Today, the Planning Regulatory and Licensing Committee voted against the reports recommendation to refuse the application and voted in support of the development. The application will now be referred to Welsh Government Ministers for further consideration.

“We are delighted that the Councillors voted to reject the recommendation to refuse and are minded to approve the application. This is another step forward for our development. The economic and social benefits will be huge, with 1500+ construction jobs, 800+ long term full time roles and approximately £300 million in direct investment generating around £38 million annually for the local economy.

Our plans have always been about creating a world-class sport and leisure resort and hub that compliments existing attractions like Bike Park Wales, Zip World and Cyfarthfa Park which will raise the profile of Merthyr and the Northern Valleys. As the UK’s National Centre of Excellence for SnowSport, Rhydycar West will be the home and training HQ of the Welsh and GB National Paralympic and Olympic teams, while boosting local businesses, the town centre and cultural attractions.

Above all, we are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support we have received, thousands of messages, letters, a public petition in support with over 2800 signatures in just under a week. Thank you to the people of Merthyr, local businesses, neighbouring councils and Merthyr’s MS and MP for believing in this project.

We are very excited about progressing everything in the coming days and weeks”. Ali Tyebkhan CEO, Rhydycar West