Ystalyfera is located in the Upper Swansea Valley at the confluence of the Afon Tawe and Afon Twrch. In common with many of the neighbouring communities, it is characterised by the historical mining and industrial activities. Like much of  South Wales , the coal disputes of the 1980’s brought severe socio‑economic decline and many other problems for the local community, the legacy of which still exists today. Ystalyfera has a strong community and vibrant people, but the problems associated with the de‑industrialisation of the area needed more than community spirit.

Ystalyfera Development Trust was established in 1994 as a response to the declining economic and social prosperity facing the community at that time. Poor local services and a lack of access to employment and other opportunities were major obstacles affecting the resilience of the community to recover from the loss of the mining industry.

The Trust set up in a former public house on Commercial Street that was once known as ‘The Railway’. As the name suggests, Commercial Street was once the centre of activity in Ystalyfera, lined with shops, banks and all manner of typical High Street services that you would expect to find in any town. Many of these shops and services had gone by the time the Trust was established, but it made sense for us to be based in what was still regarded as the economic centre of the village.

In the beginning the Trust sought to focus its efforts on regenerating the community by restoring redundant buildings and encouraging self help and social enterprise schemes. This still remains a core part of the Trust's remit. The Trust also recognised the link between education and prosperity and so also provided 

community based learning facilities (now known as ‘The Local Resource Centre’)  at the Trusts main offices in Commercial Street .

The courses on offer are chosen on the basis of demand from the community and we keep a record of all course requests we receive so that we know what training needs the community have. The centre also offers free use of computers to any member of the public.

The building may no longer be a pub, but it still acts as a focal point for the community. The constant community use of services at the Resource Centre enables us to speak with the community on a daily basis and ensures the Trust is kept well informed of local needs from the perspective of the community.

Through the work of the Trust and a number partner agencies, new investment has been attracted in recent years. A range of new businesses and social enterprises have established locally and become a thriving part of the community. Since its inception, the Trust has always sought to respond to the changing needs of the community. Today the Trust is involved in the following initiatives:

• Hosting of community learning facilities as part of the Neath Port Talbot New Learning Network, offering a wide range opportunities.

   

• Providing a base for Neath Port Talbot Credit Union in the village.

   

• Providing office space for the operation of the Community Car Scheme.

   

• Identifying opportunities for community focused business.

   

• Providing a venue for the Youth Club.

   

• Offering careers guidance to people seeking to enhance their skills.

To find out more about some of our current and upcoming projects click here