Key Concerns: Understanding the Risks to Epynt

The proposed Garreg Fawr Energy Park is a major industrial development in a sensitive upland landscape. Our concerns are rooted in evidence, local knowledge, and the long-term wellbeing of the Nant Brân and Epynt communities.

Peatland and Carbon

Large sections of the proposed site overlap with areas of peat and deep peat. Disturbing peat releases long-stored carbon into the atmosphere, undermining climate goals and potentially creating long-term carbon deficits. Construction tracks, turbine foundations, and drainage can accelerate peat oxidation for decades.

Hydrology and Water Quality

Epynt’s hydrology is intricate and fragile. Tracks, excavations, and trenching can alter natural drainage, increase flood risk downstream, and affect water quality in tributaries and rivers that support wildlife, farms, and local communities.

Wildlife and Habitats

The area includes important habitats for red kites, curlews, skylarks, bats, and many other species. Upland mosaics, rhos pasture, and semi-natural grasslands are easily fragmented. Turbines, lighting, cabling, and increased traffic can all impact wildlife behaviour, nesting, and movement.

Landscape and Setting

Epynt is a culturally and environmentally significant landscape. The proposed turbines, many over 200 metres high, would dominate wide areas of Breconshire, affecting views, tranquillity, and the distinctive character of the region.

Noise and Infrasound

Noise modelling is complex and site-specific. There are concerns about low-frequency sound, cumulative impacts from multiple turbines, and the reliability of assumptions used in developer-led assessments. Some residents may be affected even at considerable distances.

Traffic and Access

Access routes require heavy construction traffic, oversized loads, and substantial road modifications. This can affect farms, local businesses, wildlife, and daily life in neighbouring villages.

Grid Connection

The location, scale, and route of grid infrastructure—including pylons or underground cabling—have not yet been defined. These elements are often as impactful as the turbines themselves.

Community Wellbeing and Cultural Heritage

Epynt has a unique cultural history and a strong sense of place. Developments of this scale can alter community identity, affect tourism and local businesses, and change the character of rural life for generations.

AME’s work is to ensure these concerns are fully understood, rigorously evidenced, and properly addressed.