The initial aspiration is to expand the Geopark southwards within Rhondda Cynon Taf county borough so as to include elements of the area’s mining heritage along with some interesting, attractive, even spectacular natural features.
The proposals (as at 18 October 2024) envisage portions of the following communities being included within an expanded Geopark:
- Aberdare (West)
- Hirwaun (and Penderyn)
- Llwydcoed
- Pen-y-waun
- Rhigos
Features of interest to the Geopark within the RCT area include (but are not necessarily restricted to):
- Glacial cirque including Llyn Fawr
- Coalfield scarp including Craig-y-bwlch
- Afon Cynon and associated natural features
- Sychryd & Bwa Maen
- Drumlins between Penderyn and Rhigos
- Maybery’s ironworks, Hirwaun
- Tramroads and canal feeder between Hirwaun and Aberdare
Each of the above contributes something to the natural and cultural heritage of this area. However the mention of any site in this list is without prejudice to landowners and others with an interest of any sort. Inclusion within an expanded Geopark does not bring any additional public access (or controls) to any particular site except where that is agreed by all interested parties.