NRW enhances focus on key areas and core responsibilities
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) will implement important changes to its structure, enabling it to sharpen its focus on areas where it can make the most meaningful impact for people and nature.
Following extensive consultation with the Trade Unions and their members, alongside engagement with staff, NRW will streamline its activities and concentrate its resources on delivering essential services that only it can provide. It will invest in priority areas that will drive long-term benefits for Wales' natural environment including enhancing efforts in improving water quality and monitoring.
The changes, which have now been approved by NRW’s Board, will ensure that the organisation is better equipped to deliver its corporate plan’s objectives to support nature’s recovery, tackling climate change, and minimising pollution.
Sir David Henshaw, NRW Chair said:
"Our goal is to ensure that every pound of public funding is used efficiently and effectively, with a focus on tackling the climate emergency, restoring biodiversity, and addressing environmental risks. The changes we’re making now will help us maximise our impact where it matters most.
“This process is not only about addressing financial constraints but about putting NRW in the best shape to tackle the most pressing environmental issues. Every decision is aimed at maximising our impact where it’s most needed.
“While some activities will be adapted or delivered differently, the changes will free up resources to be invested in the areas that matter most. This will allow NRW to continue its leadership role in protecting Wales' natural resources, driving positive change for future generations.”
While NRW is committed to investing in priority areas, the organisation will have to stop or scale back certain services to ensure that resources are used as efficiently and effectively as possible.
Following Trade Union consultation, several proposals have been adjusted, reducing the number of roles to be removed from the organisational structure. 120 staff members are directly impacted by this change and where possible, they will be redeployed within the organisation.
These changes reflect NRW’s commitment to considering staff perspectives throughout the process.
Following Board approval some services will be reduced or delivered differently, including areas such as provision of recreation on the land in our care and interpretation services.
Additionally, certain activities that fall outside of NRW’s statutory responsibilities or have a lower impact on key environmental priorities will be discontinued. This includes no longer having a physical library service. The catering and retail operations at Visitor Centres will also end. More information about this will be provided at public meetings (dates of which will be publicised shortly).
Where there are changes in the services NRW will offer, it will work closely with customers, partners, and stakeholders to transition smoothly, ensuring the timely transfer of information, knowledge, and resources to others where possible.
Sir David added:
"We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and resilience our staff have shown throughout this period of change. We know this has been a challenging time, and we recognise the uncertainty that many have experienced. This process has not been just about restructuring, but about reshaping our organisation with a clear focus on the future.
"We understand these changes come with a personal cost, and we are committed to supporting our team as we move forward. Together, we are building a stronger, more focused organisation, one that will continue to protect and enhance Wales' natural environment for future generations."