Merthyr Tydfil councillors have given their resounding support for a proposed £300 million ski slope development known as Rhydycar West, describing it as a “once in a lifetime” opportunity. The ambitious project includes exciting plans for an indoor snow centre, a tropical waterpark, an activity centre, outdoor activity areas, hotel rooms, woodland lodge accommodation, and car parking spaces. The proposal, put forward by Marvel Ltd, covers land to the southwest of the A470/A4102 roundabout, but it has faced recommendation for refusal by planning officers.
During a council planning committee meeting, councillors voted against the officers’ recommendations for refusal. The decision now lies with PEDW (Planning and Environment Decisions Wales) to determine whether to intervene. The developers believe that once operational, the project will generate 842 jobs, with a majority expected to benefit the local community. The economic impact is estimated to be significant, contributing millions to the local economy annually and attracting substantial capital investment to the region.
The site earmarked for development has a rich industrial history, including mine workings and other historical features. The planning report highlighted the presence of Scheduled Ancient Monuments, a Grade II Listed building, and key conservation areas. Despite the environmental considerations, proponents of the project emphasised its potential to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and boost tourism in Merthyr Tydfil and beyond.
Councillors supporting the development view it as a transformative opportunity for the region, citing long-term economic benefits and job creation as compelling reasons to move the proposal forward. They believe that such projects are essential for Merthyr Tydfil’s future prosperity and envision the development as a cornerstone for leisure and tourism in the area. Acknowledging concerns raised, they underscored the need for sustainable development practices and mitigation measures to address ecological and landscape impacts.
The project has garnered significant public interest, with over 140 letters of support and a petition signed by more than 2,800 individuals. Supporters highlighted the project’s potential to stimulate the local economy, create employment, and enhance recreational opportunities. They also lauded the developers’ commitment to eco-friendly initiatives and regeneration efforts within the town. On the other hand, detractors expressed reservations about the project’s compliance with planning policies, landscape alterations, and potential ecological disruptions.
Planning officers’ recommendation for refusal centred on the project’s perceived ecological and landscape impacts, particularly concerning conservation areas and biodiversity. The scale and visual changes proposed raised concerns about the development’s integration into the existing landscape. Despite the economic and social benefits anticipated, the report concluded that these gains may not outweigh the negative effects on the site’s ecological and historical significance.
In March 2024, the Welsh Government directed the council not to grant planning permission for the project without prior authorisation, pending further evaluation. This directive underscores the complex considerations involved in balancing economic development with environmental preservation. As the project enters a critical phase of assessment by the planning inspectorate, the community awaits a decision that will shape the future landscape of Merthyr Tydfil.