THE great-great grandad of Forest of Dean homes is under threat from future quarrying plans.
These days it is only a mound among an undistinguished stand of trees but it is almost certainly the site of the ancient 'Old Castle of the Dean' and most probably the source of the word 'Dean' .
Local councillor Andrew Gardiner believes the site near Ruardean is so special and has such historical significance it should be preserved and maintained for all time.
He told the Review: "It is a unique area, unquestionably of Celtic origin. If future planning consents put this site under threat from quarrying it would be a major historical disaster.
Evidence
"There is supporting evidence that this is the Celtic 'Rwirdin' and more and more people are coming round to the theory that it is the source of the name 'Dean'. It is the very fabric of our identity.
"It is part of our glorious landscape and unique heritage and its desecration is just not an option," he said.
Mr Gardiner has been working almost round the clock to whip up interest and encourage Forest people to play an active part in shaping the County Council's future plans for obtaining stone by quarrying and to contribute to the growing debate about introducing a new "special status" for the area.
"They are vital issues to which everyone is entitled to contribute. Voices must be heard and we must try and retain as much as we can of this unique district," he said.
Of immediate concern to Mr Gardiner is the revelation that the county's Mineral Local Plan has identified a further extension to Drybrook Quarry.
"They already have consents which will give them up to 30 years work. I can't understand why that at this stage the council should want to identify areas which would give them more," he said.