Latest on proposed Glyndŵr (North Wales) National Park

The proposal for the Glyndŵr (North Wales) National Park is now at the Public Notice stage: the consultation window is now open 16 January–15 February 2026. CLA Cymru members may still submit a response.

We are in discussions with Local Authorities who are statutory consultees. If a statutory consultee formally objects, Welsh Ministers will be forced to delay proceedings which may lead to the Designation Order being amended, further evidence being sought, or a public inquiry or hearing being held.

Once the Public Notice period closes, Natural Resources Wales will submit all representations to Welsh Ministers, who will decide whether to confirm, modify or reject the proposal.

CLA Cymru will continue to press for decisions that are proportionate, evidence‑based and fully mindful of impacts on land management, farming businesses and rural communities.

Local Authorities That Have Publicly Objected
As of January 2026, the following local authorities have publicly and formally objected to the proposed Glyndŵr National Park, with objections agreed by councillors and submitted as part of the statutory consultation process.
Wrexham County Borough Council: Wrexham Council has formally rejected the proposal, with its Executive Board voting to oppose it and councillors describing the park as a “£4 million ego project." Concerns cited include unclear governance arrangements, financial risk to the council, planning implications, and a lack of evidence on costs and housing impacts.
Powys County Council: Powys County Council has unanimously voted to formally object to the national park proposal. The council’s objection highlights poor accessibility, disproportionate socio‑economic impacts, loss of planning income, pressure on infrastructure, and adverse effects on local communities and the Welsh language. Powys councillors have stated that their objection could trigger the need for a public inquiry if the proposal proceeds.
Denbighshire County Council: Denbighshire County Council has declined to support and formally opposed the proposal, citing concerns over infrastructure capacity, visitor pressure, funding uncertainty and increased burdens on local services at a time of significant financial constraint.

Authorities Raising Formal Concerns (but not a clear objection vote)
Flintshire County Council: Flintshire has publicly raised serious concerns about the proposal, particularly regarding governance, cost, economic impact and implications for housing and the Welsh language. While not initially unanimous, Cabinet discussions have indicated a likely formal objection.
Gwynedd Council: Gwynedd Council has stated that it lacks sufficient clarity on the proposal to either support or oppose it and has not lodged a formal objection to date.

For further information on the continued process, please contact Fraser McAuley.