£7m waterfall tourism plan backed despite protests

Plans to develop one of Wales’ most spectacular tourist attractions and reduce the problems caused by visitors have been given the go-ahead.

Some local residents opposed the £7m proposals for Waterfall Country at Pontneddfechan in Bannau Brycheiniog, also known as the Brecon Beacons.

The objections included claims that it could turn a “country village” into a hotspot for tourists, the impact on wildlife, as well as extra pollution, noise and litter.

But the scheme which will see a new car park, shop and holidaymaker accommodation was approved by councillors, and it will aim to provide a permanent parking solution for the area.

The plans were put forward by Neath Port Talbot council to “ease visitor pressures” in an area known for its stunning waterfalls, scenery and countryside.

They were approved unanimously by the council planning committee, and came after a successful funding application to the UK government’s Levelling Up Fund worth more than £7m.

Councillors were told that as well as a 125-space car park with a new access point for vehicles, improvements would include a children’s play park, eight bedrooms for tourists, a coffee kiosk and a road upgrade.

Existing buildings and a toilet block will be knocked down, and a farm track created to the west of the site.

The project will also try to tackle parking problems in the area, which has been known to face serious issues with traffic during busy summer months, with lines of cars often seen covering roads and pavements to the frustration of “overwhelmed” residents.

Councillor Simon Knoyle said he had campaigned for the project since he had become a member of the local authority.

Planners were told that a total of 37 local people responded to the proposals, with a number opposed.

Other objections included loss of privacy, the erosion of narrow footpaths, a fear that the approach to the village could change and become an area of buildings for tourists, as well as concerns for the livelihood of a local farmer.

But officers said they had been in talks with a farmer, there would not be a loss of privacy, and conditions would be in place to reduce noise.

Now that approval has been given the work is expected to begin in the coming months.