A local area is the same as a Lower Super Output Area (LSOA). This is a statistical geography which divides Wales into areas of similar population size. There are approximately 1,600 people in each LSOA.

Following the 2011 Census a small number of LSOAs were changed to allow for population growth. The data in InfoBaseCymru is either shown for 2011 LSOA or 2001 LSOA depending on the most up to date information.

Statistical geographies were developed by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) following the 2001 Census. They are a set of geographies that work in layers to cover the whole of Wales. The layers are:

• Output Area - OA (around 400 people);
• Lower Super Output Area - LSOA (around 1,600 people);
• Middle Super Output Area - MSOA (around 7,700 people);
• Upper Super Output Area - USOA (around 25,000 people); and
• Local authority – LA.

InfoBaseCymru shows data at LSOA (local area) and local authority level.

Following the 2011 Census a small number of LSOAs were changed to allow for population growth. The data in InfoBaseCymru is either shown for 2011 LSOA or 2001 LSOA depending on the most up to date information.

For more information on statistical geography in Wales please contact enquiries@dataunitwales.gov.uk.