Dust Nuisance

Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs – in the Senedd at 2:10 pm on 4 March 2020.

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Photo of Lesley Griffiths Lesley Griffiths Labour 2:10, 4 March 2020

We obviously take the concerns—. You've referred to Kronospan and Chirk in particular. We obviously take their concerns very seriously. You'll be aware there's ongoing work in relation to that. You'll be aware of what we're doing across Wales in relation to the clean air Wales programme, the clean air plan for Wales, and we will be bringing forward a clean air Act for Wales.

In relation to PM10 and PM2.5, typically, the sizes of visible dust particles are too large to be breathed in, so the health risks and impacts are not the same as they are for exposure to smaller fractions such as PM10 and PM2.5. You'll also be aware that NRW will be the whole regulator for that site from the summer. Another thing that I have discussed with NRW is I think there needs to be much better engagement with the residents of Chirk around a lot of their concerns. I think that hasn't been the case with the local authority, and when NRW do take over as whole regulators for the site, I really stress the importance of community engagement in their regulatory role.