Ynysdawela Nature Park declared a local nature reserve
8 days ago
Ynysdawela Nature Park, Upper Brynamman has been declared a Local Nature Reserve, becoming the seventh in Carmarthenshire, a county which boasts some of the finest wildlife habitats and peaceful woodlands in Wales.
This landmark decision, approved by Cabinet on 16 June 2025, recognises Ynysdawela’s rich biodiversity and significant environmental value at a local, regional, national, and, in the case of some species, even international level.
Following ecological surveys and substantial investment through the Welsh Government’s Woodland Investment Grant, the 16.5-hectare site has been shown to support an exceptional variety of wildlife, which include populations of Hazel Dormouse and Marsh Fritillary butterfly, both of which are protected under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016. The site also hosts nine species of bats, 64 invertebrate species of conservation importance, and two invertebrate species never before recorded in Wales.
Ynysdawela Nature Park forms part of the National Forest for Wales and features a unique mix of Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland, coal spoil regeneration and former farmland, offering educational, recreational and conservation value. It is already widely used by schools and the local community in the Amman Valley.
This declaration also aligns with Carmarthenshire’s Tree and Woodland Strategy (2025), promoting responsible access while safeguarding ecosystems for future generations.
Cllr Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture & Tourism, said:
“Ynysdawela is a valuable example of how we can protect and celebrate our natural heritage while providing meaningful spaces for people to connect with nature.
Declaring it as a Local Nature Reserve will strengthen our commitment to biodiversity, climate action and community wellbeing across Carmarthenshire.”
Ynysdawela Nature Park is recognised as a Local Nature Reserve under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949.
There are seven Local Nature Reserves in Carmarthenshire: Ynysdawela Nature Park, Upper Brynamman, Pembrey Burrows and Saltings, Ashpits Pond and Pwll Lagoon, North Dock Dunes, Carreg Cennen, Glan-yr-Afon, Kidwelly, and Morfa Berwig, Bynea. There are also a number of Nature reserves throughout the county managed by other organisations.
