What discussions has the Cabinet Secretary had with Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council about concerns from residents that the former open cast mine site at Ffos-y-Fran will continue to fill with water, contaminate local water supplies, and be a magnet for young people and a drowning risk?
My officials and I, maintain regular contact with Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council and a wider range of partners about ongoing developments at Ffos-y-Fran. We have been clear the safeguarding and restoration of the site remains our primary objective, and that we expect to see full restoration of the site in line with planning permission.
The leader of the Council has provided assurances that the water level in the void is not an immediate concern. Welsh Government is providing support to the Council to ensure that they are able to access independent assessments on potential flooding concerns and environmental impacts.
In terms of site access and safety, Welsh Government has raised this matter directly with both the Council and the Health and Safety Executive, and we continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure the safety of the local community is upheld.