My great-grandfather was a quarryman in Cilgwyn in Dyffryn Nantlle, so I'm very proud to support the bid to secure UNESCO world heritage site status for the slate-quarrying areas of north-west Wales. Growing up in Felinheli in the 1960s, I was highly aware of the decline of an industry that, at one time, sent slate to all parts of the world. The old dock had dilapidated, and now only the chimney stands in the middle of a housing estate.

But it is very different in the quarrying areas of Arfon, just a few miles inland from the Menai strait. Here is one of the most dramatic post-industrial landscapes of the world, and last week the final nomination was presented to UNESCO. The aim is to recognise the quarrying landscape of the north west of Wales as a world heritage site. And if this bid is accepted, then the notable landscape of Llanberis, Bethesda, Dyffryn Nantlle and Blaenau Ffestiniog would share the same designation as the Taj Mahal and the Egyptian pyramids.

Much work has already been done by the partners involved. As well as recognising our unique culture, heritage and language, having the status would open the door for sustainable tourism and high-quality opportunities for jobs across Gwynedd, bringing millions of pounds to the local economy. Best of luck to everyone as we move to the next stage of this project.