The Welsh Government has announced the full membership of its Town Centre Taskforce as members meet for the inaugural meeting.
Alongside co-chairs Professor Simon Gibson CBE and Tamsin Ramasut, whose appointments were announced on 11 August, members will consider challenges and opportunities facing town centres across Wales and help develop practical, evidence-informed recommendations for Welsh Ministers.
The Taskforce brings together expertise from business, academia, local government, regeneration, planning, transport, housing and communities. Full membership is listed at www.gov.wales/town-centre-taskforce.
Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning Siân Gwenllian said: “Our town centres are changing. They’re no longer just places to shop, but places where people live, work, access services and take part in community life. This Taskforce will look at how they can continue to evolve as diverse, mixed-use places that support businesses and communities.
“This work builds on action already under way, including permanent business rates support which, subject to Senedd approval, will give eligible hospitality and leisure businesses a 30% reduction in their rates bills from April 2027.
“I’m grateful to everyone giving their time and expertise. This Taskforce must be ambitious but practical, delivering real recommendations rather than restating the challenges so we can build vibrant, resilient town centres across Wales.”
The work builds on recent high street support, including a 30% business rates cut for eligible hospitality and leisure venues from 1 April 2027. Over the coming months the Taskforce will carry out a focused programme of work, with recommendations expected early next year.
