As Wales heads into a pivotal year, Powys leaders share their hopes and plans |
2026 looks likely to be an important year in Wales with Senedd elections due in May
After 26 years of a Labour Government the current polls are showing the possibility of a seismic shift in voter behaviour and the likelihood of a new government with new policies and priorities.
In Mid Wales much of 2025 has been filled with concerns about the health service, following the requested extension of waiting times for Powys patients at English hospitals by Powys Teaching Health Board, difficulties obtaining GP appointments and the lack of services such as dentists.
Our beautiful countryside has also been a major cause for concern with the national Government’s inheritance tax policy threatening the future of our farmers and many proposals for wind and energy farms.
In our towns many businesses have been struggling with the cost of living crisis, the rise in National Insurance and minimum wage.
But many of our town councils are battling on with exciting plans for new facilities while our generous volunteers keep many social aspects of life running.
Will any or all of these issues and priorities change in 2026, will our communities face new and unexpected challenges?
Leaders from across Radnorshire, Kington and Powys talk of their hopes, plans and fears as they deliver their new year messages to the people of Powys.
Llandrindod Wells Mayor Councillor Steve Deeks-D’Silva
Happy New Year from the third happiest place to live in Wales!
Our welcoming community, beautiful surroundings and Victorian architecture earn us a regular spot in the rankings and it comes as a pleasure to see we have been officially recognised again.
I’m looking forward to a few big projects for 2026 which are about to start.
Our town was rebranded ‘Llandrindod Wellness’ the first year I was Mayor and we are always looking for practical ways to support our residents and visitors in staying fit, happy and healthy. We’ll be installing a new outdoor gym in the Princes Avenue Leisure Park to promote well-being. Alongside there will sensory play equipment for our younger residents and also some fun outdoor musical instruments. The Park is always open for use so that you’ll be able to exercise and use the equipment at any time that suits you.
Work will begin on the much-anticipated skate park. This project has been on Llandrindod’s wish list for a long time.
Construction should start in the Spring and if all goes smoothly it could be ready for the Summer holidays.
Importantly for residents and visitors alike, refurbishments to our public toilets are about to begin and should be ready for use in the Spring. These include the first Changing Places facility in Powys which should make life easier for users with disabilities.
You may have noticed that we moved offices at the end of 2025 from the Old Town Hall to Temple Chambers. We plan to run some open evenings/days in the New Year.
If you are interested in becoming a Town Councillor, or if you just want to find out more about what we do, please look out for these events and come along. We are always striving to improve the town for our community. Maybe you have the ideas, the time and enthusiasm to make our town even happier? I’m looking forward to a positive and productive 2026!
Builth Wells Mayor Councillor Mark Hammond
The festive season is a time for reflection and spending time with loved ones, so I hope this special time offers everyone some chance to rest and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
It can’t be ignored that 2025 has been a year of challenges as our area continues to face threats to its countryside, services and rural way of life.
These challenges include the relentless push for industrial-scale wind farm and pylon developments across our countryside.
We have faced moments that tested our patience, our plans, and even our sense of certainty. But through every difficulty, one thing remained constant: our community’s resilience.
The residents of Builth and our surrounding neighbours are a group of resolute communities, so challenges will be met head-on.
Whatever the future holds we must make sure that we support each other.
The Town Council has also had its own challenges, including the continual issues with the Groe Public Toilets.
With these in mind, I really want to express my appreciation and thanks to my fellow Town Councillors, the Town Clerk, our Cleaners and Handyman, as well as our brilliant team of volunteers, for all the time and effort they have put in to enhance the life and appearance of the Town.
We have exciting plans for next year to ensure our Town remains a vibrant and welcoming place for everyone.
However, as we look ahead, I do feel a sense of optimism. Not because challenges will vanish, but because of the way we meet them—together.
Our future is not something that happens to us; it’s something we can shape, step by step, with determination.
I wish you all a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year.
Rhayader Mayor Councillor Christian Walton
Happy new year to all our........