WIREDGOV

Natural Resources Minister Carl Sargeant has reiterated his commitment to National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and wants them to play a more significant role in how Wales manages its environment.

Providing an update on the independent review of designated landscapes in Wales, which he announced in September 2014, the Minister said that National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are integral to Wales’ national identity and are recognised internationally as part of a global family of protected areas.

Carl Sargeant said:

“National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are highly valued. They are assets that we should celebrate and protect, but also continue to harness to tackle the environmental and economic challenges that we face. I want them to be international exemplars of sustainability, living landscapes with vibrant, resilient communities, providing extensive outdoor recreation opportunities, tackling social issues and, creating thriving ecosystems which are rich in biodiversity.”

Stage one of the independent review examined the designations themselves, looking at their purposes and the merits of classifying Wales’s designated landscapes under one type of designation. The first stage of the review is now complete and the panel has made six recommendations.

The Minister said that the report of stage one would now provide the basis for reviewing governance and management arrangements of the designations.

Carl Sargeant said:

“The purpose of the review is to gather and analyse evidence in support of a comprehensive set of recommendations which should ensure that our designated landscapes are best equipped to realise their potential, while building upon their internationally recognised status and brand.

“As we move forward in Wales to develop our own ways of delivering public services associated with planning, regulating land use and managing our natural resources, it’s vital that the national parks and AONBs are not left behind. Reform will be necessary to ensure that these areas prosper through their continued protection while maximising the benefits they provide to the people of Wales.”