Ynysdawela Nature Park declared local nature reserve

Ynysdawela Nature Park, in Upper Brynamman, has been made the seventh local nature reserve in Carmarthenshire.
This decision was approved by the council's cabinet on June 16, 2025, based on the park's biodiversity and environmental significance.
It now means that Ynysdawela Nature Park is recognised as a Local Nature Reserve under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949.
Ecological surveys and investment from the Welsh Government's Woodland Investment Grant have shown that the 16.5-hectare site is home to a wide variety of wildlife.
This includes the protected species Hazel Dormouse and Marsh Fritillary butterfly.
The two species are protected under Section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016.
There are also nine species of bats, 64 invertebrate species of conservation importance, and two invertebrate species never before recorded in Wales.
Cllr Hazel Evans, cabinet member for regeneration, leisure, culture, and 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."
The nature park, which is part of the National Forest for Wales, is a mix of ancient semi-natural woodland, coal spoil regeneration, and former farmland.
It is used by schools and the local community in the Amman Valley for educational, recreational, and conservation purposes.
The declaration aligns with Carmarthenshire's Tree and Woodland Strategy (2025), which promotes responsible access while protecting ecosystems.
The other local nature reserves in Carmarthenshire are Pembrey Burrows and Saltings, Ashpits Pond and Pwll Lagoon, North Dock Dunes, Carreg Cennen, Glan-yr-Afon, Kidwelly, and Morfa Berwig, Bynea.
More information about Carmarthenshire's green spaces and gardens can be found on the Discover Carmarthenshire website.

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