Rural Development Sub Committee to visit Welsh Uplands
13 November 2009
The National Assembly’s Rural Development Sub Committee will visit Tregaron as part of its inquiry into the future of the Welsh uplands.
Members of the public are invited to a formal meeting at Tregaron Memorial Hall on 23 November. The Committee will take evidence from farming unions NFU Cymru and the FUW, National Parks Wales and the Cambrian Mountain Society to discuss what they see as the main challenges and opportunities for the Welsh Uplands.
The inquiry began in August this year and is investigating the economic, social and environmental future of the area and whether it could qualify for support from the European Commission as a ‘less favoured area’. It will also make recommendations to the Welsh Government to protect but also develop the uplands.
Chair of the Rural Development Sub Committee Alun Davies AM said, “The Uplands of Wales are important to all of us. The uplands are an important environment for a number of reasons; including farming, forestry, recreation, wildlife conservation and water management. The area is also becoming increasingly important in relation to climate change and energy issues.”
Before the meeting committee members will visit Cors Caron Nature Reserve to see for themselves its environmental and ecological value. Formed 12 thousand years ago and covering 816 acres, Cors Caron is reputedly one of the finest examples of a raised bog system in the UK and is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species including the rare Red Kite bird of prey.
“Myself and my committee colleagues are looking forward to our visit to Cors Caron. It is so important when conducting an inquiry like this about such a special area that you take the time, not only to talk to all those with a vested interest, but to see first hand what is at stake.” Said Mr. Davies.
The Committee has already received written evidence from, among others, the National Trust, the Countryside Council for Wales, Country Land and Business Association and the RSPB.
The inquiry is due to come to an end next year.
Notes to editors:
Any member of the public wanting to watch proceedings at Tregaron Memorial Hall should book seats in the following way.
-call 0845 010 5500;
- text phone 0845 010 5678
-email assembly.bookings@wales.gsi.gov.uk
-write to: Assembly Booking Service, National Assembly for Wales, Prince's Park, Prince's Drive, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, LL29 8PL.