Regional LEADER meeting held in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire was the latest county to host LEADER and Local Action Group members from across Central and South West Wales.

The meeting was a chance to update each other on current LEADER projects and discuss common themes and action. The meeting held parallel sessions including a meeting of Local Action Group (LAG) Chairs and Vice Chairs.

Speaking after the meeting, Nic Wheeler, Independent Chair of the Pembrokeshire LAG Arwain Sir Benfro commented: “We are all uncertain what exactly Brexit will bring, and what funding might be available, but we must not lose the principles of LEADER – supporting innovative responses to challenges and opportunities we face in rural communities and the environment across Wales.

“LEADER staff and their widely representative Local Action Groups which have implemented successive programmes have a wealth of experience and expertise which they can offer as we go forward, especially to help communities engage with emerging agendas such as the delivery of Well-being plans developed by the Public Service Boards”.

The meeting was held at Canolfan Hermon, where Holly Cross and Cris Tomos were able to share the story of the how the building has evolved from the old village school which closed in 2006, into a centre that is now owned by the local community and run as a charity. Canolfan Hermon is run by volunteers, with space for hire, space for local businesses, courses, classes and events all being held regularly.

Local Action Groups are made up of representatives from three different sectors – Private, Community and Public, ensuring a well-balanced representation of interests.

The LEADER programme, which supports innovative responses to opportunities or challenges faced by rural communities, is supported through the Welsh Government Rural Communities – Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development and the Welsh Government.