RCT Council will soon consult residents on a potential project to redevelop the former Mayhew Chicken Factory site in Trecynon – which could bring the unused land back into use, supporting the growth of local small businesses and the future South Wales Metro delivery.
The proposal, being developed by the Council’s Prosperity and Development department, explores the possibility of delivering a mixed-use development complementing the proposed extension of the passenger rail line between Aberdare and Hirwaun as part of the Metro project.
The development would include modern business units and a park and ride facility comprising a car park, EV (Electric Vehicle) charging facilities and an Active Travel-compliant footbridge over the river. This would link with the Metro development of a station halt on the opposite side of the river.
The consultation process will start on Monday, June 6, and will end on Friday, July 1. The exercise aims to gain residents’ viewpoints about the site and the initial project proposals, and to understand whether residents think there is a need in the area for the improvements that are being discussed.
From June 6, residents will be able to find out more on the Council’s website. The site will contain further information about the proposals, a survey to be completed and an opportunity for residents to get in touch with the project team via email.
Councillor Mark Norris, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity, said: “The old Chicken Factory site in Trecynon has been derelict for many years, and the Council is exploring the possibility of bringing it back into use which will also support the passenger rail line extension beyond Aberdare, proposed for the Metro project.
“The Chicken Factory is a strategic site adjacent to the Aberdare Bypass, and could further enhance connectivity in the region – complementing the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road dualling and the proposed Cynon Gateway North. The Council is considering a mixed-use development, including a park and ride facility to increase access to the expanding local rail services.
“The project would deliver a modern industrial business park creating quality jobs in this strategic area, addressing a lack of modern business units in the region.
“A consultation process is being conducted by the Council so residents can find out more about the initial proposals for the former Chicken Factory site, and to get residents’ views on what is being considered at this early stage. I urge residents to take part before the deadline on July 1 and help inform the Council’s considerations on this important project.”
