Residents in the village of East Aberthaw, Wales, have shared their experiences of living in close proximity to Aberthaw Power Station, the last coal-fired power station in Wales. Keith Neighbour, a long-time resident, described the nuisance of dust from the ash mound that would often cover homes in the area. The power station, which closed in 2020, is currently undergoing demolition as part of plans to construct a renewable energy park in its place. However, concerns remain about the safe removal of the 17 million tonnes of compacted waste ash accumulated over the decades.
Keith Neighbour expressed his support for the removal of the power station and ash mound, despite the potential inconvenience of noise and dust during the demolition process. Celtic Minerals, the company tasked with processing the waste ash, plans to convert it into cement replacement, activated carbon, and even use it in 3D printing. The removal and processing of the ash mound are expected to take years, raising concerns among residents about the impact on the environment and wildlife in the area.
Angela and Chris Dymond, residents of East Aberthaw, shared their worries about the removal of the ash mound and its potential implications for their home and surrounding wildlife. The village, situated amidst industrial facilities like a cement works and a quarry, is known for its rich wildlife diversity, with over 1,000 different species recorded in the vicinity. The Vale of Glamorgan Council highlighted the ecological significance of the area, including its designation as a site of special scientific interest.
Radio presenter Simon Jagger, a resident of East Aberthaw, discussed the changing landscape of the village following the decommissioning of Aberthaw Power Station. With plans to develop a green energy park on the site, the local community is awaiting updates on the future renewable energy solutions that will be implemented. Trevor Dally, a former employee of the power station, reflected on the memories associated with the site and expressed acceptance of its impending demolition for the sake of progress.
The Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) is leading the redevelopment project, with a focus on renewable energy technologies such as wind, solar, and tidal power. While residents acknowledge the necessity of dismantling the power station, they emphasise the importance of transparent communication and sustainable practices during the process. Residents like Trevor Dally are optimistic about the transformation of East Aberthaw and hope to witness a return to the natural beauty of the area they once knew.
As the demolition of Aberthaw Power Station progresses towards completion in 2027, residents are bracing themselves for the changes that lie ahead. The community’s concerns about the environmental impact of the demolition and ash mound removal underscore the need for careful planning and ecological considerations. With a vision for a greener future, the residents of East Aberthaw anticipate the restoration of their landscape and the potential benefits of renewable energy production in the region.