91¸£ÀûÉç

Former 91¸£ÀûÉç Radio Wales Country Focus presenter Mel Doel moves deeper into the communities who may find themselves inside a proposed new fourth Welsh National Park, gathering voices that reveal both affection for the landscape and unease about what designation might bring.

Mel meets conservationists restoring habitats and planting trees, and hears from volunteers already working to protect the areas wildlife. Along the waterways, she speaks to canoeists mid‑paddle. She watches as horses are prepared to pull the traditional canal boats — a reminder of the area’s distinctive heritage and the tourism economy that already thrives here.

Visitors tell her why they return to places like Llangollen, with its dramatic scenery and long‑established attractions. Mel also travels on the heritage railway, talking to passengers and volunteers about how a National Park might shape the future of tourism, identity and investment.

She also hears from farmers who fear that designation could complicate planning, land management and the day‑to‑day running of their businesses. Others worry that a new layer of bureaucracy may make it harder to get things done.

On the coast, conservationists describe rare bird species that have settled in recent years and ask whether National Park status would strengthen their protection. Mel also explores how the designation process works, what public consultation can and cannot decide, and whether there is enough political support at local and national level.

With Wales already home to three National Parks, she asks whether a fourth will be embraced — or seen by some as a park too far.

Presented by Mel Doel
Produced by Ashley Byrne
An MIM Production for 91¸£ÀûÉç Radio Wales