The Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru has proposed a new political map for Wales, outlining 16 new constituencies to replace the current 40 constituencies and five regions. These proposed changes are set to come into effect for the 2026 Senedd election, with each new constituency electing six Members of the Senedd, chosen using the D’Hondt method. The Commission’s aim was to create constituencies that feel natural to people across Wales, considering factors such as local ties, history, language, and socio-economic aspects.
The 16 proposed constituencies include areas such as Bangor, Aberconwy, Ynys Môn, Clwyd, Alyn, Deeside, Wrexham, Carmarthenshire, Swansea West, Gower, and many more. The Commission carefully selected boundaries by amalgamating existing Westminster constituencies, ensuring that individuals could travel throughout without leaving the constituency.
The placement of constituency boundaries can significantly impact election outcomes, influencing voting power and determining the match-ups of politicians. With the next Senedd election scheduled for May 2026, political parties will be analyzing the implications of these proposed changes. The public now has an opportunity to provide feedback on the proposals during a four-week consultation period, which closes on September 30.
Shereen Williams MBE, the chief executive of the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru, highlighted the importance of public input in refining the proposed constituencies. The Commission anticipates publishing revised proposals in December 2024, with final decisions expected by March 2025 following another consultation period in early 2025. This process aims to strengthen the electoral map ahead of the 2026 Senedd election, ensuring that constituencies reflect the local communities they serve.