A new 50-space overflow car park has been given the green light in Clydach Vale, aimed at easing ongoing parking pressures around a popular country park and nearby sports facilities.
Planning permission for the development, which will serve Cwm Clydach Country Park and adjacent pitches used by Cambrian United FC, was approved by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Planning and Development Committee on Thursday, April 16.
The new facility will be built on land next to the industrial estate road and is designed to support visitors to the area, where demand for parking regularly exceeds capacity during peak times. The issue has previously led to concerns over unsafe and informal parking.
As part of the approved plans, the development will include a connecting access road with junction improvements, alongside additional disability spaces. Electric vehicle charging points will also be introduced within the existing nearby car park.
The council says the project is intended to improve access to one of the County Borough’s key recreational and tourism assets, while helping to maintain safe conditions for both motorists and pedestrians.
The new car park will be free to use and will feature gated access, ensuring it is only open during designated hours. Outside of these times, the facility will be locked to prevent unauthorised use and help deter anti-social behaviour.
Design plans show a six-metre wide access road between parking rows, with a gravel and clean stone surface chosen for durability and low maintenance. Marked parking bays will be included, while a nearby informal off-road parking area off Railway Terrace will be retained with minor improvements.
Vehicles will access the site via the existing industrial estate road, where a revised junction layout will be introduced. A low-level boundary fence will also be installed around the perimeter.
Planning officers recommended the scheme for approval, noting the clear need for additional parking in the area and confirming there were no suitable alternative sites nearby. Their report also concluded the development would not negatively impact visual appearance, residential amenity, flood risk, ecology, or highway safety.
A spokesperson for Rhondda Cynon Taf Council said: “There is often a significant demand for parking at this location, with the area home to Cwm Clydach Country Park, the sports facilities at Cambrian United FC, and the Lakeside Café Bar. The Council has brought forward this project to provide additional, free parking to serve the area, as we continue to encourage visitors to use these local attractions while reducing the unsafe and informal parking that is often experienced – particularly around the industrial estate road.
“Importantly, the car park’s gated access will ensure it is locked when not in use. Preventing unauthorised access will also deter anti-social behaviour at the new facility. With planning consent now granted, the project will progress towards the construction phase, planned in the months ahead.”
