Caerphilly county: Inside last house left in abandoned Welsh mining village

Caerphilly county: Inside last house left in abandoned Welsh mining village

The final remaining dwelling in a former mining village in Wales, deserted nearly half a century ago due to fears of a landslide, is now being put up for auction. Troedrhiwfuwch, located in Caerphilly County’s Rhymney Valley, was abandoned in 1985 by over 600 residents who were concerned that a devastating landslip could occur in the area. Among the buildings that once made up the bustling community, only two structures remain: the former Post Office and a solitary house at 2 Lawrence Terrace.

This particular house is being offered with a guide price set at £35,000. According to Sean Roper of Paul Fosh Auctions, the reason why this ordinary three-bedroom property escaped demolition remains unclear. He suggested that uncovering the story behind its survival might be an intriguing pursuit for the future owner. This house is the last standing residential building following the widespread removal of homes and infrastructure after geological surveys revealed instability in the mountain that threatened the village.

Historically, Troedrhiwfuwch was a thriving settlement with various amenities including a chapel, church, pub, school, library, post office, and terraced houses. Records indicate the village consisted of 94 houses arranged along three streets: High Street, Chapel Road, and Lawrence Terrace. For many years, local authorities grew increasingly concerned by the shifting mountain above the village, fearing a sudden landslide could destroy the community. Consequently, the residents were relocated and most buildings demolished to prevent danger.

The house at 2 Lawrence Terrace features two reception rooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom on the ground floor. Upstairs are three bedrooms, complemented by front and back gardens and several sheds. Nestled in the scenic Rhymney Valley, it remains a notable relic connecting to the once vibrant life of Troedrhiwfuwch. The auction for this unique property is scheduled to take place online, opening at noon on 23 June and closing from 2 pm on 25 June. Roper described this sale as an exceptional opportunity to own a home with a fascinating historical background in a community that has otherwise vanished

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