In its response, NFU Cymru stated that the proposed area is vast, and extends much further than the current AONB and will include a significant land area without any current designation. The union stated that the planning process is often cited negatively by the farming community working and living within other designated National Parks.
Little benefits
NFU Cymru Clwyd County Chairman, David Williams said: “Little evidence has been presented thus far on the benefits of further designation to the agricultural community. Members within the proposed area are concerned about the impact any new designation may have on the planning system, and the likely repercussions on farming families looking to invest in their farming business or undertake diversification projects.
“Our members have raised concerns about the increasing burden of visitors to the area, particularly when existing infrastructure is already stretched. Livestock farmers are especially concerned that more people utilising public footpaths through farmland may accentuate livestock worrying and the number of dog attacks.
“Without sufficient parking provision in the area the potential blocking of gateways and rural roads would also undoubtedly have an adverse effect on farmers ability to access fields to manage livestock. It could also restrict harvesting operations, as machinery may be unable to gain access. All of these matters are extremely time sensitive, and any delay could impact on animal health and welfare or affect the quality of crops being harvested.
Sense of anxiety
“The confidence and health and wellbeing of many farming families is fragile as a result of a wide range of policy and regulatory burdens impacting on the sector. The proposals have certainly created a further sense of anxiety within the agricultural community in the area under consideration and this also need to be considered as part of the consultation process.
“NFU Cymru was pleased that NRW presented to a well-attended meeting of NFU Cymru members earlier this autumn to hear first-hand their worries and concerns over the proposed designation and we would like to engage further with NRW on behalf of members who may be affected by the proposed designation and will continue to raise the concerns of its members with them.”