Who we are

The Cyfarthfa Foundation is a registered charity and ‘Special Purpose Vehicle’ (SPV), established by Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council in 2021. Backed by an initial £1.2m grant from the Welsh Government, we are dedicated to driving forward the master planning and advocacy required for this substantial undertaking.

The Foundation was created with the purpose of leading the transformation of Cyfarthfa Castle and Park - a crucible of the Industrial Revolution. Our goal is to transform this historic landmark in Merthyr Tydfil into an international cultural centre, a world-class visitor attraction, and a powerful engine for social renewal.

The main focus of our work is prioritising and realising the ambitious long-term vision for the Cyfarthfa site that was set out in ‘The Cyfarthfa Plan’ area masterplan, published in 2020. By developing staged plans, undertaking further detailed studies and developing robust business cases, we are working to align the plans for Cyfarthfa with local, regional and national strategic frameworks. We are building the case for the vital funding needed to create a sustainable new future for Cyfarthfa. We also collaborate closely with local, regional, and national partners to enhance south-east Wales's position on the global tourism map.

Alongside this, we work closely with the community to create continuous opportunities for people to connect with Cyfarthfa’s heritage for leisure and recreation, to share their ideas, and have a direct voice in shaping the future of the site.

While the Foundation focuses on the long-term project planning, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council continues to manage the daily operations of Cyfarthfa Park and Castle. It has been agreed in principle that the assets at Cyfarthfa with eventually be transferred to the Cyfarthfa Foundation for their ongoing management and development. The Foundation team are currently working with Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council to determine the timeline of this process.

Find out more about our work to date

Why Cyfarthfa? Why Now?

For most of the 19th century, Merthyr Tydfil was the greatest centre of ironmaking in the world. Its history and heritage are of national and international importance. Cyfarthfa was at its heart.

Cyfarthfa Castle and the 260-year-old Cyfarthfa furnaces are now in desperate need of rescue so that they can play a key part in the urgent task of reviving the local economy, boosting civic pride and community wellbeing and supporting the long-term economic regeneration of the area.

The development of Cyfarthfa can only be possible with the support and engagement of Merthyr’s dynamic community. The project will aid the development of skills, create direct new employment, foster the foundational economy and support new and existing businesses to start and scale. As the project grows, the community response to this once-in-a-generation opportunity will be critical in realising the full potential of the project.

Our Vision

To transform Cyfarthfa Castle and Park - a crucible of the industrial revolution - into a cultural centre and visitor attraction of international quality and an engine of social renewal.

Our Mission

To celebrate the history and heritage of the place, to heal and enhance its natural environment, to be a platform for culture and creativity, and to do so with regard for the needs of all parts of the community and the principles of sustainability.

Trustees

The Cyfarthfa Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees that have a wide range of high-level expertise in architecture, design, engineering, museum and gallery curation and business.