Four Ceredigion Communities Join Forces to Put Decisions in Local Hands

Four neighbouring communities in Ceredigion are teaming up to take control of the decisions that matter most — about things like affordable homes, clean energy, public spaces, and community wellbeing. They’ve created a new community organisation: Ymddiriedolaeth Tir Cymunedol 4 Llan Cyfyngedig (4 Llan Community Land Trust Limited) or simply ‘4 Llan.’

4 Llan is a not-for-profit group set up by local people in 2024. Its mission? To work together as four communities to strengthen and grow the physical, social, and economic assets of Llanarth, Llanllwchaearn, Llandysiliogogo and Llangrannog (hence 4Llan).

Their first big goal is to provide affordable homes — available for rent or shared ownership — to people with strong ties to the area. They’re also passionate about kick-starting community clean energy projects that help residents save money and tackle climate change. As a Community Benefit Society, 4 Llan can also own and look after land for everyone’s benefit — creating and protecting spaces for recreation, wellbeing, and nature.

Already, the group has organised free Electrical Safety Testing events and installed Swift Nest Boxes to support local wildlife.

Wayne Lewis, Vice Chairman of 4 Llan, says: “We want our communities to be great places to live for people of all ages — with affordable homes, good jobs, and green spaces. We’re lucky to have strong, connected communities and beautiful natural surroundings. Our work will build on those strengths and ensure that local voices shape what happens next.”

Joining 4 Llan is easy and affordable. There is an initial membership charge of £10 which includes the purchase of a £1 ‘Membership Share’. Every member gets one vote at open meetings, helping steer the future of the Trust.

The new 4 Llan website — www.4llan.cymru — goes live on June 3rd. Head there to find out more about what’s happening locally and how you can get involved.