Wrthi'n llwytho
Does dim crynodeb o'r cyfarfod hwn eto. Caiff crynodebau eu hysgrifennu pan fydd y cyngor yn cyhoeddi'r cofnodion, sef ei gofnod swyddogol o'r hyn a benderfynodd cyfarfod. Maen nhw fel arfer yn ymddangos ychydig wythnosau ar ôl y cyfarfod.
Apologies received for H Jackson, D Chaplin and the Director of Neighbourhood Services.
Cllr G Thomas declared an interest in item 6 (Cyfarthfa Foundation).
Minutes of the meeting on 28th April 2026 were approved as accurate.
Chair referred to the action log. Updates will be provided on outstanding actions as soon as possible.
Chair referred to the FWP and advised planning sessions will be arranged to populate the programme further. Chair confirmed that the order of the next two reports would be switched from that set out in the published agenda.
Cllr D Jones introduced the report. In response to the questions, it was noted: · A National Empty Homes Grant Scheme is available and administered by RCTCBC on behalf of several local authorities. · Clarification is awaited on the future of this scheme beyond September. · PCLC class property refer to those where full charge applies but a Council Tax premium cannot be levied once the statutory exemption ends. · For Council Tax purposes, properties are classed as long-term empty after 12 months; for environmental health, the threshold is 6 months. · There has been a notable reduction in properties subject to premiums. · Approximately 90 fewer long-term empty properties were recorded between years 1 and 5 compared to previous levels. · Reductions may reflect increased engagements, exemptions, or properties being place on the market. · Certain property types remain exempt, including those linked to Armed Forces accommodation or residential care, with no time limit in some cases. · Legislative changes introduced in April 2026 relate to properties awaiting probate. · A total of 479 properties (2025/26) were identified as empty for over six months and not subject to exemptions. · There is no single legislative mechanism to compel occupancy: instead, tools include Council Tax measures, enforcement action, and public nuisance legislation. · A Steering Group has been established to coordinate activity. · Compulsory Purchase Orders have been considered but involve cost, liability, and require a defined end use. · Properties must typically be empty for at least 12 months before qualifying for grant assistance. · The report relates specifically to privately owned residential properties. · Clarification was provided on categories referenced in the report, including properties empty for over 10 years and those vacant between 5-10 years. The Committee welcomed the report, noting clear progress and positive outcomes compared to previous updates. Members acknowledged the effectiveness of the strategy and commended the work of officers.
Officers from the Cyfarthfa Foundation introduced the report. Officers clarified point 5.9 noting that the £10M National Lottery Heritage Fund bid would be delivered in stages, with an initial award followed by a mid-term review for release of further funding. In response to the questions, it was noted: · Lottery funding includes both devolved allocations and a central fund which can be accessed as an additional source. · Progress of the project is dependent on funding: Phase 1 of the Castle could largely be complete by 2032, reopening around 55% of the building. · Remaining areas would be delivered as a later phase unless further funding is secured sooner. · Asset transfer remains a complex issue, though similar models are considered beneficial in securing external funding. · Full Council in 2023 agreed in principle to transfer assets to the Foundation on a minimum99-year basis, with timeline discussions still on-going. · Events and attractions are key to increasing visitor numbers, with an intention to keep activities affordable despite delivery challenges. · The project has potential to act as strong example of culture-led regeneration, supporting wider strategic priorities. · Proposals include significantly expanded hospitality provision. · £4.5m investment from CADW and the Council is separate from other funding sources. · Phase 1 focuses on the oldest mansion side, up to the quadrangle and adjacent building. · £1.2m, alongside additional funding identified in the report, will support the Foundation until at least March 2027. · Work is ongoing to develop sustainable income streams for the Foundation. · Funding has supported development of the Cyfarthfa Plan and associated preparatory work. · Specialist consultants were commissioned to undertake research, inform proposals and identify material relevant to the Merthyr Tydfil story. · Approximately one-third of expenditure has been on staffing. · All goals and functions have been built into RIBA 1 Cyfarthfa Building Masterplan. · £700,000 has already been pledged towards Phase 1, with further fundraising opportunities being explored. · Cyfarthfa200 brand has been successful, with further branding development underway. · Long-term sustainability of the Foundation is critical, with asset transfer and income generation key factors. · National Lottery funding applications must be submitted by asset owner. · The programme includes an estimated 24-month development phase, with construction commencing in 2028/29 (subject to funding). · Phase 1 includes works to make the whole building water-tight. · CADW has indicated support for the proposals. · Parking provision remains an issue under consideration. · Pandy Farm, originally part of the Masterplan, has now been sold. · The Foundation is open to working with partners to introduce new activities within the park. · Improved signage from key routes, including the Taff Trail, could help attract more visitors. · Seasonal programming requires further development. Members thanked Officers for the report, noting its transparency and quality. The Committee recognised the significant potential of the project to increase tourism, support employment and contribute to the culture and heritage of the town, whilst emphasising the importance of securing funding. All appreciated there is a positive future with an exciting story to be told as part of the project.
No referrals were received.
Chair advised that discussions are still on-going with regards to the Parking & Traffic in the Town Centre item.
The Chair advised that there was no other business deemed urgent.
Rhaid i gynghorwyr ddweud pan fydd ganddyn nhw gysylltiad personol â rhywbeth sy'n cael ei drafod, fel swydd, eiddo neu aelod o'r teulu. Mae buddiant sy'n rhagfarnu yn ddigon cryf i'r cynghorydd adael yr ystafell fel arfer a pheidio â chymryd rhan.
Caiff datganiadau eu darllen o'r cofnodion unwaith y byddan nhw wedi'u cyhoeddi.
Yn rhestru cynghorwyr presennol y cyngor yn unig. Nid yw aelodau cyfetholedig, swyddogion a chyn-gynghorwyr yn cael eu dangos.