A CALL for permission for works clearing part of the 2026 Eisteddfod site ahead of this year’s festival in Pembrokeshire has been given the go-ahead county planners.
In an application to Pembrokeshire County Council, Cardiff-based Angharad Davies sought permission for the removal of multiple small sections of hedge on a temporary basis for the forthcoming Eisteddfod at Glanrhyd Road, Llantood/Llantwd.
A supporting statement said: “Preparation works have been undertaken to reduce hedge growth in several locations where openings are required for festival access, with all arisings shredded and retained within the hedgerow to support natural regeneration.
“Any openings created will be carefully excavated, with the soil set aside and preserved for reinstatement upon completion, ensuring that all materials are returned as found. Where herringbone stonework is uncovered, we will reinstate it to match the original as closely as possible, typically engaging a specialist local stone mason experienced in traditional methods.
“Following the event, reinstatement works will be completed prior to leaving site, and we will return in November to plant a mix of seven hedgerow species and we will consult with yourselves to ensure the selected species are appropriate and in line with your recommendations, maintaining the character and biodiversity of the site.
“Where possible, we have incorporated original gates into a number of the proposed openings to retain the character and integrity of the site, ensuring consistency with existing features.
“In selecting locations for access points, we have prioritised sections of hedgerow with minimal growth to reduce the extent of intervention required and to minimise impact of the surrounding vegetation. This approach supports efficient installation while maintaining the natural appearance and structure of the hedgerows.”
The application was unconditionally approved by county planners.
The 2026 festival, running from August 1-8 at Llantwd holds particular historical significance, marking the 850th anniversary of the first recorded Eisteddfod, held in 1176 at Castell Aberteifi.
With this year’s Maes located close to the original site, the event is expected to be a landmark occasion for the region and for Wales as a whole.
The National Eisteddfod is the largest cultural festival in Europe and one of the most prominent events in the Welsh cultural calendar, attracting approximately 175,000 visitors annually.
The festival celebrates Welsh language, literature, music, and the arts, with a diverse programme of competitions, performances, exhibitions, and community activities.
The Eisteddfod proclamation took place in Narberth last May, with hundreds attending.
At the time, Narberth County Councillor Mark Tierney posted: “One of the biggest parades through Narberth in a long time and we provided the warmest of welcomes to visitors from near and far for the @eisteddfod proclamation procession.”
