The council was ordered to vacate the building by June 30 to make way for a proposed development of eight energy-efficient homes. The Town Hall, long considered a civic landmark, has been deemed “no longer suitable for purpose” by the county council, which plans to retain the building’s character while converting it into a mix of one- to four-bedroom homes.
Deputy Mayor Calum Higgins expressed frustration over the forced relocation, stating, “We are now in the process of negotiating new premises which will be at the cost of the Ammanford taxpayer—something we wanted to avoid.” He added that the preferred option would have been a dual-use facility combining housing and community space.
The eviction has sparked significant backlash from town councillors and residents alike. Councillor Anthony Jones condemned the move, calling it “a complete lack of respect and support” from the county council. He criticized the lack of transparency and engagement, noting that only one Member of the Senedd responded to the council’s appeals for support.
Despite claims by the county council that discussions with the Town Council have been ongoing since early 2024, town officials argue that they were not adequately consulted. They have since called for ministerial intervention and a formal review of the process.
Cllr Linda Evans, Deputy Leader of Carmarthenshire County Council, defended the redevelopment plans, citing a “significant demand for housing in Ammanford and across Wales.” She emphasized that the project would help regenerate the town centre while preserving the Town Hall’s architectural heritage.
The council’s relocation has also reignited public scrutiny over its financial management. In April, the Town Council was forced to issue a public statement denying rumours that £800,000 had gone missing from its accounts. The council clarified that the funds were allocated to earmarked reserves and capital projects, and that all financial decisions were properly documented and audited.
The timing of the financial controversy has only added to the tension surrounding the eviction. Critics argue that the council’s focus should be on securing a new base of operations and maintaining essential services, rather than defending its financial integrity.
As of early July, the Town Council has yet to identify a suitable new location. A formal request has been submitted to Carmarthenshire County Council for an extension to the vacate deadline, but no response has been confirmed.
With the Town Hall’s future now tied to housing development and the council’s operational base in limbo, the situation remains a flashpoint in Ammanford’s local politics. Whether the Town Council can “fight its corner,” as Cllr Jones vowed, remains to be seen.
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