Comment DBCC-8439

I’d like to make comments regarding the proposed names of Merthyr Cynon Taf.

The proposed constituency mostly consists of 3 current Senedd constituencies, Merthyr Tydfil, Cwm Cynon and Pontypridd. To replace Pontypridd with Taf makes little sense and the proposed name is very similar to the name of the Council Rhondda Cynon Taf potentially leading to confusion for the public.

Pontypridd has been a constituency in the Senedd since 1999 and in Westminster since 1918 and the loss of its name will be a loss to the political history of the area.

The proposed constituency has two main towns Merthyr and Pontypridd, and it makes sense for both of these to be recognised in the name.

It seems strange to replace Pontypridd with Taf and retain Merthyr when both are in the Taf Valley. The area to the South West of the proposed constituency is not in the geographic area of Merthyr Cynon or the Taf Valley, rather it is in the Ely Valley.

Proposed name Merthyr, Cynon, Pontypridd or if going alphabetically Cynon, Merthyr, Pontypridd.

Some residents feel strongly that Merthyr Tudful should not be shortened to Merthyr stating the following: Its name is Merthyr Tudful. Named after King Brychan Brycheiniog daughter Saint Tudful. You would not accept the abbreviation of Pont-y-pridd to Ponty. The Cynon is named after saint Cynon, and is as important as the rest. History has its place and should be remembered. Cwm Cynon, Merthyr Tudful and Pontypridd.

Respondent type

Member of the Welsh Parliament

Organisation name

Plaid Cymru

This comment refers to

The entire area under review.