WATER WARS

Battle looms over hydro plan at waterfall rated among Eryri's 'most majestic and unspoilt'

- By ANDREW FORGRAVE Countryside and Tourism Editor

Rhaeadr y Cwm plunges 350ft into Cwm Cynfal via a series of cascades (Image: David Neale/ Wiki)

(David Neale Wiki)

LANDSCAPE guardians have pledged to battle on if controversial waterfall plans for a hydroelectric scheme are green-lighted.

The proposed scheme at Rhaeadr y Cwm - regarded as one of Eryri's most iconic waterfalls - is recommended for approval this week.

As the hydro project involves diverting up to 70% of the water in Cwm Cynfal gorge, critics argue this will diminish the “thunderous sound and appearance” of the spectacular waterfall.

The planned venture near Llan Ffestiniog has long pitted conservationists against farmers and local communities. It was proposed by farming brothers Moi Dafydd, Elis Dafydd and Dafydd Elis, who argued it would cut carbon emissions, underpin farm finances and provide enough electricity for 700 homes.

Eryri National Park Authority is mindful of the sensitivities involved at a site it regards as “one of Eryri’s most majestic and, at present, completely unspoilt waterfalls”.

Its mist-shrouded torrent was immortalised by the Victorian landscape painter David Cox, whose 1836 watercolour of Rhaeadr y Cwm is displayed in the British Museum.

But a report to presented to ENPA’s planning and access committee said Wales’ net-zero targets loomed large and were an overriding factor.