MS, Cabinet Secretary for
Housing and Local Government: The Welsh Government is committed
to protecting and restoring Wales' nature and biodiversity.
The Welsh Government is also committed to delivering the
homes and infrastructure our nation needs.
The publication of Natural Resources Wales' (NRW) Marine
Protected Area (MPA) condition assessments on 25 June 2025
confirmed that nutrient pollution was contributing to poor
condition of site features in several marine Special Areas of
Conservation (SACs).
To ensure that development resumes as quickly as possible, in a
sustainable way, the First Minister established a Taskforce with
senior officials from the Welsh Government, Local Planning
Authorities, Natural Resources Wales, and Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water.
I published a Written Statement on 10 October 2025 to update
members on the establishment of the Marine Nitrates Development
Taskforce, and again on 17 December 2025 to update on progress.
Significant progress has been made through the work of the
Taskforce and through the commitment and efforts of all parties.
The Nutrient Calculator and the establishment of a Nutrient
Credit Trading Group were delivered earlier this year.
This month, further tools and guidance have been delivered. The
Welsh Government has employed expert ecological consultants to
develop guidance and case studies
that will assist planning authorities to progress Local
Development Plans and determine planning applications for homes
and businesses in affected areas.
Alongside this guidance, Local Planning Authorities, led by
Carmarthenshire County Council, have developed and published a
mitigation handbook for
developers.
And finally, a Clarification Note has been issued by the Chief
Planning Officer that will assist Local Planning Authorities and
planning inspectors in the preparation and examination of Local
Development Plans.
These tools and guidance will be vital tools for both planners
and developers and will enable a range of potential approaches to
new development in areas that are affected by nutrient pollution.
The First Minister's Taskforce will meet for a final time on 31
March. At that meeting, the members of the group will also
finalise suitable replacement arrangements to ensure that work
can continue to progress at pace, with the strong partnership
working across affected areas that has characterised the
successful approach of the Taskforce continued into the future.
I would like to thank all members of the Taskforce for their time
and contributions, and for their positive and cooperative
approach.
