Powys residents could have the chance to weigh in on the plans for a proposed new National Park in Mid Wales.

Natural Resources Wales has announced a series of online and in person engagement events where people can have their say on the first new National Park in Wales for 70 years.

A meeting attended by Llanfyllin Town Council members in June heard that the town could be a key gateway to the national park - although that meeting was not attended by anybody involved with the evaluation process which could lead to the new park being created. 

Engagement events will run throughout October and November, allowing residents to learn more about the project, ask questions of the team and share feedback on an early map of the area being assessed.

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In May 2023, the Welsh Government commissioned Natural Resources Wales to evaluate the case for a new National Park in North East Wales based on the existing Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Project manager Ash Pearce said: “There will be a full consultation on a proposed boundary map in 2024 when we have completed our assessments and refined the map.

“At this stage the map simply defines the area to focus our assessment work, we are interested in listening to and understanding all stakeholders’ points of view.

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“I would urge anyone interested in the project to visit one of our online or in-person drop-in events to find out more about the work we are doing and share your feedback with us by completing a questionnaire.”

Below is a list of the various drop-in sessions throughout Powys and when they are being held;

  • October 11, at the Canolfan Ceiriog Centre in Llangollen, from 1pm to 7pm
  • October 28, at Loggerheads Country Park in Mold from, 10am to 4pm
  • On November 6, at the Public Institute in Llanfyllin, from 1pm to 7pm
  • On November 18, at Llangollen Town Hall, from 10am to 4pm
  • On November 22, at Trelanwyd Memorial Hall, from 1pm to 7pm

Two online sessions are also scheduled to be held via Microsoft Teams on October 19 and November 14, from 6pm to 7.30pm.

There is no need to book a space at any of the in-person events, as people are reportedly free to drop by.

Anyone interested in attending an online session is encouraged to email the project team at designated.landscapes.programme@naturalresourceswales.gov.uk with your name, interest in the project and which you want to attend.