**By-election Details Announced in Pontypridd as Councillor Steps Down Due to Ill Health**
The residents of Pontypridd will soon head to the polls to choose a new representative, following the resignation of Councillor Dawn Wood. The by-election has been scheduled after Wood, a member of Plaid Cymru, stepped down from both Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) Council and Pontypridd Town Council earlier this month, citing severe health concerns.
Dawn Wood, who had served as a dedicated councillor for the Pontypridd Town ward since 2022, made the difficult decision to vacate her posts after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. Announcing her resignation, she conveyed her deep sadness, yet reaffirmed her gratitude to both her constituents and her colleagues for their trust and support throughout her time in office.
The by-election for the Pontypridd Town ward on RCT Council will take place on Thursday, 17th July. Simultaneously, a by-election will also be held for the same ward on Pontypridd Town Council. These votes will determine who will take up the mantle and represent local interests at both county and town levels, at a time of continued change and reflection on governance in Wales.
A range of candidates will contest the forthcoming elections. For the RCT Council seat, five individuals are standing: Jeffrey Lee Baxter for the Green Party, Elin Mair Brown for Welsh Labour, William Jac Rees representing Plaid Cymru, Martin William Roberts for Reform UK, and Cerys Walker for the Welsh Conservative Party. For the town council by-election, all but Cerys Walker will be on the ballot.
The by-election comes at a challenging time, particularly given Councillor Wood’s moving statement regarding her health. She explained that after extensive medical consultations, she was advised to step back from public duties. “After careful consideration and consultation with my medical team I have come to the difficult decision that I must step down from my role to focus on my health and well-being,” she wrote. She went on to underscore the gravity of her prognosis, sharing openly that all treatment avenues had been explored.
Despite her resignation, Cllr Wood took the opportunity to reflect warmly on her time in public service. She called her tenure representing the residents of Pontypridd Town ward “one of the greatest honours of my life,” and expressed pride in working alongside other Plaid Cymru councillors, as well as local businesses and community groups, in efforts to strengthen the community.
The departing councillor’s words have been met with an outpouring of support and gratitude from local residents and fellow councillors. Many have praised her dedication, citing a legacy of collaboration and commitment to improving communal life in Pontypridd.
As voting day approaches, attention will shift to the candidates seeking to fill the void left by Cllr Wood. Each contender will likely address both local issues and broader concerns facing Pontypridd and the wider RCT area, with several parties represented across the political spectrum.
The coming weeks are expected to see increased campaigning and public debate, as the candidates set out their visions for the future of the Pontypridd Town ward. Local observers note that the by-election not only presents an opportunity for renewal but also highlights the importance of local government roles in Welsh communities.
With nominations now confirmed and preparations under way, Pontypridd is poised for a significant electoral moment—one shaped by the service of a much-admired councillor, and the promise of continued civic engagement into the future.