Llantwit Major Probus

📅 Date: 10th October 2023


📍 Location: St Illtud’s Church, Llantwit Major


🗣️ Who we spoke to: Members of Ladies ProBUS and associated groups


Facilitators: Llantwit Major Town Council


🙋 Type of engagement: Group discussions and informal questionnaires


🚀 Emerging Themes

  • What people like about Llantwit Major:
    Heritage and historic character, friendly community, walkable town layout, free parking, library, clubs and leisure centre, green spaces, beach, and local events.
    Residents praised the sense of safety, community spirit, and variety of voluntary groups.

  • What people dislike:

    • Transport issues: Poor bus service, infrequent trains, lack of evening services.
    • Town centre concerns: Limited variety of shops, closure of restaurants, and loss of banks.
    • Infrastructure gaps: Roads in poor condition, potholes, lack of signage to beach, and inadequate facilities for growing population.
    • Social challenges: Declining volunteer engagement post-Covid and isolation among older residents.

  • Aspirations for improvement:

    • Better transport connectivity (half-hourly trains, improved bus routes).
    • New health centre and central hub for services.
    • More youth facilities and inclusive spaces.
    • Investment in leisure centre and community buildings.
    • Variety of shops and restaurants to revive town centre.
    • Road repairs and improved accessibility for mobility scooters.


💬 Comments

  • “Llantwit Major is a lovely, safe place to live with a strong community spirit.”
  • “Transport is a real issue – buses are unreliable and trains only run hourly.”
  • “We need more variety in shops – everything is closing.”
  • “Roads are a disgrace – potholes everywhere.”
  • “Volunteer numbers have dropped since Covid – we need to encourage younger people to get involved.”
  • “A health centre and better leisure facilities would make a big difference.”


Summary

ProBUS members value Llantwit Major’s heritage, friendliness, and active community, but raised concerns about transport, infrastructure, and declining town centre vibrancy. Residents want better connectivity, modern amenities, and inclusive spaces to support a growing population and maintain the town’s character.