THE NORTH East Wales National Park Designation Project is set to host a consultation meeting at Canolfan Ceiriog Centre this October.

In its Programme for Government (2021-2026), Welsh Government sets out its intention to designate a new National Park in North East Wales based on the existing Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

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This would be a fourth National Park for Wales, and the first new such park to be established in Wales since 1957.

Following the consultation, all responses and any amendments to the boundary will be considered before presenting a recommendation to Welsh Government.

People from local communities and other key stakeholders are welcome to share their views on the initial Area of Search map.

Ash Pearce, Project Manager, said: "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.

“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.”

As a result,  Welsh Government has commissioned Natural Resources Wales (NRW) to evaluate the case for the designation. 

If there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the statutory criteria relating to natural beauty and opportunities for open-air recreation are met, and that the area is of such national significance that National Park purposes should apply, a Designation Order will be submitted to Welsh Government.

Ministers will then consider this and decide whether to confirm, refuse or vary the Designation Order. 

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If confirmed by Welsh Government, a new National Park will be designated.

The case for a new National Park will be considered within the existing Senedd term (2021-2026). 

The engagement event will run at Canolfan Ceiriog, in New Road, Glyn Ceiriog, on Wednesday, October 11, from 1pm until 7pm in-person.

People will only need to attend one event, be that online or in-person as the information shared will be the same for each event.

Mr Pearce added: “There will be a full consultation on a proposed boundary map in 2024 when we have completed our assessments and refined the map.”