Plans for a landmark leisure development, set to feature the UK's longest indoor ski slope, have been formally approved, paving the way for a transformation of Merthyr Tydfil's economic fortunes.
A Major Milestone for Merthyr Tydfil
The ambitious proposal for the Rhydycar West development was given the final go-ahead by Merthyr Tydfil Council's planning committee on Wednesday, 7 January 2026. This decision came after the Welsh Government confirmed it would not intervene, allowing the local authority to proceed.
The comprehensive scheme, located south west of the A470/A4102 roundabout, is far more than just a ski slope. It is envisioned as a full-scale leisure resort designed to put the South Wales town firmly on the map as a major tourist destination.
What the Resort Will Include
The scale of the proposed development is significant. Key components approved by councillors include:
- The longest indoor snow centre in the UK, which will serve as the official training base for GB and Welsh national, Olympic, and Paralympic snow sports teams.
- A large water park and separate indoor and outdoor activity centres.
- Accommodation comprising up to 418 hotel rooms and as many as 30 woodland lodge units.
- Extensive supporting infrastructure, including 830 car parking spaces, new access routes, drainage, and utility connections.
Local Leaders Hail a "Game Changer"
Local councillors have expressed overwhelming support for the project, highlighting its potential to catalyse economic regeneration. Councillor Andrew Barry argued that to tackle local deprivation, "we need positive economic solutions" of this magnitude.
"We have the opportunity to change the whole socio-economic dynamic of Merthyr here," he stated, emphasising the benefits for local supply chains, small business creation, and inspiring ambition in the community.
Councillor Brent Carter called the project "ground breaking" and a "complete game changer for Merthyr Tydfil," predicting it would massively boost the local economy. He saw it as a prime chance to position the town as a "world class destination of choice."
Councillor Julia Jenkins urged the community to seize the opportunity, noting the area had been "overlooked for too long" and predicting a surge in visitors.
Path to Planning Permission
The journey to approval has not been straightforward. In March 2025, the planning committee initially voted against officers' recommendations to reject the application.
The Welsh Government then directed the council not to approve it pending a review on whether to "call in" the decision for ministers to make. However, in November 2025, the government notified the council it would not intervene.
The Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning concluded that while the plan conflicts with some aspects of national policy, these issues were of a scale and complexity appropriate for the local planning authority to determine. With the Welsh Government's stance clear, the committee's approval on 7 January has now unlocked the project's future.
