How can community led regeneration strengthen the social, cultural, economic and environmental sustainability of the town while reflecting the needs and ambitions of local people?

By Gemma Jones (Llandysul & Pont Tyweli Ymlaen)

This community-led research examines how Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli can become more connected, vibrant and resilient places in which to live, work and visit. The consultation brought together evidence from surveys, focus groups, community events and informal conversations, with participants contributing in both Welsh and English. A clear message emerges from the findings: local people care deeply about the future of the area and want regeneration to build on existing strengths rather than replace them.

Across the research, participants consistently described Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli as friendly and welcoming, with strong community spirit and rich Welsh language, cultural, historical and natural assets. Calon Tysul, the River Teifi, Paddlers, Ffab, local independent businesses, community organisations, sports facilities, arts activities, faith spaces and green spaces were all identified as valued community assets. These strengths provide a strong foundation for future regeneration.

However, the findings also identify clear and recurring concerns. Communication was one of the most consistent issues raised: many activities, services and opportunities already exist, but people are not always aware of them. Participants called for a more joined-up approach to sharing information, including improved promotion of events, clubs, volunteering opportunities, services and local businesses.

Town centre vitality was another major theme. Participants raised concerns about the loss of shops, banks, services and footfall, frequently linking these issues to parking charges, transport limitations and the need to support local businesses. Parking was repeatedly described as a barrier that discourages people from stopping, shopping, attending activities or using local services. Responses from young people showed a strong desire for more informal places to meet, more activities, better leisure options and greater involvement in shaping the future of the town. Importantly, young people were not only asking for more organised clubs; many wanted safe, welcoming and flexible spaces where they could spend time with friends without having to commit to structured sessions.

Transport and accessibility were raised across several groups, particularly in relation to older residents, young people, businesses, events and people without access to a car. Better public transport, easier access to community activities and more affordable parking were viewed as essential to inclusion and participation.

The Welsh language, local history, traditions, music, arts and heritage were also central to the findings. Participants wanted these assets to be protected and celebrated, while also ensuring that newcomers, Welsh learners, non-Welsh speakers and people from different generations feel welcome and included.

The findings indicate several practical priorities: developing a joined-up community communication system, supporting local businesses and town centre footfall, reviewing parking and transport barriers, providing more informal opportunities for young people, protecting Welsh language and heritage, making better use of community buildings, and ensuring that future regeneration is developed collaboratively rather than through top-down decision-making.

Overall, the consultation shows that Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli already have strong community foundations. The challenge is not to create community spirit from nothing, but to strengthen connections between people, organisations, businesses and spaces. Future regeneration should therefore focus on making existing assets more visible, accessible and sustainable, while ensuring that local people continue to lead the conversation about the future of their town.

Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli Ymlaen intend to share this report with the Town and County Councils so that the findings can help inform future decision-making, including funding bids and regeneration opportunities for the area. The intention is to ensure that the voices, experiences and priorities gathered through this consultation are shared where they can support positive action for Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli.

The strongest message from the findings is that local people care deeply about the future of the area and want regeneration to build on existing strengths rather than replace them. None of these ideas can be delivered by one organisation alone. However, by working collaboratively and building on the enthusiasm that already exists within Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli, these recommendations are both realistic and achievable. The consultation has shown that there is already a significant amount of goodwill within the community. The challenge now is to harness that energy and turn it into lasting, positive change. Llandysul & Pont-Tyweli Ymlaen looks forward to supporting this work.