The Carmarthen LocalMotion Assembly

Written by Tom Lewis

Tom speaking on behalf of Justice at one of our Compostio sessions, 2026

Written by Tom Lewis

LocalMotion Carmarthen has many moving parts, but without doubt its beating heart, driving the vision of a radical future for Wales’ oldest town, is its chief decision-making body: the Assembly.

Composed of members who live and/or work in Carmarthen, each serving a two-year term, the Assembly comprises a hugely diverse group of people each of whom brings their unique life experience.

The Assembly is intensely inclusive, deliberative and democratic: we talk, and we listen, and we argue. And we ultimately arrive at decisions on how best to use our resources. These resources include our time, our budget of £20,000 and, perhaps most importantly, our creativity, imagination and desire to make Carmarthen the best town in Wales!

Because of LocalMotion’s ethos of equality, dignity and respect, and the fact that each person’s contribution is valued, Assembly members are paid for their time and given every assistance in being able to make a full contribution.

Many – probably most – Assembly Members have not been involved in this kind of thing before, and the learning curve has sometimes been steep. We are gently guided by the wisdom and limitless patience of Owen, Ali and Mariana. Discussions are often frank but always respectful and good humoured. And out of our deliberations have emerged some fantastic projects which will hopefully help change both the face and soul of Carmarthen for the good. These include: our LocalMotion Podcasts; our delicious community feasts; our public walks around the undiscovered and unnoticed areas of our lovely old town; and our reimagining for the 21st century the ancient concept of the notice board (or “Happening Board”) to be set within a vibrant mural in the centre of town which will enable all people to find, at a glance, what exciting events are occurring close to home.

The 2024-2026 LocalMotion Assembly