UK Government announces £118m funding for coal tip safety
The UK Labour Government has pledged £118 million over three years for coal tip safety in Wales as part of its latest Spending Review, funding long-term remediation and risk management of disused coal tips.
This funding will support the Welsh Government in expanding its coal tip safety programme and accelerating work on legacy sites.
Nick Smith, MP for Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, said: 'Residents close to coal tips in Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney were impacted by the damage caused by Storm Bert last year and came to me seeking reassurances.
'The Welsh Labour Government has already made big strides in this area, and I raised this issue with the Prime Minister last November, so I'm really pleased that the UK Government has also recognised the need for action.
'It's fantastic to see our UK and Welsh Labour governments working together to address this important issue for the future.'
More than 2,500 disused coal tips remain across Wales, presenting ongoing safety and environmental challenges.
Huw Irranca-Davies, Deputy First Minister, said: "Today's investment is about managing disused coal tips, and most importantly it is about keeping communities safe."
The funding is in addition to more than £100 million already committed by the Welsh Government.
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