Major Milestone for Wales' Mega-Resort
In a significant decision that promises to transform the Welsh valleys, the Welsh Government has granted approval for a colossal new leisure resort featuring the UK's longest indoor ski slope and a massive tropical waterpark. The multi-million-pound Rhydycar West development, proposed by Marvel Ltd, has cleared its final major planning hurdle after ministers decided not to call in the application for further scrutiny.
What the Resort Will Offer
The sprawling complex, set to be built on land just south-west of the A470/A4102 roundabout in Rhydycar West, Merthyr Tydfil, represents one of the most ambitious leisure developments in recent Welsh history. The plans include:
- The longest indoor ski slope in the United Kingdom
- A substantial tropical waterpark
- Comprehensive indoor and outdoor adventure facilities
- Between 400-418 hotel rooms
- 30 woodland lodges
- Approximately 830 parking spaces
Overcoming Planning Hurdles
The project's journey to approval hasn't been straightforward. Earlier this year, in March 2025, council officials recommended that local councillors refuse the application. Despite this advice, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council backed the ambitious scheme, referring it to Welsh Government ministers for final consideration.
This referral sparked concerns that the development might be halted, but in what represents a major victory for the developers, the Welsh Government confirmed it would not intervene. In an official letter, the Head of Planning Casework stated that while the project presented some policy conflicts, these were of a scale and complexity that could be adequately handled by the local planning authority.
National and Regional Benefits
Beyond its appeal as a tourist destination, the resort is set to become the official home and training base for Team GB and Wales' Olympic and Paralympic snowsport athletes. This establishes Wales as a significant centre for winter sports development in the UK.
Ali Tyebkhan, CEO of Rhydycar West, expressed delight at the decision, acknowledging the "many years of hard work and commitment from our team and partners." He extended gratitude to the Merthyr Tydfil community and wider region, whose belief in the project played a vital role in reaching this milestone.
Robin Kellen, chief executive of Snowsport Cymru Wales, described the news as "massive for Snowsports in Wales and the wider GB community," highlighting the increased participation opportunities and enhanced training facilities for national team athletes.
The outline application now returns to Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council for final sign-off, with expectations that it will come before the Planning, Regulatory and Licensing Committee early next year. If approved as anticipated, construction will begin on what promises to be a world-class sport and leisure destination with lasting economic, social, and regeneration benefits for the South Wales valleys.
