Comment DBCC-7966

Dear Sir/Madam


As a Community Councillor for Llantwit Fardre, I would like to make the following observation, and ask that consideration be given to it.

I believe that the constituency of Pontypridd should be merged with Cardiff West and not Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare.

This is because that large sections of Cardiff West were once in the Pontypridd Parliamentary Constituency, such as Pentyrch, Creigiau, Gwaelod Y Garth, and that there are strong community and transport links between the two - such as regular bus routes and a main train line.

It is far more difficult for residents in Pontypridd to travel up the valley towards Aberdare and Merthyr, with all focus primarily being aimed towards Cardiff - for work, shopping and entertainment.

I think this is further supported by the fact that Pontyclun has recently been moved into Cardiff West, but many there still see themselves as living in the Pontypridd Constituency - I think a section of Pontyclun still remains in Pontypridd? This should be rectified to avoid confusion.

I am conscious that this will have knock on impact with other constituencies, but this could be solved by merging Cardiff South and Penarth with the Vale of Glamorgan, which already has strong ties (local government, community, and transport), merging Bridgend with Aberavon Maesteg, and finally, merging Merthyr Tydfil and Aberdare with Rhondda and Ogmore.

All of which I believe would be fully supported by the residents who live there.

Yours

Cllr Brian James
Community Councillor for Llantwit Fardre

Respondent type

Local councillor or other elected official

This comment refers to

The entire area under review.