Geopark Consultants: Feasibility Study for the Expansion of the Fforest Fawr UNESCO Global Geopark
Client: Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park
PSC was commissioned by the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Authority (BBNPA) to prepare a feasibility study for the expansion of the Fforest Fawr UNESCO Global Geopark (FFUGGp) beyond its current boundary into those parts of Neath Port Talbot County Borough which fringe the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.
The Geopark is a partnership of organisations from the public and charity sectors, operating within the borders of the National Park since 2005. The BBNPA is the lead partner; other key partners include Cardiff University, Natural Resources Wales, Heneb (the combined Archaeological Trusts of Wales) and Brecon Beacons Tourism.
Heritage and Geodiversity Audit
As part of the study, PSC undertook an audit of the natural, cultural and intangible heritage assets of the proposed expansion area within Neath Port Talbot. This included protected sites such as scheduled ancient monuments, Regionally Important Geodiversity Sites (RIGS), SSSIs and Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs).
One of the main drivers for the potential expansion into Neath Port Talbot was the opportunity to include new sites related to the area’s mining heritage across this part of South Wales, alongside improved visitor management planning across the wider region.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Our research involved working with community representatives and other key stakeholders to assess the strength of appetite for the expansion and to identify the stories which help explain the relationship between communities and their landscapes. We also carried out an online survey among residents and communities, plus a further survey among local school representatives.
The overall aim was to bring the cultural, natural, and intangible assets together to create an attractive, authentic visitor experience and educational resource, in partnership with the Geopark and other agencies to generate local economic benefits and community pride, leading to wider social benefits.
Action Plan and Interpretation Themes
The feasibility study examined the advantages and disadvantages of expanding the Geopark into Neath Port Talbot along its current southern border. The study also included an extensive, prioritised action plan broken down into themed areas, including suggested interpretative themes and narratives for the expansion area where applicable. A key consideration throughout was the involvement and engagement of local communities and the Local Authority.
Consideration was also given to managing and dispersing visitors from honeypot sites, encouraging exploration of lesser-known areas.
Governance and Funding Review
We also set out how the revised Geopark would be best administered in future, maximising the impact of investment and delivering best value for money, alongside the greatest environmental, social and economic benefit. In addition, we carried out a funding review to identify potential funding streams for the project.
To find out more about the Geopark and the latest expansion proposals, visit the Fforest Fawr Geopark website.
How Can We Help?
PSC has extensive experience supporting national parks, geoparks, and protected landscapes with feasibility studies, expansion assessments, and heritage tourism strategies. Whether you’re exploring the potential for a Geopark designation or expansion, assessing the viability of new visitor attractions, or developing an action plan to balance conservation with sustainable tourism growth, our team can guide you through the process from initial scoping to stakeholder consultation and funding strategy.
We work closely with local authorities, community groups, and delivery partners to ensure any feasibility study reflects both the practical realities on the ground and the aspirations of the communities involved. If you’re considering a similar project, whether for a geopark, national park, or another protected landscape we’d be glad to discuss how we can support you. Please call Richard Linington on 07866 742628 or email richard@pslplan.co.uk