Residents are furious over an approved quarry expansion, citing unbearable odors that hinder home sales in Gelligaer.
Bryn Group owns the site, which includes a quarry and waste plant. Locals say the plant stinks every day, with odor so bad they shut windows, and some struggle to sell their homes. Bryn Group wanted to expand, so the council heard arguments.
The quarry will grow by 131 meters, north and east, for nineteen more years. A council officer said over 100 people objected, along with three local councillors; however, 31 people supported the plan.
A planning agent said Bryn Group listened to concerns, noting the council rejected a prior bid in 2021. He claimed the site will become plants and peat, and that footpaths and a sports pitch will be included, arguing this is a benefit.
A councillor, Ann Gair, disagreed with the new plan, stating the site is getting closer to homes. Residents face suffering for nineteen more years, and she called the pitch a “cynical ploy,” saying the village is now an industrial site’s expansion.
Haydn Pritchard worried about air quality and residents’ health. Gillian Davies said villagers fear more lorries, adding that people should come before profit.
The council considered the application, noting the quarry makes road aggregate in great need. The distance to home is over 300 meters, which exceeds national guidelines.
Committee members tied on the vote, and the chairman, Roy Saralis, voted for approval. Alun Price said they addressed concerns, and the quarry will meet aggregate demand and help the community.
The Price family owns Bryn Group and has been at the farm for five generations. The farm became a large waste operation, sells renewable power, and has cows, employees, and recycling services.
The farm also offers composting and electricity, selling fertiliser and sandstone. Caerphilly council buys from Bryn Group and also regulates the group.