Cabinet has received an update on the work undertaken by Trivallis towards the future regeneration vision for the Penrhys estate and its surrounding area.
The principle of developing an ambitious vision for Penrhys was first shared by Trivallis, and agreed by Cabinet, in 2021. Trivallis has owned the estate since its transfer from the Council in 2007, with around 230 tenanted homes remaining there. There are several streets where the stock condition is poor, while repairing the estate in its current form is considered to be uneconomical.
At their meeting on Wednesday, June 11, Cabinet received a progress update on Trivallis’ activities. A report to Cabinet noted that a multi-disciplinary design team has been assembled by Trivallis, and extensive site investigations have been undertaken – which have helped inform and design a draft masterplan. Trivallis has also held engagement sessions with residents to explain their ideas and gather local people’s views. These will continue as the plans are developed, understanding that community input is a vital part of this process.
The regeneration of Penrhys is also promoted as a Key Site in the preparation of the new Local Development Plan (up to 2037), and will be carried forward to the next stages of the plan. Plus, Penrhys Primary School will receive a new main building, to replace its poor-quality existing buildings. It has been confirmed that the new school development will be delivered within the next tranche of school investment projects, utilising the significant investment secured via the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme.
The Cabinet report adds that the next steps for Trivallis will be to further develop its masterplan, with rigorous examination in relation to key issues like planning, highways and ecology. The housing association is also in the process of procuring a development partner for the regeneration proposals.
In relation to planning timescales, Trivallis intends to submit a planning application in August 2025 for ‘Phase 1A’ of the proposals – entailing an area in the north-west of the masterplan and involving the proposed construction of 150 new homes. Demolition of existing buildings in this area is underway. An outline application for the wider masterplan could then follow in early 2026.
Councillor Mark Norris, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Development and Prosperity, said: “Our shared vision for Penrhys with Trivallis is to create a popular, vibrant and sustainable community through new facilities and modern, high-quality homes. The planned regeneration aims to improve the lives of current residents, while creating a place where new residents will actively seek to live. It also considers the area’s huge potential through a unique natural environment with stunning views down the valley.
“The update to Cabinet on Trivallis’ progress has noted the design and investigation work completed to date, the draft masterplan for the area, the planning timescales, and the first stages of community engagement. Further engagement with residents will be a crucial element of future progress, to keep residents informed and able to have their say at every step of the way.
“At the heart of the community will be the new facilities for Penrhys Primary School, which the Council is committed to delivering with Welsh Government. This major investment will create a true community school for Penrhys, at the heart of the area into the future. The Council will work closely with the school and keep the community up-to-date at every key milestone for this project.”
Louise Attwood, Executive Director of Development at Trivallis, added: "At Trivallis, we’re working with the Penrhys community to shape a better future with modern homes, green spaces, and new opportunities.
“Penrhys residents will be prioritised for new homes, and their voices are central to the design and development. Homes for social rent will be allocated through the Council’s Homefinder system, supporting those most in need."
As well as the general progress update, Wednesday’s Cabinet report also sought approval to transfer parcels of land in Penrhys that remain in Council ownership to Trivallis – including a large area south of the main roundabout. In recognising that all available land should sit with Trivallis to best achieve the new vision for Penrhys, Members agreed to this recommendation.
Posted on 18/06/2025