Quarrying at Craig-yr-Hesg, nestled within the Taff Valley, epitomizes the ongoing conflict between economic interests and environmental conservation. Just as the valley, after centuries of resource exploitation has begun to recover from the scars of rapacious resource extraction, it faces a new threat as if the lessons of the past have not been learned. Particularly in the shape of remote owners who will never directly witness or live with the consequences of their actions. There are strong parallels with the coal barons of the past and the corporations of today , but these days the corporations attempt to win public favour by espousing their ‘green’ credentials whilst, at the same time, engaging in their relentless  pursuit of profit at all costs.

Quarrying at Craig-yr-Hesg poses significant environmental threats, mirroring the ravages of past resource exploitation in Wales. The extraction and processing of this material disrupts fragile ecosystems, fragmenting habitats and endangering native flora and fauna. Moreover, the excavation process results in land degradation, soil erosion, and deforestation, irreversibly altering the landscape and diminishing its ecological value. Despite the egregious claims in the appeal by Heidelberg Cement that the environment will be better off once the extraction is completed.

“Permission should have been granted years ago. When the site is worked-out as planned, it will provide demonstrable ecological benefits and access to the countryside with all of the benefits that brings. In the interim, the wider public will benefit from highways which are surfaced with the best material available in terms of its safety characteristics and durability with all of the benefits that brings.”

Just as historical resource extraction obliterated Wales’ cultural heritage, quarrying at Craig-yr-Hesg threatens to damage Pontypridd’s rich history. Craig-yr-Hesg forms the perfect backdrop to the ancient bridge and has done so for generations. To quote from a book published over a century ago.

“The beautiful structure of Pont-y-Pridd bursts on the sight. It is placed in such a situation as to be completely concealed until a very near approach. Then the surprise and the delight to see so light and beautiful a structure, bending over so immense a stream, makes language too poor for its description. The torrent is seen stealing from behind a fertile and well cultivated hill , pleasingly diversified with wood. On the left, a lofty hill displays mountain scenery with the summit covered with fern or russet herbage, except where strata of rocks had excluded all vegetation(Craig yr Hesg). Midway down the side is a thick covering of trees surrounding a little cottage.

History of Pontypridd and Rhondda Valleys by “Morien” 1905

Yes, per the appeal document it was stated :

From all that I have seen and read there are no objections or concerns relating to
landscape, visual impact, ecology, hydrology, cultural heritage, agricultural land quality impacts. [paragraph 312]

Historically, resource extraction in Wales displaced communities, uprooting families and fracturing social cohesion. Similarly, quarrying at Craig-yr-Hesg jeopardizes the well-being of local residents, jeopardizing their quality of life. Noise pollution, dust emissions, and increased traffic pose health risks and diminish the tranquility of rural communities, exacerbating social inequalities and disenfranchising vulnerable populations.

While proponents of quarrying tout its economic benefits, they overlook the long-term consequences of environmental degradation and resource depletion. The exploitation of natural resources at Craig-yr-hesg may yield immediate financial gains for a select few, but at what cost? By prioritizing short-term profits over sustainable development, we risk compromising the future viability of the region’s economy and perpetuating a cycle of environmental degradation and socio-economic disparity.

Continued quarrying at Craig-yr-Hesg epitomises the shortsightedness of prioritizing profit over environmental and social well-being, echoing the exploitative practices of Wales’ past. As stewards of our planet, we must heed the lessons of history and strive for a more sustainable approach to development. By rejecting the false dichotomy between economic growth and environmental conservation, we can cultivate a future where prosperity coexists harmoniously with ecological integrity and social justice. The time to act is now, before it’s too late. And it’s almost too late.

With the National Eisteddfod being hosted in the shadow of Craig-yr-Hesg isn’t it time to reflect on our cultural heritage and recognize that this impressive monument should be saved and cherished and not exploited . After 130+ years of continuous quarrying it’s time to stop . Heidelberg Materials will shortly announce their annual revenue for 2023. Their 2022 figures were €22,000,000,000 (that’s billion), in revenue). Craig-yr-Hesg to them is just a profit center, a small entry in the balance sheet . To the people of Pontypridd it has as much sentimental and cultural value as the people of Heidelberg have to their monuments and their environment – why should it not be treated with the same respect and appreciation.

We are not alone, Heidelberg Materials has brought other communities together to fight for their environment and there are parallels across the globe.