MEMBERS of Neath Port Talbot Council have approved a new events strategy for the county borough in order to deliver a “vibrant year-round programme of festivals and events”.
The 10-year strategy which will now cover the area until 2035 was put together after “extensive research, consultation and public engagement,” and was approved by members of the council’s cabinet at a meeting held on February 5, 2025.
It will now provide a framework for the authority to bring a year-round programme of events and festivals to the area, with the support of local communities, businesses, event organisers and public bodies.
The report read: “It is widely acknowledged that the impact of events and festivals on an area is far-reaching, improving not only the quality of life for residents but strengthening the identity and pride of a local community, impacting positively on health and wellbeing and encouraging a greater appreciation of an area’s unique natural environment.
“As well as bringing additional visitors to the area this strategy aims to increase the quality of events, attracting higher spending visitor
markets and delivering a national and international profile for Neath Port Talbot – highlighting the area as a destination for events and
holidays, boosting the local economy and paving the way to growing prosperity and sustainability.”
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Cen Phillips, added: “Events and festivals can bring a real buzz to our communities, bringing health and well-being benefits to residents as well as providing economic benefits to local businesses. It’s something that was identified in our culture and destination strategies as a real opportunity for Neath Port Talbot.”
The move follows the establishment of an Events Team and Film Office in 2024 which is meant to “streamline the organisation of events, festivals and filming” in the borough in order to make the process more efficient.
It also comes after a licensing committee in January, 2025, which saw approval for the In It Together Festival, which is held in Margam, to increase its capacity from just under 30,000 people to 35,000 people in 2025.
