National Park Authority Members from across Wales met at a seminar last week, to discuss partnership working and policy at the Castle Hotel in Brecon. Members from Snowdonia, Bannau Brycheiniog and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authorities attended the two-day meeting that included a series of presentations and workshops.
The workshops were focused on the Wellbeing of Future Generation Act, Partnership Working and the Future Landscapes programme. It provided an opportunity for the three Parks to share expertise and experience whilst discussing Welsh Government Policy and identifying a collaborative working approach. Delegates from the Welsh Government were in attendance and also representatives from across the Environmental Sector including the respective Park Societies of the three National Parks, Natural Resources Wales and Wales’ Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Snowdonia, Bannau Brycheiniog and Pembrokeshire Coast National Parks all play a fundamental role within Wales. As well as conserving and sustaining the natural landscapes, the Parks also work with local communities, schools and businesses. The Parks provide access to the great outdoors and encourage recreational activity and social wellbeing, whilst also supporting a very strong tourism economy.
Assembly Member, Eluned Morgan spoke at the event about the economic challenges facing rural Wales, the changing agricultural situation and post Brexit. She said; “The rural economy is fundamental to Wales and the National Park Authorities play a very important role in maintaining and supporting that economy. It’s great to see collaborative partnership working and open discussion about important rural topics”.
Mel Doel, Chairman of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority said; “We are privileged to hold this event here in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and it’s hugely beneficial to share knowledge and working practices. It’s essential for Wales’ National Park Authorities to work together in an innovative way to achieve the aims set out by Welsh Government.”
ENDS
Photo: Left to Right: Tegryn Jones, CEO of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Mrs Gwyneth Hayward, Chairman of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, Mr Owain Wyn, Chairman of Snowdonia National Park Authority, Baroness Eluned Morgan of Ely, AM, Mr Emyr Williams, CEO of Snowdonia National Park Authority, Mrs Mel Doel, Chairman of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority, Mr John Cook, CEO of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority and Cllr Rosemarie Harris, Leader of Powys County Council.