£7m waterfall tourism plan backed despite opposition

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

Some local residents have protested against £7m proposals for waterfall country at Pontnaddfechan in Bannau Brycheiniog, also known as the Brecon Beacons.

Objections included claims that it could turn a “country village” into a hotspot for tourists, impacts on wildlife, as well as additional pollution, noise and litter.

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

The plans were put forward by Neath Port Talbot Council to “reduce visitor pressure” to the 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 Leveling Up Fund, worth over £7m.

Councilors were told that as well as a 125-space car park with a new access point for vehicles, the improvements will 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 demolished, and a farm track built to the west of the site.

The project will also attempt to tackle parking problems in the area, which is known to face serious problems with traffic during the busy summer months, with queues of cars often seen covering roads and footpaths, Which leads to frustration for “overwhelmed” residents.

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

A total of 37 local people responded to the proposals, while a number of others were opposed, planners were told.

Other objections include loss of privacy, erosion of narrow footpaths, fears that the outlook of the village may change and the area may become a field of buildings for tourists, as well as concerns for the livelihood of local farmers.

But officials said they were in talks with a farmer, there would be no loss of privacy and conditions would be created to reduce noise.

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