In its recently submitted consultation response, the union raised its members’ concerns on the potential impacts to their businesses as well as the uncertainty surrounding how land management, food production and future developments would be affected.
The union also stated that the proposed area is vast, extending much further than the current AONB, and will include a significant land area currently without any designation.
Numerous issues within the proposals
NFU Cymru Clwyd County Chairman, David Williams said: “Although we have taken the time to listen again and review the revised proposals, the practical challenges our members foresee remain unresolved. Our consultation response reflects a consistent message - the proposed national park does not provide the clarity or benefits required to justify its introduction, and our members cannot support the proposal.
“Members have cited numerous issues within the current proposals, not least the impact any new designation may have on the planning system. Farmers are concerned about the likely repercussions on farming families looking to invest in their business or undertake diversification projects as an alternative income stream. We strongly believe that the planning process must recognise the strategic importance of food production and the need for farm businesses to change with the times to maintain viability and in turn continue to manage the wider landscape.
Pressures on public finances
“NFU Cymru also has reservations regarding the funding allocated to the project to investigate the scope of a new national park designation at this time, considering the pressures on the agricultural industry at this time. Going forward we also question where further funding will materialise from given the pressures on public finances.
“Our members have also raised concerns about the increasing burden of visitors to the area, particularly when existing infrastructure is already stretched. 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, taxation 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 needs to be considered as part of the consultation process.
“NFU Cymru will continue to raise our members’ concerns regarding the national park proposals and we urge farmers living within the area to also voice their concerns independently.”
A copy of NFU Cymru’s full response is available on the NFU Cymru website.