The Welsh Government has indicated that it is minded not to proceed with the creation of the proposed Glyndŵr National Park, likely bringing a lengthy and divisive process to an end. While the decision is not yet final, it represents a significant change in direction for the Welsh Government.
What was the proposed Glyndŵr National Park?
The proposal covered much of North-East Wales and stretched into Powys, and centred on the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape (formerly AONB). Following an extensive assessment process, Natural Resources Wales concluded that the area met the statutory tests for designation and submitted a designation order to Welsh Ministers in January 2026.
Why is the Welsh Government reconsidering the National Park designation?
However, in a statement to the Senedd in October 2026, Cabinet Secretary Dafydd Trystan Davies announced that Welsh Ministers are provisionally minded not to proceed, citing concerns around affordability (establishing the National Park Authority would have cost c.£11 million), governance arrangements, long-term costs and whether the objectives could be achieved by alternative means.
What were the arguments for and against the proposed National Park?
The proposal attracted strong views on both sides. Supporters argued that National Park designation would provide stronger protection for landscapes, biodiversity and cultural heritage, while helping to address the climate and nature emergencies. Opponents, including a number of local authorities, raised concerns over planning controls, local governance, housing affordability, tourism pressures and the financial implications.
What does the decision mean for developers, landowners and businesses?
For developers, landowners, businesses and local authorities, the decision is likely to be welcomed as National Park designation would have resulted in a separate planning authority with enhanced statutory duties relating to landscape protection, which would almost certainly have made securing planning permission in the Park more difficult.
What happens next for the Glyndŵr National Park proposal?
The Government's position is provisional, and a further consultation period ends on 11 November 2026, before a final decision is reached. We strongly suspect though that the proposal will be abandoned.
Whatever the outcome, the debate highlights the continuing tension between environmental protection, economic development and local governance. Whilst the creation of a fourth Welsh National Park now appears unlikely, the policy objectives that drove the proposal, including landscape conservation, biodiversity enhancement and sustainable land management, remain firmly on the agenda.
Aaron & Partners' Planning Team will continue to monitor developments and advise clients affected by planning and environmental policy changes across Wales and the border counties.
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Key Contact
Mark Turner
Partner | Head of Planning, Environmental, Energy and Regulatory Law
Mark is a Partner and Head of Planning, Environmental, Energy and Regulatory Law. He advises clients on a wide range of planning matters including applications and appeals, Certificates of Lawfulness, High Court challenges and Judicial Reviews, and enforcement.
