Bridgend (pop. 145,488) is a local government area of the United Kingdom in South Wales. It is a unitary authority established in 1996, responsible for all local government services within its boundaries. The town of Bridgend, from which the area is administered, is a major industrial center about 20 miles (30 kilometers) west of Cardiff. Its major industry is automobile manufacturing.
In the north of the Bridgend area, around such towns as Maesteg and Pontycymer, the leading industries include electronics, engineering, and the production of office equipment. Factories in the Bridgend area also manufacture pharmaceuticals and beauty products.
On the south coast lies the popular seaside resort of Porthcawl. The Blaen Garw Country Park lies near Bridgend. Picturesque villages include Coity and Ogmore-by-Sea. From 1974 to 1996, Bridgend was part of the district of Ogwr, in the county of Mid Glamorgan.
