THE MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd has written to Gwynedd Council stating her opposition to plans to build a gas-fired peaking plant and concrete crusher in Caernarfon, as the public consultation period regarding the proposal closes.

Liz Saville Roberts (Plaid Cymru) has told the council of he objections to the plans submitted by civil engineering firm, Jones Bros Ltd.

The proposed site, at Seiont Quarry, is flanked by residential properties and located close to Ysbyty Eryri, Caernarfon Rugby Club, Parc y Dre, Afon Seiont, and a popular area of ancient woodland.

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Mrs Saville Roberts also paid tribute to campaign group Caernarfon Lân for leading the fight against the development, including organising a petition which has amassed more than 1,300 signatures.

She said: “The site in question is in an area comprising of a densely populated residential housing estate, a school, a hospital, recreational ground, and an area of precious natural woodland.

“It is completely unsuitable for a development on this scale and of this nature.

“The proposal involves significant disruption both in terms of demolishing existing infrastructure and facilitating the construction of new structures and access routes.'

“Caernarfon is a World Heritage Site, with the Roman fort of Segontium only a stone’s throw from the proposed development site.

“This proposal is not in any way conducive with the town’s unique appeal and status.

“I have significant concerns about the heavy volume of LGV traffic anticipated to come and go from the site daily (15,147 LGV lorry loads per annum).

“This will cause substantial disruption and lead to lasting change to the area, in addition to exacerbating both noise and environmental pollution.'

“There is overwhelming opposition from within the local community and beyond to this proposal.

“I have been in no way persuaded that this development will in any way bring lasting and meaningful benefit to Caernarfon, its residents, or the local economy.

“Indeed, the proposal contradicts the spirits of the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act and Welsh Government’s own climate targets. It should be thrown out.”

Gwynedd Council was approached for comment.

In response to Mrs Saville Roberts’ comments, a Jones Bros Ltd spokesperson said: “The materials recycling centre will reduce the need to quarry construction materials from the ground, which uses large amounts of energy, as well as significantly decrease disposal of materials in landfill.

“The safety and wellbeing of the public is at the forefront of all our operations, and significant work has been undertaken for the design of this proposal.

“Specialist consultants advise that noise and air pollution will be minimal and not affect residents’ peace, health, and well-being.

“In addition, we will create an access road off the A4085 to ensure no concrete or recycling lorries travel along Seiont Mill Road.

“When operational, the site will require 11 workers as well as a similar number of vehicle drivers.

“The operations will also support existing and future North Wales projects being delivered by Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK, which currently employs close to 90 people in Gwynedd and utilises a local supply chain.”