1981 South Glamorgan County Council election

The third election to South Glamorgan County Council was held in May 1981. It was preceded by the 1977 election and followed by the 1985 election.

Boundary changes
There were no boundary changes at this election.

Candidates
As in previous elections, Conservative and Labour candidates contested the vast majority of seats, with an increased number of Liberal candidates. There were a smaller number of Plaid Cymru and Ecology Party candidates and a few Independents.

Outcome
Having lost control of the authority in 1977, Labour regained control with sweeping gains across the wards. The Liberals also made some advances in central Cardiff.

Plas Mawr (four seats)
Former Labour MP Caerwyn Roderick was among the successful candidates in this ward. Former Penylan councilor Mary Hallinan sought to retain a seat for the Conservatives but was defeated.