Final Senedd Election constituencies confirmed for 2026 as new maps released
Ahead of the upcoming Senedd Election in 2026, the final boundaries of the constituencies in Wales have been officially confirmed. The number of Members of the Senedd (MSs) is set to increase from 60 to 96, leading to significant changes in the electoral map. The review of boundaries for the Welsh Parliament election resulted in the publication of draft versions and subsequent consultations.
One notable change in the final map is the pairing of Cardiff North with Cardiff East, and Cardiff West with Cardiff South and Penarth. These pairings will now be known as Caerdydd Penarth and Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf for the upcoming Senedd Election. The Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru initially suggested these pairings in their report, and after consulting on alternatives, they found that the public overwhelmingly supported the final decision.
The final constituency boundaries for the Senedd Election 2026 include constituencies such as Bangor, Conwy, Môn, Clwyd, Fflint, Wrecsam, Gwynedd, Maldwyn, Ceredigion, Penfro, Sir Gaerfyrddin, Gŵyr, Abertawe, Brycheiniog, Tawe, Nedd, Afan, Ogwr, Rhondda, Pontypridd, Cynon, Merthyr, Blaenau Gwent, Caerffili, Rhymni, Sir Fynwy, Torfaen, Casnewydd, Islwyn, Caerdydd Penarth, Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf, and Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg.
The commission followed specific guidelines, ensuring that constituencies were neighbouring and considering factors like shared history, the Welsh language, and socio-economic connections to create constituencies that resonate with the people of Wales. The commission chose to use Welsh language-only names for most constituencies, which stirred some controversy but was deemed necessary for cultural significance.
Shereen Williams, the Chief Executive of the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru, noted that the review process involved significant changes due to the new electoral system and the increased number of Senedd members. The public’s engagement in the process through debates on proposed pairs and names enhanced the commission’s recommendations for the constituencies.
The commission’s decision to assign Welsh language names to constituencies was based on ensuring recognisability and acceptability across Wales. For instance, utilizing “Caerdydd Penarth” in Cardiff was preferred over an English translation due to its familiarity and cultural ties. Despite some dissent, the commission aimed to create constituencies that resonated with the local communities they represent.
Overall, the publication of the final Senedd Election constituencies for 2026 marks a significant step towards the upcoming election. The changes in boundaries and the increase in MSs aim to enhance representation and democracy in Wales while reflecting the cultural and historical significance of each constituency. The public’s input and engagement in the process have played a vital role in shaping the final electoral map for the Senedd Election in 2026.