Vale of Glamorgan Council leader's hopes for Penarth in 2026

Cllr Lis Burnett (Image: Vale of Glamorgan Council) <i>(Image: Vale of Glamorgan Council)</i>
Cllr Lis Burnett (Image: Vale of Glamorgan Council) (Image: Vale of Glamorgan Council)
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Following a year marked by controversy and criticism, the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s Leader, Cllr Lis Burnett, has set out her vision for 2026, describing the year ahead as an opportunity to strengthen communities, improve public spaces and build confidence in the county’s future.

Her message comes as residents continue to raise concerns about decisions made in 2025, from the Cosmeston Aqua Park trial to parking charges and declining street maintenance.

Cllr Burnett said she remains “genuinely excited” about what lies ahead, emphasising that the council’s role is to ensure “opportunity, care and ambition reach every corner of our county.” Central to this is the development of new Placemaking Plans for towns across the Vale, including Penarth. These plans, shaped by neighbourhood boards and hundreds of local voices, aim to create lively town centres, improve safety and direct investment where it can make the greatest difference.

In Penarth, the council intends to focus on major infrastructure upgrades, cultural events and smaller community‑led projects designed to strengthen local identity. Work is already underway to improve alleyways around St Paul’s Avenue, and the council hopes to find a new purpose for The Kymin that will contribute to the town’s cultural and social life. Improving connectivity between the town centre and the seafront is also a priority, with the aim of making Penarth easier and more enjoyable to navigate.

Sustainability remains a key theme in the council’s plans. Cllr Burnett highlighted the success of the soft plastics recycling trial in the Eastern Vale, crediting residents for their commitment to reducing waste. She said the council will continue investing in parks, beach facilities and green spaces, with upgrades to toilets and changing places intended to make these destinations more accessible and inclusive.

As the council prepares its 2026 budget, Cllr Burnett said she wants to build on existing momentum by increasing investment in public transport, parks, footways and the wider public realm. She believes these improvements will help create cleaner, safer and more attractive neighbourhoods.

Reflecting on her time spent speaking with residents and businesses, she said these conversations “ground the plans we’re making for 2026 and beyond,” adding that she hopes more people will feel involved in shaping what comes next. “By continuing to listen, work together and invest with care,” she said, “I believe we can deliver changes that genuinely reflect our communities and their wishes for the future.”

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