From changes to the education system to improved transport links, here are some things our readers want to see in 2026
The range of destinations available to fly to from Cardiff airport, was one of the points that readers called on(Image: WalesOnline/ Rob Browne)
The turn of a New Year always brings a sense of fresh possibilities. The Christmas decorations are back in the attic, resolutions have been scribbled down (and some may even still be in play), and people across Wales are settling back into their routines.
But for many, the start of 2026 is about more than personal goals, it’s a chance to imagine the bigger picture of what the year could hold for their communities, their cities, and their country.
Here at WalesOnline, we recently shared our own wishlist for the year ahead: from a record turnout at the Senedd to hopes that Wales could once again qualify for the World Cup. But the conversation didn’t stop there.
Our readers have been quick to join in, sharing their own ideas, frustrations, and ambitions for Wales in 2026; ranging from better transport links to more support for children with additional learning needs.
What follows is a snapshot of the issues that matter most to the people of Wales, straight from their own voices – a guide to what they hope to see change, improve, or thrive in the months ahead. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here.
Improved public transport
Many have called for improvements to public transport(Image: WalesOnline/Rob Browne)
Many of our readers highlighted a glaring omission from the original list of improvements: public transport. As one reader noted, “An integrated transport network serving both urban and rural areas is essential to the economic and social well-being of Wales.”
In December 2025, the Welsh Government announced major reforms that will overhaul the country’s bus network. Under the new system, the government will take control of routes, replacing the current model where private operators make most decisions on a commercial basis. Transport for Wales will lead the implementation, introducing a franchising model similar to London’s, ending decades of deregulation that began under the Thatcher government in the 1980s. Since deregulation, bus journeys in Wales have fallen by 56%, highlighting the urgent need for change.
The reforms aim to protect existing routes and create new ones where they are most needed. For many older people, buses are more than just a means of transport – they are a vital lifeline, providing access to healthcare, shopping, and social connections. Beyond that, a reliable and integrated network could also benefit commuters, students, and rural communities, strengthening both the economy and quality of life across Wales.
More direct flights from Cardiff Airport
Many called for more direct flights from Cardiff Airport(Image: Mirrorpix)
Another popular suggestion from WalesOnline readers was the need to broaden the range of direct flights available from Cardiff Airport. At present, one reader pointed out that many long-haul or European journeys still involve a stopover at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, adding time and complexity to travel.
Readers said it would be a huge boost to see more direct routes from Cardiff to major destinations such as Berlin, Munich, Paris and even long-haul hubs like Bangkok. While some direct options do exist, travellers are often forced to leave Wales and use airports in London, Birmingham, Bristol or Manchester instead, a choice that adds extra cost, travel time and inconvenience.
However, there are already signs that change is underway. Cardiff Airport has recently announced five new destinations, including routes to Portugal, Egypt, Canada and Finland, alongside additional flights on established routes. Thanks to expanded services from airlines such as TUI and Ryanair, travelling abroad directly from Wales’ national airport has never been easier.
Expanding the range of direct flights would not only make holidays and business travel more convenient for people in Wales, but could also strengthen Cardiff Airport’s role as a key national transport hub, boosting tourism, attracting investment and supporting the wider Welsh economy.
Wales rugby team to return to glory
Wales’ International team have faced many challenges in recent years(Image: Getty Images)
Welsh rugby was another area that featured heavily in readers’ responses and for many, frustration has reached boiling point after a hugely disappointing year. Following on from a dismal couple of seasons, supporters say it is clear that the game in Wales needs urgent and wide-ranging reform if it is to compete at the highest level again and start winning trophies.
Several readers, including a former professional player, argued that the sport needs to be restructured from the ground up. The emphasis, they say, should be on getting more people playing rugby at all levels, which in turn would create a much larger and healthier pool of players to select from in the future. That means investing in a solid, sustainable infrastructure – from primary school rugby right through to the senior game – rather than relying on short-term fixes at the elite level.
There is also growing concern that the Welsh Rugby Union’s current focus appears to be on shrinking elite rugby, rather than growing the game itself. Readers believe that without stronger grassroots participation and clearer pathways for young players, Wales risks falling further behind its rivals. For many fans, real change off the pitch is now seen as essential if success is ever to return on it.
Introducing relief roads
People continue to call for a relief road on the M4(Image: John Myers)
Calls for new relief roads were among the most common responses from WalesOnline readers when asked what they would like to see change in Wales in 2026. While some pointed to local problem areas, the issue raised most often was the M4.
One reader said: “Work should start on a relief road around Newport. Our roads and bridges are not fit for purpose and our future prosperity depends on quality infrastructure – just look at what’s happening in Bristol.”
There were also repeated calls for a Rhondda relief road, particularly between Maerdy and Porth. Readers said such a route would ease congestion in the valley, improve daily commutes and make travel more efficient for residents and businesses.
The abandoned M4 relief road around Newport continues to feature heavily in public debate. The proposed scheme, dropped six years ago, would have created a 14-mile, six-lane motorway to bypass the most congested stretch of the existing M4, especially around the Brynglas tunnels where the road narrows to two lanes.
After years of discussion and £114m spent since 2013, the Welsh Government scrapped the project in 2019. Then First Minister Mark Drakeford said it would not go ahead due to its cost and environmental impact, despite a previous manifesto commitment.
Current First Minister Eluned Morgan has said she does not plan to reopen the debate, but readers say congestion on the M4 remains unresolved and a source of ongoing frustration.
Backing our local venues and musicians
Our readers say this year – support Wales’ grassroots artists(Image: )
In a previous article, we called for more big acts to come to Wales, following an incredible year for live music in Wales. But readers were quick to point out that Wales’ up-and-coming talent also needs a stage.
Many expressed concern about the ongoing closure of pubs and smaller venues, which are vital for nurturing local musicians. “There are fewer places to play these days, so never mind the big stars, what about the little ones? Give them a chance too,” one reader said. They argued that while the occasional headline act is welcome, small and medium-sized venues need protection and support – both to survive and to thrive.
Recent months have seen some cherished venues close for good, including The New Moon and the Golden Cross pub. Readers suggested that local authorities could do more to safeguard these spaces and even encourage the creation of new ones, ensuring Wales’ music scene remains vibrant at every level, from emerging talent to international stars.
More support for children with ALN
Readers would also like more of a focus on Wales’ schools(Image: PA)
Readers highlighted a pressing need for more support for children with additional learning needs (ALN), as demand for emotional health, autism, and complex learning needs provision rises across Wales. This increase is driven by higher survival rates for children with significant disabilities, better identification of needs, and more young people experiencing emotional health challenges.
Last year, headteachers across Wales warn of a “funding crisis,” caused by years of cuts, rising costs, and a sharp increase in pupils with ALN. Many schools cannot afford the support children require, leaving both ALN pupils and their peers at risk of missing out on a full education.
Education leaders want most ALN learners supported in local mainstream schools and there have been steps forward. In Cardiff, more than 150 roles are being advertised to expand provision. When specialist support is needed, the goal is to keep children in their local area, reducing costly out-of-county placements. A new ALN school is being built in the Vale of Glamorgan, with major new provision also planned on Cardiff’s Fairwater campus.
But despite these positive steps, experts say there is still a long way to go to ensure every child with ALN receives the support they need.