The earlier name of Pontaberdulais referred to a dismantled 14th-century road bridge which carried the main highway between Swansea and Carmarthen over the River Loughor (Afon Llwchwr).

Pontarddulais first gained attention in the wider world in 1843, during the Rebecca Riots, when rioters attacked the toll gate there, after crossing the bridge.

In 1866, a new line was built connecting Pontarddulais with Swansea which made the town an important railway junction.

Pontarddulais was transformed from a rural settlement into an industrial community during the years 1872 to 1910 when six tinplate works were established.

The population expanded greatly during this period, as workers from nearby communities and as far afield as Italy moved in to find work in the tinplate industry.

Light industry gradually began deserting Pontarddulais in the late 20th century, transforming the community into a dormitory village.

Pontarddulais railway station is on the Heart of Wales Line, with trains to Swansea to the south and Shrewsbury to the north.

The band continues to support local events, such as the Hendy and Pontarddulais carnival, and Remembrance Day Parades.

The last time the band was ranked Class A was in 1958 when they represented Wales at the National Finals playing Variations on a Shining River, arranged by Frank Wright.

[9] The Welsh Language Society Cymdeithas yr Iaith was established in Pontarddulais on 4 August 1962 and a commemorative plaque unveiled in 2013.

Several supermarkets expressed an interest in having a superstore in the town, with enthusiastic support from shopkeepers in the local area.