Aberdare: A Town Still Fighting to Stay Alive?
In 2017, concerns were raised about Aberdare’s struggle to maintain its vitality as a town centre. Fast forward to 2024, and it seems those fears were not unfounded. Since then, the town has seen the closure of several key businesses, including New Look in 2020, Wilko in 2023, and now Bonmarché. Barclays Bank, Halifax, and a number of other shops have also shut their doors, leaving the town with a growing number of empty retail spaces. The question on everyone’s mind is: has Aberdare managed to improve, or is it still on a downward trajectory?
The Challenge of High Business Costs
Local traders are facing an uphill battle, trying to keep their businesses afloat amidst soaring business rates and rental costs. Adding to their burden is the mandatory contribution to the Our Aberdare Business Improvement District (BID) Ltd., a fund that was established in 2020 to revitalize the area. However, participation in this fund is obligatory for property leasers, whether they support it or not. As we look back at the past few years, it begs the question—has Aberdare really seen any significant improvement since the BID’s inception?
Conservation Status and Visible Decline
While much of Aberdare is designated as a conservation area, a stroll through the town tells a different story. The sight of empty shops and deteriorating buildings is hard to ignore, and it paints a bleak picture of decline. Neglect of the town’s essential infrastructure has further exacerbated the situation, leaving visible scars that suggest a town in distress. These vacant spaces not only contribute to a sense of abandonment but also create an environment where people feel unsafe.
The evolution of retail, particularly the rise of online shopping, has drastically altered consumer habits, and Aberdare’s town centre is struggling to adapt to these changes. To survive, the town must urgently find innovative ways to attract visitors and shoppers.
Parking Issues Deter Shoppers
Another significant issue that deters potential shoppers is the parking fees. Many people find it frustrating to pay for parking when they only intend to pop into a shop for a few items. This inconvenience drives them away to larger supermarkets, where parking is free, and contributes to the success of these retail giants at the expense of local businesses.
Efforts to Revitalize the Town
Despite these challenges, there are efforts to bring some positivity to the town. This Saturday, Aberdare will host a Food Festival, an event that aims to draw in crowds and inject some much-needed energy into the town centre.
Modernizing Parking Facilities
In a bid to make parking more convenient, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council is rolling out new ticket machines across its car parks in Aberdare and Pontypridd. These machines, set to be installed throughout September, will accept contactless card payments—a welcome change from the cash-only machines that were previously in place. The Council secured funding for these upgrades from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, a move that might ease some of the frustrations currently associated with parking in the town.
