**Long-vacant Merthyr Tydfil Property Revitalised as Coco’s Coffee & Candles Opens Doors**
A once-empty unit on Merthyr Tydfil’s High Street has been given a new lease of life, following its transformation into a vibrant new business. Coco’s Coffee & Candles, a venture already known for its presence in Aberdare, has officially launched at 143b High Street, marking an important step in the ongoing regeneration of the town centre.
The site, which previously housed Pizza Time, had stood derelict for several years, casting a shadow over this section of the high street. However, with significant investment and vision from the Highfield Property Group, and the support of public funds, the building has undergone a dramatic redevelopment. Much of this progress was enabled by a substantial £730,000 grant from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme. The funding facilitated a thorough overhaul of the property, encompassing demolition works, the introduction of new steel supports, installation of a modern roof, and an entirely updated interior.
News of the building’s revival has been welcomed by local residents and officials alike. Coco’s Coffee & Candles brings not only award-winning candles but also a speciality café experience to the town, aligning with the business’s ethos of fostering warmth, relaxation, and community. The transformation has created a welcoming atmosphere that mirrors the original Aberdare shop, encouraging visitors to linger over drinks and light bites in an attractive, contemporary setting.
To further enhance the offering, the shop secured an additional £120,000 from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. This supplementary funding was used to complete the kitchen fit-out as well as the construction of a bespoke coffee counter and comfortable, banquet-style seating. The result is a stylish two-storey venue that caters both to casual shoppers and those who wish to unwind in comfort.
Bridie Phillips, owner of Coco’s Coffee & Candles, said the decision to expand to Merthyr Tydfil was a natural progression. “As a small, family-run business, our mission is to create spaces where people feel at home and can enjoy something unique,” she explained. “We believe independent shops add real character and individuality to the high street, offering experiences that large chains often lack. The sense of community here made Merthyr an easy pick for us.”
Recognition for the collaborative nature of the project has been widespread. Rob Price, Director at Highfields Property Group, praised the council’s regeneration team and the support received from both the Welsh and UK Governments. “The redevelopment of 143b High Street perfectly illustrates our vision for the town’s future. Our goal remains to revitalise vacant premises, working in partnership with inspirational local businesses like Coco’s to rejuvenate the high street.”
Local councillors have also highlighted the wider significance of such projects. Councillor Jamie Scriven, cabinet member for regeneration, leisure, and tourism, said: “Coco’s is a much-needed addition to Merthyr’s lower high street. If you’ve ever visited their Aberdare site, you’ll know about their award-winning luxury candles and speciality café offerings. We hope residents will embrace this new space and visit regularly.”
The doors to Coco’s Coffee & Candles opened officially on Wednesday, 28 May, offering visitors two floors of thoughtfully designed seating in a relaxed environment. Friendly staff aim to make every customer, whether a local or a tourist, feel right at home.
The rejuvenation of this once-abandoned property not only delivers a new destination for coffee lovers and those seeking unique gifts, but also signals hope for further change in Merthyr Tydfil’s town centre. As more independent businesses are encouraged to set up shop, the community anticipates that the high street will continue to evolve and thrive, reflecting both its heritage and future ambitions.