POLITICAL leaders, Regional Members of the Senedd, Members of Parliament and key stakeholders have come together for a regional showcase event hosted by the South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee (SWWCJC).

The event at Parc y Scarlets, Llanelli, on Friday, September 25 set out a shared agenda for growth, investment and coordinated regional delivery.

The SWWCJC brings together the four local authorities of Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, along with the Pembrokeshire Coast and Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authorities, to coordinate strategic action on issues that cross boundaries and require a regional approach. Through this partnership, the Committee is helping to translate shared regional ambition into delivery across economic development, energy, transport and strategic planning.

South West Wales is a region of scale, capability and significant opportunity. The event highlighted how partners are working collectively to unlock the region’s full potential. Keynote presentations identified areas where continued public and private sector support will be critical to delivering long-term regional impact.

Delegates heard from regional leaders, including Cllr Linda Evans, Leader of Carmarthenshire County Council and Chair of the Regional Transport Sub-Committee, and Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council and Chair of the SWWCJC.

Throughout the morning, attendees gained insight into the key regional programmes shaping South West Wales, with discussion focused on both the opportunities ahead and the practical challenges that must be addressed to deliver for communities, businesses and future generations.

SWWCJC Regional Showcase Event
(SWWCJC)

Sessions explored the South West Wales Regional Economic Delivery Plan, which sets out a vision for a resilient and inclusive economy, supporting high-quality employment, business growth, innovation and long-term prosperity across the region's cities, towns, rural communities and coastal areas.

Delegates also heard about the South West Wales Regional Energy Strategy and the region's ambition to develop a net-zero energy system.

The event showcased the South West Wales Regional Transport Plan, outlining how investment in sustainable, accessible and integrated transport can improve connectivity, support economic growth, widen access to employment and services, and help transition the region towards a low-carbon future.

The final session focused on the South West Wales Strategic Development Plan, which will provide a long-term framework for housing, employment, infrastructure and services, helping to support sustainable places while responding to climate change and protecting the area's unique natural and cultural assets.

The event aimed to ensure politicians and stakeholders are equipped to champion the region's priorities within both Welsh and UK Government. It also provided a platform for partners to strengthen relationships and identify collaborative opportunities.

Councillor Rob Stewart said: “South West Wales has the assets, partnerships and ambition to deliver nationally significant growth. By working together across local authority boundaries, we are strengthening the region's voice, attracting investment, supporting our communities and planning for a more sustainable future.”

Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, Adam Price, said the showcase highlighted the region’s “growing capacity to develop and deliver a clear regional vision and an identified pipeline of opportunities across economic development, transport, strategic planning and investment.”