South West Wales facts for kids
South West Wales is an important part of Wales. It includes four main areas: Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire, and Pembrokeshire. These areas work together on many projects.
What is South West Wales?
The name "South West Wales" is used by many different groups. These groups include government offices and private companies.
- The BBC uses this definition.
- The Welsh Government also uses it.
- Other groups like the South West Wales Economic Forum use it too.
- The South West Wales Tourism Partnership helps people visit the area.
It's good to know that the European Union has a slightly different idea of what "South West Wales" means. Their definition includes Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and another area called Ceredigion.
A Look Back: History of the Region
Long ago, around the year 920, a large area that is now South West Wales was known as Deheubarth. A famous ruler named Hywel Dda helped create this area.
Deheubarth was not a kingdom in the usual sense. But it was ruled by powerful families for many centuries. People often fought over control of this land. This continued until 1283. That's when Edward I of England completed his conquest of Wales. After this, Deheubarth was divided into the counties we know today.
How the Region is Governed
South West Wales is made up of four main local government areas. These are Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, and Swansea. Each of these areas has its own local council.
The Swansea Bay City Region is a special group. It brings together local councils, businesses, and other organizations. They work together to make the region better.
In April 2021, a new group was formed called the South West Wales Corporate Joint Committee. This committee helps the four local councils work together. They focus on things like the economy, planning for the future, and improving transport in the region.
