The Gwent Levels, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley, and the Elan Valley are rightly recognised as areas of great beauty. But they also all have the potential to use their natural landscapes and wildlife, distinctive buildings and local traditions, and stories to increase tourism and boost jobs through carefully planned conservation and renovation.

Safeguarding landscapes and communities into the future

Thanks to National Lottery players, a multi-million pound investment will protect these landscapes as well as inspire local people and organisations to come together to develop their full economic potential, bringing increased prosperity and other regeneration benefits to the countryside.

This significant funding will give people at the heart of these rural communities the power to play an active role in deciding how these extraordinary places will be looked after and managed for their benefit. Combined, this investment will see over almost 4,000 training and volunteering opportunities created.

Picture perfect locations protected

• Visitors flock to North Wales’s Clwydian Range and Dee Valley, many to see the iconic Pontcysyllte World Heritage Site. This funding will ensure their experience can be enhanced while also preserving the area’s unique landscape
• Tourism is crucial to the Elan Valley and surrounding mid-Wales economy, with 154,000 visitors enjoying the spectacular scenery annually. While safeguarding local species and habitats, this funding will boost appreciation of the area’s diverse beauty and its important water function
• Rich in both historical and natural heritage, the Gwent Levels in South Wales is an important landscape for agriculture, biodiversity and recreation. Working with volunteers, farmers and communities to increase wildlife-friendly management and create new trails, this funding will help create a real sense of place