Enabling works will begin in June on the project, which aims to provide a permanent parking solution and better management of visitor impacts on the village of Pontneddfechan.
The plan also includes improved public toilets, a community farm shop and “low key visitor accommodation”.
A playpark and road safety improvements will also be created.
(Image: Neath Port Talbot Council)
(Image: Neath Port Talbot Council)
Neath Port Talbot Council say there is more than a dozen waterfalls between Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte in the southwestern part of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, known as Waterfall Country. The area sees an influx of visitors each year which is having a negative impact on the local community in terms of illegal and unsuitable parking and lack of suitable facilities.
Cllr. Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism, and Well-being, said: “This project is designed to create a permanent parking solution for the area, which has been known to have serious issues with traffic during the busy summer months, and to provide facilities which can be used both by visitors and the local community.
“Although we will always aim to minimise any disruptions, parking spaces along Pontneathvaughan Road will be intermittently unavailable during the construction period. Businesses in the area are being informed to ensure smooth communication.”
Cllr. Jeremy Hurley, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Climate Change, said:
“This project is an important move towards managing visitor pressures in a way that supports the local community and protects the environment. It reflects our commitment to sustainable infrastructure that works for everyone.”
