The final major structure at Wales' last coal-fired power station, Aberthaw in the Vale of Glamorgan, was demolished in a controlled blast on Friday, October 2. The building erupted into a cloud of black smoke and crumbled to the ground in dramatic scenes, watched by onlookers.
End of an era for Wales' last coal plant
Aberthaw Power Station supplied hydrocarbon energy across the UK for more than 50 years before officially closing in 2020. The site began operations in the 1960s. The demolition marks a major milestone in the site's future, which is being redeveloped for renewable energy.
CCR Energy, the organisation leading the redevelopment, had earlier completed the demolition of the turbine hall and deaerator bays. In June, the chimney stack was brought down in a controlled demolition following guidance from police and local authorities. The remaining buildings were targeted in the latest blast, though one structure was left standing and will be taken down at a later date after careful planning.
Renewable energy park planned
CCR bought the site in 2022 with an investment package of £36.4m and plans to create "a greener, cleaner environment with the long-term development of green powerhouse for generations to come." The site will make way for a new renewable energy park.
Peter Haigh, Interim Managing Director for CCR Energy, told ITV Cymru Wales: "Today's a really important day for Aberthaw, it's the last major part of the demolition and heralds the opportunity for the future of the site. We want to see jobs, prosperity, and innovation, and it's truly an exciting day for us, the community and the whole of South Wales."
Kellie Beirne, Chief Executive of CCR, added: "This offers a really significant opportunity because of its scale. Also the purpose of this site is around future green energy, making sure that we leverage the natural assets here on the site, for example the tidal range just here. So, if we want to generate more clean energy for the population of south east Wales then this site looks set to pay a really instrumental part in that."
