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Response by the Cabinet Member: Thank you for your enquiry about the Hafren Forest Boardwalk and the significant increase in visitors to the site resulting from social media. 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. 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. In the interim, our highway officers are improving signage to direct traffic via the more acceptable Staylittle route, reducing the impact on the Old hall route. With regards to fly tipping, the Council takes a zero-tolerance approach to fly tipping, and any reports of fly tipping are investigated and wherever possible, we will prosecute where there is sufficient and reliable evidence. With regards to the dog mess being dumped at Hafren Forest, Environmental Health is not responsible for cleaning this up. Powys County Council’s Economy and Climate team have been in recent communication with Natural Resources Wales (NRW) about the challenges being faced at Hafren Forest as a result of the increased social media exposure of the boardwalk section. A planning application has been submitted to Powys County Council by NRW for improvements to the Hafren Forest Carpark, as it is recognised that site has limitations and the overall visitor experience when visitor volume is high is unsatisfactory. Powys County Council Economy and Climate team are exploring opportunities to support the wider NRW investment in developing the visitor infrastructure at Hafren Forest, however the most suitable capital investment fund for site-based tourism infrastructure improvements that Powys County Council can access, the Brilliant Basics Fund, will not reopen for new applications until spring 2027. We appreciate the patience and understanding of the local community as we work towards a solution that benefits both visitors and residents.
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