The Minister for Environment, Hannah Blythyn, today announced more than £3.4m for improvements to Wales’ three National Parks and five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs).
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The funding will be used to support a wide range of projects across Wales’ designated landscapes, including improving access to the outdoors, promoting conservation and regenerating some of their most fragile areas.
The announcement follows a commitment made by the Minister earlier this month to retain Wales’ designated landscapes and their current purpose of conserving and enhancing natural beauty.
Hannah Blythyn said:
“I re-affirmed my commitment to the designated landscapes in a statement I made in the Senedd earlier this month. Today’s announcement is further proof of our commitment to Wales’ National Parks and AONBs.
“This funding will help our designated landscapes continue to deliver rich ecosystems, vibrant and resilient communities and opportunities for outdoor recreation for all people across Wales.”
Among the improvements being made will be the introduction of electronic vehicle charging points to increase sustainable travel and improvements to recycling facilities to reduce littering within the National Parks. Access improvements for people with disabilities and other mobility issues will also be rolled out across all designated landscapes.
Hannah Blythyn added:
“This funding is helping support projects which will improve visitor facilities but also help with the long term protection of the environment. Projects such as peat land restoration and the prevention of habitat loss will all help tackle key environmental challenges and create a strong, diverse ecosystem for our designated landscapes.
“Millions of people visit our designated landscapes every year so it’s vital we continue to provide the best experience for them in order to encourage them to come back time and time again. I look forward to re-visiting our National Parks and AONBs to see these projects in action.”