NATURAL Resources Wales (NRW) has confirmed that it is withdrawing some of its services –including closing its three visitor centres in Mid Wales and possible job losses.

Following months of speculation, as well as protests and petitions, NRW released a rather convoluted statement on Wednesday, November 6, in which it said “some services will be reduced or delivered differently”.

This includes ending catering and retail operations at its three visitor centres – Bwlch Nant yr Arian and Ynyslas, both near Aberystwyth; and Coed y Brenin, near Dolgellau.

NRW - which oversees forestry in the country - said 120 staff members will be directly impacted by the changes, although it declined to reveal exactly how many people will lose their jobs.

“While NRW is committed to investing in priority areas, the organisation will have to stop or scale back certain services to ensure that resources are used as efficiently and effectively as possible,” the organisation said in a statement.

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“Following trade union consultation, several proposals have been adjusted, reducing the number of roles to be removed from the organisational structure.

“120 staff members are directly impacted by this change and, where possible, they will be redeployed within the organisation.

“Following board approval some services will be reduced or delivered differently, including areas such as provision of recreation on the land in our care and interpretation services.

“Additionally, certain activities that fall outside of NRW’s statutory responsibilities or have a lower impact on key environmental priorities will be discontinued.

“This includes no longer having a physical library service. The catering and retail operations at visitor centres will also end.”

More information will be provided at public meetings, NRW said, the dates of which are due to be publicised shortly.  

NRW said implementing the “important changes to its structure” will enable it to sharpen its focus on areas where it can make the most meaningful impact for people and nature.

NRW says it will streamline activities and concentrate resources on delivering essential services that only it can provide – including investing in priority areas that will drive long-term benefits for Wales’ natural environment, including enhancing and improving water quality and monitoring.

Coed y Brenin, near Dolgellau, is hugely popular with mountain bikers. Coed y Brenin, near Dolgellau, is hugely popular with mountain bikers. (Image: NRW) “Our goal is to ensure that every pound of public funding is used efficiently and effectively, with a focus on tackling the climate emergency, restoring biodiversity and addressing environmental risks,” said Sir David Henshaw, NRW chair.

“The changes we’re making now will help us maximise our impact where it matters most.

“This process is not only about addressing financial constraints but about putting NRW in the best shape to tackle the most pressing environmental issues. Every decision is aimed at maximising our impact where it’s most needed.

“While some activities will be adapted or delivered differently, the changes will free up resources to be invested in the areas that matter most.”

He added: “We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and resilience our staff have shown throughout this period of change.

“We know this has been a challenging time and we recognise the uncertainty that many have experienced.

“This process has not been just about restructuring, but about reshaping our organisation with a clear focus on the future.

“We understand these changes come with a personal cost and we are committed to supporting our team as we move forward.

“Together, we are building a stronger, more focused organisation, one that will continue to protect and enhance Wales' natural environment for future generations.”

This story originally appeared in our sister title, the County Times.