In the absence of Clr. R. Herrick, Clr. D. Brace, vice-chairman, acted as chairman for the January meeting of St. Mary Out Liberty Community Council. Chairman Clr. Brace welcomed Mr. Butland to the meeting. Mr. Butland had agreed to be co-opted to the council to fill the current vacancy.

Matters arising

The clerk advised that Pembrokeshire County Council had completed some of the works in the winter programme, but the works were still ongoing.

The clerk also said that he had informed Pembrokeshire County Council of the precept figure as advised. By keeping the precept the same as the previous year, council were in line with other local community councils.

Finance

The chairman proposed that a donation of £75 be made to the village hall management committee to cover the cost of the electricity used by the Christmas lights. Clr. R. Thomas seconded the proposition.

Appeals: Pembrokeshire Young Farmers - after a lengthy debate, it was agreed to note this appeal only .

County Councillor Mr. Jon Preston's report

Clr. Preston reported as follows:

Brooklands update: I am delighted to inform the community council that Pembrokeshire County Council's cabinet members have approved a plan to purchase alternative land for the proposed civic amenities site. I believe the land lies in the Saundersfoot ward and is within a two-mile radius of the original planned site at Brooklands. Although the plans are in the early stages, I can confirm that the proposed site is outside the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. This has been a long and determined challenge to defend the home of very dependent adults. Brooklands Care Home may now continue their work in providing support to patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease. From the onset of our opposition to the planning proposal, I and the campaign group were resolute in our case. All too often the convenience of the many is put before the wellbeing of the few. We found ourselves duty bound to defend the rights of the residents and families at Brooklands. Despite the initial information that there was no alternative to the original site, the officers of Pembrokeshire County Council have identified suitable land. I wish to thank the community council of St. Mary Out Liberty and all those who supported our campaign from the onset. I will continue to monitor the progress of the new site and will report to council in due course.

Village matters

It was reported that dog fouling was still a significant problem, particularly at the north end of the village, including around the Twycross Roundabout. After a discussion on how to tackle this unreasonable behaviour by dog walkers, it was agreed that the clerk should contact the dog warden to seek advice in the first instance.

Litter was not a great difficulty at the present time. It was agreed to continue to monitor.

The pavement works near Cross Park had been completed and it was agreed that Pembrokeshire County Council had done a very good job that would be much appreciated by wheelchair users.

The clerk expressed his thanks to Mr. George and Thomas Nash and John Butland for their assistance with the Christmas tree. It was agreed that the clerk should contact Mr. Lewis, of Hean Castle, to convey the thanks of the council.

Any other business

Clr. Mrs. Leyshon enquired if there was any news on the dips in the carriageway near the New Hedges Tavern and also reported that the timetable notice inside the bus shelter near the Sundowner was in poor condition. The clerk agreed to contact the transport division at Pembrokeshire County Council to see if they could assist.

The next meeting of council will be Tuesday, February 11, at 6.30 pm.