The projects aiming to change the face and fortunes of borough
From housing to health, sport to transport, there are planned developments which could transform the face of Rhondda Cynon Taf for years to come. Here Anthony Lewis looks at what they are and how they are progressing...
One of the major planned developments in the area is the South Wales Metro which as part of the Cardiff Capital Region City Deal is hoped will provide massive economic benefits to the area by providing a much improved rail service between Cardiff and the Valleys.
The £734m project will increase the frequency of trains to 12 an hour on the line which serves Pontypridd and Aberdare to and from Cardiff.
As part of that investment, the council’s planning and development committee approved a £100m depot to be based at Garth Works Industrial Estate in Taff’s Well, which is due to be completed by 2021 and be fully operational by 2023.
The plan also involves the creation of a park and ride facility at Taff’s Well railway station.
Karl Gilmore, from Transport for Wales, said this is a “step change” in public transport and will improve connectivity in the area.
Councillor Gareth Caple said: “This is a fantastic project and a welcome boost for regeneration. It is a high level of investment and a significant major development which will undoubtedly benefit the south Wales valleys.” The council and Cwm Taf Health Board are working together on delivering five extra care facilities worth £50m.
It is part of a move away from the traditional social care model to provide a more modern service which responds to people’s changing neeeds.
The six facilities would house apartments where people can live independently and have access to the care they need within their homes.
The council says they will provide modern accommodation options to meet the needs and changing expectations of the growing older population.
Five extra care developments are being progressed to meet the need for 300 identified spaces in Rhondda Cynon Taf.
RCT already has one current extra care facility at Ty Heulog in Talbot Green.
The other five facilities will be built in Aberaman, Pontypridd, Mountain Ash, Treorchy and Porth.
As part of the shift, the council is also looking at closing down some of its older care homes for the elderly whilst keeping some open and there will soon be a consultation on these proposals. The council is moving towards a community hub approach when it comes to providing services.
Approval has already been given for one in Mountain Ash which will replace