WQ94973 (e) Tabled on 13/11/2024

Will the Cabinet Secretary explain why a report on the benefits to nature of a new national park in north-east Wales does not form part of the current consultation on the proposals by Natural Resources Wales?

Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs | Answered on 19/11/2024

Natural Resources Wales, the Welsh Government’s statutory adviser on Designated Landscapes, is currently consulting on a Candidate Area map and the evidence which led to its development. This is based on assessment of the statutory criteria for National Park status. The detailed assessment which informed the Candidate Area map has included conservation considerations.

In addition, there are several other evidence components such as Health, Welsh language, equalities, and economic considerations which are ongoing and will be completed in 2025, and ahead of a Statutory Consultation. The ‘Benefits for Nature’ report is part of this package of work.