The Welsh government has directed Natural Resources Wales to assess the evidence and case for a new national park and make a recommendation. The proposed area in Wales is based on the existing Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or AONB (Now known as a 'National Landscape'). If the National Park is established it will become the fourth in Wales, and the first since 1957.
The assessment procedure will decide if the evidence demonstrates that the statutory criteria relating to natural beauty and opportunities for open-air recreation are met, and if the area is of sufficient national significance that National Park purposes should apply. The procedure will also allow for consultation and ensure opportunity to adjust the proposals such that benefits are maximised and potential disbenefits can be avoided.
The 10-week public consultation period on the proposal for a new National Park in Wales runs from the 7 October to the 16 December 2024.
Ash Pearce, the programme manager in Natural Resources Wales' designated landscapes team commented:
"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.
"Early engagement has given us a much clearer picture of the issues, hopes and concerns of the local people and stakeholders. We have identified 11 themes that underline both risks and opportunities for the area. These reflect concerns about overtourism and the impact on housing, but also the hopes for better management, responsible access, conservation and nature's recovery.
"If a new national park is established, then it must be able to manage the risks and take advantage of the opportunities available, for the betterment of nature, people, and communities."
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