Local Lib Dems condemn Merthyr deprivation stats

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 3rd Oct 2005

Local Welsh Liberal Democrats have slammed Merthyr Tydfil Council and the Labour Assembly Government for allowing Merthyr to become the most deprived borough in Wales.

New figures show that areas in Merthyr Tydfil are amongst the most deprived in the country, with Penydarren the fourth most deprived area in Wales.

In total 39% of Merthyr is in the top 10% deprived areas in Wales - more than any other borough in Wales.

Commenting Mike German, local AM and Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats in the Assembly said: "These figures make for worrying reading. They show that despite all the Labour Assembly Government's talk, Merthyr is still struggling to fulfil its potential.

"Standing at the cross roads between North, South, East and West, the scope for development in Merthyr is huge. However, the Labour Government and Merthyr Council have failed to recognise this potential.

Welsh Liberal Democrat parliamentary spokesperson, Ceirion Rees said: "Merthyr Tydfil is a town with great people and great potential. However, it has been failed by its political leaders. Both Merthyr Council and the Labour Assembly Government have allowed parts of the town to fall in to ruin.

"It is no surprise that Penydarren is in the top 10 deprived areas in Wales. Though it is a strong community, with people who want to make it better, the problems are easy to see. The roads are worn away with potholes, shops are covered in graffiti and litter is dropped all over the place. It is simply not acceptable.

"Merthyr Council and the Labour Assembly Government must make sure that areas like Penydarren are not forgotten and ignored."