Welsh Government Intervenes in Controversial Quarry Site Application
The Welsh Government has stepped in to address a contentious application for a rubble recycling plant at the former Cilyrychen quarry near Llandybie in Carmarthenshire. More than 2,000 individuals have opposed the plans, expressing concerns over potential environmental and social impacts.
At a recent meeting of the council’s planning committee, objectors like Sean Kirwan of Llandybie highlighted the community’s worries about increased truck movements, noise, dust, and pollution if the recycling plant were to go ahead. The area’s peace and tranquillity are at stake, with residents urging councillors to reject the application and preserve their way of life.
Ruth Davies, another objector, emphasized the ecological importance of the site, pointing out that nature had flourished there over the past 25 years. She questioned the acceptability of negative impacts on the environment, especially given the council’s declaration of a nature emergency. Concerns were also raised about the lack of job opportunities or economic benefits for the community.
While the application was recommended for approval by planning officers, several councillors expressed reservations about the potential consequences of the project. Cllrs Terry Davies, Steve Williams, and John James highlighted their uncertainty about making an informed decision and called for a site visit to assess the situation more thoroughly.
In response to the objections, an agent representing the applicant defended the proposal, stating that it aligns with local and national planning policies and could deliver biodiversity gains while mitigating potential impacts. The debate continued with discussions on noise and traffic considerations, with assurances about the operational schedule and mitigation measures put in place.
The planning committee will revisit the application following the site visit, considering the input from concerned residents and experts. Julie Morgan, a local resident, welcomed the opportunity for councillors to see firsthand the proximity of the proposed operations to residential areas, expressing past concerns about dust pollution from previous activities at the site.
As the community awaits a final decision on the quarry’s future, tensions and uncertainties persist, highlighting the delicate balance between economic development and environmental protection in the region. The outcome of this application will have lasting implications for both the local community and the surrounding natural environment.