A well attended fund-raising walk was held on Sunday 23 November by supporters of the March Hywel Protection Group - see photo. The Group is protesting against plans to build five wind turbines on this mountain. The Group's Chairman Simon Boex shared his expert knowledge of the mountain and the surrounding area with fellow protestors. He pointed out that if built the turbines will be visible from a wide surrounding area, including Neath Abbey and Bryncoch. March Hywel gives magnificent panoramic views from its top. It's a mountain rich in history which can be seen in the paintings of many artists who depicted the beauties of the Neath area in pre-industrial times including the renowned William Turner. The valley in which the A474 runs between Mynydd Drummau and March Hywel is presently one of the few areas locally which does not have wind turbines detracting from the natural beauty of the surroundings.

 

The planning appeal hearing starts on Tuesday 9th December at Neath Civic Centre at 10:00 am and is scheduled to last for 6 days. Protestors are urged to make every effort to attend on day one in order to demonstrate the extent of community opposition to this proposed development. Funds are still urgently needed to pay for the cost of a barrister to present the Group's case before the Planning Inspector and anyone wishing to make a donation or to find out more information should contact this email: marchhywelprotectiongroup@gmail.com
Jeff Griffiths