A survey has resulted in a chorus of voices echoing the importance of safeguarding Pembrokeshire Coast National Park’s unique qualities for future generations.

As part of the current five-yearly review of the National Park Management Plan, members of the public were invited to share what makes the National Park special for them, and suggest what needs to be done to protect and restore these distinctive features.

Landscapes and seascapes featured strongly in the responses, with one participant describing the Park as “a massive and priceless resource for people’s mental and physical health.”

The spectacular coastline, offshore islands and big seascapes also gained a special mention, with some stating that the beaches in Pembrokeshire are better than many of those found abroad.

Walking featured as the most popular activity in the Park, supported by the Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail and an extensive network of paths and rights of way, which allow users to explore secret valleys, ancient woodlands, and tranquil rivers.

“We need spaces like this where we can recharge our physical and psychological batteries,” said one respondent, once again highlighting the Park's importance for mental and physical wellbeing.

The Park's tranquillity was also listed as one of its special features, along with the eight fully accessible designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites, where the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye on cloudless, moonless nights.

According to the survey, the heritage and culture of the area, including the Welsh language, are also something to be cherished and safeguarded for future generations.

All comments made as part of this consultation have been used to inform a draft Plan, which sets out proposals and identifies key partners who need to be involved.

Consultation on this started earlier this month and will end on Monday, September 30. Members of the public are able to comment online at www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/public-consultations.

There will also be a number of opportunities to feed into the consultation at events throughout the summer. 

Proposed changes will be presented to Authority Members later this year, ready for the new Partnership Plan to be in place for 2025-2029.