How were people in Wales asked about the upcoming changes to the Senedd?

Published 02/07/2025   |   Last Updated 08/07/2025

You might have heard that the next Senedd (Welsh Parliament) election on 7 May 2026 will be different from the past ones, but what’s changing?

 

Here’s a quick guide:

  • 96 Members
    From the election in May 2026, the Senedd will have 96 Members instead of 60.
  • New voting system
    Everyone 16+ will now have one vote, choosing a political party or independent candidate.
  • New constituencies
    Wales will have 16 constituencies. Each constituency will elect six Members.

 

Why are the changes happening?

The Senedd has come a long way since it was established 25 years ago. It now has more powers to pass laws on things which affect your everyday life, like hospitals, education, and transport.

Having 96 Members will give the Senedd greater ability to look at and challenge the Welsh Government’s plans and spending. It also brings the Senedd in line with other countries of a similar size to Wales, like Scotland which has 129 Members and Northern Ireland which has 90.

After the election, you’ll have six Members representing you, giving you more choice over who to contact if you have an issue or concern.

 

Who decided change was needed?

The Welsh Government proposed the law that will bring about the changes to the Senedd. The proposals were based on the recommendations of the Special Purpose Committee on Senedd Reform, published in 2022.

They considered 20 years of previous research, including:

All of these recognised the need for change and growth.

 

How were people in Wales asked about the changes?

The changes to the Senedd have undergone multiple public consultations.

Let’s take a closer look:

  • 2011
    A public vote (referendum) showed 63.5% of voters supported giving the then Assembly more law-making powers.

 

Where can I find out more?

General information

New constituencies

New voting system