TORFAEN politicans claimed yesterday a proposed opencast mine at Varteg, near Pontypool, contravenes Welsh Government guidelines because it would be less than 500 metres away from local residents.
Backed by local residents and two campaign groups, AM Lynne Neagle told a public inquiry into Torfaen council’s rejection of the plans the site is 50 metres from the nearest homes and 120 metres from a junior school.
In a joint statement with TorfaenMP Paul Murphy,MsNeagle told planning inspector Clive Nield the national policy states there should be a 500-metre buffer zone between opencast mining and residential areas, except in “exceptional circumstances” .
They said an overwhelming majority of people have contacted them to voice strong opposition and they cannot support the scheme because there is insufficient benefit to residents, the economy and environment in the area.
The council refused Glamorgan Power Company permission for 325,000 tonnes of coal to be extracted because of concerns over dust and pollution.
It is now appealing against the decision.
Other obejectors also voiced concerns to the inquiry yesterday.
Blaenavon resident Phyllis Roberts said it could have a detrimental impact on Blaenavon – a designated World Heritage Site – with 120 service lorries passing through the town each week. Anthony Kinsella, of the “No Campaign”, said parents of children at Ysgol Bryn Onnen have said they will remove their children from the school if it goes ahead.
Proceeding
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