29/06/2026

Former BBC Radio Wales Country Focus presenter Mel Doel OBE begins her journey by travelling through our three existing National Parks — Pembrokeshire Coast, Bannau Brycheiniog and Eryri — to understand how they were created and what they have meant for Wales over the decades.

Moving between coast, upland and mountain, she listens to the people who live and work within these protected landscapes.

Mel hears from those who celebrate the Parks as guardians of nature, culture and identity — and from those who feel constrained by planning powers, tourism pressures or decisions made by park authorities. Their experiences reveal the complexity of living inside a designation that is both protective and demanding.

Along the way Mel hears from people who have benefited from National Park schemes and initiatives, from wildlife experts trying to protect endangered birds like the Curlew and from tourists soaking up the beauty and wildlife of the countryside.

Throughout this first programme, Mel hears what local people feel about living in a National Park and from politicians who see both the positives and negatives of National Park status.

And what do the existing National Park leaders feel about a possible fourth national park? Will it be good for North East Wales? Will it benefit Brand Wales?

What can North East Wales learn from the three parks that came before, and who would a new designation truly serve?

Mel rounds up part one hearing from a family from Cardiff who are excited about the prospect of a new park.

Presented by Mel Doel
Produced by Ashley Byrne
An MIM Production for BBC Radio Wales