Update on Natural Resources Wales' visitor centres

Overview

Read this page in Welsh / Darllenwch y dudalen hon yn Gymraeg

We are working with our communities and seeking partners to enhance the visitor experience at two of Wales’ most beautiful and exciting outdoor destinations:

Both destinations provide unique opportunities for visitors to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. Paths, trails, and play areas are available to enjoy, and the sites offer car parking and toilet facilities.

Our colleagues here at Natural Resources Wales also carry out important work to protect wildlife and maintain the environment.

You can click on the links above if you are planning a visit and want practical information on points of interest, trails and activities, accessibility and directions.

These pages are designed to provide information on changes to the Visitor Centres at the sites, whether you live locally, visit the sites, or are interested in working with us.

We are currently (November 2025) launching two marketing exercises to find the right partners to lease the Visitor Centres, and potentially some of the surrounding areas, at Bwlch Nant yr Arian and Coed y Brenin.

   

Both sites offer an opportunity to enhance the visitor experience and work from two of Wales’ most special outdoor spaces.

NRW-provided retail and catering at the centres ceased operating in March 2025. This allowed us to focus our resources on achieving our core objectives to support nature’s recovery, tackle climate change and minimise pollution.

We were delighted to see Ynys-las Nature Hub (formally the Visitor Centre) re-opened in August 2025 in partnership with Borth Community Hub. The charity provides community activities and workshops from the building, as well as a selection of beverages and cold food at selected times.

We are also working in partnership with Consti, part of a local charity, to temporarily provide drinks and cold food to visitors at Bwlch Nant yr Arian from a unit on the site and advertising a similar temporary opportunity at Coed y Brenin.

Alongside this, we are aiming to find long-term, sustainable partners who can enhance the Bwlch Nant yr Arian and Coed y Brenin sites for the benefit of local communities, local businesses and visitors, whilst protecting nature. Prospective interested parties could be community groups, enterprises or businesses.

Whilst the marketing exercise launches in November it is likely to take several months before final submissions are made, in the Summer of 2026. The timescale that follows for appointment of a final partner can vary according to the number and range of bids made, as well as agreeing final terms and health and safety checks.

The exercise is delivered by Natural Resources Wales in partnership with Newmark, a leading commercial real estate advisor and service provider. If you are interested in bidding for either of the sites, please register on Sell to Wales (link below) or contact Newmark Associate Leo Llewellyn for more information by emailing leo.llewellyn@nmrk.com  or calling 029 2038 1874.

Information for bidders interested in Bwlch Nant yr Arian

Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre, near Aberystwyth in Ceredigion, is a well-equipped outdoor destination.

It offers scenic walking, running, cycling, and horse-riding way-marked trails with panoramic views of Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains.

It is well-known for its long-established daily red kite feeding - a sight to behold!

The site also features a skills park with a purpose-built track for mountain bikers to practice their techniques, as well as play areas.

The visitor centre is perched on a dramatic hilltop, straddling the boundary between the lowlands and uplands.

The primary scope, which is the non-negotiable land, assets, and activity elements that should be part of any bid, are the areas around the heart of the centre.

This includes the main Visitor Centre and car park, the events space building, bird-hide, corral for securing horses, play areas, skills park, pathways around the lake and red-kite feeding.

The secondary scope is optional assets bidders may wish to propose to lease and include the former office building, the external office/staff room, the lake and further recreation trails.

The exercise is delivered by Natural Resources Wales in partnership with Newmark, a leading commercial real estate advisor and service provider. If you are interested in bidding for either of the sites, please register on Sell 2 Wales (link below) or contact Newmark Associate Leo Llewellyn for more information by emailing leo.llewellyn@nmrk.com or calling 029 2038 1874.

A brochure with information, including images and maps, for potential bidders will be available soon.

Information for bidders - Coed y Brenin

Coed y Brenin is found near Dolgellau in Eryri National Park and is a well-established hub for outdoor activities.

It was Britain’s first purpose-built mountain biking centre, and it is still one of the sport’s top destinations with trails for beginners and more technical routes for expert riders. The area also has a bike shop and skills area to develop riding techniques.

Set within scenic forest and river landscapes, Coed y Brenin also offers way-marked walking and family-friendly trails, as well as children’s play areas and picnic tables.

The primary scope, which is the non-negotiable land, assets, and activity elements that should be part of any bid, are the areas around the heart of the centre.

This includes the main Visitor Centre and conference room, the extension building, the car park and play areas.

The secondary scope is optional assets bidders may wish to propose to lease and include the full network of recreational trails, and further land and a building (Maesgwm) which was historically used as a visitor centre.

The exercise is delivered by Natural Resources Wales in partnership with Newmark, a leading commercial real estate advisor and service provider. If you are interested in bidding for either of the sites, please register on Sell 2 Wales (link below) or contact Newmark Associate Leo Llewellyn for more information by emailing leo.llewellyn@nmrk.com or calling 02920 20381874.

A brochure with information, including images and maps, for potential bidders will be available soon.

Ynys-las community space hosts activities and workshops

Borth Community Hub is running a community space called Ynys-las Nature Hub (formally the Visitor Centre) at Natural Resources Wales’ Dyfi National Nature Reserve.

The community management agreement, which started in early August 2025, allows part of the Ynyslas building to be used for community activities and workshops to engage with and benefit the local community.

Founded in 2007, Borth Community Hub is a charity which hosts a range of activities and workshops to communities from northern Ceredigion to Machynlleth.

They are also providing beverages and cold food, including snacks and ice creams, for the public at selected times.

Please visit their Facebook page to find out more:  Borth Community Hub | Aberystwyth | Facebook

All paths, trails, car park, and toilet facilities remain open and managed by NRW. The important work undertaken to protect wildlife and maintain Dyfi National Nature Reserve also continues to be overseen by land management staff.

Frequently Asked Community Questions: Bwlch Nant yr Arian

Are food and drink available at the site?

The Consti unit is providing drinks and cold food for visitors to Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre.

Sustainably sourced food, with a focus on use of Welsh products, is provided as well as compostable single use plastics.

The unit is open 10am to 4pm, five days per week, including every weekend and most Bank Holidays.

The Consti, is part of the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway charity, the values of which align with those of NRW to protect the environment and promote sustainability.

Has the Visitor Centre ceased operating retail and catering?

Yes, on 31 March 2025 NRW-provided retail and catering services at the Visitor Centre ceased.

The site and all our paths, trails, car park and play area remain open and we continue to maintain our sites and ensure public access. Further visitor information can be found on our website.

Is Red Kite feeding continuing?

Yes, feeding of the red kites at Bwlch Nant yr Arian continues. Please see the Bwlch Nant yr Arian webpage for further information: Natural Resources Wales / Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre, near Aberystwyth

Are toilet facilities still open to visitors?

Yes, toilet facilities are accessible and open to the public.

Who is responsible for maintaining the site?

Visitor Centre staff were not responsible for managing the land in and around the Centres, this is the responsibility of the Land Management staff. The conservation and upkeep of these sites, including public access, is important to NRW, and continues. 

We continue to carry out our statutory duties as a land manager for the Welsh Government Woodland Estate at Bwlch Nant yr Arian, Coed y Brenin and Ynys-las.

Is the site still accessible to the public?

Yes, we continue to ensure and protect open access rights under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Designated open access land and agreed permissive routes will continue to be safeguarded as part of, and beyond, this marketing exercise.

What is happening with the bike trails at Bwlch Nant yr Arian?

Natural Resources Wales maintains the bike trails at Bwlch Nant yr Arian but will consider if any bidders wish to include recreational provision as an option within their bids. If this is not agreed as part of the lease, then we will continue to undertake this role.

Public access for a range of outdoor activities, not just mountain biking, continues.

Who is responsible for safety on the site?

Visitors to all our sites, including the three visitor centres, are responsible for their own safety as well as the safety of any children and animals with them during their visit. Further information can be found on our website: Natural Resources Wales / Visiting our places safely.

In the event of an emergency, you should always call 999.

How are you deterring anti-social behaviour?

Land Management staff continue to be a presence on site and monitor any undesirable behaviour.

CCTV cameras are in place and the new ANPR system in the car park, which will be operational from early 2026, will give us greater control and awareness of who is travelling on to the site.

Access to the site won’t change and is still open to visitors as normal. As in most settings the presence of other members of the public acts as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour.

Visitors are reminded that their litter or waste is their responsibility, and we urge the public to follow the guidelines set out in the Countryside Code and to leave no trace of their visits.

We encourage visitors to report incidents to us on 0300 065 3000, our 24-hour incident line, so we can alert our network of land managers with a 24/7 incident rota in place. Incidents can also be reported online via our website: Natural Resources Wales / Report an incident


How is the new car park charging system work?

The new system allows local users to manage and register for free parking via an app. Other users can purchase seasonal tickets and timed tariffs, with those who visit for shorter periods paying less.  Customers are still able to make payments via the machines on site, via telephone and by an app and users will have until 23:59hrs on the day of their visit to pay.

When will the marketing process for Bwlch Nant yr Arian start and what is the process?

We launched the marketing exercise on 28 November 2025.

We are aiming to find long-term, sustainable partners who can enhance the site for the benefit of local communities, local businesses and visitors, whilst protecting nature. Prospective interested parties could be community groups, enterprises or businesses.

More information for potential bidders is available in other sections of this page.

Will the new operators of Bwlch Nant yr Arian be required to maintain the Visitor Centre buildings as part of their contracts?

Yes, maintaining the main Visitor Centre building is an essential ‘primary’ part of the tender opportunity for Bwlch Nant yr Arian.

How and when was the decision made to stop retail and catering provision at the Visitor Centres?

In 2024 NRW underwent a review to ensure we are better equipped to deliver our Corporate Plan’s objectives to support nature’s recovery, tackle climate change and minimise pollution. The review considered what NRW can and should continue doing, what should be scaled back and what should stop to meet a revised budget reduction of £12 million.

Following extensive consultation with Trade Unions and staff, on 5 November 2024 the NRW Board met and agreed to implement key changes to meet those budgetary challenges, whilst continuing to fulfil the missions set out in our Corporate Plan.

The decision was that NRW will no longer directly operate catering and retail provision at Visitor Centres. We will instead look for partners, both community groups and businesses, to register an interest in providing these services moving forward.

What information was used to reach the conclusions in the Case for Change?

NRW’s Board approved the case for change following extensive consultation with the Trade Unions and their members alongside engagement with staff through our leadership teams. As part of preparing the case for change Leadership Team members undertook extensive assessment of the risks and impacts of all the activities that we undertake, understanding their legal basis and contribution to the outcomes in the corporate plan and term of Government Remit letter.

The NRW response to Trade Union feedback following the consultation can be found online: Case for Change - Natural Resources Wales Citizen Space - Citizen Space.

What considerations were made in the Case for Change of the impacts on local communities and the tourism sector in Wales?

NRW is not a tourism organisation. The purpose of NRW, as set out in the Environment (Wales) Act, is the sustainable management of natural resources in relation to Wales, with NRW’s strategic objectives set out in the term of government remit letter which is available to view online: Natural Resources Wales: Term of Government remit letter 2022 to 2026.

The Case for Change was conducted in response to financial pressures which have required us to streamline our activities and concentrate resources on delivering those essential services more aligned with NRW’s statutory responsibilities.

The Welsh Government’s draft budget shows NRW will receive an extra £7.6 million for 2025-2026, couldn’t this be used to keep retail and catering provision open?

NRW has an important role to play in tackling the intrinsically linked nature and climate emergencies, and we’re pleased to see these critical issues placed at the heart of the Welsh Government’s draft budget.

This year’s draft budget is positive news for NRW. The increased funding of just over £7.6 million reflects the importance of the work we do and the government’s recognition of the value we deliver.

This indicative budget provides us with the opportunity to plan effectively for the year ahead, aligning our efforts with Ministerial priorities while advancing our own objectives. We are pleased with the settlement, which reflects recognition of our critical work, but we are also mindful of the challenges that lie ahead as we navigate evolving demands and pressures.

This settlement does not alter our agreed decisions to cease or scale back certain activities under the Case for Change, the funding will be strategically directed toward the identified investment areas. This approach ensures we remain focused on achieving the ambitions outlined in our Corporate Plan to 2030.

If I have questions about the Visitor Centres changes, how can I ask NRW?

Any questions about to the Case for Change process in relation to the Visitor Centres should be directed via email to ymgysylltu.masnachol@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk

Frequently Asked Community Questions: Coed y Brenin

Has the Visitor Centre ceased operating retail and catering?

Yes, on 31 March 2025 NRW-provided retail and catering services at the Visitor Centre ceased.

The site and all our paths, trails, car park and play area remain open and we continue to maintain our sites and ensure public access. Further visitor information can be found on our website.

Are toilet facilities still open to visitors?

Yes, toilet facilities are accessible and open to the public.

Now the Visitor Centre has closed who is responsible for maintaining the site?

Visitor Centre staff were not responsible for managing the land in and around the Centres, this is the responsibility of our Land Management staff. The conservation and upkeep of these sites, including public access, is important to us, and continues. 

We will continue to carry out our statutory duties as a land manager for the Welsh Government Woodland Estate at Bwlch Nant yr Arian, Coed y Brenin and Ynys-las.

Is the site still accessible to the public?

Yes, we continue to ensure and protect open access rights under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. Designated open access land and agreed permissive routes will continue to be safeguarded as part of, and beyond, this marketing exercise.

What will happen with the bike trails at Coed y Brenin?

Bike trails at Coed y Brenin will continue to be maintained by NRW through their allocated maintenance budgets for the next financial year. Although there will be changes to the Recreation Team as part of the Case for Change, Coed y Brenin are priority sites and therefore will continue to be supported.

Public access to these sites will be maintained for a range of outdoor activity, not just mountain biking. Recreation provision could be included in any final market offer; however, no decision has been taken on that at this stage.

Who will be responsible for safety on the site?

Visitors to all our sites, including the three visitor centres, are responsible for their own safety as well as the safety of any children and animals with them during their visit. Further information can be found on our website: Natural Resources Wales / Visiting our places safely.

In the event of an emergency, you should always call 999.

Will there be temporary catering provision on site now the Visitor Centre has ceased its provision?

We are currently advertising to the market an opportunity to supply an interim concession service of hot drinks at Coed y Brenin. It is anticipated that this concession service would remain in place until new operators for the Visitor Centre is found. More information on how to submit a bid can be found on this webpage.

How will you deter anti-social behaviour?

Land Management staff will continue to be a presence on site and therefore able to monitor any undesirable behaviour.

CCTV cameras are already in place and the new ANPR system in the car park, which will be installed in a few months' time, will give us greater control and awareness of who is travelling on to the site.

Visitors are reminded that their litter or waste is their responsibility, and we urge the public to follow the guidelines set out in the Countryside Code and to leave no trace of their visits.

 We encourage visitors to report incidents to us on 0300 065 3000, our 24-hour incident line, so we can alert our network of land managers with a 24/7 incident rota in place. Incidents can also be reported online via our website: Natural Resources Wales / Report an incident

Access to the site won’t change and is still open to visitors as normal. As in most settings the presence of other members of the public acts as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour.

How will the new car park charging system work?

The new system will allow local users to manage and register for free parking via an app. Other users will be able to purchase seasonal tickets and timed tariffs, with those who visit for shorter periods paying less.  Customers will still be able to make payments via the machines on site, via telephone and by an app and users will have until 23:59hrs on the day of their visit to pay.

This new system of ANPR cameras will replace the older, less reliable car counters and ensures we can remove and replace outdated mechanical equipment at our sites in Newborough and Coed Y Brenin, including removing maintenance contracts.

When will the marketing process for Coed y Brenin start and what is the process?

We launched the marketing exercise on 28 November 2025.

We are aiming to find long-term, sustainable partners who can enhance the site for the benefit of local communities, local businesses and visitors, whilst protecting nature. Prospective interested parties could be community groups, enterprises or businesses.

More information for potential bidders is available in other sections of this page.

Will the new operators of Coed y Brenin be required to maintain the Visitor Centre buildings as part of their contracts?

Yes, maintaining the Visitor Centre is an essential ‘primary’ part of the tender opportunity for Coed y Brenin.

How and when was the decision made to stop retail and catering provision at the Visitor Centres?

Last Year NRW has underwent a review to ensure we are better equipped to deliver our Corporate Plan’s objectives to support nature’s recovery, tackle climate change and minimise pollution. The review considered what NRW can and should continue doing, what should be scaled back and what should stop to meet a revised budget reduction of £12 million.

Following extensive consultation with Trade Unions and staff, on 5 November 2024 the NRW Board met and agreed to implement key changes to meet those budgetary challenges, whilst continuing to fulfil the missions set out in our Corporate Plan.

The decision was that NRW will no longer directly operate catering and retail provision at Visitor Centres. We will instead look for partners, both community groups and businesses, to register an interest in providing these services moving forward.

What information was used to reach the conclusions in the Case for Change?

NRW’s Board approved the case for change following extensive consultation with the Trade Unions and their members alongside engagement with staff through our leadership teams.

As part of preparing the case for change Leadership Team members undertook extensive assessment of the risks and impacts of all the activities that we undertake, understanding their legal basis and contribution to the outcomes in the corporate plan and term of Government Remit letter.

The NRW response to Trade Union feedback following the consultation can be found online: Case for Change - Natural Resources Wales Citizen Space - Citizen Space.

What considerations were made in the Case for Change of the impacts on local communities and the tourism sector in Wales?

NRW is not a tourism organisation. The purpose of NRW, as set out in the Environment (Wales) Act, is the sustainable management of natural resources in relation to Wales, with NRW’s strategic objectives set out in the term of government remit letter which is available to view online: Natural Resources Wales: Term of Government remit letter 2022 to 2026.

The Case for Change was conducted in response to financial pressures which have required us to streamline our activities and concentrate resources on delivering those essential services more aligned with NRW’s statutory responsibilities.

The Welsh Government’s draft budget shows NRW will receive an extra £7.6 million for 2025-2026, can’t this be used to keep retail and catering provision open?

NRW has an important role to play in tackling the intrinsically linked nature and climate emergencies, and we’re pleased to see these critical issues placed at the heart of the Welsh Government’s draft budget.

This year’s draft budget is positive news for NRW. The increased funding of just over £7.6m reflects the importance of the work we do and the government’s recognition of the value we deliver.

This indicative budget provides us with the opportunity to plan effectively for the year ahead, aligning our efforts with Ministerial priorities while advancing our own objectives. We are pleased with the settlement, which reflects recognition of our critical work, but we are also mindful of the challenges that lie ahead as we navigate evolving demands and pressures.

This settlement does not alter our agreed decisions to cease or scale back certain activities under the Case for Change, the funding will be strategically directed toward the identified investment areas. This approach ensures we remain focused on achieving the ambitions outlined in our Corporate Plan to 2030.

If I have questions about the Visitor Centres changes, how can I ask NRW?

Any questions about to the Case for Change process in relation to the Visitor Centres should be directed via email to ymgysylltu.masnachol@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk

Frequently Asked Community Questions: Ynys-las

Are food and drink available at the site?

Borth Community Hub is running a community space called Ynys-las Nature Hub (formally the Visitor Centre) at Natural Resources Wales’ Dyfi National Nature Reserve. As part of this, they are providing beverages and cold food, including snacks and ice creams, for the public at selected times. Please visit their Facebook page to find out more:  Borth Community Hub | Aberystwyth | Facebook

Has the Visitor Centre ceased operating retail and catering?

The former Visitor Centre is now a community space called Ynys-las Nature Hub run by Borth Community Hub. As part of this, they are providing beverages and cold food, including snacks and ice creams, for the public at selected times. Please visit their Facebook page to find out more:  Borth Community Hub | Aberystwyth | Facebook

The paths, trails and car park are open, and we continue to maintain the site and ensure public access. Further visitor information can be found on our website.

How and when was the decision made to stop retail and catering provision at the Visitor Centres?

In 2024 NRW underwent a review to ensure we are better equipped to deliver our Corporate Plan’s objectives to support nature’s recovery, tackle climate change and minimise pollution. The review considered what NRW can and should continue doing, what should be scaled back and what should stop to meet a revised budget reduction of £12 million.

Following extensive consultation with Trade Unions and staff, on 5 November 2024 the NRW Board met and agreed to implement key changes to meet those budgetary challenges, whilst continuing to fulfil the missions set out in our Corporate Plan.

The decision was that NRW will no longer directly operate catering and retail provision at Visitor Centres. We will instead look for partners, both community groups and businesses, to register an interest in providing these services moving forward.

What information was used to reach the conclusions in the Case for Change?

NRW’s Board approved the case for change following extensive consultation with the Trade Unions and their members alongside engagement with staff through our leadership teams.

As part of preparing the case for change Leadership Team members undertook extensive assessment of the risks and impacts of all the activities that we undertake, understanding their legal basis and contribution to the outcomes in the corporate plan and term of Government Remit letter.

The NRW response to Trade Union feedback following the consultation can be found online: Case for Change - Natural Resources Wales Citizen Space - Citizen Space.

Who is responsible for maintaining the site?

Visitor Centre staff were not responsible for managing the land in and around the Centres. This is the responsibility of land management staff who are supported by other teams within NRW.

At Ynys-las we are fully committed to ensuring that the work carried out to protect the wildlife and natural environment at Dyfi National Nature Reserve continues. Our land management team will continue with the management of the nature reserve to fulfil our statutory obligations.

Who is responsible for safety on the site?

Visitors to all our sites are responsible for their own safety as well as the safety of any children and animals with them during their visit. Further information can be found on our website: Natural Resources Wales / Visiting our places safely. In the event of an emergency, you should always call 999.

Ynys-las is a red flag beach and is clearly labelled as such; signs are posted prominently along the beach and estuary advising the public of the dangers.

In respect of WW2 ordnances, there are warning signs in place around the Ynys-las site along with pictures of the ordnance types that have been found, advising people to contact the emergency services if they come across one. If an ordnance is reported, our Incident team will arrange for the area to be cordoned off, and it will be treated as a priority incident. There is a 24/7 incident rota to ensure swift response, should attendance or other action be necessary. 

Are toilet facilities still open to visitors?

Yes, toilet facilities are accessible and open to the public.

How are you deterring anti-social behaviour?

Land Management staff continue to be a presence on site and monitor any undesirable behaviour. Some CCTV cameras are in place, with more being added. As in most settings, the presence of other members of the public acts as a deterrent to anti-social behaviour.

Visitors are reminded that their litter or waste is their responsibility, and we urge the public to follow the guidelines set out in the Countryside Code and to leave no trace of their visits.

We encourage visitors to report incidents to us on 0300 065 3000, our 24-hour incident line, so we can alert our network of land managers with a 24/7 incident rota in place. Incidents can also be reported online via our website: Natural Resources Wales / Report an incident

Do I need to pay to park at Ynys-las?

Yes, it is £4 per day or £40 for an annual season ticket and you will need to pay the car park attendant on arrival by cash or card.

However, parking is free for vehicles displaying a Blue Badge and for local residents. To find out if your address is within the qualifying area, please ask the car park attendant on arrival. You will need to show proof of address such as a driving licence or recent utilities bill to get your free parking pass which is valid for one year from date of issue.

Parking passes are available for second homeowners if you can demonstrate eligibility, for example, that you pay Council Tax. Holiday homes however and properties to rent for holiday makers do not qualify for a pass.

Who manages car parking at Ynys-las?

Diogel was awarded a contract for one year, from April 2025, with a possible extension of up to three years, to provide full-time site management for the beach car park at Ynys-las Visitor Centre.


Why did NRW take a different approach with Ynys-las than Bwlch Nant yr Arian and Coed y Brenin?

Ynys-las is unique as it forms part of the Dyfi National Nature Reserve (NNR). The estuary has vast areas of internationally important mudflats, sandbanks and saltmarsh that provide feeding and roosting areas for wetland birds. As such, Ynys-las has specific statutory needs and requirements of which protecting the NNR is priority. This will include retaining an onsite office for land management staff.

Ynys-las’ Visitor Centre is also different to both Bwlch Nant yr Arian and Coed y Brenin in that there is no catering provision to replace.

What considerations were made in the Case for Change of the impacts on local communities and the tourism sector in Wales?

NRW is not a tourism organisation. The purpose of NRW, as set out in the Environment (Wales) Act, is the sustainable management of natural resources in relation to Wales, with NRW’s strategic objectives set out in the term of government remit letter which is available to view online: Natural Resources Wales: Term of Government remit letter 2022 to 2026.

The Case for Change was conducted in response to financial pressures which have required us to streamline our activities and concentrate resources on delivering those essential services more aligned with NRW’s statutory responsibilities.

The Welsh Government’s draft budget shows NRW will receive an extra £7.6 million for 2025-2026, couldn’t this be used to keep retail and catering provision open?

NRW has an important role to play in tackling the intrinsically linked nature and climate emergencies, and we’re pleased to see these critical issues placed at the heart of the Welsh Government’s draft budget.

This year’s draft budget is positive news for NRW. The increased funding of just over £7.6m reflects the importance of the work we do and the government’s recognition of the value we deliver.

This indicative budget provides us with the opportunity to plan effectively for the year ahead, aligning our efforts with Ministerial priorities while advancing our own objectives. We are pleased with the settlement, which reflects recognition of our critical work, but we are also mindful of the challenges that lie ahead as we navigate evolving demands and pressures.

This settlement does not alter our agreed decisions to cease or scale back certain activities under the Case for Change, the funding will be strategically directed toward the identified investment areas. This approach ensures we remain focused on achieving the ambitions outlined in our Corporate Plan to 2030.

If I have questions about the Visitor Centres changes, how can I ask NRW?

Any questions about to the Case for Change process in relation to the Visitor Centres should be directed via email to ymgysylltu.masnachol@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk

History on changes to visitor centres

During 2024, Natural Resources Wales undertook a review to ensure we are better equipped to deliver our Corporate Plan’s objectives to support nature’s recovery, tackle climate change and minimise pollution.

The review considered what NRW can and should continue doing, what should be scaled back and what should stop to meet a revised budget reduction of £12 million.

Following extensive consultation with Trade Unions and staff, on 5 November 2024 the NRW Board met and agreed to implement key changes to meet those budgetary challenges, whilst continuing to fulfil the missions set out in our Corporate Plan.

The decision was that NRW would no longer directly operate catering and retail provision at Visitor Centres.

Public meetings to engage the local community and interested people were held at:

  • Borth Community Hall 25 November 2024
  • Neuadd Penllwyn Capel Bangor, Aberystwyth 26 November 2024
  • Ganllwyd Village Hall, Ganllwyd 27 November 2024

We are now aiming to find long-term, sustainable partners who can enhance the Bwlch Nant yr Arian and Coed y Brenin sites for the benefit of local communities, local businesses and visitors, whilst protecting nature. Prospective interested parties could be community groups, enterprises or businesses.

Drop-in sessions with interested people were already held earlier this year:

  • Wednesday 8 January 2025 at the Welsh Government offices, Aberystwyth
  • Monday 13 January 2025 at Coed Y Brenin Visitor Centre
  • Monday 20 January 2025 at Welsh Government offices, Aberystwyth
  • Friday 24 January 2025 at Coed Y Brenin Visitor Centre.

Open days for prospective bidders were also held at both sites during October 2025, as well as individual appointments.

Since then, we have been in a period of preparation. This has included legal checks and internal governance, as well as designing a process that is informed by what we have learnt to date and heard from our colleagues, partners and communities.

The formal marketing period launched on 28 November 2025 and will run until Summer 2026. The exercise is delivered by Natural Resources Wales in partnership with Newmark, a leading commercial real estate advisor and service provider.

Sell2Wales

If you are interested in bidding for the sites, please contact Newmark Associate Leo Llewellyn by emailing leo.llewellyn@nmrk.com or calling 029 2038 1874.

Bidders will be asked to use the Sell2Wales website procurement portal. It is set up by the Welsh Government to help: 

  • businesses win contracts with the public sector across Wales
  • public sector buyers to advertise and manage tender opportunities 
  • businesses promote their services 
  • businesses find contract opportunities

You can register and find out more at Sell2Wales: Welcome to Sell2Wales

If you are interested in bidding for the sites, please contact Newmark Associate Leo Llewellyn by emailing leo.llewellyn@nmrk.com or calling 029 2038 1874.

Closes 17 Jul 2026

Opened 28 Nov 2025

Areas

  • All Areas

Audiences

  • Adfer afonydd
  • Anglers
  • Arbenigwyr adfer mwyngloddiau
  • Citizens
  • citizens
  • Coal Authority
  • Coastal Group Members
  • Cockles
  • Community Volunteers
  • DCWW
  • Designated Landscapes
  • Educators
  • EPR and COMAH facilities
  • Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
  • Flooding
  • Fly-fishing
  • Forest Management
  • Gwent
  • Gwirfoddolwyr Cymunedol
  • Llifogydd
  • marine developers
  • marine planners
  • Metal mines
  • Mine recovery specialists
  • Mwyngloddiau metel
  • National Access Forum
  • Network Completion Project Task and Finish Group
  • Newport Green and Safe Spaces
  • NFU
  • River restoration
  • Rivers
  • SoNaRR2020
  • South West Stakeholder group
  • Tirweddau dynonedig
  • Wales Biodiversity Partnership
  • water companies
  • Woodland Opportunity Map users

Interests

  • National Access Forum