phil Baker’s planning and infrastructure programme includes supporting delivery of the Llanddewi Velfry bypass scheme, working with agencies to improve rail links and developing a network of cycle and walking routes.

The environment and Welsh language work will focus on sustainable development principles and promoting pride in Pembrokeshire, with Clr. Cris Tomos at the helm.

Clr. Bob Kilmister will continue his battle against an “unprecedented financial backdrop” while attempting to close the funding gap while protecting services. There will also be work on developing grant support for community projects.

Leader Clr. Simpson’s portfolio corporate affairs will focus on governance arrangements and streamlining decision making processes while Clr. Neil Prior’s transformation role will continue to focus on creating “an efficient, cost effective and modern council that is focussed on working together to improve the lives of people in Pembrokeshire.”

Clr. Simpson thanked the cabinet for their work on the programme and acknowledged the frustration at how long things take within the authority.

This was echoed by chief executive Ian Westley who added that it may have taken 12 months to prepare but in the context of 22 years it “looks more healthy.”

“It gives the officer group a concise record regarding the political direction of travel and we will continue to work to deliver that to the best of our abilities,” added Mr. Westley.