Families told to move out over fears of new landslip
SEVERAL families in the Upper Swansea Valley have been told to move out of their homes as there is “imminent risk to the health and safety of occupiers”.
Residents in Cyfyng Road, in Ystalyfera, were handed letters from Neath Port Talbot Council effectively telling them they must vacate their homes by yesterday.
Included in the letter was: “Following our monitoring and investigation relating to the landslips at the rear of your property, we are of the opinion that there continues to be a risk to life and property, with the houses in 81-96 Cyfyng Road containing hazards relating to structural collapse, and the sewerage system serving some of the houses is inadequate.”
A Neath Port Talbot spokesman said the decision to move people out of their homes “has not been taken lightly”.
The move comes six months after a landslide hit the street, which saw trees and bushes tear down the hillside into the Swansea canal.
While it is understood that some families have already left, others have not been so quick to pack their bags.
Resident Paul Harris said: “We have all been told that we have to move out immediately but I have two dogs so I can’t move anywhere. They were talking about offering me a place in Swansea but the dogs will have to go into kennels but I won’t do that.”
Mr Harris has questioned the level of danger. He said: “If there is an immediate risk to life, why haven’t they closed the road? There are children walking down here with their mothers and prams. If this house goes it could just crash down and kill someone. Is there really that level of risk?”
Another resident, David Morris, said: “I grew up here around landslides so I don’t think it’s as dangerous as they are making out. I’ve seen in the past that people have been frightened into moving out by the council and five years later the council put compulsory purchase orders on the properties and sell them years later at great profit.”
John Emery, who has yet to receive a letter, complained over a lack of information. He said: “We have ended up with people frightened out of their minds and you can’t get any blasted answers from the council. It makes me feel very, very worried. We were told several months ago that it was perfectly safe, there was no fall-away, but now we are being told we have to go.
“It’s a miserable situation. I think we have been treated disgustingly.”
A Neath Port Talbot spokesman said: “The decision to ask people to leave their homes at such short notice has not been taken lightly. Following monitoring and investigation of the landslips at the rear of 81 to 96 Cyfyng Road, we are of the opinion that there is a high risk of further collapse and consequently a risk to the occupiers if they remain in these properties.
“Based on recent inspection findings and expert advice, we are now satisfied that Category 1 hazards exist at the properties which pose an imminent risk to the health and safety of occupiers and visitors and, as such, immediate emergency action had to be taken.
“Council officers from relevant services have been in Ystalyfera to offer advice and support to the residents.
“It is the council’s intention to secure alternative accommodation for the residents.”