Hafren Forest: Powys Council hopes for TikTok solution
A surge in tourists at one of Wales' most beautiful forests which is famed for its "world best" riverside boardwalk has led to concerns from locals that the area cannot cope with the sudden influx.
TikTok, Instagram and Facebook videos of Hafren Forest, near Llanidloes have been watched millions of times, with one video gaining at least 1.8 million views, which has prompted a rush of visitors to the cherished local beauty spot.
The Welsh Government's environment agency Natural Resources Wales, which owns and manages the forest, has kept the once-hidden gem from its social media and declined filming requests to discourage the hordes of walkers.
A line of cars parked along the road near Rhyd y Benwch car park at Hafren Forest. (Image: Anwen Parry)
Powys County Council was asked by local councillor Glyn Preston about what steps were being taken to reduce congestion, fly tipping, dog mess and improving road infrastructure.
Powys County Council has now issued its response, saying it appreciated the "patience and understanding" of the local community as they work towards a solution that "benefits both visitors and residents".
One of the improvements so far have been signage directing traffic along the "more acceptable" Staylittle route to reduce the impact on the Old Hall route.
The council said it takes a "zero-tolerance approach to fly tipping" and anyone caught will be investigated and, if possible, prosecuted if there is sufficient and reliable evidence.
Dog poo bags have been left on the side of footpaths at Hafren Forest. (Image: Anwen Parry)
However, the council said cleaning up dog mess dumped at the forest is not the responsibility of Environmental Health.
"Whilst we do welcome visitors to Powys and the economic benefits they bring to the local area, we need to ensure this is appropriately managed to provide a good experience for visitors and minimise the impacts on local residents," the council said.
"We are aware that this sudden and unexpected increase in visitors has caused an unusual peak in traffic, affecting access and parking at this tourist attraction.
"This issue is not solely the responsibility of the local authority. As cabinet member, I will be raising this matter with other partner agencies and stakeholders to consider a multi-agency approach for the most appropriate resolution."
(Image: NQ)
Natural Resources Wales has applied for planning permission to re-design and upgrade the existing Hafren Forest car park at Rhyd y Benwch, Old Hall to create extra "higher quality" parking spaces.
Powys County Council said its exploring ways to support the wider Natural Resources Wales investment in developing the visitor infrastructure at Hafren Forest.
However, the most suitable capital investment fund for site-based tourism infrastructure improvements that the council can access, the Brilliant Basics Fund, will not reopen for new application until spring 2027.
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