Pontypridd’s shopping streetscape is undergoing a total overhaul following Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s securing of a total £10.5 million funding package from the Welsh Government and European Regional Development Fund and Targeted Match Funding, alongside council and private sector contributions

Throughout 2011 much has been achieved with the remodeling of Mill Street and Church Street near completion and further phases of work have taken place in High Street, Taff Street, Penuel Lane and at Penuel Square.

Shoppers, residents and traders alike are seeing for themselves the positive visual impact the regeneration programme is already having on the town centre. With the dawning of the New Year the transformation continues and exciting changes are ahead, all combining to re- establish Pontypridd as a vibrant, attractive town centre destination.

The main thoroughfares are undergoing a massive transformation with new granite paving and road surface materials creating new and vibrant image for the town centre along with street furniture, signage, lighting and distinctive seating and railing features.

The significant level of investment is reflective of the fantastic opportunities the town presents; a pivotal transport hub to surrounding communities, a home to beautiful natural assets such as Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, and an urban centre with countless economic opportunities.

Cllr Russell Roberts, Leader of the Council said: “This is a momentous plan for Pontypridd as steadily we begin to see the first phases of regeneration nearing completion in the town centre. This continued work will revitalise the currently outdated street scene, and ensure Pontypridd once more becomes a major visitors’ destination in the South Wales Valleys.

 “Our long-term plan is to ensure the current regeneration work is a catalyst to generate local employment opportunities, increase the amount of visitors, create stronger and more diverse businesses, and foster a vibrant and sustainable economic centre. These are very exciting times for Pontypridd.”

The town centre regeneration programme is part of an exciting masterplan for Pontypridd worth over £75m which is set to deliver one of the biggest investment packages ever seen in south Wales.

Pontypridd’s historic train station is undergoing a £10million refurbishment along with the opening of a third platform. The refurbishment of the train station canopy is nearing completion, which is a significant milestone for the project.

The private sector is showing its commitment to Pontypridd, with Sainsbury’s new £50million development for the Brown Lenox site underway and the demolition of the Taff Vale Precinct is complete with preparations for a £6million retail development is in progress.