Story perspectives

Welsh Government to Decide Controversial Ffos-y-Fran Restoration Plan

4/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Welsh Government will decide on the Ffos-y-Fran restoration plan, the UK's last opencast site.
Merthyr South Wales Ltd (MSW) proposed a cheaper plan that leaves three coal tips in place, citing insufficient funds for full restoration.
Critics, including local residents Chris Austin and Alyson Austin, argue the plan poses safety risks.
The government’s intervention transfers decision-making from local authorities to ministers, increasing scrutiny of a project with national significance.

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Story summary

The Welsh Government will decide on the Ffos-y-Fran restoration plan, the UK's last opencast site.
Merthyr South Wales Ltd (MSW) proposed a cheaper plan that leaves three coal tips in place, citing insufficient funds for full restoration.
Critics, including local residents Chris Austin and Alyson Austin, argue the plan poses safety risks.
The government’s intervention transfers decision-making from local authorities to ministers, increasing scrutiny of a project with national significance.