Our rural towns: Laugharne

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. This month, our focus turns to Laugharne exploring how the town has benefited from funding through Carmarthenshire County Council and the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund [UKSPF].

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. To know more about Laugharne as a destination, please visit Discover Carmarthenshire. 

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. For more information, visit Ten Towns - Carmarthenshire County Council

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, 10am- 3pm. For more information, please visit the website. 

The next Tourism and Business roadshow will be heading to Laugharne Memorial Hall on Wednesday 9 April giving businesses and community groups the opportunity to meet with County Council officers. Advice will be on offer covering all aspects of the tourism and business sector; from licensing, planning, funding options, grants that are currently available to businesses as well as marketing support.

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.

For more information about the 10 Towns project, please visit the website.