Lighting the Way: River Taff Clean-Up & Beautification in Merthyr

Reclaiming the river, one trolley at a time

Merthyr Tydfil is full of potential. If you’ve been reading my blog, you’ll already know I’ve put forward ideas for Rhydycar West, a narrow gauge railway and cable car system, a theme park at Abercanaid, and a vibrant, pedestrianised riverside district along Avenue de Clichy. But today, I want to talk about something more immediate – something that’s right under our noses, or more accurately, right under our bridges:

The River Taff, from Merthyr Fire Station to Abercanaid.

The Problem: A River in Need

Walk the riverbanks through Merthyr and you’ll see it. Shopping trolleys, bags, bottles, cans – all polluting a beautiful natural feature that should be a source of pride, not an eyesore.

From the Fire Station down to Abercanaid, the River Taff is choked with litter, lost metal, and missed opportunity. It doesn’t have to be this way. It shouldn’t be this way.

We have a chance to restore the Taff to something special – a centrepiece of a growing tourism and leisure movement in Merthyr.

The Proposal: A Cleaner, Safer, More Beautiful River

Here's what I want to see:

  • A dedicated clean-up of the River Taff between the Fire Station and Abercanaid – removing trolleys, debris, and litter.

  • Strategically installed lighting along the river walls, from the Fire Station to Rhydycar, highlighting the water and making the space feel safer and more welcoming at night.

  • A new romantic riverside walking route – perfect for couples, families, or anyone needing a peaceful place to walk after dark.

  • Eco-friendly lighting powered by solar or low-energy LED systems.

  • Community involvement in maintaining the cleanliness – schools, volunteers, and local groups getting involved in protecting something we all share.

    This links perfectly with my Avenue de Clichy/River Walk revitalisation proposal, creating a joined-up network of walkways, cafes, container bars, palm trees and public life — all built around the river that’s always been at the heart of Merthyr.

    Why It Matters

    This isn’t just about picking up litter (though that matters). It’s about:

    • Reclaiming a natural space for the people of Merthyr

    • Reducing environmental harm to local wildlife

    • Attracting tourists and encouraging evening footfall

    • Giving people something to be proud of

    • Creating a safe, romantic destination that celebrates the river’s beauty

    A clean river reflects a cared-for town. And a town that takes pride in its water, takes pride in its future.

    Linking the Vision

    This is one more piece of a bigger plan – and that’s what I want to keep building.

    • Rhydycar West brings the tourists.

    • A narrow gauge railway and cable car connect our attractions.

    • A theme park at Abercanaid gives families a reason to stay.

    • Avenue de Clichy becomes the social heart.

    • And the River Taff becomes the shining thread tying it all together.

    We’re not just cleaning a river. We’re reclaiming our future.

    More Ideas Coming...

    Trust me, I’m not done yet. Merthyr is my home, and it holds a place very deep in my heart. I believe in its people, its land, and its power to become a leisure capital, a cultural centre, and a place people want to live, visit, and return to.

    Watch this space… and let’s Make Merthyr Great Again.



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