By supporting one of our appeals or by joining us today you will be looking after local birds, bats and bees - and helping to ensure that Wales’ precious wild places will be protected for years to come. You will make a difference!

Applications for some large infrastructure projects are decided by Welsh Ministers instead of the local planning authority. These include energy projects, roads, railways and airports, dams and reservoirs and certain waste facilities, subject to various thresholds, and are called Developments of National Significance (DNS).

Building with wildlife in mind can have big benefits for people as well – research has shown that contact with nature is good for our health and wellbeing. Green spaces can also improve air quality, lower flood risk and provide places for the local community to come together.

Larger and more complex developments are usually decided by the planning committee. Each local planning authority will have its own rules as to which applications will be decided by the planning committee (called the scheme of delegation). You can find out if an application is going to be decided by committee by looking at the application information or by asking the case officer.

The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales (WTSWW) are organising a poetry competition to celebrate World Poetry Day (21st of March). We want to read all about what nature means to you, your experiences with nature, and why nature is important. Entries are welcomed in both Welsh and English. Submit your entry to be in with a chance to win Dan Rouse's new book 'The Children's Book of Birdwatching', as well as a selection of other inspiring children's books.