Jobs secured after 20 year extension for Gwynedd minerals plant receives green light

The lifespan of a Gwynedd minerals plant will be extended for another 20 years after being given the green light by planners.

Applications by Welsh Slate to allow work to continue at the facility, which forms part of the Oakeley Quarry complex in Blaenau Ffestiniog, were unanimously approved by the authority’s planning committee on Thursday.

Currently employing nine people, the works use slate extracted from two waste tips to produce powdered and granulated slate products for use in construction materials such as coated roofing felts.

The material, having been extracted from the tips, is crushed, dried and then milled, with some also exported as a secondary aggregate.

But with current permission having expired on January 31, three separate applications were needed to continue operating the site for another 20 years until January 2040.

Addressing the virtual meeting, local councillor Annwen Daniels said that while there was broad support, there some reservations had been raised by the local town council in regards to Afon Barlwyd which flows nearby.

“The only concern is the possible pollution flowing into the river as it does have a tendency to turn as white as milk at times,” said Cllr Daniels.

“Its not known what’s to blame for this, but it certainly needs raising at least.

“But as long as its ensured that no pollution is flowing into the river then there’s relative satisfaction to be honest.”

Cllr Eric Merfyn Jones noted that no objections had been raised and cited the economic benefits of allowing the work to continue, confident that any pollution issues could be solved by conditions attached to the permission.

Officers noted that Natural Resources Wales had raised no concerns but that a condition would be attached, compelling the company to outline how slurry or dirty water is managed.

Cllr Owain Williams added: “We all know the history of Blaenau Ffestiniog, the largest town in Dwyfor and Meirionnydd of course, which has taken an economic battering over the years and a slashing of its population.

“But any measures to protect jobs has to be welcomed and I’m confident that the company will take note of the concerns that have been raised today.”

The planning documents supporting Welsh Slate’s application, noted: “The development is of local importance. It is located within the boundary of a quarry and so could not be considered sensitive or vulnerable; and the process is not unusually complex or potentially hazardous.”

The report went on to say: “The continued use of the minerals plant allows the economy to grow through supporting the wider construction sector, supplying the raw materials it needs.

“It also makes use not only of an established plant, but allows slate waste to be beneficially used, husbanding reserves of high quality slate for other uses, such as roofing slates etc.

“Allied to this, the proposals do not have an adverse effect on the environment or amenity of local communities.”

All three applications, amending existing planning permission, were approved unanimously.

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter