Showroom aiming to resolve light issue soon
LOCAL residents are concerned about the lighting at the new Trade Centre Wales showroom in Abercynon, which they say is “distracting” and “intrusive”.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Mayor, Rhys Lewis said the “unacceptable and intrusive lighting” at the Trade Centre Wales showroom on oad is a “hot topic” in the local community.
“Obviously a lot of people welcome Trade Centre Wales to the area - it’s created a lot of jobs and the showroom is located in a building which was previously derelict,” Coun Lewis said.
“But many people have questioned their engagement strategy with the local community, especially around the lighting - which is totally unacceptable in the eyes of many people and inappropriate for a small valleys community like Abercynon.
“There’s also other issues such as the felling of trees, the cutting back of bushes and advertisements which people are worried could be distracting for motorists.”
Coun Lewis added: “I hope the current situation with the lighting is resolved soon.
“As large employers in the South Wales area I expect them to take into account the opinions and concerns of local residents, particularly in a community the size of Abercynon and I hope to push the dialogue between them and Trade Centre soon.”
A number of people raised the issue about the lighting on social media, with one Twitter user Hollie R, writing: “Those blue lights emanating from Trade Centre Wales Abercynon are an eyesore. Unnecessary and obnoxiously bright.”
Charlotte Wright also wrote on Facebook: “Does anyone know if Trade Centre Wales needed or has been given planning permission for the lights as I can’t believe the light Wales forward pollution they are causing around the area?”
Other people also expressed concerned about the lighting potentially distracting passing motorists.
Erika Neck said: “Have Trade Centre Wales had permission to erect all those blue lights?
“It is very distracting while driving.”
Andy Coulthurst, chief executive officer of Trade Centre Wales, said: “We are working hard to resolve this issue as soon as possible, and are ex- tremely sorry that our lights are causing a concern for the local community.
“We are in discussions with Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council as to the best lighting solution, and are in the process of appointing a third party specialist to provide us with expert advice on the revised lighting scheme.
“In the interim, we are installing a timer so that the majority of the lights switch off automatically at 9pm, which should be in operation soon.
“We are also going to host a meeting with the local community to address their concerns directly, and have invited Vikki Howells AM and Rhys Lewis, Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf Borough Council, to meet with us to discuss the situation further.
“Addressing this issue to the satisfaction of the community and the local council is a top priority for us and we are keen to resolve this as soon as possible.”