As part of the Ten Towns programme delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council, rural market towns across the county have received support to develop exciting new projects to add vibrancy and economic benefit to their town - and this month, the focus turns to Laugharne exploring how the town has benefited from funding through the Local Authority and the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Laugharne, a charming coastal town at the estuary where the River Taf meets Carmarthen Bay, is renowned for its castle, historical architecture, and connection to poet Dylan Thomas.
It features a picturesque coastline and has become popular for both permanent residents and holiday homes.
The local economy is primarily driven by tourism, accommodation, and hospitality businesses. Residents find employment in nearby areas like St Clears and Carmarthen, which offer industrial, commercial, and public sector jobs.
The economy also supports rural enterprises such as agriculture, food production, and tourism, along with various micro-businesses, including lifestyle and creative industries.
One of the standout projects of the Ten Towns programme is the redevelopment of the former Portreeve restaurant site into Tŷ Glo, a new family-friendly restaurant.
This development, supported by the Ten Towns Capital Development Fund, has transformed the vacant premises into a popular food and drink venue that has already created more than 8 full-time jobs.
The Laugharne Memorial Hall, a central hub for the local community, has also received support through the Ten Towns Revenue Project.
With the goal of exploring future economic opportunities and ensuring long-term sustainability, funding has been allocated to conduct market research and assess the feasibility of developing a produce and craft market at the hall.
This initiative will provide new opportunities for local businesses, enabling them to reach a wider audience and contribute to the town's growing economy.
In addition, the Memorial Hall has benefited from a new painted mural by Carmarthenshire artist Steve Jenkins.
The mural, which draws inspiration from Laugharne's rich history, serves as a vibrant and welcoming gateway into the town, contributing to its overall charm and visual appeal. The artwork has already been warmly received by locals and visitors alike.
As part of the ongoing revitalisation efforts, local business owners in Laugharne have been supported through a dedicated grant fund aimed at enhancing the exterior appearance of their properties.
Two high street businesses in the town have already received funding to improve the look of their buildings, contributing to the overall vibrancy and attractiveness of the area. With the Revitalising Rural Town Centre Fund recently reopened, businesses in Laugharne now have the opportunity to apply for support.
Additionally, small-scale enhancement works have been carried out to maintain the town's charm and improve its overall appearance.
The recent improvements will help Laugharne maintain its historic character while providing a more appealing environment for both residents and tourists.
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Rural Customer Service team, Hwb Bach y Wlad is visiting rural locations across the County offering help, support and advice.
Experienced Hwb advisors can help Carmarthenshire residents with their Council enquiries and provide waste and recycling bags as well as Period Poverty items. Alongside this, advisors can signpost residents to relevant Council departments and organisations who can further assist with their enquiries.
Hwb Bach y Wlad will be at Laugharne Memorial Hall on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, between 10 am and 3 pm.
Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Community Cohesion and Planning Policy, Cllr Carys Jones, commented: “It’s wonderful to see the positive transformations taking place in Laugharne thanks to the Ten Towns Programme and the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
“These projects are bringing fresh opportunities to local businesses and enhancing the town’s appeal to visitors. I’m excited by the progress we’ve made and encourage everyone to come and see the improvements for themselves.”
Earlier this year, the iconic Dylan Thomas Boathouse in Laugharne was announced as the winner of this year's prestigious 'Win an Architect' initiative, organised by Studio Wignall & Moore architecture practice.
The initiative seeks out the most innovative client briefs and architectural proposals that enhance, showcase, and celebrate culture outside London.
A design concept worth up to £12,000, devised by Wignall & Moore’s award-winning RIBA Chartered architects, is the grand prize for the lucky winner.
The Boathouse, perched on a cliff overlooking the Taf estuary, was the residence of renowned Welsh poet Dylan Thomas during the final four years of his life. It is here that he penned some of his most significant works, including parts of ‘Under Milk Wood.’
Today, the Boathouse is a member of CofGâr, the Carmarthenshire County Council museums and arts service, attracting visitors from around the world.
The design concept prize aims to make the Boathouse more accessible and enhance visitor experience by reimagining its entrance, expanding indoor space, and utilising the old Harbour's potential.
Councillor Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport, and Tourism, expressed her enthusiasm, stating: “Securing the 'Win an Architect' prize is a great achievement for the Dylan Thomas Boathouse and CofGâr.
“This support will help us improve the visitor experience while preserving the Boathouse's unique character.”
The partnership with Wignall & Moore will extend through 2025, focusing on sustainable enhancements that respect the historical importance of the Boathouse and preserve its legacy for future generations.
For many it is the boathouse which draws them to the town. It was from here that Dylan departed for New York and his unfortunate death in 1953.
It is little wonder that Dylan chose to live in the boathouse. It offers wonderful views across the Taf estuary – the “heron priested shore” - and no doubt provided lots of creative inspiration. A small shed, close to the main house, is where he went to write.
Walkers will be familiar with Laugharne because the Wales Coastal Path runs through the town.
For visitors, its recommended that Dylan’s Birthday Walk, at roughly 3 miles, is the best walk as well as the best way to work up a thirst.
In 1944, Dylan wrote 'Poem in October' about his birthday walk, to the shoulder of Sir John's hill. The beautiful poem is about his love of Laugharne and getting older.
The hit TV show ‘Keeping Faith’ also attracts almost as many visitors to Laugharne as Dylan Thomas. There’s even a superfan trail which links locations across the county.
Among the most striking shots in the series are those overlooking the estuary Including in episode 1 when Carmarthenshire born actress Catherine Ayers’ character Lisa, is seen sharing a glass of wine with her best friend Faith.
Rumour has it that fans of the programme make a b-line for house where this scene was shot, because they too want to drink some wine on the same veranda.
In the centre of Laugharne is the Grist, marked by a Celtic Cross, where Methodist leader John Wesley is said to have preached to the townsfolk. The name reflects the fact that a former grist mill was located here.
The aim of the Ten Towns Programme is to support the economic recovery and growth of rural towns across the County, such as Laugharne, along with the likes of Llandeilo, Llandovery, St Clears and Whitland.