Natural Resources Wales begins tree felling at Bwlch Nant yr Arian

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has started planned tree‑felling work at Bwlch Nant yr Arian, near Aberystwyth.

The work - which will take place over about two months and started on Monday, 2 February - forms part of the Forest Resource Plan (FRP) for the area.

Around seven hectares of mature trees will be removed to support sustainable timber production and to clear up remaining forestry debris.

Many of the trees will be replaced with conifers grown specifically for future timber use.

Several trails that pass directly through the felling zone may close at short notice, including: mountain bike trails; running trails, Ridgetop walking trail and the Mynydd March horse‑riding trail.

The use of large forestry machinery and the need for wide safety zones means public access cannot be safely maintained while work is underway.

NRW is working to minimise disruption during the busy February half‑term period and may adjust the schedule where possible.

The daily feeding of the red kites at 2pm will continue throughout the works.

Ffred William Kehoe, Senior Land Management Officer for Natural Resources Wales, said:

“The safety of visitors, residents and staff is our top priority. The trees are being felled as part of the Forest Resource Plan for the area.

“We understand that closing the car park and trails will be disruptive, and we thank people for their patience while we carry out this work. Our contractors will work as quickly and safely as possible, and we ask visitors to respect safety signage and avoid the operational area.”

Visitors entering the forest on foot during the operation are strongly reminded to follow all safety signage, stay outside fenced‑off or taped‑off areas, and avoid operational zones at all times.

For more information on Bwlch Nant yr Arian, visit: Natural Resources Wales / Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre, near Aberystwyth