Cllr Steve Hunt has written directly to WRU chair Richard Collier‑Keywood and the Board as the union continues to consider slashing Wales’ professional teams from four to three — a move that could leave the Ospreys fighting for survival.
The intervention piles fresh political pressure onto the WRU after weeks of turmoil, public anger and competing claims from councils, supporters, former players and senior politicians.
‘Removing this region would weaken grassroots rugby’
In his letter, Cllr Hunt said the Ospreys represent one of the biggest rugby communities in Wales, rooted in the proud histories of Neath and Swansea.
He warned that scrapping or downgrading the region would “disenfranchise a significant supporter base” and damage alignment with dozens of grassroots clubs and schools.
The council leader said the Ospreys’ community programmes deliver “measurable benefits” in health, education and inclusion — outcomes local authorities are legally required to promote.
Case made for keeping four regions — or keeping Ospreys if cut to three
Cllr Hunt urged the WRU to retain four regions, arguing that a national footprint is essential for participation, performance and long‑term success.
But he also made clear that if the WRU presses ahead with a three‑region model, the Ospreys must be included.
He highlighted the region’s record on the field — the most successful Welsh side in league competition — and its history of producing elite players including Alun Wyn Jones, Shane Williams, Adam Jones, Justin Tipuric, Dan Biggar and Gavin Henson.
Economic and social impact across Swansea Bay
The letter also sets out the wider consequences of losing the Ospreys, pointing to the economic boost from home fixtures and the region’s established facilities, partnerships and commercial footprint.
Cllr Hunt said the Ospreys’ presence supports jobs, supply chains and community cohesion across Swansea Bay.
Call for transparency — and a rethink
The council leader called for a “transparent, evidence‑based impact assessment” before any restructuring, and for structured engagement with local authorities and regional partners.
He also referenced the recent intervention from Ospreys legends Alun Wyn Jones, Shane Williams, Gavin Henson, Ryan Jones and James Hook, who have publicly urged the WRU to rethink its plans.
Neath Port Talbot Council, he said, stands ready to work with the WRU, the Ospreys and neighbouring authorities to secure a sustainable future for professional rugby.
Cllr Hunt’s letter to the WRU
Another major voice enters a fast‑moving saga
The battle for the Ospreys has already ignited one of the fiercest rows Welsh rugby has seen in years. Swansea RFC has blasted the WRU for keeping clubs “in the dark”, while hundreds of supporters have packed into Brangwyn Hall in a show of defiance rarely seen in regional rugby.
Swansea Council has threatened legal action, accusing the WRU of mishandling the process, and supporters’ groups from the Ospreys, Dragons and Cardiff have joined forces to fight the restructure. MPs and MSs have piled in too, warning of a “stitch‑up” that could wipe out professional rugby across Swansea Bay.
Rugby icons including Alun Wyn Jones, Shane Williams, Gavin Henson, Ryan Jones and James Hook have all demanded the WRU rethink its plans, and actor Michael Sheen has added his voice to the growing backlash.
The WRU insists no final decision has been made — but with political leaders, councils, supporters and legends now lining up against the proposals, the pressure is rising fast. Cllr Hunt’s intervention is the latest sign that this saga is nowhere near its final whistle.
