The Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning (Welsh: Gweinidog Cabinet dros Lywodraeth Leol, Tai a Chynllunio) is a cabinet position in the Welsh Government which has existed in various forms since the creation of the Welsh Government. The current officeholder is Siân Gwenllian since May 2026.
The position has responsibility for housing in Wales.
Contents
Ministers
The below shows all ministerial positions to cover the briefs of Housing and/or Local Government, as the role has not always been held by one Minister alone.
History
From 2018 to 2021, the position was titled as Minister for Housing and Local Government under the term of Julie James MS.
Following the 2021 Senedd election responsibilities involved with Local Government was merged with Finance responsibilities, and responsibilities on housing was transferred to a new 'super-ministry' (climate change) under Julie James.
Following the 2026 Senedd election the responsibilities of the minister was established under ap Iorwerth government to once again include housing and planning issues.
Responsibilities
These are some of the responsibilities of the current role:
Local Government performance, governance and constitutional matters, scrutiny arrangements, cabinets, elected mayors, the role of councillors, their diversity, conduct and remuneration
Structural, democratic, financial and constitutional reform of Local Authorities including co-ordination of regional collaboration models
Fire and Rescue Services including community fire safety
Local Government electoral arrangements, sponsorship of the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru and the timing of Local Authority elections
The un-hypothecated funding of Local Authorities and Police and Crime Commissioners through the Local Government revenue and capital settlements
Housing and housing-related activities of Local Authorities and housing associations, including housing management and the allocation of social and affordable housing
Supply and quality of market, social and affordable housing
Second Homes
Homelessness and housing advice
Aids and adaptations, including Disabled Facilities Grants and Physical Adaptation Grants
The provision of housing-related support (but not the payment of Housing Benefit)
Warm Homes Scheme
Fire safety in high-rise buildings