Although the fence was put up without approval from council planning chiefs or the highways department it did have consent from Welsh historic buildings body Cadw. Landowner Dominic Tye said the six foot, eight inch fence is required to protect the remains of a 460-year-old iron forge. The ‘Lower or Abbey Wireworks, in Tintern, was the first water-powered wire drawing works in Britain and was established in 1566. It also said it had considered the impact of the fence on the remains of the ironworks when making its decision. Highways however said Mr Tye should be aware it can remove the fence “should it present a safety hazard or obstruction”.