Bosses at one of Meirionnydd’s top tourist attractions have shelved controversial plans to change its name.

Concerns were raised when plans were revealed to rename Llechwedd Slate Caverns ‘Slate Mountain’ back in February, prompting a wave of public criticism.

MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd Liz Saville Roberts and Blaenau Ffestiniog county councillor Annwen Daniels have welcomed a U-turn by Llechwedd Slate Caverns owners Zip World, who have ditched plans to rebrand the tourist attraction after a backlash from the local community.

Following pressure by local Cllr Daniels and a public engagement exercise with the local community, Llechwedd have abandoned the plans and reverted back to the original name, which dates back to 1836 when the mine was founded.

Mrs Saville Roberts and Cllr Daniels said in a joint statement: “We are pleased that Llechwedd have recognised the concerns expressed locally about their re-branding exercise and have responded positively to these concerns.

“We’d like to thank the owners for their willingness to listen and swiftly act on the specific and genuine concerns of the local community in Blaenau Ffestiniog, re-affirming the important and historic association between the mine and the town.

“Upon hearing of the intention to rebrand the site, we have both been involved in discussions with Llechwedd’s management team and will be having further meetings in due course.

“We should take every opportunity to celebrate our heritage and promote Llechwedd’s historical significance as one of world’s biggest producers of slate.”

Zip World did not want to comment.