FINDINGS from a survey by regional Senedd Members Sioned Williams have shown how more than half of its respondents currently had a negative view of the town of Neath.
The survey which was opened in May 2024 was completed by nearly 400 residents and business owners from the area, with one in five saying they visit Neath town centre every day, and over half visiting several times a week.
Initial results from the report were said to have shown that while locals had pride in their town, they also had “obvious concerns” over the future, with issues such as drugs and anti-social behaviour mentioned, as well as the number of the empty shops.
The survey was launched by the Plaid Cymru member in the wake of the closure of the town’s branch of Marks & Spencer earlier this year, with the move said to have hit locals hard.
The report said: “While just over 50% of respondents said they currently have a negative view of the town, with concerns ranging from the economic to the general upkeep of the town, almost all were able to list multiple things when asked what they like most about the town.”
Ms Williams, Plaid Cymru MS for South Wales West, added that she would now continue to engage with Welsh Government and the local authority over what could be done to meet these challenges in the future.
She said: “My survey was prompted by the announcement that Marks & Spencer’s intended to close their Neath store and renewed questions from locals as to the future of our town.
“Perhaps unsurprisingly, over half said they currently have a negative view of the town. However, almost all of the respondents also wrote long lists of the things they like and love about Neath.
“From our historic market and variety of independent shops to the extensive canals; and from our rich history and iconic buildings to locations such as Victoria Gardens and the Gnoll rugby ground. There is so much that is good about Neath.
“But we are not without our challenges. Respondents mentioned problems with drugs and anti-social behaviour, which put some off from visiting the town centre, not to mention the empty shops which are littered over our town centre, some of which are falling into disrepair.
“However, it’s the economic pressures that are weighing heaviest on locals’ minds – not just in terms pressures on businesses, that are forcing too many to shut for the final time, but the squeeze on people’s purses mean they have less in their pocket to spend in the town.
“Neath is not short on talent and enthusiasm, but it does need support. Over the coming weeks, I will take time to fully digest the near-400 responses and continue my engagement with Welsh Government and the local authority over what can be done to meet these challenges head on.”
