Llanfyllin could be gateway to new Wales National Park

Llanfyllin is set to become the southern gateway to a new National Park that will cover a vast area of north Montgomeryshire.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has announced the dates of a series of online and in-person engagement events where people can have their say on an initial Area of Search map for a proposed new National Park in North East Wales.

The Welsh Government has commissioned NRW as the Designating Authority in Wales to evaluate the case for a new National Park based on the existing Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The case for a new National Park will be considered within the existing Senedd term (2021-2026).

The engagement events will take place in October and November 2023 and will be an opportunity to learn more about the project, ask questions of the team and share feedback on an early map of the area being assessed.

Ash Pearce, Project Manager, said: “There will be a full consultation on a proposed boundary map in 2024 when we have completed our assessments and refined the map. At this stage the map simply defines the area to focus our assessment work, we are interested in listening to and understanding all stakeholders’ points of view.

“I would urge anyone interested in the project to visit one of our online or in-person drop-in events to find out more about the work we are doing and share your feedback with us by completing a questionnaire.”

The engagement period will run from October 9 - November 27.

The Llanfyllin drop-on will be held at the Public Institute Committee on Park View/High St from 1pm-7pm on November 6, but there will be an online opportunity through Microsoft Teams from 6pm-7.30pm on October 19.

There is no need to book a place for the drop-ins, but if you are interested in taking part in the online event, email designated.landscapes.programme@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk with your name and state your interest (e.g. resident, community leader, landowner, farmer, business owner, organisation representative, etc). These will be bilingual events with simultaneous translation provided.

NRW have prepared procedural guidance setting out the statutory process that must be followed. It is evidence based and allows for engagement and consultation with statutory consultees, the public and other stakeholders.

For more information on the project and evaluation process, visit the website at: https://ymgynghori.cyfoethnaturiol.cymru/north-east-gogledd-ddwyrain/north-east-wales-national-park-designation-project