NRW Warns Visitors to Plan Ahead When Visiting Newborough National Nature Reserve and Forest on Anglesey Over the Coming Weeks

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) said in a statement that they are expecting high number of visitors to Newborough National Nature Reserve and Forest on Anglesey over the coming weeks and the Bank Holiday Weekend, and are asking visitors to plan ahead, be aware of traffic congestion, to respect the local community and environment and to prepare for the car park to be full at busy times – weekends and between 11am and 3pm during periods of good weather.

A Spokesman for NRW said:

“In partnership with Isle of Anglesey County Council and following a meeting with local elected representatives, additional measures are being implemented on a trial basis in the village of Newborough to help manage congestion on the A4080 and the impacts on local people.

“The ambition is to enable traffic to flow more freely through the village, as well as restricting access to the site’s narrow access road and giving notice of alternative beaches when the car park is full. It is hoped the trial will help inform longer-term plans to manage traffic and access issues in and around Newborough in the future.

“Visitors are asked to be patient, to respect those who live and work in the community around Newborough and Llanddwyn, and are also reminded to take litter home, not light fires, be responsible dog owners and not to cause damage or disturbance.

Justin Hanson, NRW’s People & Places Team Leader for North West Wales, said:

“We are expecting to see a continuation of the high visitor numbers we are already experiencing at Newborough, especially at weekends and when the weather is fine.

“Its rural location means it can often be a difficult issue to manage. The influx of vehicles leads to congestion through the village, the car park reaching capacity soon after opening and, with visitors looking to stay for the whole day, the likelihood of other visitors gaining access to the site is significantly reduced.

“We are asking people to think about planning their visit at different times or to consider one of the many other fantastic beaches and destinations on Anglesey.

“We also want to remind visitors that overnight stays are not allowed on NRW sites and there are a number of local campsites in the area.”

Wardens will be patrolling NRW sites during the summer to answer any questions, provide advice and guidance and ensure visitors have the best experience.

NRW is working with Isle of Anglesey County Council and the local community to look at long-term traffic management and access issues in and around Newborough.  The spokesman continued:

“A joint workshop was held earlier this year bringing local people, businesses, community organisations and public services together.

“Suggestions gathered during this workshop included short and long-term ideas, changes to car park pricing, exploring alternative parking options, improving footpath and cycle access and changes to traffic management in and around the site.

“We are now working with the community and partners to review these suggestions, develop an action plan and explore potential solutions and funding opportunities.

“This is part of an ongoing process, and we will be speaking to the public again as we move forward.”

To learn more about the reserve, visit https://naturalresources.wales/days-out/places-to-visit/north-west-wales/newborough/

Image: Deposit Photos