An historic Valleys pub known for many wild nights out over the years is set to be given a new lease of life after lying derelict for more than a decade and a half. Once the social hub of Aberdare in Rhondda Cynon Taf, the Grade II-listed Black Lion attracted drinkers from all over South Wales during its heyday.
But the popular venue - which dates back to the early 1800s - quickly fell into disrepair after it finally closed its doors in the mid-Noughties. It became a local eyesore with peeling paint, crumbling masonry and boarded-up windows - until, in 2018, an application was approved to turn the upper floors into "affordable accommodation," with 11 flats being created.
However, despite also being greenlit at the time, nothing came of the plan to transform its ground floor into a commercial unit, likely a restaurant or cafe. That is, until now.
