Rattus was amazed by the turnout at the public meeting in Llanrhaeadr last Friday on the proposed new National Park that includes the north of Powys. 

There were more than 200 people and many had to stand. It seemed that the only people in favour were the two NRW staff who should be commended for coming out on a Friday night to face a hostile but polite audience. 

All the speakers were against it and even our new Labour MP Steve Witherden was in listening mode and promised to represent the views of his constituents. 

The new National Park was part of the Welsh Labour manifesto at the last Senedd elections.

It is certainly a beautiful area and is very rich in wildlife but few thought it would actually benefit from being in a national park.

There were few advantages mentioned and many possible disadvantages ranging from pressure on the ambulance service to rising house prices making it difficult for our young people to buy houses. 

READ MORE: New Wales national park plan 'threatens Powys LDP'

Farmers were particularly against it and worried about more visitors and more dogs worrying sheep. The additional bureaucracy and increased planning controls was a concern of everyone.

There are already problems with the road to Pistyll Rhaeadr with traffic congestion on the narrow road at weekends. Lack of infrastructure and particularly public toilets was seen as a major problem.

There is an online consultation where people can respond to the consultation online.
https://ymgynghori.cyfoethnaturiol.cymru/north-east-gogledd-ddwyrain/waless-national-park-proposal-public-consultation/consultation/intro/

Rattus rattus