Alarmed by Flooding

Dear Editor,

As a lifelong resident of RCT living alongside the River Taff, I am deeply alarmed by the increasing frequency of flooding in our area: twice in the last five years compared to only once in the previous 40. This alarming change is largely due to climate change, exacerbated by the continuous quarrying operation that has decimated the surrounding mountain, approved by Welsh Labour and former ‘climate change minister’ Julie James.

The quarrying activities, which have intensified over the past decade with larger machinery and weekly blasting that shakes our homes, have stripped the landscape of trees and green spaces, resulting in greater runoff into our community.

The narrow B-road we rely on is battered daily by 60-tonne lorries, compromising safety for pedestrians and causing structural damage to our homes. Meanwhile, the environment suffers: our gardens are waterlogged, air quality has deteriorated, and monitoring efforts by the quarry seem to be skewed by corruption. Despite receiving funds from quarry operations, RCT seems to prioritise monetary gain over residents’ wellbeing, neglecting both our pleas for air quality monitoring and the fundamental importance of maintaining the natural balance of our cherished valley, mountain, and river.

It’s time for RCT to address these critical issues and prioritise the voices of those they represent, rather than allowing short-term profits to shape the future of our community.

Sincerely,

Jayne Davies