Tarmac uplift track at Gethin Woodland Centre A470 Pentrebach To Rhydycar Northbound Abercanaid Merthyr Tydfil

What was proposed

Full planning permission was sought to resurface the existing uplift track with stone and two layers of tarmac.

“Full planning permission is sought for the comprehensive resurfacing of the existing internal track. The proposed engineering works would resurface the existing extent of the tracks with 150mm–200mm of quarried stone, 50mm of a finer grade quarried stone, and finished with a 60mm tarmac base course followed by a 40mm tarmac surface course.”

“The applicant has indicated that the upgrade is required to improve the operational structural capacity of the route, ensuring continuous, safe access for land management, emergency response vehicles, and active recreation users.”

Officer report

The site and its surroundings

The track serves a mountain bike facility, runs through woodland and countryside, and crosses or shares sections with public rights of way.

“The site forms part of the mountain bike facility known as Bike Park Wales. The proposed works relate to an established track which provides an ‘up-lift’ service to customers. This involves the operator using minibuses with trailers to transport customers and their bikes to the top of a hill so riders can ride down their chosen route. The track winds its way along the side of Pen Lan Hill and culminates on Mynydd Gethin.”

“The land immediately adjacent to the existing track largely comprises existing gravel hardstanding, drainage features, unmade forestry terrain, and compacted soil tracks. It is flanked closely by mature woodland and pockets of scrub vegetation. The track is crossed by bridleways and a footpath, and some sections of the track are shared by the bridleways.”

Officer report

Earlier permissions

The wider facility has planning permissions for its creation and expansion, while the track section in the neighbouring authority was also approved.

“The application site and wider Gethin Woodland Centre site has been subject to extensive planning history linked directly to phases of expansion of the outdoor recreation facility. The relevant planning history is summarised below:”

“P/12/0235 Creation of mountain bike centre comprising the erection of a visitor centre building, seventeen forest bike trails, campsite, and associated parking. Approved: Oct 2012”

Officer report

What was said at the meeting

The planning officer introduced the application and gave members a presentation outlining the proposal.

Members’ questions

Officers confirmed that riders are transported uphill, vehicles use a turning loop, and the neighbouring track extension had permission.

“In response to questions officers confirmed the following:”

“Riders are transported uphill. At the end of the route vehicles use a turning loop before returning. The track extension in Rhondda Cynon Taf had already received permission from that authority.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

The committee approved the application subject to the conditions set out in the officer report.

“The application be approved subject to the conditions outlined in the report. 102”

Minutes