The aspirations of those behind Merthyr Tydfil’s Pontmorlais Townscape Heritage Quarter: Continuing the Renaissance project is to create an attractive area that combines arts and culture facilities alongside niche retailers. As well as providing new jobs and training opportunities – such as traditional building skills for local students – it will mean a better environment for those living in and visiting the town. 

"This investment will preserve the unique industrial landscape character of the most significant Welsh town of the Industrial Revolution,” said Merthyr Tydfil County Council Leader, Cllr Brendan Toomey. “Our aim is to preserve the historic buildings in the area and preserve or re-introduce the features that make each building special.”

[quote=Richard Bellamy, Head of HLF Wales]"Thanks to National Lottery players, we can continue to make a difference by playing our part in the economic regeneration of this former industrial town.”[/quote]

Richard Bellamy, Head of HLF Wales, explained why funding regeneration projects like this in key Welsh towns is so important: “Historic town centres are the beating heart of communities, so it is vital that we take care of them. Research shows that even small changes - improving shop fronts or restoring architectural features - can make a real difference to people living and working there.

“This latest award brings National Lottery investment in Merthyr’s important heritage to over £10m. Among the projects to benefit are the renovation of the town hall, the rejuvenation of Cyfarthfa Park, breathing new life into Capel Soar as a vibrant community centre, the transformation of the former YMCA, as well as many other smaller projects. 

“Now, thanks to National Lottery players, we can continue to make a difference by playing our part in the economic regeneration of this former industrial town.”

This initiative in Pontmorlais is jointly supported by HLF, the local authority and Cadw.