Merthyr Tydfil Business Owners Advocate for £300m Ski Resort Investment
Merthyr Tydfil business owners have come together to express their strong support for the proposed £300m Rhydycar West ski slope and resort development in the area. The future of this investment now hangs by a thread as council planning officers have recommended refusal of the application. The project includes plans for an indoor snow centre, an indoor tropical waterpark, an indoor activity centre, an outdoor activity area, multiple hotel rooms, woodland lodge accommodation, and extensive car parking facilities.
Jorge D’ascencao, the managing director of Clwb Crown, a local entertainment venue, highlighted the significant benefits the ski resort could bring to Merthyr Tydfil and the surrounding community. He emphasised the positive impact such a development could have on transforming the town, attracting visitors, and boosting local businesses. Drawing parallels to the success of Bike Park Wales, D’ascencao underscored the potential of the Rhydycar West project to elevate Merthyr Tydfil’s status as a vibrant hub.
Mario Viazzani, owner of Station Cafe, echoed D’ascencao’s sentiments, emphasising the potential for job creation and economic growth that the ski resort could bring to the area. With improved accessibility and infrastructure, Viazzani pointed to the opportunity for Merthyr Tydfil to become a premier tourist destination, serving as a gateway to the Brecon Beacons. He also highlighted the positive impact on local businesses and the community’s welcoming nature.
Despite the overwhelming support from local businesses and the community, council planning officers are recommending refusal of the application due to concerns over ecological and landscape impacts. They argue that the economic and social benefits of the development do not outweigh the potential harm to the environment and landscape. However, proponents of the project have worked closely with various stakeholders and consultees to address these concerns.
The Rhydycar West team stressed the potential job creation and economic growth that the ski resort could bring, with projections indicating significant direct and indirect employment opportunities. They also highlighted the positive feedback received from the community and various organisations supporting the development. The team expressed disappointment over the council’s reluctance to recognise the economic benefits and job creation potential of the project.
As the application faces a crucial decision by the Merthyr Tydfil Council planning committee, local business owners and supporters of the ski resort investment remain hopeful for a positive outcome. The potential of the Rhydycar West development to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the local tourism industry has garnered widespread backing from the community. The decision on the application will not only impact Merthyr Tydfil but also the wider Valleys and South Wales region.
The fate of the £300m ski resort investment in Merthyr Tydfil now hangs in the balance, with the hopes and aspirations of local business owners and residents pinned on the project’s potential to revitalise the town and stimulate economic development. The outcome of the planning committee’s decision will have far-reaching implications for the future of Merthyr Tydfil and its position as a thriving community with a promising economic outlook.