THE WELSH CONSERVATIVES have launched their manifesto for the 2026 Senedd election, promising tax cuts, major road investment and what the party says will be a fresh start for Wales after more than two decades of Labour-led government.
Party leader Darren Millar unveiled the manifesto, titled “Fix Wales”, earlier this week, setting out the Conservatives’ proposals for government if they win power in the Senedd election on Thursday (May 7).
The party says the plan is focused on economic growth, lower taxes and improvements to public services including the NHS.
Tax cuts and cost of living
One of the headline pledges in the manifesto is a proposed one-penny cut in the basic rate of income tax in Wales.
The Conservatives say the move would help ease pressure on household finances and boost economic growth.
The manifesto also promises to introduce a five per cent cap on council tax increases, with any higher rises requiring a public referendum.
Business rates reform and measures aimed at supporting small businesses also feature prominently in the party’s economic plans.
Road projects and infrastructure
Transport investment forms another key part of the manifesto.
The Welsh Conservatives say they would move forward with plans to build an M4 relief road around Newport, a long-debated project which was cancelled by the Welsh Government in 2019.
The party also says it would invest in improving major routes across Wales and prioritise infrastructure projects designed to support economic growth.
Housing and home ownership
The manifesto also includes plans aimed at increasing home ownership.
Conservatives say they would restore the Right to Buy scheme in Wales, allowing council tenants to purchase their homes.
The party also proposes scrapping Welsh stamp duty on main homes, which it argues would help more people onto the property ladder.
NHS and public services
Healthcare remains a major focus of the election campaign.
The Conservatives say their plans would aim to reduce NHS waiting times and improve access to healthcare services across Wales.
They have also pledged to invest in hospital infrastructure and strengthen digital systems within the health service.
‘Time to fix Wales’
Speaking at the launch, Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar said the manifesto offered a clear alternative after what he described as years of underperformance by the Welsh Government.
He said: “After more than 25 years of Labour running Wales, too many public services are struggling and people feel that the country is being held back.
“Our plan will cut taxes, boost growth and deliver the change Wales needs.”
Election battle intensifies
The manifesto launch comes as political parties across Wales ramp up campaigning ahead of the Senedd election in May.
Labour has governed Wales since the creation of the Senedd in 1999, but opposition parties hope growing dissatisfaction with public services and the cost of living could reshape the political landscape.
With Plaid Cymru, the Conservatives and Reform UK all seeking to challenge Labour’s dominance, the election is expected to be one of the most closely contested since devolution began.
