Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet has approved plans for land at Clydach Vale to be officially designated as a Country Park.
At a Cabinet meeting held this week (Tuesday, September 21), Members agreed to progress the proposals for the 166 acres of land in Tonypandy, currently known as Cwm Clydach Countryside Park.
Councillor Ann Crimmings, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council Cabinet Member for Environment, Leisure and Heritage Services, said:
“I am delighted that the proposals for a new Country Park within our County Borough have taken a huge step forward today.
“The Council has already developed a working partnership with both Friends of Cwm Clydach Country Park and Cambrian Village Trust (CVT) in relation to the future developments of the land both at the proposed Country Park site and the new 3G sports pitch in Clydach Vale.
“The designation will support both organisations that work in partnership with the Council to further enhance and develop the land for both residents and visitors.”
The new Country Park, within the Rhondda Valley, would complement the existing Dare Valley Country Park in the Cynon Valley, providing another tourist destination for the County Borough. It would also benefit the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors alike, promoting the great outdoors, the outstanding natural beauty and the wildlife in the area.
An increase in visitors to the proposed Country Park and wider region would assist to increase footfall in local towns, therefore boosting the local economy.
The proposed new Country Park in the Rhondda Valley would be located on the former Cambrian Colliery site, which includes two lakes and a number of small waterfalls. Located to the east of the lakes is the popular Cambrian Lakeside Café Bar, with recently resurfaced free public car parking facilities.
Friends of Cwm Clydach Country Park are working alongside Cambrian Village Trust to assist in the general maintenance of the area, undertaking litter picks and carrying out repair works to fencing and paths. Both groups are also a partner in the Groundwork Well-being Project.
The designation of the land as a Country Park will enable the Council and recently established Strategic Board to apply for external funding to enhance and develop the site.
