Economy The recruitment squeeze ahead
NewsApril 2nd, 2024
How understanding the development of Cwmafan to the present can inform its future development
Places across the south Wales valleys have experienced a lot of change over the last 100 years or so. The change has had a profound effect on shaping how these places developed to the present day on employment, shops, services and infrastructure. These all affect what types of places they are for people to live. But can the developments shed light on how places will develop in the future?
This paper looks at the development of Cwmafan in Neath Port Talbot to the present day to better understand its economic and social development to inform how it may develop in the future. It looks at what existing assets there are or what needs to develop to grasp its potential as a place to live for the next 100 years.
It argues that there are a number of similarities between Cwmafan and other valley’s communities based on their shared industrial history. However Cwmafan has unique characteristics that could hint at its future development that could bring economic self-sufficiency, shared prosperity and community cohesion.
The report argues that Cwmafan can act as a gateway to the upper Afan valley, linking to other assets in the region such as the Afan Forest Park. There is a collaborative relationship between business, residents and stakeholders that serves the community well and will be fundamental in continuing to meet the aspirations for further development of a central “hub” in Cwmafan.
The report features exclusive images from residents
Pages: 13
Format: PDF
Language: English
