Work continues in Ferndale to create an appealing, attractive and safe town centre for all.
Regeneration in the town has been made possible thanks to funding secured by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council from the European Regional Development Fund, through the Welsh Assembly Government, and the Heads of the Valleys initiative.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and the private sector are also committing funds to the scheme.
Public realm improvements are nearing completion in High Street to create beautiful, new pennant stone paving walkways.
The completion of the works in High Street will be followed by further improvement work at The Strand and improved links between the town centre and Darran Park.
Another key element of the work taking place in the town is the Townscape Enhancement Programme, providing assistance to local businesses that wish to improve the physical appearance of their commercial properties, complementing the public realm works.
During this time of regeneration, access to the Lime Street car park has been improved following the purchase of an adjacent building to the car park.
This site has now been developed into an attractive pedestrian walkway to the car park.
However, due to the lack of open space within the town centre, Lime St car park is currently being used as the hub for construction works due to this site being the only suitable area to work from and so that the rest of the town can remain a safe and pleasant place to visit.
The access gates to the newly-developed walkway are currently opened daily for people to view this new space, but access to the car park cannot be given due to health and safety.
The long term aim is to encourage visitors to the town to use the car park and reduce the traffic congestion caused in the town from cars parked on the High St. The pedestrian link created from the car park will then also allow easier access to the town.
Cllr Paul Cannon, Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Safer Communities, said: “Ferndale’s regeneration is an ongoing success story and the Council is pleased to be able to provide and secure funding to ensure the investment and work continues.
“Significant work has already taken place in the town in recent years and there is more to come, however residents are encouraged to bear with us whilst we carry out these changes as some areas like Lime Street car park will form an invaluable part of the construction phase until the project comes to an end.
