The new Disused Tips Authority for Wales will be
headquartered on a reclaimed colliery tip site in Merthyr
Tydfil, delivering around 60 new jobs.
The new public body will
be established following the passing
of landmark legislation, which received Royal
Assent in September.
The Disused Mine and Quarry Tips (Wales) Act will address
the safety issues caused by Wales's mining
past. It will be the first organisation of its kind in
the UK.
The Authority will be responsible for the assessment,
categorisation, registration and inspection of all
disused tips across Wales to ensure they are
managed effectively over the long-term and reduce threats to
public safety.
Once fully established, it will be headquartered
at the Welsh Government office at Rhyd Y Car in Merthyr
Tydfil and represented in other parts of Wales.
The Welsh Government will
also explore opportunities in apprenticeships and
post-16 education to create a skills pipeline in the medium and
long term for jobs in coal tip safety.
Over 90% of the disused coal tips that have the
potential to threaten public safety are in the
south Wales valleys.
Confirmation that the Authority will be based in
the heart of coalfield communities comes ahead of a Welsh
Government Cabinet meeting in Merthyr Tydfil on Monday 3
November.
First Minister said:
"This is excellent news for Merthyr Tydfil and the wider south
Wales valleys.
“Bringing 60 new jobs to the
new Headquarters whilst ensuring the Authority is
based where it's needed most will make a real
difference to communities in the area.
"Wales led the world in mining expertise during the 19th
and 20th centuries. Now we can lead again, this time in
managing our mining legacy and creating a talent pipeline for
generations to come.”
Until the Authority is established, the
Welsh Government will continue to work closely with
public partners to deliver an effective inspection and
maintenance regime across Wales.
Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate
Change, Huw Irranca-Davies said:
"The Authority's purpose – to ensure that disused tips do not
threaten human welfare – is of critical importance.
“It is only right that its headquarters will
be in Merthyr Tydfil, at the centre of the communities that
will benefit most from its vital work.
“I have no doubt it will be a world leader in its
field by developing knowledge, experience and
skills in managing disused tips during this time of
significant climate change.”
