Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council has submitted a planning application to improve Lower High Street in the town.

The proposed development work is part of the Merthyr Tydfil Town Centre Masterplan and aims to improve the connectivity between the town’s rail and bus stations.

The council hopes to create a new transport hub that is more modern and convenient and links directly to the high street, thus enhancing the experience of commuters and visitors.

Merthyr Tydfil station is the northern terminus of the Merthyr branch of the Merthyr Line, which saw more regular train services introduced last year.

Transport for Wales (TfW) operates passenger services to and from the station’s single platform.

The Merthyr Line is one of TfW’s Valley Lines. It was electrified in 2023 as part of the creation of the South Wales Metro.

The application includes the demolition of three buildings. Previously, these buildings housed retailers Peacocks, Moniques and Red Cross.

The council has already appointed demolition contractors, who have secured the buildings. The contractors have created a safe working zone around the buildings, ready to start the work if and when the planning application is approved. National Grid is currently working at the site, relocating its sub-station.

The council hopes that, if planning approval is granted, its contractor will begin demolishing the buildings in the spring. Once demolition is completed, the area will be made safe and ready for the development work.

“The demolition of the buildings will make way for future redevelopments to the lower high street. It will also create a modern, improved public space, that enhances the connections between the railway station, bus station, and Town Centre.”

Councillor Jamie Scriven, Cabinet Member for Regeneration,