Rhydycar West leisure resort approved by Merthyr Tydfil planning committee

Outline planning permission has been granted for Rhydycar West, a landmark leisure and tourism resort in South Wales, following approval by Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council and confirmation from the Welsh Government in late 2025.

The £300 million development will transform a strategic site near the Heads of the Valleys into an all-year-round resort featuring the UK’s longest indoor snow centre, a tropical waterpark, indoor and outdoor adventure facilities, hotels, and woodland lodges.

Billed as a nationally significant project, Rhydycar West is set to become a premier destination for both domestic and international visitors, supporting Merthyr Tydfil’s ongoing regeneration while strengthening Wales’ position as a hub for sport and activity-led tourism.

The snow centre will be built to International Ski Federation (FIS) standards and serve as a National Centre of Excellence for snow sports, providing training facilities for both the Welsh and UK Olympic and Paralympic teams. It is expected to host recreational visitors, elite athletes, and international competitions.

Ali Tyebkhan, CEO of Rhydycar West, described the approval as “an amazing moment” and thanked partners, supporters and the local community for their long-standing support. He added: “We are very excited and looking forward to the next stages of work and delivery of the development.”

The wider resort aims to complement existing attractions in the South Wales Valleys and Brecon Beacons, including BikePark Wales and Zip World. It will also enhance the region’s accommodation offer and contribute to a more resilient year-round visitor economy.

Designed with long-term social, economic and environmental goals in mind, the project aligns with the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act and has been developed with input from local and regional stakeholders over a number of years.