Facts about Monmouthshire

Demographic Profile:

Monmouthshire is a rural county and, although its population has risen to 95,200, (2020) it remains one of the least densely populated counties in Wales.

It is strategically situated on the south east border with England and it is one of the most connected counties in Wales, with two motorways; the M4 and M48, crossing the county.

The Severn Bridge and the Prince of Wales Second Severn Crossing provide road access and Monmouthshire is an important rail connection with stations at Abergavenny, Chepstow, Severn Tunnel Junction (Rogiet) and Caldicot.

Half of the population live in the main towns of Abergavenny, Monmouth, Usk, Caldicot and Chepstow.

In the 2011 census, Monmouthshire was just one of two areas that reported an increase in its proportion of Welsh speakers.

A host of famous musicians have recorded at the renowned Rockfield Studios in Monmouth including Queen, Oasis, Simple Minds and Coldplay.

80% of the population are economically active compared with an average for Wales of 75%.

People are living longer with increased life expectancy.

There are 19,863 people over 65 years old in Monmouthshire, approximately 22% of the population. This is projected to grow by 56.9% to 31,157 between 2012 and 2033.

See the Destination Intelligence page for up to date figures for tourism value and volume in Monmouthshire.

Approximately 10% of the workforce is employed in the tourism sector.

There is an increase in the number of older people moving to Monmouthshire.

The main strengths of Monmouthshire:

Stunning countryside and diverse landscapes of exceptional quality – Brecon Beacons National Park, Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Usk Valley and Gwent Levels.

The Wye and Usk Rivers present opportunities for walking, fishing and canoeing.

A number of high profile long distance promoted walks start/finish and pass through Monmouthshire – Offa‟s Dyke Path National Trail, Wye Valley Walk, Wales Coast Path, Usk Valley Walk, Three Castles Walk, Monnow Valley Walk, Cistercian Way.

A wealth of free access places and sites in the countryside e.g. public forest, countryside sites, nature reserves.

The Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal is a popular resource for canal boat holidays and pleasure boating as well as walking, cycling, fishing and canoeing.

St Pierre Park is a major Championship golf course and Monmouthshire has 6 other golf courses that welcome visiting golfers.

Events Management Toolkit Contents

Organisational Structure