The Sustainability Appraisal, Strategic Environmental Assessment (often called SA/SEA), and Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) are tests of the Local Development Plan (or Strategic Development Plan). They look at the effects of the plan on the environment, social, economic and cultural well-being, as well as the use of the Welsh language. The SA/SEA and HRA process runs alongside the Local Development Plan process, and you can comment on the SA/SEA and HRA themselves.

Some of the largest bottlenose dolphins live around the United Kingdom!

WTSWW’s marine monitoring work gathers evidence for critical datasets, used to strengthen the resilience of Wales’ network of protected marine sites and the protection of the marine species found within these sites. Long-term, uninterrupted datasets are particularly important to assess broad population trends, filling knowledge gaps, and informing decisions about use of the marine environment.

Surveys should be carried out by professional ecologists, registered with IEEM. When surveys involve protected species, such as bats, great crested newts or dormice, the surveyor should hold a license from Natural Resources Wales.

Through our skilled and experienced staff team at the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, we are able to offer a wide range of services to partner organisations involved in conservation land management, agencies, private companies and landowners.

During three survey periods a targeted trapping programme under licence resulted in a number of Red squirrels being trapped. DNA analysis revealed five different mitochondrial DNA haplotypes within the Mid Wales population.

Each volunteer makes a big difference in looking after the precious places around South and West Wales. Get involved – protect wildlife, have fun, get fit and meet people who share your interests!