Local MS, Peter Fox, recently met again with the Blaenavon World Heritage Site Commons Management Group, the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority (BBNPA), local representatives, residents and businesses to discuss Keepers Pond.
The pond, which is located on the side of the Blorenge Mountain, is a major tourist attraction, overlooking some spectacular views of Monmouthshire and the Brecon Beacons. The meeting took place in the car park adjacent to the pond, overlooking the vast Brecon Beacons, and was a follow-up meeting to the original discussion which took place in November 2024.
Peter heard further concerns about the impact of illegal off-roading, the lack of facilities for users of the pond, and took part in further discussions relating to road safety, protection for livestock, and ensuring there is also protection in place for the area’s SSSI.
During the meeting, Mr Fox explained their needed to be effective collaboration between Torfaen and Monmouthshire County Councils, in addition to Natural Resources Wales, the BBNPA and others to ensure the future of Keepers Pond is protected, and the area is preserved.
Peter Fox, Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Transport & Rural Affairs, has said:
“It was brilliant to meet on site at Keepers Pond with a group of people and stakeholders who have an interest in protecting the future of the pond and surrounding area.
“It’s clear that Keepers Pond is a major attraction for people nearby, and for tourists who are visiting Wales, specifically to use the waterway and surrounding areas.
“In order for this issue to progress, and for the future of the pond and surrounds to be protected, we must ensure the parties involved come together.
“I will be writing to Monmouthshire and Torfaen Councils to discuss the issues relating to traffic management in the area, and to other stakeholders to find a long-term solution for Keepers Pond. I will also be raising some specific issues in the Senedd for the Welsh Government to act.
“I am very grateful for the further meeting today, and for having the opportunity to discuss the issues with constituents firsthand.”
