Introduction
The comprehensive performance report for the councils in the region of Wales offers a detailed analysis of the business and employment landscape based on aggregated data for the year 2022. This report aims to critically evaluate the performance across various metrics including employment, industry growth, and innovation, highlighting the councils that exhibit notable achievements as well as those facing challenges. The insights derived are intended to guide strategic decisions and foster economic development within the region.
Population and Employment Table
| Council | Number of Employees | Population | Employees per 1000 Residents |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiff | 167393 | 362400 | 462 |
| Swansea | 55582 | 238500 | 233 |
| Rhondda Cynon Taf | 46865 | 237700 | 197 |
| Caerphilly | 33786 | 175900 | 192 |
| Flintshire | 95979 | 155000 | 619 |
| Wrexham | 41077 | 135100 | 304 |
| Neath Port Talbot | 23517 | 142300 | 165 |
| Bridgend | 29267 | 145500 | 201 |
| Carmarthenshire | 35858 | 187900 | 191 |
| Newport | 46750 | 159600 | 293 |
| Powys | 25719 | 133200 | 193 |
| Monmouthshire | 20256 | 93000 | 218 |
| Pembrokeshire | 21985 | 123400 | 178 |
| Denbighshire | 23325 | 95800 | 243 |
| Conwy | 21006 | 114800 | 183 |
| Vale of Glamorgan | 21452 | 131800 | 163 |
| Torfaen | 17336 | 92300 | 188 |
| Gwynedd | 18768 | 117400 | 160 |
| Isle of Anglesey | 14637 | 68900 | 212 |
| Ceredigion | 10380 | 71500 | 145 |
| Merthyr Tydfil | 7180 | 58800 | 122 |
| Blaenau Gwent | 8909 | 66900 | 133 |
Key Findings
In the evaluation of employment and industry sectors, Cardiff stands out with the highest number of employees per 1,000 residents, demonstrating a robust economic environment. Conversely, Merthyr Tydfil exhibits the lowest ratio, suggesting potential areas for economic development and employment support.
Across the region, the ‘Construction’ and ‘Wholesale and retail trade / repair of motor vehicles’ sectors dominate the industry landscape, with significant representations in councils like Caerphilly and Flintshire. Notably, Rhondda Cynon Taf is distinguished by its high number of employees in companies that have raised funds, particularly in the ‘Healthcare products’ sector, indicating a thriving innovation ecosystem.
Despite no new IPOs recorded in the region for 2022, the data reveals a dynamic fundraising activity, with Cardiff leading in the number of companies attending accelerator programmes.
On the innovation front, Wrexham and Flintshire are noteworthy for their high numbers of patent owners, aligning with a strong manufacturing and engineering sector. This innovation drive is contrasted by the challenges faced in councils like Torfaen and Blaenau Gwent, where business closures are more prevalent.
Conclusion and Recommendations
This report underscores the diverse economic landscapes across the Welsh councils. While some areas show robust employment and innovative activities, others highlight the need for targeted economic support and development programs. Recommended actions include fostering sector-specific hubs in high-performing areas and introducing more robust support for innovation in councils with lower economic activity.
Future strategies should also consider enhancing educational programs linked to the dominant sectors within councils to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled labour, crucial for sustaining growth and innovation.
The insights provided here should serve as a foundation for policy makers, business leaders, and stakeholders in their efforts to tailor economic policies and initiatives to the unique needs and opportunities within each council.