It’s a sunny day on the coast of south Wales as hundreds of residents, shoppers, and day trippers make the most of the weather in the seaside towns of Barry and Porthcawl. The two areas have long been known as some of the most recognisable tourist destinations in this part of Wales during the warmer months, drawing in visitors from all over the country with their picturesque beaches and summer attractions. However, step away from the seafront and conversations with locals take on a slightly different tone, with many raising concerns about the current cost of living, pressures seen on local services, and whether or not long-term regeneration plans are taking them in the right directions. Stay in the know by making sure you’re receiving our daily newsletter Both towns will fall within the new Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg seat for the 2026 Senedd elections on May 7, which will be made up of the two existing Westminster constituencies of Bridgend and the Vale of Glamorgan. This will include parts of both council areas such as …