Ebbw Vale's Brexit legacy continues to reverberate in this small Welsh town, a decade after its residents voted overwhelmingly – 62% in favour – to leave the European Union. The decision was made despite significant EU investment in the area following the closure of the steelworks in 2002, which had transformed a former industrial site into a thriving hub of modern facilities, including a hospital and leisure centre.
Fast-forward to today, and while new developments like a public-private cybersecurity research centre and tech firms have sprouted up on the old steelworks site, alongside a revitalised railway station, the area remains quieter than anticipated. Long-time residents now speak of regret over their Brexit vote, with some pointing out that the decision has yet to deliver tangible benefits for local people.
ONS labour market data shows that employment rates in Blaenau Gwent have remained stubbornly low compared to other parts of Wales. Meanwhile, household finances in Ebbw Vale continue to bear the brunt of Brexit-related economic uncertainty. With wages growth lagging behind inflation, many residents are struggling to make ends meet, including those in work.
Local troubles predate Brexit, with the steel mill closure over two decades ago and the loss of skilled manufacturing jobs taking a devastating toll on the area's economy. The Bevan Foundation report highlighted that EU funding, though substantial, did not have a significant impact on Blaenau Gwent's fortunes. Furthermore, UK government compensation for the shortfall in EU funding since Brexit has yet to materialise.
Despite these challenges, efforts are underway to revitalise Ebbw Vale and its wider region. The Welsh government's £100 million tech valleys programme is driving new investment, with three tech companies setting up shop on the old steelworks site. Blaenau Gwent council reports a net gain of 870 local businesses over the past decade – a positive trend that may yet bring about meaningful improvements to daily life for residents.