Madam,

I hear many comments by politicians, councillors and members of the public complaining that young people leave Ceredigion for places such as Cardiff, Bristol and London.

Well here I am, having left my modern flat and nice job in Cardiff Bay behind to buck the trend and say goodbye to the capital city lifestyle and move to Aberystwyth.

When I first moved here I struggled to find any accommodation for a single young professional that was of a decent standard and a reasonable price. Accommodation in Cardiff was much nicer and far cheaper.

Two years on and I am looking for a property to buy. However, there are very few properties which are suitable for a young single female to purchase.

Furthermore, those which are suitable often have local-needs restrictions on them meaning that I, as someone who has lived in Ceredigion for two years and does not work in one of the eight other public service professions, am not able to purchase a property. It is hardly surprising that young people are leaving when this is what is on offer to them.

There are currently 27 jobs at Bronglais Hospital vacant, as well as 40 in Ceredigion County Council, and it is not surprising when you consider the housing options available.

I would suggest that Ceredigion needs to rethink its strategy on housing, especially if it wants to attract and retain talent and live up to its full potential.

There are some great jobs in Aberystwyth and Ceredigion but hugely limited opportunities to make it your long-term home.

I for one will be reconsidering my future in Ceredigion and may well end up joining the hordes of other talented young people absconding Ceredigion for a life in the city where it is far easier to get on the property ladder.

Yours etc, Name and address supplied.

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