2026 Review: Final Determinations

The Commission has submitted to Welsh Ministers its Final Determinations for Wales' 16 new Senedd constituencies.

These decisions will take effect automatically at the 2026 Senedd election.

Final Determinations

• Click here to view the full report
• A number of files relating to these determinations are available to download at the bottom of this page.

Easy Read

We have made an easy read version of this report.

You can read the easy read version by clicking here.

The full Final Determinations Report is available as a PDF at the bottom of this page. Below, you can find the Final Determinations in detail.

Foreword

On 3 September 2024, the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru published its initial proposals and began a consultation process on those proposals. The Commission received 3,741 representations on its initial proposals. The Commission is extremely grateful to all those who took the time to contribute. As a result, the Commission published its revised proposals on 17 December 2024. It proposed changes, to 2 of the 16 proposed constituencies. It also proposed different names for 14 constituencies. Members of the public, groups and organisations were invited to submit representations on the revised proposals during the revised consultation period that ran from 17 December 2024 to 13 January 2025. The Commission looked carefully at the 365 representations it received during the revised consultation period to see if the revised proposals could be amended and improved. However, the Commission has had to balance the issues raised in representations against all the other factors it has to consider, as well as the constraints set out in the legislation.

The review of constituencies had to be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the relevant statute, the Senedd (Members and Elections) Act 2024 (the Act). The new legislation means that the Commission’s final decisions will have to return 16 Senedd constituencies which are formed by combining 2 contiguous UK Parliamentary constituencies. Each constituency will be represented by 6 members bringing the total number of Senedd members to 96. The review has to be completed by 1 April 2025. The Commission’s determinations will be implemented by the ‘automaticity’ rule. As such, the determinations will not require Senedd approval. The final determinations must be implemented as set out in this report.

In developing its final determinations, the Commission has had regard to the statutory factors it may take into account. Where possible, the Commission has had regard to existing local government boundaries; it has sought to avoid or minimise the breaking of local ties, and on occasion the Commission has had regard to special geographic considerations.

Finally, on a personal note, I would like to thank the Commissioners –Dianne Bevan, Frank Cuthbert, Michael Imperato, Bethan Williams Price and Ginger Weigand – for their invaluable contributions, as well as the Chief Executive and the other officers of the Commission for their assistance in our work.

Beverley Smith

Chair

You can read the full report here.

Final determinations in detail

Bangor Conwy Môn

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Bangor Aberconwy UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Ynys Môn UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 7 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Bangor Aberconwy and Ynys Môn. Of these, 1 was in support and 6 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 1 alternative arrangement was proposed pairing Ynys Môn with Dwyfor Meirionnydd.

The Commission received 3 representations regarding the name Bangor Conwy Môn. Of these, 2 were in support and 1 was in opposition. The alternative name proposed was Aberconwy Môn Menai.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Bangor Aberconwy UK Parliamentary constituency and the Ynys Môn UK Parliamentary constituency. The Ynys Môn constituency only has road connections to the mainland via the Bangor Aberconwy constituency. The act states that the Commission must create constituencies that are contiguous. The Commission is of the view that having clear communication and travel connections is a vital part of being able to provide for effective and convenient representation. The Commission acknowledges that there are stronger linguistic, cultural and historical links between the Dwyfor Meirionnydd and Ynys Môn constituencies and the number of representations supporting the pairing of these 2 areas received throughout the review. However, the lack of any direct road and transportation links which is set out in the legislation, restricts the available options for pairing of the Ynys Môn constituency with any other constituency. The Commission considers that combining the areas is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links within the new constituency. The Commission is therefore of the view that the combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Bangor Conwy Môn for this constituency. The Commission has decided upon the name as the 3 words that represent the areas included within the new constituency are recognisable. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

Clwyd

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Clwyd East UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Clwyd North UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 4 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Clwyd East and Clwyd North. Of these, 2 were in support and 2 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 2 proposed the alternative pairing of Clwyd East with Alyn and Deeside.

The Commission received 3 representations regarding the name Clwyd. Of these, 2 were in support and 1 was in opposition. The alternative name proposed was Bryniau Clwyd a’r Glannau.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Clwyd East UK Parliamentary constituency and the Clwyd North UK Parliamentary constituency. As a result of the new Bangor Conwy Môn constituency, the only other constituency which shares a boundary with the Clwyd North UK Parliamentary constituency is the Clwyd East UK Parliamentary constituency. The Act states that the Commission must combine UK Parliamentary constituencies that are contiguous. The Commission considers that combination is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links within the new constituency, which the Commission considers to be an important part of being able to provide for effective and convenient representation. The Commission is therefore of the view that the new combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Clwyd for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it is likely to be recognisable to residents of the same broad region of Wales as it is commonly used and is a well-established name for the region. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

Fflint Wrecsam

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Alyn and Deeside UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Wrexham UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 6 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Alyn and Deeside and Wrexham. Of these, 1 was in support and 5 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 2 alternative arrangements were proposed pairing Alyn and Deeside with Clwyd East and pairing Wrexham with Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr.

The Commission received 10 representations regarding the name Fflint Wrecsam. Of these, 2 were in support and 8 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed included Flintshire East and Wrexham, Wrexham Dyfrdwy, or the single forms of Alyn or Wrexham.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Alyn and Deeside UK Parliamentary constituency and the Wrexham UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges that an alternative pairing of the existing Wrexham and Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr UK Parliamentary constituencies would reunite the whole of the city of Wrexham within one constituency, however, as a result of the new Clwyd constituency, the only other UK Parliamentary constituency which shares a boundary with the Alyn and Deeside UK Parliamentary constituency is the Wrexham UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission is of the view that having clear communication and travel connections is an important part of being able to provide for effective and convenient representation, and the Commission is of the view that these areas are well connected to each other by transport links, and are similar in character. The Commission is therefore of the view that the new combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Fflint Wrecsam for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it reflects the names of the local authorities within the new constituency and is likely to be recognisable to residents of the same broad region of Wales whose primary language is not Welsh. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

Gwynedd Maldwyn

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Dwyfor Meirionnydd UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 15 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Dwyfor Meirionnydd and Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr. Of these, 1 was in support and 14 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 13 proposed alternative arrangements including pairing Dwyfor Meirionnydd with either Ceredigion Preseli, Bangor Aberconwy or Ynys Môn and pairing Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr with either Brecon, Radnor and Cwm-Tawe or Wrexham.

The Commission received 3 representations regarding the name Gwynedd Maldwyn. Of these, all 3 were in support. No alternative names were proposed.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Dwyfor Meirionnydd UK Parliamentary constituency and the Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the representations received that supported pairing Dwyfor Meirionnydd with Ynys Môn on the basis of linguistic, cultural and historical links as well as the representations made to reunite Wrexham in a single constituency by pairing the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr and Wrexham. The Commission is of the view that there are reasonable road links between the areas of the new constituency such as between Machynlleth and Dolgellau. Whilst the Commission is of the view that it is not ideal to have such a large constituency, it is the best option in terms of a contiguous combination of 2 UK Parliamentary constituencies in the area due to the new Bangor Conwy Môn constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Gwynedd Maldwyn for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it incorporates the name of 1 of the local authorities within the new constituency and Maldwyn is the historical Welsh language name of Montgomery. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

Ceredigion Penfro

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Ceredigion Preseli UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Mid and South Pembrokeshire UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 7 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Ceredigion Penfro and Mid and South Pembrokeshire. Of these, 1 was in support and 6 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 4 proposed alternative arrangements including pairing Ceredigion Preseli with either Dwyfor Meirionnydd or Montgomeryshire Glyndŵr and pairing Mid and South Pembrokeshire with Caerfyrddin.

The Commission received 5 representations regarding the name Ceredigion Penfro. Of these, 3 were in support and 2 were in opposition. Alternative names proposed were Ceredigion Pembrokeshire, and the use of Pembrokeshire or Pembroke and not Penfro.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Ceredigion Preseli UK Parliamentary constituency and the Mid and South Pembrokeshire UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the representations made to pair Ceredigion Preseli with Dwyfor Meirionnydd. However, the only direct road link from Ceredigion to Dwyfor Meirionnydd passes through the Machynlleth and Glantwymyn wards which are part of the Montgomeryshire and Glyndŵr UK Parliamentary constituency, which the Commission considers undesirable. The Commission also received representations suggesting the pairing of the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Mid and South Pembrokeshire and Caerfyrddin. However, the Commission is of the view that its new constituency which retains the entirety of the Carmarthenshire County Council area within a single Senedd constituency by pairing Caerfyrddin and Llanelli is more desirable. The Commission notes that the new constituency would combine the whole of the Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire principal council areas into 1 constituency, there are good road links between the 2 areas and is therefore a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Ceredigion Penfro for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it reflects the local authorities that are included within the new constituency and likely to be recognisable. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

Sir Gaerfyrddin

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Caerfyrddin UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Llanelli UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 7 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Caerfyrddin and Llanelli. Of these, 3 were in support and 4 were in opposition. The opposing representations proposed alternative arrangements pairing Caerfyrddin with Mid and South Pembrokeshire and pairing Llanelli with Gower.

The Commission received 8 representations regarding the revised proposal name of Sir Gâr. Of these, 3 were in support and 5 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed included Sir Gaerfyrddin, and, Llanelli and Carmarthen.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Caerfyrddin UK Parliamentary constituency and the Llanelli UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the representations in favour of pairing the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Llanelli and Gower, to permit the pairing of Neath and Swansea East with Swansea West in order to combine areas of Swansea within a single Senedd constituency. However, the Commission’s new constituency would combine the whole of the Carmarthenshire principal council area into 1 constituency. The Commission considers that combining the areas appropriate due to the good transport and established communication links within the new constituency. The Commission is therefore of the view that the new combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Sir Gaerfyrddin for this constituency. The Commission acknowledges that the name contravenes the Commission’s Naming Policy by including a mutated form of the County name, however, the Commission believes that the name is both recognisable and would help electors differentiate between the county council name of Sir Gâr and the Senedd constituency name. The Welsh Language Commissioner has agreed with the orthography of the designated name.

Gŵyr Abertawe

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Gower UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Swansea West UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 6 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Gower and Swansea West. Of these, 1 was in support and 5 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 5 proposed alternative arrangements including pairing Gower with Llanelli and pairing Swansea West with Neath and Swansea East.

The Commission received 5 representations regarding the revised proposal name of Swansea West Gower. Of these, 1 was in support and 4 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed include Gŵyr Tawe, and Gŵyr Abertawe.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Gower UK Parliamentary constituency and the Swansea West UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the representations made to pair Gower and Llanelli to enable the pairing of Swansea West with Neath and Swansea East UK Parliamentary constituencies in order to unite the majority of the City of Swansea within a single Senedd constituency. The Commission considers that combining the areas as set out above is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links within the new constituency as well as allowing the Commission to create a constituency which unites the whole of the Carmarthenshire principal council area within 1 Senedd constituency. The Commission is therefore of the view that the new combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Gŵyr Abertawe for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it reflects the areas that are included within the new constituency and is likely to be recognisable to residents of the same broad region of Wales whose primary language is not Welsh. The Welsh Language Commissioner has agreed with the orthography of the designated name.

The Commission wishes to highlight that due to changes made as part of the City and County of Swansea (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral wards of Clydach and Waterfront will both be split between this constituency and the constituency of Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd.

Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Neath and Swansea East UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 27 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Brecon, Radnor and Cwm-Tawe and Neath and Swansea East. Of these, 2 were in support and 25 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 15 proposed alternative arrangements including pairing Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe with either the Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, Caerfyrddin, Monmouthshire, Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr, Ceredigion Preseli or Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare constituencies. Alternative proposals also included combining Neath and Swansea East with either Swansea West, or Aberafan Maesteg.

The Commission received 10 representations regarding its revised proposal that this constituency be named South Powys Tawe Neath. Of these, 1 was in support and 9 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed include Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd, and Powys Nedd.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Brecon, Radnor and Cwm-Tawe UK Parliamentary constituency and the Neath and Swansea East UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the representations in favour of alternative pairings in this area, however these would each have knock-on effects for other pairings across the surrounding area therefore creating a less desirable set of constituencies overall. The Commission is of the view that there are good road links between the 2 constituencies and the pairing would unite areas that form part of the Neath Port Talbot principal council area into 1 constituency, building on the established links that exist. The Commission is therefore of the view that the combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it reflects the areas that are included within the new constituency. Brycheiniog is used as part of the single name for the areas National Park and is likely to be recognisable to residents of the same broad region of Wales whose primary language is not Welsh. The Welsh Language Commissioner has agreed with the orthography of the designated name.

The Commission wishes to highlight that due to changes made as part of the City and County of Swansea (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral wards of Clydach and Waterfront will both be split between this constituency and the constituency of Gŵyr Abertawe.

The Commission also wishes to highlight that due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Neath Port Talbot (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Cimla and Pelenna will be split between this constituency and the constituency of Afan Ogwr Rhondda.

Afan Ogwr Rhondda

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Aberafan Maesteg UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Rhondda and Ogmore UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 8 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Aberafan Maesteg and Rhondda and Ogmore. Of these, 3 were in support and 5 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 4 alternative arrangements were proposed including pairing Aberafan Maesteg with Neath and Swansea East and pairing Rhondda and Ogmore with either Bridgend or Pontypridd.

The Commission received 2 representations regarding the name Afan Ogwr Rhondda. Of these, both were in support. No alternative names were proposed.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Aberafan Maesteg UK Parliamentary constituency and the Rhondda and Ogmore UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the representations in favour of alternative combinations, such as the suggestion of pairing Aberafan Maesteg and Neath and Swansea East based on the major road and rail links and the similar character shared between the 2 areas. However, this would have knock-on effects on other pairings across the surrounding area therefore creating a less desirable set of constituencies overall. The Commission considers that combining the areas as set out above is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links between the 2 constituencies. Bridgend principal council area is split across 3 UK Parliamentary constituencies and the new constituency would combine 2 of those UK Parliamentary constituencies into 1 Senedd constituency, building on the established links that exist. The Commission also considers that there is a shared sense of character between the valley communities of Maesteg, Pontycymmer and Ogmore. The Commission is therefore of the view that the combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Afan Ogwr Rhondda for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it reflects the name of the river, forestry and the valleys incorporated within the new constituency and is likely to be recognisable. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

First, due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Neath Port Talbot (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Cimla and Pelenna will be split between this constituency and the constituency of Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd;

Second, due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Rhondda Cynon Taf (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Cymer will be split between this constituency and the constituency of Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr.

Third, due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Bridgend (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Pyle, Kenfig Hill and Cefn Cribwr will be split between this constituency and the constituency of Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg.

Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Pontypridd UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 8 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare and Pontypridd. Of these, 4 were in support and 4 were in opposition (with some representations offering more than 1 alternative). Among the opposing representations, 8 alternative arrangements were proposed including pairing Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare with either Caerphilly or Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, and pairing Pontypridd with Cardiff West, Bridgend, Vale of Glamorgan or Rhondda and Ogmore.

The Commission received 7 representations regarding its revised proposal that this constituency be named Merthyr Cynon Taf. Of these, 2 was in support and 5 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed included Pontypridd, Merthyr ac Aberdar, Merthyr Tydfil Cynon Taf, and Cwm Taf.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Merthyr Tydfil UK Parliamentary constituency and the Aberdare and Pontypridd UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the representations in favour of alternative combinations in this area, such as combining Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare with Caerphilly based on the socio economic links and the similar character shared between the 2 areas, and combining Pontypridd with Cardiff West based on the transport links and those areas’ historic links (noting that areas such as Creigiau and Pentyrch have transferred between those UK Parliamentary constituencies). However, these alternative combinations would have knock-on effects on pairings in the surrounding area therefore creating a less desirable set of constituencies overall. The Commission considers that combining the areas as set out above is appropriate due to the good road links between the 2 constituencies. The constituency would also unite areas that form part of the Rhondda Cynon Taf principal council area into 1 constituency, building on the established links that exist. By pairing these constituencies, the Commission will also be able to retain the Cynon Valley area within 1 constituency. The Commission is therefore of the view that the combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it incorporates the main towns and settlements within the constituency and is likely to be recognisable to residents. The Welsh Language Commissioner has agreed with the orthography of the designated name.

The Commission wishes to highlight that due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Rhondda Cynon Taf (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Cymer will be split across this constituency and the constituency of Afan Ogwr Rhondda.

The Commission also wishes to highlight that due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Rhondda Cynon Taf (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Pontyclun West will be split across this constituency and the constituency of Caerdydd Penarth.

Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Caerphilly UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 4 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney and Caerphilly. Of these, 1 was in support and 3 were in opposition, 2 alternative pairings were proposed Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney with Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe and Caerphilly with Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare.

The Commission received 5 representations regarding the name Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni. Of these, 3 was in support and 2 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed included West Gwent, and Cwm Rhymni a Blaenau Gwent.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Blaenau Gwent UK Parliamentary constituency and the Rhymney and Caerphilly UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the alternative pairings received, however, these would have a disruptive impact on pairings in the surrounding area therefore create a less desirable set of constituencies overall. The Commission considers that there are good road links between the 2 areas and the constituency would unite areas that form part of the Caerphilly principal council area into 1 constituency, building on the established links that exist. The Commission is therefore of the view that the combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it incorporates the 2 local authorities and a major valley within the constituency and is likely to be recognisable to residents. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

The Commission wishes to highlight that due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Caerphilly (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Cefn Fforest and Pengam will be split between this constituency and the constituency of Casnewydd Islwyn.

Sir Fynwy Torfaen

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Monmouthshire UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Torfaen UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 4 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Monmouthshire and Torfaen. Of these, 1 was in support and 3 were in opposition. No alternative pairings were proposed.

The Commission received 4 representations regarding its revised proposal that this constituency be named Mynwy Torfaen. Of these, 3 were in support and 11 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed included Sir Fynwy Torfaen, East Gwent, and Monmouthshire.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Monmouthshire UK Parliamentary constituency and the Torfaen UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission received no alternative pairings during the revised consultation period. The Commission notes that the constituency would combine the whole of the Monmouthshire and Torfaen principal council areas into 1 constituency, and considers that this is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links within the new constituency as well as a history of providing joint local services. The Commission is therefore of the view that the combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Sir Fynwy Torfaen for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it incorporates the 2 local authorities within the new constituency and is likely to be recognisable to residents. The Commission acknowledges that the name contravenes the Commission’s Naming Policy by including a mutated form of the County name, however, a number of representations received argued against the use of Mynwy as it refers to the Town of Monmouth, rather than the County. The designated name is supported by the Local Authority. The Welsh Language Commissioner has agreed with the orthography of the single name.

Casnewydd Islwyn

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Newport East UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Newport West and Islwyn UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 6 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Newport East and Newport West and Islwyn. Of these, 1 was in support and 5 were in opposition. No alternative pairings were proposed.

The Commission received 5 representations regarding the name Casnewydd Islwyn. Of these, 2 were in support and 3 were in opposition. Alternative names proposed included Casnewydd, and Newport Islwyn.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Newport East UK Parliamentary constituency and the Newport West and Islwyn UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission received no alternative pairings during the revised consultation period. The constituency would combine the whole of the Newport principal council area into 1 constituency, thus building on existing links. The Commission also considers that pairing the areas is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links within the constituency. The Commission is therefore of the view that the combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Casnewydd Islwyn for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it incorporates the name of the City as well as the historical district within the constituency and is likely to be recognisable to residents. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

The Commission wishes to highlight that due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Caerphilly (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Cefn Fforest and Pengam will be split between this constituency and the constituency of Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni.

Caerdydd Penarth

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Cardiff West UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Cardiff South and Penarth UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 7 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Cardiff East and Cardiff South and Penarth. Of these, 1 was in support and 6 were in opposition. The opposing representations proposed alternative arrangements including pairing the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Cardiff East with Cardiff North and Cardiff South and Penarth being paired with either Cardiff West or the Vale of Glamorgan.

The Commission received 7 representations regarding its proposal that the revised constituency (the pairing of the UK parliamentary constituencies of Cardiff South and Penarth and Cardiff East) be named Cardiff South-east Penarth. Of these, 1 was in support and 6 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed included De Caerdydd, Penarth and Southern Cardiff, and Caerdydd Penarth.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to revert to its initial proposed pairing of the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Cardiff West and Cardiff South and Penarth. In our revised proposal, we proposed the pairing of Cardiff North and Cardiff West in order to gauge opinion , following a mixed response to the initial proposal of Cardiff North and Cardiff East (and Cardiff South and Penarth with Cardiff West). However, having now received representations to both proposals, it is clear that the balance of opinion favours the pairings in our initial report. This pairing would unite 2 of the 4 UK Parliamentary constituencies that cover the City of Cardiff into 1 constituency, building on the established links that exist in the area. This pairing responds to arguments made in representations that argue that the river Taf provides a natural boundary between Cardiff West and Cardiff North and that the railway line provides a man-made boundary between communities in the east of the City and those in the South. The Commission considers that pairing the areas as set out above is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links within the proposed constituency. The Commission is therefore of the view that the proposed combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission acknowledges the counter-proposals received and understands the arguments made to pair Pontypridd and Cardiff West based on the transport links and the historic links between areas such as Creigiau and Pentyrch. The Commission also acknowledges the representations made to pair other constituencies in this area such as the Cardiff South and Penarth with the Vale of Glamorgan based on a large number of areas from the Vale of Glamorgan principal council area being included with the Cardiff South and Penarth UK Parliamentary constituency, and the similar character shared between the 2 areas. However, this would have a disruptive impact on pairings across the surrounding area therefore creating a less desirable set of constituencies overall.

The Commission has designated the single name of Caerdydd Penarth for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it incorporates the name of the City as well as recognising the area outside of Cardiff within the constituency. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

The Commission wishes to highlight that due to changes made as part of the County Borough of Rhondda Cynon Taf (Electoral Arrangements) Order 2021 the electoral ward of Pontyclun West will be split between this constituency and the constituency of Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr.

Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Cardiff North UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Cardiff East UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 6 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Cardiff West and Cardiff North. Of these, 2 were in support and 4 were in opposition (with some representations offering more than 1 alternative). Among the opposing representations, 7 alternative pairings were proposed including Cardiff North with Cardiff East and pairing Cardiff West with either Pontypridd or Cardiff South and Penarth.

The Commission received 5 representations regarding its proposal that the revised constituency (the pairing of the UK parliamentary constituencies of Cardiff North and Cardiff West) be named Cardiff North-west. Of these, 1 was in support and 4 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed included Cardiff Northwestern, and Caerdydd Cwm Taf.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to revert to its initially proposed pairing of the UK Parliamentary constituencies of Cardiff North and Cardiff East. The Commission received a large number of representations in support of the initial pairing during the initial consultation period. This pairing would unite 2 of the 4 UK Parliamentary constituencies that cover the City of Cardiff into 1 constituency, building on the established links that exist in the area. The Commission received representations that highlighted the natural and man-made boundaries that exist between the areas of Cardiff as proposed within the Commissions Revised Proposals Report. These representations also highlighted the shared links between communities in the North and East of the City. The Commission considers that pairing the areas as set out above is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links within the proposed constituency. The Commission is therefore of the view that the proposed combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it incorporates the name of the City as well as recognising the area outside of Cardiff within the constituency. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg

The Commission has determined that a county constituency be created from:

The Bridgend UK Parliamentary constituency,

and:

The Vale of Glamorgan UK Parliamentary constituency.

The Commission received 9 representations regarding the revised proposal to pair the UK Parliamentary Constituencies of Bridgend and Vale of Glamorgan. Of these, 1 representation was in support and 8 were in opposition. Among the opposing representations, 2 alternative pairings were proposed Bridgend with Rhondda and Ogmore and Vale of Glamorgan with Cardiff South and Penarth.

The Commission received 5 representations regarding the name Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg. Of these, 2 were in support and 3 were in opposition. Alternative names that were proposed included Bridgend and the Vale, and Penybont a Bro Morgannwg.

The Commission has considered the representations and has determined to retain the pairing of the Bridgend UK Parliamentary constituency and the Vale of Glamorgan UK Parliamentary constituency. The Commission acknowledges the representations made to pair other constituencies in this area such as Cardiff South and Penarth and the Vale of Glamorgan based on the number of areas from the Vale of Glamorgan principal council area being included with the Cardiff South and Penarth UK Parliamentary constituency, and the similar character shared between the 2 areas. However, this would have a disruptive impact on pairings across the surrounding area therefore creating a less desirable set of constituencies overall. The Commission considers that pairing the areas asset out above is appropriate due to the good transport and communication links within the constituency. The Commission is therefore of the view that the combination creates a cohesive constituency.

The Commission has designated the single name of Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg for this constituency. The Commission has determined that the name is acceptable for use as a single name as it incorporates the name of the 2 local authorities within the constituency and is likely to be recognisable to residents. The Welsh Language Commissioner is in support of the designated name.

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