A LANDSLIP from a former coal tip in Cwmtillery, Blaenau Gwent, has caused devastation, leaving streets covered in mud, trees, and boulders. Torrential rain from Storm Bert triggered the collapse, forcing residents to evacuate to a leisure centre on Sunday night.
Dianne Morgan, who has lived near the coal tip for almost 10 years, recounted: “Slurry was running down the road, carrying trees and big boulders. A garage was destroyed, and a car was buried under the debris.” Despite warnings to evacuate, Ms Morgan stayed behind to care for her blind daughter, expressing frustration over the lack of communication about the tip’s high-risk status.
Wayne Green, who evacuated with his family, described the ordeal: “It was a long night. Accommodation wasn’t found until 1:30am, but we were well looked after at the leisure centre.” His family is now staying in a hotel, but knee-deep sludge has left their car stranded.
The collapsed tip, classified as Category D—the highest risk—has reignited concerns over coal tip safety in Wales. Blaenau Gwent council confirmed the incident was caused by water saturation from the storm. Emergency crews and contractors are working to stabilize the site, while residents await clearance to return home.
Resident Rob Scholes, who has lived in the area for 17 years, said he had to jump out of a window to escape. “It was frightening how quickly it happened,” he said, comparing the landslip’s impact to Storm Dennis in 2020 but noting this was far worse.
Political debate over funding
The Welsh government has pledged to monitor coal tips and ensure regular inspections, while Blaenau Gwent council continues remedial efforts. Labour MP Nick Smith has called for additional funding, noting the £25m allocated in October is insufficient. Plaid Cymru MP Llinos Medi highlighted that only 4% of the estimated £600m required for coal tip safety has been pledged.
UK Environment Secretary Steve Reed said the government is ready to provide further support if needed, while local leaders emphasize the urgency of securing mining communities against future disasters.
As the cleanup continues, residents like Becky Ashford-Singer remain resilient. “It was carnage, but everyone came out with shovels to help,” she said. Others, like Abbie Woolmer, are staying with family while waiting for updates. Concerns remain over loose boulders on the site, with emergency services monitoring the area closely.
The disaster has amplified calls for a long-term solution to the risks posed by Wales’ coal tips. Inspections of Category D tips occur twice a year, but the severity of Storm Bert has underscored vulnerabilities. Blaenau Gwent council leader Steve Thomas assured residents: “Safety is paramount, and we’re working hard to resolve the situation.”
Efforts to stabilize the area are ongoing, but for many, the emotional toll and uncertainty remain profound.
(Images: BBC News Hub)
