4theRegion unveils five-Year plan to drive regional transformation in south west Wales
4theRegion unveils five-Year plan to drive regional transformation in south west Wales
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A bold new five-year strategy aimed at unlocking the full potential of South West Wales has been launched by 4theRegion, the regional partnership organisation committed to inclusive, community-led development.
The announcement was made at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting last week, where over 80 representatives from businesses and organisations across the region gathered to back a shared vision for economic and social transformation.
With a track record of more than eight years in fostering collaboration and stakeholder engagement, 4theRegion’s new strategy sets out a roadmap focused on five key missions: Stronger Local Supply Chains, Backing Community Action, Youth Empowerment, Positive News & Local Media, and the Green Economy.
Dawn Lyle, Managing Director of 4theRegion, said the new plan reflects a growing appetite for collective action across sectors in the region.
“Our vision, based on five key strategic priorities, is about helping people, businesses, and organisations across South West Wales work together for a happier, healthier region with a thriving economy,” said Lyle.
“We believe the future of our region is in our hands. We’ve been disempowered as a society, but transformation is possible when we align around shared values. It’s about taking a whole-system approach and ensuring everyone has a role to play.”
The five missions are intended to address key regional challenges while building on local assets—from South West Wales’ rich cultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit to its emerging strengths in sustainable industries.
Each mission will be shaped and delivered through dedicated regional steering groups, bringing together partners and projects already active across 4theRegion’s broad network.
One of the key focuses is on improving skills and retaining talent in the region. Danial Ahern, General Manager at Alpha Safety, a training provider and member of 4theRegion, said:
“4theRegion shares the same ethos we follow as a business—about lifting others up and building stronger networks through collaboration. We believe skills development has to begin at youth level. That way we can keep learners connected to opportunities in the region and help drive long-term impact.”
The AGM attracted widespread support from businesses, non-profits, public sector leaders and individuals aligned with the organisation’s mission to drive positive change across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, Neath Port Talbot and Swansea.
With momentum building around the green economy, community ownership, local procurement, and place-based development, 4theRegion’s five-year strategy is expected to serve as a unifying framework for regional progress.
