Bargoed

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Bargoed
Welsh: Bargod
Glamorgan
Location
Grid reference: ST145995
Location: 51°41’24"N, 3°14’24"W
Data
Population: 13,721
Post town: Bargoed
Postcode: CF81
Dialling code: 01443
Local Government
Council: Caerphilly
Parliamentary
constituency:
Caerphilly

Bargoed is a town in the Rhymney Valley in Glamorgan. It stands mainly on the west bank of the Rhymney River, which forms the border with Monmouthshire, though it has spread to both sides and therefore to both counties. 'Greater Bargoed', as defined by local statisticians includes the towns of Bargoed and Aberbargoed and the village of Gilfach. The combined population of these settlements is approximately 13,000.

The town is currently undergoing redevelopment, with a bypass recently constructed, running through the valley, with links to Bargoed town centre, Aberbargoed and Gilfach. Also, Morrisons the supermarket chain have signed a deal to open a supermarket in the town bringing 300 jobs to the town.

The council have also agreed to allow proposals for a multi-plex cinema to be developed on the new retail area.

History

Originally a market town, Bargoed grew into a substantial town following the opening of a colliery in 1903. The colliery, which was the subject of a painting by L. S. Lowry, closed during the 1980s, and its former site is now a country park.

Redevelopment

Bargoed Town Centre is undergoing a huge refurbishment, although a few shops in the centre of Bargoed are still closed down and boarded up. A new by-pass (A469) has recently been built, connecting Bargoed to Aberbargoed, Pengam and Gilfach. Also a new supermarket and cinema are underway with completion Autumn 2013. The supermarket is to be the most modern form in the United Kingdom.

Transport

The town is served by Bargoed railway station and Bargoed Bus Station at the northern end of the town.

Outside links

References

  • Books by local author Paul James:
    • Volume 1: The History of Bargoed and Gilfach in Photographs. ISBN 1-874538-31-X
    • Volume 2: The History of Bargoed and Gilfach in Photographs. ISBN 1-874538-07-7
    • Volume 3: The History of Bargoed, Gilfach and Aberbargoed in Photographs. ISBN 1-874538-64-6