A PAST critic of the Summit To Sea rewilding project in mid Wales believes the intervention of RSPB Cymru heralds a fresh start.

The controversial £3.4m programme aims to increase biodiversity and restore ecosystems in 10,000ha of Mid Wales – stretching from Machynlleth to Llanidloes and Aberystwyth – and almost 30,000ha of Cardigan Bay.

But back in October Rewilding Britain pulled out following a furious backlash from farming communities who feared business constraints would force them to rely on ecological tourism.

Another partner, Machynlleth-based Ecodyfi, also withdrew saying they were "disturbed" by the scheme’s focus on the environment at the expense of the area’s "cultural, linguistic, social and economic aspects".

Powys County Council subsequently called on the project to include partners such as the farming unions, local authorities and Welsh language group Mentrau Iaith, with Plaid Cymru group leader Cllr Elwyn Vaughan describing the scheme as "privileged middle-class romanticism".

But he has welcomed last week’s announcement that the project will now be managed by RSPB Cymru.

“We are very happy that the project has listened to the concerns expressed over the past 18 months, and with the departure of Rewilding Britain and their vision, along with the complete restructuring of the project, are now looking to create a future built on fresh foundations that reflect the community and landscape of this area,” he said.

“If the open-ness and constructive dialogue of the past few months becomes a pattern that continues to shape the project as it progresses, we really look forward to seeing what develops and its contribution towards ensuring the existence of sustainable communities in the area.”

Partners, local stakeholders and the Summit to Sea funder have agreed that current project work must move into a new planning process allowing local communities to agree the direction of any long-term land and sea scape project.

Neil Lambert, head of land, RSPB Cymru said: “Going forward as a partnership, we’ll be working closely with both land and sea stakeholders. It is essential that any project delivers for local people as well as wildlife.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to increase connectivity between terrestrial and marine environments at scale for the benefit of people and biodiversity in mid-Wales.”

While RSPB Cymru will play a key role in hosting the project staff and reporting to funders, their role in decision-making will be equal to that of all current and future partners.

Rory Francis, PR and campaigning manager, Woodland Trust said: “One thing we have all learnt over the past few months is just how important a high-quality local environment is to each and every one of us.

“It’s always been the aim of the Summit to Sea project to help restore and improve that environment, promoting healthy ecosystems and a resilient local economy.

“Summit to Sea now has the chance to make a new start in doing this, working with local communities and stakeholders. We’re determined to learn the lessons of the past to ensure we can all make the most of this opportunity in the future.”