Following the public meeting in Pendine and my formal letter to ministers regarding the wildfire crisis at Morfa Bychan, we have now received an official response from Siân Gwenllian MS, Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning.
Here are the key points from the Welsh Government:
🔹 Wales-Wide Summit Announced: The Prif Weinidog will convene a multi-agency summit later this year specifically focused on reducing wildfire risks and improving response coordination across Wales.
🔹 Unlawful Camping & Access: The Minister highlighted that camping without consent is civil trespass, and refusing to leave can constitute aggravated trespass.
🔹 Utility & SSSI Protections: Emergency responses and land management actions (including via NRW and the Sustainable Farming Scheme) are being used to protect critical infrastructure and SSSI lands.
🔹 Financial Support: Community Councils are advised to work with local authorities regarding access to the Emergency Financial Assistance Scheme.
While the Minister believes existing legal powers for arson and emergency services are adequate, our push for local action and safety measures for Pendine continues.
Read the full response here SG0579526_Outgoing_0