Your Pontypridd are pleased to see that plans for both the remodelling and refurbishment of the YMCA, and plans for the redevelopment of the former Marks & Spencer site have been approved.

The reasons for approval for the former Marks & Spencer site were as follows:

• The extension of the building will improve the architectural quality of the existing building and signifies an enhancement of the overall street scene and, by this improvement will enhance the character of the Conservation Area
• The introduction of flats will add vibrancy to the town centre at all times of the day and will compliment a number of town centre uses, such as pubs, clubs and restaurants that operate outside of normal business hours.
• The proposed refurbishment of the retail premises will have a positive impact on the vitality and viability of the town centre its approval willenhance the attractiveness of the premises in securing a future retail tenant
  

• The redevelopment of the YMCA is an exciting project that will bring a significant investment to the town centre.
• While the new scheme is significantly more compact than previously approved, the new proposal still involves some dramatic alterations and construction that will mean that it will become a landmark building within Pontypridd.
• It achieves this dramatic change while still respecting the Town Centre Conservation Area status and also maintaining the integrity of the setting of two nearby Listed Buildings
  
• The numerous and varied uses that will take place within the building are entirely compatible with this town centre location