A consultation has been launched for residents to give their views on the future of forestry in the Ystwyth Valley.

Natural Resources Wales has launched the consultation in order to plan how it manages the Ystwyth Forest area which amounts to 1,218 hectares, incorporating many of the discrete woodland blocks running along the valley, from the outskirts of Aberystwyth at its western extremity, to Pontrhydygroes, on the flanks of the Cambrian Mountains, in the east.

NRW is keen to hear the views of residents to influence the future management of the forest for the next 10 years and beyond.

Included in the consultation are mention of a sustainable supply of timber; diversifying the species and structural composition of the forest; manage for the protection of water and soils; maintain and enhance priority habitats and support protected species; address the current lack of access infrastructure and to prepare for the anticipated rise in local deer populations.

Jim Ralph, Senior Land Manager for NRW said: “Everyone benefits from a well-managed forest: it provides green spaces for people to enjoy, sustainable timber, carbon sequestration and benefits to local biodiversity.

“We are asking local residents to have a look at the plans we have put together to manage the Ystwyth Forest and to give us their views on it. The plans are not confirmed and will look to make changes based on feedback.”

The plans can be read and responded to by visiting NRW’s consultation website on: https://ymgynghori.cyfoethnaturiol.cymru/forest-planning-cynllunio-coedwig/ystwyth-valley-forest-resource-plan

Residents who want to send feedback by post can send it to: Natural Resources Wales, Llanfair Road, Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, SA20 0AL.