Pontneddfechan, Neath Port Talbot – A new 136-space car park has opened at a popular beauty spot in Neath Port Talbot to tackle the impact of visitor traffic on the local community. The facility, located in Pontneddfechan, is part of a wider council project to support sustainable tourism at Waterfall Country, known for its stunning waterfalls and countryside.
Traffic issues addressed
The area has long suffered from traffic congestion during the busy summer months, with lines of cars often covering roads and pavements. Locals previously said they felt “overwhelmed” by the volume of visitors. The new car park aims to alleviate these pressures by providing dedicated parking.
Facilities and funding
The car park is the first phase of a larger infrastructure scheme funded by more than £7 million from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. Later this year, a new retail shop, welfare facilities, and tourist accommodation will open. An eight-bedroom family-friendly visitor accommodation facility, a farm/community shop, and a children’s play area are nearing completion.
A council spokesman said the car park will operate throughout the summer from 8am until 10pm seven days a week. New toilet facilities will be open between 8am and 7pm daily. Parking costs a flat rate of £6, which the council says was “deliberately set to reflect existing provision across the region” and to manage demand, as a lower charge could increase visitor numbers and “risk adding further pressure to the village”.
Council statement
In a statement, Neath Port Talbot Council said: “Further phases of the development are now nearing completion including an eight-bedroom family-friendly visitor accommodation facility, a farm/community shop, and a children’s play area. These facilities are expected to open later this year with the accommodation and shop opening once an operator has been appointed.
“These improvements mark a critical step forward in addressing longstanding challenges associated with high visitor numbers. By introducing dedicated parking and high-quality amenities the project will help reduce traffic pressures in the village, improve safety, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of this popular destination.”
Traffic orders already in place
The opening comes just months after traffic orders were put in place in April to “prevent indiscriminate parking” in the area. Restrictions were introduced along the B4242 Pontneathvaughan Road, Glynneath, where many people park for visits to the Waterfall Country trails. The council said this would help prevent “indiscriminate parking in the interest of road safety and encourage the use of the pay and display car park”.
