Public invited to shape future of proposed National Park in Clwydian Range and Dee Valley

A 10-week public consultation on proposals for a new National Park in Wales has been announced by Natural Resources Wales (NRW).

Starting on 7 October and running until 16 December 2024, the consultation aims to gather public input on the potential creation of the park, which would centre around the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley, an area designated as a National Landscape.

Commissioned by the Welsh Government, NRW has been tasked with assessing the evidence and preparing a recommendation for the proposed National Park.

A study area, referred to as the “Area of Search,” was identified and shared with the public during an engagement period in late 2023.

Following this, and after an extensive period of evidence gathering, NRW is now ready to take the next step by consulting the public on the emerging proposal.

The consultation will focus on the draft boundary map, known as the Candidate Area Map, which outlines the proposed National Park’s extent.

Public events will take place throughout the autumn and winter months, offering opportunities for people to engage with the project, learn about the evidence gathered so far, and provide feedback on the proposal.

Ash Pearce, Programme Manager in NRW’s Designated Landscapes Programme, emphasised the importance of public participation in the consultation process.

“While we have a statutory procedure to follow, we want to ensure that this is an inclusive process and that people have the opportunity to share their views on the proposals,” Pearce said.

Ash Pearce also noted that early engagement with local communities has provided valuable insights into both the concerns and aspirations surrounding the potential park.

“We have identified eleven themes that underline both risks and opportunities for the area. These reflect concerns about over-tourism and the impact on housing, but also hopes for better management, responsible access, conservation, and nature’s recovery,” he added.

The creation of a new National Park would bring both opportunities and challenges for the region. While there is optimism about improved conservation efforts and better management of the land, concerns have been raised about how the designation could lead to over-tourism and housing pressure.

Ash Pearce stressed that, if established, the new National Park would need to address these risks while maximising opportunities for nature, people, and communities.

NRW has made adjustments to the initial study area based on local feedback and, over the past year, has enlisted three independent consultants to assist in developing the evidence base for their final recommendation.

The result is the Candidate Area Map, which will be presented to the public during the consultation period.

Public Drop-in Events:

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate by attending one of the in-person consultation events listed below, or signing up for an online session.

Each event will present the same information, ensuring everyone has the chance to engage and share their views.

Public Online Events:

Targeted Group Events:

NRW will also be hosting targeted events for specific groups, including elected members, recreation and access groups, the renewable energy sector, and landowners.

For more information and to view consultation materials, visit the project website. All consultation resources will be available online from 7 October 2024.