Here’s how Senedd elections will change next year
Major changes have been confirmed for the next Senedd election in May 2026, with Wales set to elect 96 Members instead of 60 under a new voting system and constituency map.
The reforms follow the completion of a boundary review by the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru, required under the Senedd Cymru (Members and Elections) Act 2024.
From 7 May 2026, the number of Senedd constituencies will be reduced from 40 to 16. Each will elect six Members, giving a total of 96. Supporters of the changes say the increase will give the Senedd more capacity to scrutinise laws, policy and spending.
The new constituencies are:
• Bangor Conwy Môn
• Clwyd
• Fflint Wrecsam
• Gwynedd Maldwyn
• Ceredigion Penfro
• Sir Gaerfyrddin
• Gŵyr Abertawe
• Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd
• Afan Ogwr Rhondda
• Pontypridd Cynon Merthyr
• Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni
• Sir Fynwy Torfaen
• Casnewydd Islwyn
• Caerdydd Penarth
• Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf
• Pen-y-bont Morgannwg
Locally, Flintshire’s Alyn and Deeside constituency will merge with Wrexham to form the new Fflint Wrecsam seat, one of the 16 confirmed under the new map.
The Commission created the constituencies by pairing the 32 UK Parliament seats in Wales, while also considering local authority boundaries, road and transport links and natural features.
Voting rules will also change. From 2026, everyone aged 16 and over will have one vote under a closed proportional list system. Voters will choose a political party or independent candidate, and the number of seats won will match the percentage of votes cast. Each voter will be represented by six Members of the Senedd.
Candidates must live in Wales, and future Senedd elections will be held every four years.
The Senedd’s debating chamber in Cardiff Bay will be altered to fit the extra Members, with work starting in April 2025 and due to finish in spring 2026.
The reforms follow years of debate and consultation, including a 2011 referendum on law-making powers, a Senedd Commission consultation in 2018, and public consultation on constituency changes in 2024.
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