£3m Welsh Government fund to boost museums, libraries and archives across South West Wales

The investment, part of the Priorities for Culture Capital Grant Scheme, is designed to make cultural spaces more accessible, sustainable and welcoming. Culture Minister Jack Sargeant said the aim was to protect “vital community assets” and ensure they continue to serve as visitor attractions, learning hubs and wellbeing spaces.

Swansea: lighting up the city’s heritage

In Swansea, the city’s oldest museum will be literally brighter. Swansea Museum is receiving funding for its Illuminate project, which will replace outdated lighting in the History Gallery and temporary exhibition space with modern, energy‑efficient systems. Swansea University’s cultural collections will also benefit, with new environmental monitoring and accessibility improvements to safeguard rare items and open them up to more visitors.

Neath Port Talbot: greener libraries

In Neath Port Talbot, Baglan Library will undergo building improvements with new front windows to boost energy efficiency and create a more comfortable space for readers and community groups.

Bridgend: preserving and delivering culture

Porthcawl Museum will use its grant to conserve artefacts and refresh exhibitions, working alongside Glamorgan Archives. Meanwhile, the Awen Cultural Trust, which runs libraries across Bridgend county, will make its Books on Wheels service more sustainable by switching to a zero‑emission electric vehicle to deliver books to housebound residents.

Carmarthenshire: archives and museums reimagined

Carmarthenshire is seeing some of the most ambitious projects. Carmarthenshire Archives will create a new exhibition space to bring hidden collections into public view. At Carmarthenshire Museum, two projects will improve both physical and digital access: new interpretation and lighting in galleries, and a revamp of the CofGar website to make collections easier to explore online.

At Dinefwr’s Newton House, run by the National Trust, visitors will benefit from new lifts, braille interpretation and audio‑visual guides, ensuring the historic site is accessible to all.

Pembrokeshire: Tenby’s new chapter

In Pembrokeshire, Tenby Museum & Art Gallery will transform a storage area into a new public gallery, creating space for fresh interpretation and exhibitions.

A wider vision for culture

The Welsh Government says the £3m is just the first wave of investment, with a further £2.5m available for bids over the next year and £15m in total to be distributed by March 2026.

The Priorities for Culture strategy emphasises that culture is not just about heritage, but about regeneration, inclusivity and wellbeing. From greener libraries to more accessible museums, the projects in South West Wales reflect that ambition.

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Dylan Thomas Boathouse Triumphs in ‘Win an Architect’ Initiative

The initiative seeks out the most innovative client briefs and architectural proposals that enhance, showcase, and celebrate culture outside London. A design concept worth up to £12,000, devised by Wignall & Moore’s award-winning RIBA Chartered architects, is the grand prize for the lucky winner.

The Boathouse, perched on a cliff overlooking the Taf estuary, was the residence of renowned Welsh poet Dylan Thomas during the final four years of his life. It is here that he penned some of his most significant works, including parts of “Under Milk Wood.” Today, the Boathouse is a member of CofGâr, the Carmarthenshire County Council museums and arts service, attracting visitors from around the world.

The design concept prize aims to make the Boathouse more accessible and enhance visitor experience by reimagining its entrance, expanding indoor space, and utilising the old Harbour’s potential.

Councillor Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport, and Tourism, expressed her enthusiasm:

“Securing the ‘Win an Architect’ prize is a great achievement for the Dylan Thomas Boathouse and CofGâr. This support will help us improve the visitor experience while preserving the Boathouse’s unique character.”

The partnership with Wignall & Moore will extend through 2025, focusing on sustainable enhancements that respect the historical importance of the Boathouse and preserve its legacy for future generations.

A free creative writing workshop with award-winning poet and playwright Menna Elfyn was held on 25 January, kicking off a yearlong series of events and workshops which will be held at the Boathouse. Share your ideas and help shape the future of this unique space. Secure your spot in advance on the CofGâr website.

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