Subject: RE: T37552 – Map Data
Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026 11:22:00 AM
Hello,
Many apologies for the delay in responding.
I’ve been through the material provided and looked at our own supporting data that was used to determine the current boundary in the National Disused Coal Tips Dataset (as defined by the then Coal Authority). Our LiDAR information looks largely supportive of the spoil boundary provided in the report although interference from the vegetation on site makes it tricky to be completely definitive.
The question of whether the spoil across the whole of the site is quarry spoil or coal spoil also remains difficult to be definitive about. As per the report, coal is present close to the vicinity of the tip (further evidenced by the adits nearby to the quarry) but given that the area is so overgrown, it is hard to say whether the material downslope of the quarry is coal or quarry spoil. However, I am aware that particular challenge has always been present and the current position is that the tip as mapped contains coal spoil and therefore is included in the National Dataset.
As per our normal process when changing a tip boundary I discussed with [redacted] from the MRA who co-incidentally said he was in the process of arranging a meeting with ESP on site at Godre’r graig Quarry. He’ll report back on how that went in due course and may have some recommendations.
The other factor in play is the impending launch of the New Disused Tips body who is resourced to assess and monitor not only coal but non-coal spoils as well so the binary notion of is it coal or non-coal becomes less limiting in the future. That body will be tasked with undertaking full assessment of the site (likely as a priority due to its current category D rating) and may wish to establish an independent view of the nature and boundary of the site.
On balance I’m minded to leave the boundary as is for now in the National Dataset. I don’t think the boundary change makes much operational difference in the short term as the inspections MRA undertake on the site appraise the whole area anyway given the history of instability on site.
Happy to discuss.
