'I’ll never go there again' Housing plans risk changing Porthcawl forever

Few places in Wales are undergoing change on the scale of Porthcawl , where plans could bring nearly 1,000 new homes alongside leisure facilities, green space and a new spine road. Wales Online readers cautiously welcome regeneration, but are concerned it may change Porthcawl forever. The proposals have sparked strong debate, particularly after the closure of Coney Beach Pleasure Park and nearby attractions in 2025. Supporters say the scheme will bring much needed investment and regeneration, with the council calling it a balance of housing, leisure and open space. However, critics argue it places too much emphasis on housing and risks undermining the town’s traditional seaside character and tourism appeal. Local trader Adam Griffiths said the focus on housing could damage Porthcawl as a holiday destination, while other stallholders welcomed some planned facilities but regretted the loss of the fairground. Campaign group Porthcawl SOS has also protested, calling for greater emphasis on leisure, tourism and environmental protection, warning that key beachfront sites could be permanently changed by large scale development. Bridgend County Borough Council said the plans are a response to housing need and population growth, with a significant share of homes expected to be affordable and prioritised for local people. It also said the scheme includes major investment in leisure, public space and infrastructure, following extensive public consultation and feedback-led changes. Commenter Mindfulman thinks: “Sounds like a utopian dream!! Got to be better than what’s there though. The area from the Marina onwards is an example of how it could be. Different vibe, different people.” Ianto13 agrees: “The area badly needs regeneration, but nothing appears to be happening and why close the businesses on the seafront in the summer?” Ilco points out: “75% of residents reject the current plan. The area should be used for leisure and recreational purposes, with new homes being built away from the sand dunes. The wonderful action group, Porthcawl SOS, is working tirelessly and should be congratulated on their efforts. However, simply put, Bridgend Council wants more revenue from council tax!” Bluebuoy writes: “Here’s hoping they keep the seaside culture, have your housing but keep the front for coffee shops, ice cream parlours, fish and chips, artisan shops, they have a chance to make it better!” Stuart J replies: “Ignore the window dressing. Yes, we may get the housing, along with a loss of parking capacity, as it is in the council's interest to sell land to developers and secure the ongoing council tax revenue. However, the other elements presented as a 'sweetener' are unlikely to materialise, as they depend on private investment, and investors are unlikely to put money into a town that people are less inclined to visit due to limited parking. We are, in truth, staring into the abyss.” Marc R asks: 'Creating green spaces', while planning almost a thousand new homes on existing green space? Make that make sense?” Dafyddapdafydd thinks: “The council should be speaking with operators of major leisure parks in England such as Alton Towers and Thorpe Park. With its beach, places like Porthcawl could be revitalised, but only if the council is engaging with the right people and organisations.” Simon P says: “It’s a seaside town and the beach is now its main attraction. Since the fairground closed, the plan appears to be more and more housing. That may boost council tax income, but it risks cutting visitor numbers to the seafront. With reduced parking and limited public transport links, including no nearby train station, day trips become harder. It feels like a shift towards residents over holidaymakers, which could change its appeal as a long standing tourist destination.” Francine L comments: “I know Porthcawl well and I love the idea of the lido. When the weather is good it will be brilliant. We all know it’s not always nice weather in Wales but outside will be fine if it’s heated.” Richard M writes: “Lovely day down there today, but such a shame to see all the businesses gone from there already.” Les T agrees: “Porthcawl is busy and gets even busier every time the sun comes out, with a steady flow of people heading down to the beach, seafront and town. Living only about 50 metres from the beach, I see it happening day in, day out.” Ray F adds: “It’s not the same, I’ll never go there again, even though I used to really love it down there.” Do you think this gets the balance right between new housing and keeping Porthcawl as a proper seaside town, or is it going too far with big development at the expense of tourism and leisure? Have your say in our comments section.