CPRW, The Welsh Countryside Charity, has welcomed a record year for Wales's parks and green spaces, saying the achievement strengthens the case for long-term protection and investment in the places that connect people with nature.
A record 330 parks and green spaces across Wales have been recognised in the 2026 Green Flag Awards, including 237 community-managed sites receiving Green Flag Community Awards.
For CPRW, the success is more than a cause for celebration. It demonstrates how strongly people value accessible, well-cared-for green spaces and how much can be achieved when communities are supported to look after the places around them.
Jonty Colchester, CPRW, The Welsh Countryside Charity, Chair, said:
“This record is a welcome reminder of how deeply people across Wales value the green spaces and landscapes around them. The commitment shown by communities and volunteers is remarkable, but it must be matched by long-term public policy and investment.
“Protecting nature, maintaining access and safeguarding the character of our countryside are not separate ambitions; they are fundamental to the health and resilience of Wales.
“CPRW hopes this success will encourage the Welsh Government to be equally ambitious in protecting these places for future generations.”
The achievement closely reflects priorities set out in CPRW's 2026 Senedd Manifesto.
CPRW is calling for renewed action to increase the area of protected land in Wales and meet or exceed the target of protecting 30% by 2030. The charity also wants greater progress on the National Forest for Wales and stronger protection for important landscapes including the Cambrian Mountains and Gwent Levels.
Improving access to nature is another key CPRW priority. Its manifesto calls for a dedicated, ring-fenced fund for public footpaths and bridleways, helping ensure that people across Wales can enjoy and connect with the countryside close to home.
CPRW says that celebrating Wales's green spaces must go hand in hand with protecting those under threat. Penrhos Coastal Park on Anglesey is one such example. For more than half a century, the site has provided free access to woodland and coastline for generations of local people, yet its future remains uncertain as proposals for major development continue.
CPRW is supporting the campaign to protect Penrhos and believes places of such importance to local communities, wildlife and landscape should be properly valued in planning decisions.
CPRW believes the success of this year's Green Flag Awards demonstrates what can be achieved when communities, volunteers, organisations and public bodies invest time and care in the places people value.
The charity congratulates everyone involved in caring for and protecting this year's award-winning sites.
