SAM ROWLANDS, Member of the Welsh Parliament for North Wales, is backing calls for people to stay safe outdoors this Summer.
Mr Rowlands, a keen supporter of nature and the environment is supporting a call from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) who are urging visitors and residents to follow the Countryside Code.
He said: “Everyone knows how passionate I am about the great outdoors and encouraging people to embrace nature and the environment especially in the beautiful area of North Wales which I represent.
“I would add my voice to calls from NRW urging everyone to protect the environment and respect other people by following the Countryside Code and making sure they stay safe outdoors whether it be in the countryside or on the coast.
“As Chair of the Senedd’s Cross-Party Group on Tourism I am always keen to highlight the wonderful forests, national parks and beaches we have here in North Wales and would urge people to stay safe outdoors this Summer.”
Visitors to Wales’ natural places are being asked to protect the environment, respect other people and enjoy the outdoors safely over the school holidays.
With three heatwaves already under its belt, and with further periods of hot and sunny weather expected over the summer, Wales’ nature reserves, forests and national parks are expected to be very popular with local residents and visitors alike.
Over the last few years, many of these special places have seen a rise in anti-social behaviour and environmental damage such as littering, fires and fly-camping, as well as an increase in mountain and water safety incidents.
Concerned for the potential impacts on wildlife, communities and the emergency services, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is urging visitors to follow the Countryside Code in all outdoor spaces, reminding visitors of the need to take steps to plan their adventure, prevent wildfires and be safe around water during the summer months.
Joseph Conran, Lead Specialist Advisor for Outdoor Access and Recreation at Natural Resources Wales said: “Wales offers such an amazing backdrop for your individual or family adventures.
“From on-the-doorstep fun in your local park or woodland, weekends away to splash in the waters of our beautiful beaches, to longer trips exploring the majesty and mystery of our mountains.
“For many, the Summer months are a time for relaxing, having fun and recharging batteries. However, it’s also the busiest time of year in the outdoors, and can unfortunately lead to increased incidents of injury, damage to our environment or antisocial behaviour.”
The Countryside Code contains the following messages:
Respect everyone:
- be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside
- leave gates and property as you find them
- do not block access to gateways or driveways when parking
- be nice, say hello, share the space
- follow local signs and keep to marked paths unless wider access is available
Protect the environment:
- take your litter home – leave no trace of your visit
- do not light fires and only have BBQs where signs say you can
- always keep your dogs under control and in sight
- dog poo – bag it and bin it in any public waste bin or take it home
- care for nature – do not cause damage or disturbance
Enjoy the outdoors:
- check your route and local conditions
- plan your adventure – know what to expect and what you can do
- enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory
Read the full Countryside Code by clicking here.
