Wales Coasteering Faces Wildlife Ban

Commercial coasteering trips in Pembrokeshire, known as "Wales' coasteering heartland," may face bans under a new licensing scheme proposed by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The park plans to implement this scheme in May to better manage the activity, which has seen a rise in providers and associated complaints. This initiative aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of coasteering, moving beyond previous voluntary codes.

Concerns have been raised by wildlife campaigners regarding potential disturbances to nesting birds, seals, and other sensitive wildlife at popular coasteering sites. The new licensing system will require companies to pay £100 for a license, with potential increases in the future. Detailed environmental assessments will be conducted to evaluate the suitability of current coasteering routes. This move aligns coasteering with other regulated commercial activities operating within the national park.

While some coasteering providers expressed concerns about the potential impact on their businesses and suggested further consultation, others welcomed the principle of a licensing scheme. Wildlife advocates hope the environmental assessments will lead to the preservation of certain sites as "wild and remote." The Pembrokeshire visitor economy generates an estimated £639m annually, highlighting the balance between tourism and conservation.