Our Rural Towns: Cwmaman

As part of the Ten Towns programme delivered by Carmarthenshire County Council, the county’s rural market towns have received support to develop exciting new projects to add vibrancy and economic benefit to their town. This month, our focus turns to Cwmaman, exploring how the town has benefited from funding through Carmarthenshire County Council and the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund [UKSPF].

Located in the picturesque Amman Valley, Cwmaman is strategically placed to take advantage of its proximity to urban centres such as Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, and Swansea. The town’s surrounding natural beauty, including its access to the Brecon Beacons National Park and a network of scenic walking trails, has positioned Cwmaman as an emerging destination for activity-based tourism. To learn more about Cwmaman as a tourism destination, please visit Discover Carmarthenshire.

Cwmaman has benefited from several key projects designed to enhance its appeal as a tourist destination. One significant initiative was the refurbishment of the town's 28-bed Bunkhouse. This fully upgraded facility now offers:

•    A refreshed, welcoming décor to highlight local culture and the Welsh language
•    Improved kitchen, shower, and toilet facilities
•    Enhanced disabled access and upgraded furnishings

Additionally, bilingual narrative trails showcasing Cwmaman’s rich heritage have been introduced. These interactive trails feature audio elements that bring the town’s history to life, offering an engaging and educational experience for visitors. A comprehensive marketing strategy has also been put in place to promote Cwmaman both locally and across the nation, driving awareness and increasing visitor numbers.

The town’s local businesses have benefited from the Revitalising Rural Town Centre Fund, with several premises receiving grants to improve their exterior appearances. In addition, the town has benefited from a new painted mural by Carmarthenshire artist Steve Jenkins. To be located at Raven Square, the mural will depict the town’s rich history and heritage. Public spaces in the town have also seen improvements, such as new bus shelters, small scale planting projects, and upgraded surfaces in both Glanaman and Garnant Squares.

Cwmaman’s commitment to sustainability is also evident in its involvement with the Circular Economy Fund. A public art installation made from waste materials was recently completed, underscoring the town’s dedication to sustainability while adding to its artistic landscape. The finalised artwork was presented to the Community Council by children from Ysgol y Bedol who had been working with local multimedia CISP to create the artwork that will be displayed at Cwmaman Community Centre.

The Ten Towns Events Fund helped support the Cwmaman Christmas Lantern Event in December 2024, which illuminated the town with large, professionally designed lanterns. Local groups created their own lanterns through workshops, and performances from local artists added to the festive spirit. The event not only showcased Cwmaman’s culture but also drew visitors, contributing to the local economy.

Thanks to funding from the Sustainable Communities project, Cwmaman United has installed energy-efficient LED floodlights, upgraded its changing rooms with solar panels and batteries, and developed a new mini pitch to accommodate additional games and training. In addition, 100 trees have been planted around the main pitches at Grenig Park, contributing to environmental sustainability and providing a greener future for the club.

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. For more information, please visit the website: https://www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/home/council-services/hwb-bach-y-wlad/   

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs, Community Cohesion and Planning Policy, Cllr Carys Jones, commented:

Cwmaman is a great example of how we can make a real difference in our rural towns. Thanks to the funding, the town is becoming a more welcoming and sustainable place, with new facilities and a focus on preserving its culture and heritage. I’m so pleased to see how the community is getting involved, and I’m excited to see how Cwmaman will continue to develop as a vibrant place for both visitors and locals alike."

For more information about the 10 Towns project, please visit the website: https://www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/business/development-and-investment/ten-towns/cwmaman/