Issue - meetings

Following scrutiny, members endorsed the draft version three of the Corporate Plan 2023 – 2028 for onward approval by the South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee, with the addition of a letter sent to the Joint Committee outlining the comments of the scrutiny committee in relation to this report.

Members considered the report circulated as a supplement to the agenda.

Officers were informed that the proposed priorities for the South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee 2025/2026 were agreed in January, in conjunction the budget.

It was noted that the well-being objectives have not changed, therefore there has been no further consultation on these. However, the actions required to deliver the well-being objectives have been updated in the report presented to the meeting.

Members raised concerns regarding the document and conflicting language used with regards to net zero targets. Members drew officers’ attention to the statements that outline the need to ensure a balance and proportionality towards achieving net zero without impacting the economy. The statements outline that net zero needs to be proportionate to the locality without impacting the local economy and adding impoverishment. Members expressed their concern that the tone of both the statements is quite contrary to the huge opportunities for local and regional economy benefits from green industries. The statements also appear to disregard the recognition of the quality of life improvements from items such as better insulated homes, housing stock and increased energy security from green energy. Members were keen to understand the justification for including the statements within the plan, given that green energy is the greatest growth opportunity.

Officers advised that the statements were included as they formed part of the consultation responses. Members expressed their concern that the document sends mixed messages about the region’s commitment to net zero and attracting green energy investments.

The document also outlined that the CJC are going to work with net zero Wales to promote the region to potential investors. However, members expressed their concern that this statement sits in direct contrast to the statements included from the consultation.

Whilst members acknowledged the need to recognise the responses received as part of the consultation, concern was expressed about including them in the document, as it presents contradictory views of the CJC. Members asked that officers give serious consideration to removing statements which present an ambiguous view of the objectives of the CJC.

Members referenced the Strategic Development Plan which is outlined within the document. It was noted that until funding is made available from Welsh Government to support the development of this, it was unlikely to be able to progress. Officers advised that the CJC were drafting a letter to go to the Cabinet Secretary to highlight the concerns and challenges that are being faced. The committee agreed that they wish to fully endorse their support for this letter and that Welsh Government are failing to recognise the crucial requirement of providing sufficient funding to support the drafting and delivery of the Strategic Development Plan.

Following scrutiny, members endorsed the draft version three of the Corporate Plan 2023 – 2028 for onward approval by the South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee, with the addition of a letter sent to the Joint Committee outlining the comments of the scrutiny committee in relation to this report.