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Great Wall of Clydach’ Fence to Be Dismantled by Monmouthshire Council

After widespread criticism, the council plans to replace the 200-metre barrier with a shorter, landscape-friendly fence.

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Council officials erected the fence because of fears that a mountain could collapse onto the road below

Overview

  • The 6-foot-high steel fence was installed in April at a cost of £40,000 to block access along the closed Pwll Du Road after a 2023 rockfall threatened the Gilwern mountain face.
  • Locals decried the barrier as an eyesore and criticised the council for failing to consult before installation, prompting more than 120 villagers to protest.
  • Following resident pressure, Monmouthshire County Council agreed to dismantle the fence at an additional £20,000 expense and install lower stock-proof fencing.
  • Independent councillor Simon Howarth welcomed the reversal but warned that the combined cost of erecting and removing the barrier, estimated at £50,000–£70,000, could have been avoided.
  • The new structure will feature reduced height and muted colours to preserve views near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Blaenavon.