FUW urges farmers to have their say on proposed Glyndŵr National Park

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) has reiterated its concerns about the potential impact of a proposed North East Wales National Park on rural communities and farming businesses, urging residents to take part in the latest consultation process.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has launched a 12-week statutory consultation on the proposed Glyndŵr National Park, beginning Monday 15 September 2025. 

The consultation follows two years of technical assessments and public engagement commissioned by the Welsh Government. Members of the public, organisations and stakeholders are invited to view the revised proposals and submit feedback before the deadline on Monday 8 December 2025.

Maps of the proposed area are available online, and a series of public events will be held to support understanding and engagement.

Tim Faire, Chair of the FUW’s Land Use and Parliamentary Committee, said:

“Feedback received from our members in and around the proposed National Park area reflects a high level of concern and uncertainty about the practical implications of this proposal.

Questions remain around how a new National Park would be funded and managed, and what it would mean in practice for local planning, farming businesses, and rural infrastructure - much of which is already under strain and unlikely to cope with the added pressures that National Park designation could bring.

"While we recognise the value of protecting our landscapes, we believe the existing National Landscape designation provides a strong foundation. Future land management goals can be better achieved through local engagement and existing policy tools—without adding another costly and complex layer of designation.

Taking part in the consultation is therefore vital to make sure rural voices are heard, and that the real impact on farming and local communities is properly considered.”

Wyn Williams, FUW Montgomeryshire Chair, also warned of the wider implications for Powys:

"While we welcome the revised map and the removal of areas such as Llanfyllin and the Vyrnwy Valley, it is baffling that parts of Montgomeryshire are still included in a proposed National Park for North East Wales. Powys would become the only county in Wales to host two national parks, and at a time of economic uncertainty—with key services and assets like council farms already under pressure—there are valid questions about the potential financial implications for the local authority.

The additional bureaucratic responsibilities likely to come with this designation are also a concern for our farming communities, particularly given the challenges already facing Welsh agriculture. There is a real risk of added pressure on farming families and rural communities, as well as uncertainty over whether local infrastructure could meet the demands associated with National Park status."

To view the proposals, consultation events, and respond to the consultation, visit the consultation page before 8 December 2025.