### Welsh Villages Blighted by Airborne Black Dust as Quarry Ash Spreads
Communities in the Vale of Glamorgan have found themselves grappling with an unexpected environmental nuisance as thick, black dust clouds envelop homes and settle on possessions. Residents in Fonmon and Font-y-Gary have been left deeply concerned and frustrated as particles, which stem from ongoing works at the Aberthaw Quarry, infiltrate their homes, causing discomfort and health worries for many.
The problematic dust arises from the removal of pulverised fuel ash (PFA) at the Aberthaw Quarry site, a legacy from years of coal-fired power generation at the nearby Aberthaw Power Station. The process, managed by global energy firm RWE, is intended to prepare the land for agricultural use, yet recent dry and windy weather has exacerbated the spread of ash far beyond the expected containment.
Affected villagers report having to repeatedly clean their homes and vehicles, only to find grime returning within hours. For many residents, the problem has become more than an inconvenience, with accounts of sore eyes, respiratory difficulties, and heightened anxiety about the long-term health implications. “I walked inside my house without shoes, and the soles of my feet were black,” recalled Charlotte Troth, highlighting just how pervasive the dust has become. She added that her young daughter’s bedroom was blanketed by the substance after a day of open windows, turning their family’s haven into what she described as a cleaning emergency.
The problem has not been isolated to a few households. Residents report that within minutes of opening windows or doors, dust streams inside, compelling some to keep their homes sealed. The discomfort is compounded by hot weather, making ventilation both a necessity and a risk. Denise Martlew, who lives locally, said, “You open [the window] for ten minutes and the dust comes in. I have to go to work, but I return to a home that needs constant cleaning. It shouldn’t be like this in this day and age.”
For some, health concerns have escalated. Denise Cooper claims that exposure to the dust has led to a severe chest infection, requiring antibiotics, steroids, and inhalers. “My patio furniture and garden were absolutely black,” she reported, stressing the toll not only on her wellbeing but that of her neighbours and family.
The Aberthaw Power Station, which ceased operations in 2020 and was recently sold for redevelopment as a green energy project, left behind a significant mound of compacted ash—an estimated 17 million tonnes—that is now being processed. While beneficial uses for this ash in construction and manufacturing have been suggested, residents now fear these works may create further air quality problems, especially as the mound is disturbed.
Investigations into the situation are ongoing. Natural Resources Wales (NRW), the regulator, is examining whether dust suppression procedures at the quarry are adequate and have pledged to take enforcement action if necessary. NRW representatives have met with RWE to review the measures in place and are assessing the situation in light of several notably severe dust incidents throughout July.
RWE, for its part, has publicly apologised for the distress caused. A company spokesperson emphasised that PFA is “classed as non-hazardous” with decades of research attesting to its stability and low toxicity. The firm has also stated they are working with contractors to increase dust control measures, including halting operations during high winds and employing water sprays to minimise airborne particles.
Still, locals remain wary, remembering similar issues from decades past. Some, like Anne Sloman, are considering relocating as the impact on daily life and uncertainty about future works mount. “We’ve lived here 27 years and love it, but it’s having a huge impact on our lives,” she remarked, echoing the sentiment of many worried about what lies ahead as the site is transformed.
As the clean-up and redevelopment of Aberthaw proceed, the experience of Fonmon and Font-y-Gary residents serves as a stark reminder of the challenge of managing the legacies of industrial activity in local communities. The ongoing monitoring by regulatory authorities, the implementation of improved controls, and the dialogue between corporations and residents will be pivotal in ensuring the situation is resolved and future issues are prevented.