James Evans MS convened a Public Meeting in Talybont on Usk (8th June) to get an update on the latest information on the lease negotiations for Gilestone Farm. Welsh Government purchased the farm for £4.25m in March 2022. They continue to be in discussions with Green Man to use this site as a base to create a ‘sustainable rural enterprise’ (1). Welsh Government have agreed in May this year that the process can move forward to its next stage and have approved access, by licence, for Green Man representatives to undertake environmental and other surveys, and that formal commercial lease negotiations with Green Man will commence. Since its purchase, Welsh Government have repeatedly said they will consult with the community before any decision is made.
James Evans MS said: “I convened this public meeting as I get repeatedly asked ‘What is happening?’. The only people who know are Welsh Government and I am disappointed that they have refused to attend the meeting and update the Community to answer their questions. I invited the stakeholders – Powys County Council, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and – all refused to attend. Talybont on Usk Community Council were advised not to participate from One Voice Wales. These empty chairs speak volumes of the contempt and disdain that Welsh Labour Government have for this community”
“I will be compiling everyone’s questions and submitting these to Welsh Government to try to get some answers. Only when we have information and consultation can we all make informed decisions about whether this proposal is right for the site, right for the community and worth the £4.25m of taxpayers money”.
Atty Beor-Roberts addressed the meeting to update them on his negotiations with Welsh Government. Mr Beor Robert owns the shooting and fishing rights at Gilestone Farm. He said “How would Festival goers react to a man with a gun roaming the Farm during the night doing vermin control?”, He went on to say “I have been treated with contempt by Welsh Government to date but I will not relent one inch and intend to keep and enjoy my rights for my lifetime”.
