WIREDGOV

Deputy Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hannah Blythyn has visited the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park to see the vital work being undertaken to allow visitors and residents to enjoy this protected landscape, its wildlife and heritage.

During her visit to St David’s, the Deputy Minister was introduced to Park Authority staff and volunteers and held talks with Members and Officers of the National Park Authority, where they discussed a range of important issues including climate change, biodiversity, tourism and affordable housing.

The Deputy Minister also toured Oriel y Parc, an innovative gallery and visitor centre, operated in partnership with Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales, which interprets and brings to life the National Park’s landscape for its many visitors. She also visited St Justinian – and enjoyed a walk along a stretch of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which boasts a small harbour and the St David’s Lifeboat Station.

The Welsh Government has continued its commitment to ensuring Wales’ National Parks and their communities prosper and flourish, with close to £15m in funding recently approved in the 2020-21 Welsh Government budget. This will include close to £5m of new capital funding to help National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) respond to the challenges of climate change, biodiversity loss and the impact of tourism.

During the visit the Deputy Minister highlighted the need for NPAs to continue supporting the Welsh Government’s efforts to achieve a carbon neutral public sector by 2030, while stimulating the significant economic, social and environmental benefit this can bring.

Deputy Minister for Housing and Local Government, Hannah Blythyn said:

Our fantastic National Parks offer us access to some of Wales’ most spectacular scenery. It was great to learn more about the work the team here in Pembrokeshire are doing, managing these landscapes for local communities and visitors alike.

Our National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are very special to the people of Wales and attract millions visitors each year.

The stunning landscapes play a vital role in delivering rich ecosystems and vibrant and resilient communities, providing a wide range of recreational opportunities. They are also well placed to respond to some of our greatest challenges around the urgent need to reduce emissions and support nature recovery.

I am pleased to be providing additional funding for our National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty next financial year to enable them to have an even greater impact in these areas.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority Chairman, Cllr Paul Harries added: 

We were pleased to welcome the Deputy Minister to the Pembrokeshire Coast and provide an insight into all the work that goes into managing the National Park for local people and visitors alike, thanks to the continued support provided by the Welsh Government.