The Deputy First Minister, , has returned to Cwmtillery, one year since a
significant landslip at a disused coal tip during Storm Bert in
November 2024.
Accompanied by representatives from Blaenau Gwent County Borough
Council and the Mining Remediation Authority, he saw first-hand
the progress made on crucial infrastructure improvements.
This includes the installation of new drainage works and slope
reprofiling – to help stabilise and reduce the risk of future
landslides and erosion – thanks to £610,000 of Welsh Government
support through the Coal Tip Safety Grant Scheme.
The Deputy First Minister, who has responsibility for Climate
Change, said:
"The scenes from Cwmtillery last year will always stay with me,
and I know the impact is still felt by the community today.
“I'll forever remain grateful to the emergency services and our
local partners for their swift response which made sure residents
were taken to safety during what was undoubtedly a terrifying
experience.
“Returning to Cwmtillery twelve months on, I'm pleased to see the
substantial progress made to support this community and make the
site safer.
“We remain absolutely dedicated to protecting people and ensuring
communities living in the shadow of former tips are safe, both
now and in the future."
Combined Welsh and UK Government investment in coal tip safety
totals more than £220m to date.
This record investment is delivering safety improvements for
communities as the Welsh Government continues to work
closely with public partners to deliver an effective inspection
and maintenance regime across Wales.
Councillor Tommy , Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods
and Environment at Blaenau Gwent Council, said:
“Our thoughts remain with all residents affected by the landslide
in Cwmtillery. Working closely with partners, including the Welsh
Government, we have carried out extensive investigations and
remedial works at the disused tip site. This includes improved
drainage systems to divert water away and ongoing investigations
into any further measures required such as reprofiling.
“We are fully committed to this work, supporting the local
community, and keeping residents informed every step of the way.
Alongside the Mining Remediation Authority, we continue to
conduct regular inspections and closely monitor the area during
adverse weather conditions.”
Landmark legislation has also been delivered to address the
safety issues caused by Wales's mining past.
The Disused Mine and Quarry Tips (Wales) Act will establish the
Disused Tips Authority for Wales in Merthyr Tydfil in April 2027,
delivering around 60 new jobs.
This new public body 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 further reduce threats to public safety.
