Concern on Creation of National Park
Updated January 2025
The Welsh Government has outlined plans in its 2021-2026 Programme for Government to designate a new National Park in north-east Wales, based on the existing Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape. If established, it would be Wales’ fourth National Park and the first since 1957. Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is leading the evaluation process.
An initial Area of Search was shared in 2023. Public feedback was sought, and adjustments were made. The last consultation on the refined Candidate Area map ran from October to December 2024.
I was at the packed public meeting in Llanrhaeadr YM Village Hall in November, attended by over 250 people, and made my stance clear. The meeting, chaired by Alun Elidyr, farmer and S4C presenter, highlighted significant local opposition to the proposals to include parts of North Powys within the new National Park boundaries.
The overwhelming message from those that attended the meeting was clear: the proposals to create a fourth National Park in Wales, to include a large area of North Powys, are not welcome.
Since the conception of the proposals, I have not been convinced that Montgomeryshire would benefit. Changes could adversely affect farm diversification efforts, limiting opportunities for rural businesses who are already under pressure.
Increased tourism could strain local infrastructure, including roads and parking, which are already overburdened. The financial implications of establishing a new National Park are concerning to me, and I believe that funds would be better spent upgrading existing infrastructure rather than investigating the proposal. This comes down to priorities.
The overarching issue for me is that, despite a whole range of concerns and questions, no adequate assurances have been provided, and I remain opposed to the proposals.
The recent public consultation period will inform the Candidate Area map. Any necessary adjustments will lead to a statutory consultation in 2025. If NRW recommends proceeding, a Designation Order will be submitted to the Welsh Government for a final decision.