A PLAN to demolish several buildings in Merthyr Tydfil and create a public space improving the link between the railway station, bus station and the town centre has been submitted.
The proposed redevelopment of lower High Street into Merthyr Interchange Link would involve demolition of the Peacocks building, the British Red Cross building, and the Monique’s building.
It would then see a new public realm space introduced between Masonic Street and High Street, the relocation of an existing sub-station, and the re-building of Monique’s into an “attractive corner plot.”
A design and access statement submitted with the council’s application said that the existing train station was located centrally to the town centre, however it was disconnected to the high street and bus station.
It said the arrival and way-finding was unclear and obscure, adding that there was an opportunity to improve arrival to the town centre by supporting a space for activity that animated the area upon arrival to the town.
It said the scheme would open up the High Street connection and be centred around the inclusion of a high quality public realm that unites and integrates the whole with the existing historic High Street.
The statement said that, in their current condition, Peacocks and British Red Cross were of limited to low architectural value, ageing and maintained to a low standard, adding little visual appeal to the High Street.
It said that the removal of these two buildings would allow the creation of improved connectivity between High Street and Masonic Street.
And, on the removal of Monique’s, it said that this had been driven by its current condition which meant it was not economically viable to save.
It said there was extensive damage to key structural elements of the existing building and the outline planning application would seek to re-create Monique’s Victorian style into a purpose built corner plot that interacted with High Street and the newly formed public realm.
The statement said: “This project presents the opportunity to introduce an open and inviting route from the High Street to the train station, across a gently sloping site.
“The Merthyr Interchange Link Project will remove select buildings to allow for a new access route. The additional access route will be accessible by pedestrians and cyclists to provide a vibrant and lively public realm.
“This will contribute to the much needed regeneration of the town and perform an important role for the local community and visitors of Merthyr Tydfil.”
Subject to planning approval, the demolition of the buildings will start in the spring.
