Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park Authority

The Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park Authority is responsible for the management, conservation, and sustainable development of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, a protected landscape covering approximately 1,344 square kilometres in South Wales. The park is renowned for its stunning mountain ranges, rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Purpose and Responsibilities

The National Park Authority is tasked with delivering three core statutory purposes, as set out in the Environment Act 1995:

1. Conserving and Enhancing Natural Beauty, Wildlife, and Cultural Heritage
   • Protecting the park’s landscapes, habitats, and biodiversity.
   • Conserving historic sites, ancient monuments, and cultural heritage.
   • Encouraging sustainable land management and conservation practices.
2. Promoting Understanding and Enjoyment
   • Supporting responsible tourism and recreation.
   • Providing visitor facilities, educational programs, and guided experiences.
   • Maintaining and improving access to trails, including the Beacons Way and other key walking routes.
3. Fostering the Economic and Social Well-being of Local Communities
   • Supporting rural economies, local businesses, and sustainable tourism.
   • Working with farmers, landowners, and community groups.
   • Encouraging sustainable development and land use planning.

The Authority also has a legal duty to work towards sustainability and ensure that the needs of both the environment and local communities are balanced.

Partnerships and Collaboration

The National Park Authority works closely with Welsh Government, Natural Resources Wales, Visit Wales, local authorities, tourism businesses, and conservation organisations to deliver its objectives. Through initiatives like the Sustainable Tourism Strategy, it promotes responsible tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities.

As a Dark Sky Reserve, the park is internationally recognised for its commitment to preserving the natural night sky. The Authority collaborates with astronomy groups, accommodation providers, and local businesses to develop stargazing tourism and protect the park’s low light pollution status.

Tourism and Visitor Experience

Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) is a leading destination for outdoor activities, including:

• Hiking and walking – Popular routes include Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, and scenic trails like the Waterfall Country.
• Cycling and mountain biking – Designated trails in areas such as Brechfa and Afan Forest Park.
• Watersports – Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the River Usk and Llangorse Lake.
• Wildlife watching – Home to red kites, otters, and rare plant species.

The National Park Authority provides visitor centres, educational resources, and ranger services to ensure visitors enjoy the park responsibly while minimising environmental impact.

Sustainability and Conservation Efforts

The Authority leads various conservation initiatives, such as:

• Biodiversity restoration projects to protect endangered species and habitats.
• Sustainable land management schemes to reduce carbon footprints and promote regenerative agriculture.
• Climate action plans, focusing on reducing emissions and increasing resilience to environmental change.

Planning and Development

The National Park Authority oversees planning applications within the park boundary, ensuring that new developments align with environmental and cultural protection policies. It supports sustainable housing, renewable energy projects, and initiatives that enhance the local economy without compromising the park’s natural beauty.

Supporting Local Communities

The Authority plays a key role in fostering community engagement, heritage preservation, and sustainable economic growth. By working with local businesses, tourism operators, and conservation groups, it helps shape a park that is accessible, thriving, and protected for future generations.

For more information, visit: beacons-npa.gov.uk