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This highly readable book reveals in comprehensive detail the staggering campaigns surrounding the building of the Cardiff Bay Barrage. Even through it is written by someone who was involved in the anti-barrage campaign, the author presents the case in a neutral and measured voice. This heightens the sensible and real concerns of local residents and emphasises just how much of a political whim the barrage was, and, in a depressing way, the undemocratic nature of our society.
Sian Best sets the historical context for the idea of the barrage, and from this first whim to the final building, the level of detail is incredible. Yet it is not a difficult book to read. Despite all the references to the various convoluted political procedures, such as Select Committees, first readings of bills, the Lords, etc, one is able to follow the process quite easily.
As the author describes, the barrage campaigns (for and against) became extremely politically charged, dividing constituencies, City and County councils, and politicians. She profiles a number of leading politicians that have become familiar faces, especially since the National Assembly was formed. I particularly enjoyed the description of Rhodri Morgan and Ron Davies talking through the night in Parliament to kill the barrage bill (although another bill sprang up to take its place).
The reasons for not building a massive concrete barrage across Cardiff Bay were considerable: groundwater problems and flooding of many local houses; destruction of Taff estuary SSSI; relocation of rare wading birds; loss of existing businesses and livelihoods (some 1,500 jobs existed in the area before the barrage); decline in water quality; relocation of a large tip; question marks over the number and quality of jobs that would be brought to the area; question marks about the amount of money being ‘spent’ in one area for small returns, etc. What is frankly mind-boggling is that, when presented with an immense amount of facts and evidence with regard to all these considerations, and when presented with a much more appropriate (and cheaper) alternative to a barrage, many politicians only thought about their own political career, personal gratification and potential financial benefits for themselves.
Various groups and committed individuals campaigned tirelessly for over a decade in order to have a say in their own local community and it is important that their efforts are documented. They may not have been able to prevent this barrage, but the author details their wider influence in helping other local campaigns. Whilst much of the book leaves one depressed about the way local people’s wishes and concerns were ignored and the disregard for the environment, it would appeal to all those involved in local and national campaigns, local and national politics, and of course, all those connected to the pro- and anti-barrage campaigns. My only quibble would be that a glossary of abbreviations would have been useful, as would a couple of (simple) maps.
Alyson Tyler
It is possible to use this review for promotional purposes, but the following acknowledgement should be included: A review from www.gwales.com, with the permission of the Welsh Books Council.
Gellir defnyddio’r adolygiad hwn at bwrpas hybu, ond gofynnir i chi gynnwys y gydnabyddiaeth ganlynol: Adolygiad oddi ar www.gwales.com, trwy ganiatad Cyngor Llyfrau Cymru.
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