NATURAL Resources Wales must now demonstrate that tougher controls at Withyhedge Landfill near Haverfordwest will be rigorously enforced after the regulator approved a variation to the site's environmental permit on October 1, says Paul Davies MS.

The revised permit includes enhanced management and monitoring requirements covering landfill gas, groundwater, surface water and leachate, as well as revised pre-settlement levels. It also allows for up to 50,000 tonnes of suitable waste soil and stone per year to be brought onto the site for restoration purposes.

NRW said it had received a significant number of responses from local residents, community groups and other stakeholders during its consultation and had considered those representations as part of its assessment. However, after considering the technical evidence, environmental risks and legal requirements, NRW concluded that the application met the requirements of the Environmental Permitting Regulations and the legal tests it was required to apply.

The Senedd Member for Ceredigion Penfro said:

“After everything communities surrounding Withyhedge have endured, words about stronger controls will simply not be enough.

“Residents have lived with unacceptable odours, disruption and months of uncertainty. They have attended meetings, submitted evidence, responded to consultations and repeatedly raised their concerns about what has been happening at this site.

“The burden is now on NRW and the operator to rebuild the confidence of local communities.”

“I will be examining the full decision and the conditions attached to the permit closely and will continue holding both the regulator and the operator to account.”

Mr Davies also highlighted that NRW's investigation into environmental permit breaches at Withyhedge remains ongoing and is separate from the permit variation decision.

He added:

“It is important that the ongoing investigation is not lost amid today's announcement. Local people deserve a thorough and transparent investigation and, where breaches are established, they will expect appropriate action to follow.”