Dauson Environmental Group Ltd, Atlantic Eco Park, Newton Road, Rumney, Cardiff, CF3 2EJ
RML Permit Consultation Open
Natural Resources Wales has published the draft environmental permit for Dauson’s Withyhedge Landfill operations (Resources Management UK) as part of the formal public consultation process. This is a standard stage in the permitting process and allows stakeholders and interested parties to review the proposed permit conditions before a final decision is made.
Permit Modernisation and Consolidation
The draft permit has been produced primarily to modernise and consolidate the existing environmental permit. Over time, environmental permits often undergo several variations as operational practices evolve or regulatory requirements change. As a result, permits can become spread across multiple documents issued over several years. The draft permit therefore brings these historic variations together into a single consolidated document, updating the format and structure to reflect current regulatory standards. This provides a clearer and more streamlined permit for both the operator and regulator to manage going forward.
Benefits of a Modernised Permit
Modernising and consolidating the permit offers several important benefits:
- Improved clarity by bringing all conditions into one document rather than multiple historic variations.
- Simpler compliance management for site operators.
- More efficient regulation and oversight for the regulator.
- Alignment with current environmental permitting standards.
Overall, the updated permit helps ensure that the site can be regulated clearly, transparently, and effectively in the future.
Clarification on the 50,000 Tonnes of Soils
The draft permit also refers to up to 50,000 tonnes of soils being imported to the site, which requires some clarification. These soils are not additional waste for landfill disposal and will not be placed within the landfill cells or beneath the liner system. Instead, the soils are intended solely for restoration purposes, supporting the final shaping of the site and enabling it to be restored to its approved end use once landfill operations are complete. The soils will be used within the final restoration layers above the engineered containment system, which is standard practice for landfill restoration projects.
What Happens Next?
During the consultation period, stakeholders and members of the public are invited to review the draft permit and provide feedback to Natural Resources Wales. Following this, the regulator will consider all comments received before issuing a final decision. The draft permit represents an important step in ensuring the site’s environmental permit is modern, streamlined, and easier to manage, while maintaining the robust protections required for safe operation and long-term restoration.
Full details of the consultation and permit can be accessed here
This update aligns with wider improvements made across the site, which have strengthened operational performance and enhanced engagement with regulators and technical experts since reopening in 2025. The proposed variation will provide greater clarity and transparency for both the regulator and the operator moving forward.
We remain committed to ongoing stakeholder engagement, including our continued financial support contribution for air quality monitoring and testing in the area. Investment in the site is delivering positive results and while the most recent regulator published data reflects 2024 performance – where the site was rated as a poor performer – recent regulator visits and site scores over the past year give us strong confidence that this will improve. We expect the 2025 data released later this year, to clearly demonstrate the positive trajectory of improvements being made. We will continue to work closely with our stakeholders and technical specialists to ensure this progress is maintained.
Dauson Social Value 2025 Review
Dauson Environmental Group Delivers Over £135,000 in Social Value in 2025
Dauson Environmental Group is proud to announce that it delivered £136,869 in social value during 2025, supporting a wide range of schools, charities, sports organisations and community initiatives across Wales.
Through direct funding, sponsorship, volunteering, education programmes and in-kind support, the Group continues to invest in the communities where it operates. These initiatives form an important part of Dauson’s wider sustainability commitments and reflect the company’s belief that responsible environmental management must also deliver meaningful social impact.
David Neal, Director and Owner of Dauson Environmental Group, said:
“Supporting the communities around us is a key part of who we are as a business. By working alongside schools, charities and local organisations we aim to create opportunities, strengthen communities and deliver long-term positive impact.”
Supporting Schools and Young People
Education and youth development were a key focus during 2025. Dauson supported several schools and youth initiatives, including Spittal School, Spittal Playgroup, and the Eastern High Awards, helping recognise student achievement and support early years learning.
The company also participated in Careers Fairs at Grangetown and Ysgol Glantaf, giving students the opportunity to learn more about careers within the environmental and waste management sectors. In addition, work experience placements were provided to help young people gain practical industry insight.
Dauson also supported the Free Little Library – a primary school pupil led initiative, encouraging reading and learning opportunities for young people within the community.
Community and Charity Initiatives
The Group has continued to support community groups and charities through a variety of initiatives. This includes support for the Porth Elim Church Mother/Toddler Group, helping provide activities and support for young families.
Other community-focused contributions included complementary skips and materials for local projects and events, as well as employee participation in voluntary activities throughout 2025.
Dauson also delivered a bespoke workplace experience for a jobseeker, helping provide valuable exposure and confidence for someone seeking to enter employment.
Supporting Local Sport
Promoting healthy communities through sport is another key area of support. Through its Sports Sponsorship 2025 programme, Dauson supported local clubs including Cardiff Draconians FC, helping young players and community teams access equipment, facilities and opportunities to participate in sport.
Partnerships and Wider Community Impact
Dauson also worked with partners to deliver wider social value initiatives, including the R&M Williams Social Value Project and community initiatives with Melin Homes in Pontypool, supporting local projects designed to strengthen communities and improve wellbeing.
These initiatives complement the company’s Community Fund, which continues to support projects that deliver meaningful social, economic and environmental benefits. The fund will increase to annually from 2026, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to community investment.
Ben Maizey, Sustainability and Future Generations Manager at Dauson Environmental Group, added:
“We’re proud to support such a diverse range of projects – from schools and sports clubs to charities and community groups. These initiatives show the real difference that social value investment can make, and we look forward to continuing this work in the years ahead.”
Local groups, charities and community organisations interested in applying to the Dauson Community Fund can contact Ben at [email protected] for more information.
Atlantic Recycling Statement Jan 26
NRW Prosecution Statement – Atlantic Recycling Ltd
Tuesday 6th January 2026 saw the conclusion of the legal action brought by NRW against Atlantic Recycling for offences dating back to 2019.
In July 2019, Atlantic Recycling was served with a Regulation 37 Notice for alleged non-compliances with version 6 of its fire prevention management plan (FPMP) which forms part of its waste management permit.
The particulars of the breaches in question were:
(i) that there was insufficient quarantine area on site;
(ii) that there was insufficient separation between two stockpiles;
(iii) that two of the stockpiles were over the permitted height.
Atlantic Recycling pleaded guilty to the charges in January 2023 and presented mitigation.
A Newton Hearing was held in September 2025 where the Court accepted Atlantic Recycling’s position that the breaches were de minimis—minor technical violations with no material impact. This assessment was accepted by the prosecution and the Court, and this was further reflected in their positions at the sentencing hearing in January 2026.
Whilst addressing the environmental risks associated with the offences, the Court considered the mitigating factors presented and Atlantic’s early guilty plea.
In making its judgement, the Court is bound by sentencing guidelines. This considered (i) culpability and (ii) harm, with each considered across four levels of seriousness- from level 1 culpability (deliberate) and level 1 harm (most serious) at the highest end, to level 4 culpability (low or no culpability) and level 4 harm (least serious) at the lowest. These categories guide the level of financial penalty in accordance with the size and turnover of the offending company.
The Court concluded that Atlantic’s actions were negligent (category 3 – Culpability) and of least serious harm (category 4 – Harm). This resulted in a fine of £40,000.
After 6 years, this matter is finally concluded.
Atlantic Recycling Ltd response:
Despite media coverage suggesting significant levels of culpability and harm, the Court’s own findings support our longstanding position that these matters were de minimis and posed no material environmental harm; the level of fine imposed reflects this proportional assessment.
The Court found culpability to be category 3 and harm category 4 (the lowest level)
Despite this, it is disappointing that much reporting to date has drawn on historic and unrelated issues, creating a misleading narrative about Atlantic Recycling’s operations and management. Atlantic Recycling was not approached for comment prior to publication.
We will be raising these concerns directly with the publishers and the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO).
Atlantic Recycling regularly works with and alongside NRW due to its role as a regulator, and while we respect the regulatory process, we believe the outcome reflects the limited and historic nature of the breaches.
It is regrettable that this incident will be recorded as an environmental prosecution as we feel this does not fully reflect the limited nature of the breaches.
This case relates to events in early 2019 and does not reflect the current Atlantic Recycling operation or business. Atlantic Recycling has made significant investments and improvements and has implemented more robust procedures in order to address any previous shortfalls.
This includes:
- The fire management plan under review in this case has been updated twice in the intervening years, incorporating strengthened protections to prevent any recurrence.
- The implementation of enhanced fire-management measures on site, allowing Atlantic Recycling to deviate from standard NRW guidance relating to waste storage. This was acknowledged by the Court.
- NRW has not adversely reviewed Atlantic Recycling’s current FPMP (version 8), along with version 7- both of which incorporate these enhanced measures.
Atlantic would confirm that the stockpiles and waste material which were the focus of this legal action have long since been removed and that Atlantic continues to invest significantly in its operations to promote recycling and the reuse of waste, and to provide high-quality services to its customer base.
NRW remains a key stakeholder and we look forward to working constructively with them across the Dauson Group businesses in the future.
Teesside University & Dauson Launch Pioneering Collaboration
Groundbreaking Knowledge Transfer Partnership between Teesside University and Dauson Environmental Group Converts Construction Waste into Green Economic Solutions
According to the European Commission and recent global studies, cement production exceeds 4.1 billion tonnes annually, contributing over 3.3 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions when accounting for lifecycle impacts. Market estimates suggest a valuation of USD 506 billion in 2024, projected to reach USD 686 billion by 2032, intensifying demand for low-carbon alternatives.
This shift creates a pressing need to develop sustainable, high-quality alternatives that meet BS EN450 standards (a British and European standard that defines the requirements for fly ash used as a concrete additive) for concrete and deliver substantial carbon savings. In regions such as Wales and Southwest England, a 30% replacement in cement usage equates to nearly 300,000 tonnes of demand, highlighting the scale of opportunity for new materials.
Dauson Environmental Group (DEG), a Welsh company, in collaboration with Teesside University, is responding with a bold innovation strategy. Through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), DEG will valorise construction waste into ultra-low carbon supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) and concrete products. The initiative complements DEG’s drive toward a 100% recycling model and positions the company at the forefront of circular construction and decarbonisation.
This cross-sector partnership doesn’t just solve a supply gap, it reshapes the landscape for sustainable building materials and low-carbon infrastructure across the UK.
Dr Sina Rezaei Gomari, Associate Professor of Research at Teesside University and project lead, said:
“This initiative not only enhances the value of industrial waste but aligns with broader sustainability targets. By applying advanced, energy-efficient technologies, we’re setting a new benchmark for waste valorisation, creating scalable solutions with potential far beyond DEG.”
Dr Ahlim Hashm, DEG’s Technical Director and industry supervisor on the project, added:
“This partnership strengthens our ability to meet environmental regulations and unlock new revenue through carbon trading. It places DEG at the heart of the global movement toward carbon reduction.”
Speaking on the initiative, Dauson Chairman David Neal stated:
“This project incorporates our commitment to sustainability and innovation. These processes don’t just reduce carbon emission, they optimise energy use, supporting our mission to achieve 100% waste recycling and minimise environmental impact.”
The project aligns closely with the university’s strategic ambitions to be a national frontrunner in sustainability, combining academic excellence with real-world impact. As carbon regulation intensifies and markets increasingly reward greener solutions, this partnership stands as a bold example of how universities and industry can co-create technologies that benefit both people and planet.
Professor David Hughes, Associate Dean of Research at Teesside University and project co-lead, highlighted the broader impact:
“This initiative directly supports global sustainability targets while showcasing Teesside University’s leadership in environmental research. It reflects our commitment to responsible innovation and our role in tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time.”
Little Free Library Donated
A Little Library with a Big Heart – Supporting Community and Creativity in Blaengarw
At The Dauson Environmental Group, we’re proud to support local projects that make a real difference and the recent creation of a Free Little Library in Parc Calon Lan, Blaengarw is a perfect example.
What started as a simple idea quickly blossomed into something truly special, thanks to the imagination, compassion and dedication of local children. As part of a broader invitation to serve their community, the children were encouraged to think of ways they could contribute positively. They chose to create a free library for everyone to enjoy.
With support from their group leader, Hannah Smart, the children took charge of the entire project. From sourcing the books and seeking permission to install the library, to designing promotional posters and selecting its perfect home in the park, the children led with energy and creativity.
As part of the opening ceremony, eight-year-old Issac gave a heartfelt speech, quoting Dr. Seuss:
“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”
He added,
“We hope that children in our community can take themselves to many new places as a result of this new little library.”
Hannah Smart, Children’s Group Leader, expressed her pride, saying,
“I am immensely proud of the children who have been involved with all aspects of the project, including making posters to promote the new library. They have all grown and acted selflessly, thinking of how they could help other children in the community.”
“This project would not have been possible without the generous support and kindness of Dauson Environmental Group by provided the library structure itself and the time of Ben Maizey who gave his expertise to help build the library and spent time talking with the children about the importance of looking after the environment and the value of reusing and sharing books”.
At Dauson we see this project being far more that a box of books – it’s a symbol of generosity, creativity, and the power of young people to spark positive change. We’re delighted to have played a part in this grassroots initiative.
Dauson Group have a community fund to support such initiatives in the locality. If you feel your organisation could benefit, please get in touch (LINK TO FORM)
Bluefield Land Awarded Cimla Site
Cimla site awarded with Tai Tarian
Bluefield Land are delighted to announce that we have entered into partnership with Tai Tarian for the first time, to provide 22 much needed homes in Cimla, Neath.
This scheme will deliver high quality, energy efficient homes to suit a variety of local housing needs.
We’re delighted to be working with the Tai Tarian team and look forward to commencing works shortly.
Follow updates and progress at: www.bluefieldland.co.uk
Supporting Schools and Green Industry Careers
Dauson Environmental Group: Supporting Schools and Green Industry Careers
28th February 2025
The beginning of this year has already provided numerous opportunities for Dauson Environmental Group to collaborate with authorities across the Capital Region. Our commitment to supporting school sustainability projects and promoting careers in the green industry has seen us engage with students of all ages, from primary school children to sixth-form school leavers.
One of our key partnerships has been with Cardiff Council, where we have worked to introduce students to the vast opportunities available within the environmental sector. Through school visits, interactive sessions, and career talks, we aim to inspire young minds and encourage them to consider careers that contribute to a more sustainable future.
At Dauson Environmental Group, we firmly believe that sustainability is not just about environmental stewardship but also about providing lasting benefits to communities. By fostering sustainable practices and supporting initiatives that educate and empower the younger generation, we help build a future where businesses, individuals, and communities thrive in harmony with the environment. Through collaboration and education, we can drive meaningful change that benefits both people and the planet.
Ben Maizey, our Sustainability and Future Generations Manager, recently visited Grangetown Primary School and was deeply impressed by the students’ insightful suggestions on how to build a more sustainable community. Their enthusiasm and innovative ideas demonstrated a strong awareness of environmental issues and the importance of taking action at a local level. Similarly, Year 7 pupils at Eastern High have come together to develop sustainability initiatives aimed at increasing the environmental performance of their school. Their dedication and creativity highlight the growing interest among young people in driving meaningful change.
Reflecting on these engagements, Ben Maizey shared his thoughts:
“While my role is to promote and share knowledge about the environmental sector and the rewarding careers within it, I have found it incredibly inspiring to hear the ideas and perspectives of these students. Their recognition of sustainability’s importance and their commitment to environmentally responsible actions give me great confidence in the future of our industry.”
As part of its sustainability strategy and objectives, Dauson Environmental Group recognises the importance of positively impacting the next generation. We are committed to encouraging sustainable practices and highlighting the many advantages of a career in the green industry.
We remain open to supporting schools with eco and sustainability initiatives. If you believe we can assist your school through presentations, workshops, or project support, please get in touch.
Dauson Sustainability Report 2025 Launched
Dauson Environmental Group Unveils 2025 Sustainability Strategy Following a Year of Impact
23rd January 2025
As we step into 2025, Dauson Environmental Group is proud to reaffirm our commitment to sustainability with a strategy that continues to drive positive change for our planet, our communities, and our people.
Building on the strong foundations of 2024, this year’s strategy will focus on three core areas:
- Our World – Reducing environmental impact and driving sustainable innovation.
- Our Community – Supporting local initiatives and fostering social value.
- Our People – Championing employee well-being and professional growth.
This approach ensures we meet the increasing expectations of our customers, comply with public sector commitments, and promote the sustainability benefits we provide to the communities we serve.
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Our strategy document is available here.
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2024: A Year of Impact
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Last year, we made meaningful contributions across various sustainability and community initiatives. Here are some of the highlights:
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Inspiring Green Skills in Schools
We believe the younger generation holds the key to a more sustainable future. In 2024, we partnered with local authorities to deliver eco-friendly school projects, assembly presentations, and career events. Through these efforts, we helped students develop an interest in green skills and cultivate responsible waste habits.
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Driving Innovation in Waste Repurposing
Our collaboration with Teesside University explored ways to transform waste into valuable low-carbon products. This partnership is progressing well, and in 2025, we aim to expand our research to help improve business operations while contributing to the UK’s net-zero targets. We look forward to announcing more in dure course.
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Backing Grassroots Sports & Inclusivity
We continued our commitment to grassroots sports across the region, supporting cricket, rugby, and football teams, as well as individual athletes. Notably, we supported Megan Thyer, Wales’ 2024 Child Sporting Hero, as she represented Great Britain at the World Jujitsu Championships.
Another particularly meaningful moment was helping establish a new public batting facility following a racist attack, reinforcing our dedication to community resilience and inclusivity.
Supporting Charities & Disaster Relief
We remained committed to charitable giving, supporting Caerphilly Foodbank, the children’s cancer charity Latch, and Save the Children Wales’ Christmas appeal. Our community support extended to disaster relief efforts, such as assisting with the November floods in Pontypridd, where we provided skips and environmental clean-up services to help businesses recover quickly.
Empowering Community Projects
Our partnerships with local authorities and community groups allowed us to provide financial aid, volunteer labour, and recycled landscaping materials to various initiatives. One standout project was a life skills training facility in Cardiff, designed to equip individuals with essential everyday skills.
Looking Ahead: 2025 & Beyond
In 2025, we will build upon these successes and our work will be promoted through our website.
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If you or an organisation you know could benefit from our Community Benefit Fund, please get in touch or complete the application form
CLICK HERE
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For more details on our 2025 Sustainability Strategy, visit our Sustainability Strategy page.
Wales Recycling up to 66.6%
Neal Soils Suppliers: Wales' Leading Recycler
Wales continues to lead the way in recycling, achieving a remarkable 66.6% municipal recycling rate for 2023/24 was confirmed on 31 October 2024, an increase from 65.7% in the previous year. Surpassing the 64% target set in the Welsh Government’s ‘Beyond Recycling’ strategy, this achievement underscores the collective efforts of local authorities, businesses, and residents.
Among these contributors, Neal Soils Suppliers stands out as the number one Welsh-based contributor to municipal recycling, as confirmed by Wales Stats.
In response to the report, it’s owner, David Neal, stated,
“While we are acknowledged as Wales’ leading recycler, we see this as a shared success. Our mission is to provide innovative recycling solutions, and we’re committed to supporting the Welsh Government’s vision of a sustainable future. Together, with our fellow resource industry partners and communities, we can achieve even more.”
Leading the Way in Disposal and Recycling
For over two decades, Neal Soils Suppliers has been at the forefront of recycling innovation. At the heart of their operations is it’s aggregate washing plant, which has undergone significant multi-million-pound investments in recent years. With an annual permitted capacity of 350,000 tonnes, the facility transforms inert soil and stone into high-quality, reusable materials.
The plant employs technology, including rinse decks, log washers and cyclone systems, to efficiently grade, separate, and process materials. By adhering to stringent industry quality protocols, all products meet end-of-waste criteria, providing sustainable solutions for construction and manufacturing sectors.
In addition, Neal Soil Suppliers not only provides evidence that materials are effectively recycled but also ensures transparency in the closed-loop recycling process, demonstrating how the recycled materials are repurposed locally by end users.
Driving Change Across the Dauson Group - Supporting Wales' Ambitions
Neal Soils Suppliers is part of the larger Dauson Group, which also includes Atlantic Recycling. Together, the group expands its impact by providing additional recycling solutions, further enhancing its contributions to Wales' recycling achievements.
As Wales continues to surpass its recycling targets, Neal Soil Suppliers remains committed to upholding its values of innovation, transparency, and collaboration, playing a key role in advancing the vision for a sustainable future in Wales.
Links:
Wrap Cymru "Your recycling and what happens to it"
Congratulations Megan: Child Of Wales Awards
Megan Thyer: 2024 Wales Child Award Winner
We are thrilled to congratulate 12-year-old Megan Thyer for winning the "Young Sporting Hero" award at the Wales Child Awards 2024, held in Swansea on 27th September. Megan, from Llanelli, is part of the Welsh & GB jujitsu squad and has competed internationally, securing two golds and two silvers in European competitions.
Dauson Environmental was proud to support Megan earlier in the year when at only aged 11 at the time, won Great Britain Jujitsu’s first ever European Gold Medal in Belgium at the Europa Cup.
The judging panel for "Young Sporting Hero" award, which included Welsh sporting greats Sir Gareth Edwards and Shane Williams, remarked:
"Despite her success, Megan remains humble and shares her knowledge with her teammates, inspiring them and boosting their confidence. Her role as a trailblazer makes her an excellent role model for young athletes in Wales and Great Britain, exemplifying dedication, humility, and self-belief."
Dauson Environmental continues to wish Megan success in her journey as she strives for excellence in jujitsu and is delighted to continue to support her continued journey as she now makes her way to the World Championships in Greece later this year.
Dauson Community Grant
As part of our ongoing commitment to the communities we serve, Dauson Environmental Group offers community grants to support individuals like Megan and local youth sports teams. These grants are available to any voluntary group or individual working to make a positive impact in their community. Applications can be submitted by completing this form.
COMMUNITY BENEFIT APPLICATION FORM LINK
If you know of a group or individual who could benefit from this support, we welcome you to get in touch.