Residents in the Brecon Beacons National Park have been left fuming after an 8ft high metal fence was erected without any public consultation.
The "monstrous" structure has sparked local outrage as it can be seen for miles around a disused quarry road.
Families in Clydach and Llanelly Hill in Monmouthshire were shocked to discover workers installing the ring of steel without any prior notice.
Villagers claim the fence has "ruined" the appearance of their beloved mountain in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Wikimedia Commons
The fence surrounds a disused quarry opposite a picturesque valley, which is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest near the A465 Heads of the Valleys road.
The quarry road on Gilwern hill has been closed to the public since 2020.
Authorities had previously cited safety concerns over lack of barriers and ongoing landslides caused by the unstable sandstone and limestone quarry below.
However, locals are questioning why such an imposing structure was deemed necessary in a national park renowned for its natural landscape.
John Hunt, who lodged a formal complaint, questioned: "How an earth has this been allowed in the National park? What planning approval was there? Why? How's it supposed to work? How much does it cost?"
He told The Sun: "There is local outrage already at this eyesore being allowed in an area of outstanding beauty, it can be seen from the HOV and all around the area."
MORE LIKE THIS:
The fence (not pictured) surrounds a disused quarry opposite a picturesque valley
Getty
Hunt measured the fence at over two metres high, noting it would require planning consent under regulations.
He estimated the structure cost "at least £40,000 of our money, when the local roads are full of potholes because there is none to spare".
Other residents have also voiced their concerns on social media platforms.
One local noticed work beginning last Monday before spotting the completed fencing while driving home.
"Surely we should have been consulted, and any fencing should be as inconspicuous as possible?" they questioned.
Linda Lane wrote on Facebook: "Heritage Site, you're having a laugh. Absolutely hideous spoilt a beautiful area, National Parks how have you let them get away with this!!!"
A spokesperson for Bannau Brycheniog National Park confirmed they are aware of the situation
Flickr
Thomas Humphreys added: "National Parks what a joke, they come down on residents like a ton of bricks for painting your windows the wrong colour then allow something like this, shocking!"
Wayne Elliott shared his frustration, saying: "I noted it going up early in the week and e-mailed the local authority as they previously agreed to have open dialogue with the community before further acting in regard to the roads temporary closure."
The controversy has prompted official action from park authorities.
A spokesman for Bannau Brycheniog National Park confirmed they are aware of the situation.
"We can confirm we have received an enforcement complaint, and we are investigating it further," the spokesman said.
