Minister visits Carmarthenshire museum following major Brilliant Basics investment

The Minister for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans MS, visited Carmarthenshire Museum today (Monday 15 September) to see the results of a major improvement project made possible through the Welsh Government’s Brilliant Basics fund.

Carmarthenshire Museum received £264,000 towards a total project value of £330,000, to deliver a range of enhancements that significantly improve visitor experience. These include:

·       New accessible parking spaces close to the museum entrance

·       An extended car park layout to increase standard parking spaces

·       Installation of an E-bike charging point and secure bike locking pillar

·       Creation of new interpretation features and a museum garden

In addition, Carmarthenshire County Council successfully secured Brilliant Basics funding to upgrade facilities at Llansteffan Green. This scheme received £224,000 from the Welsh Government, contributing to a total project value of £280,000.

Carmarthenshire’s museums have welcomed strong visitor numbers throughout the summer, with Carmarthenshire Museum, Parc Howard, the Museum of Land Speed, and Dylan Thomas Boathouse all proving popular destinations within the CofGar collection.

Looking ahead, the Tywi Valley Path – due to open in full in 2026 – will further strengthen Carmarthenshire’s tourism offer, connecting key attractions and encouraging more people to explore the area.

Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans MS said:

Our Brilliant Basics fund makes a real difference to communities across Wales. These improvements at Carmarthenshire Museum demonstrate exactly this - creating better facilities, enhancing visitor’s arrival experiences, and supporting local economic growth.

From accessible parking to sustainable transport options like the e-bike charging point, such enhancements show how thoughtful investment can improve experiences for all. Carmarthenshire's rich cultural heritage positions the county as a must-visit destination that celebrates history whilst embracing the future."

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, Cllr Hazel Evans added:

We are delighted with the support received through the Welsh Government Brilliant Basics fund. These projects not only improve facilities for local residents and visitors, but also form part of our wider ambition to make Carmarthenshire one of Wales’ leading cultural and tourism destinations.”