Gwent Levels National Natural Resource Area Boundary

Policy 9 of Future Wales: The National Plan 2040 (the National Development Framework, hereafter referred to as ‘Future Wales’) identifies the Gwent Levels as one of nine National Natural Resources Areas (NNRAs) across Wales. Policy 9 of Future Wales sets out a requirement for Welsh Government to work with key partners to ensure: the enhancement of biodiversity, the resilience of ecosystems, and the provision of green infrastructure. Policy 9 is about more than simply protecting individual designated or protected sites and species. It focuses on creating a connected network of habitats across the wider landscape—linking sites such as SSSIs with other natural areas so wildlife can move freely between them. A well‑connected ecological network is far stronger and more resilient than isolated habitat patches, enabling species to move more easily, adapt to changing conditions, and support the long‑term health of ecosystems. The Welsh Government is consulting on draft Strategic Planning Guidance to support the implementation of Policy 9 for the Gwent Levels NNRA. The layer defines the spatial extent of the NNRA for the purposes of the draft Guidance. It serves as the definitive source for all planning policy and development management decisions relating to the NNRA. The draft Guidance also includes Resilient Ecological Network (REN) mapping for the Gwent Levels. This identifies Core Zones—such as SSSIs—and the Nature Recovery Zones that connect and strengthen them. The REN mapping has been collaboratively developed by NRW’s South East and South Central Area Statement teams in partnership with local and regional stakeholders. Together, the Guidance and mapping provide a clear narrative on how the Gwent Levels NNRA designation and REN mapping should be applied in planning decisions, as well as in the preparation of both strategic and local development plans.