NRW updates Welsh Government Committee

Following its annual scrutiny session at the Senedd’s Climate Change, Environment, and Infrastructure Committee, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has given an update on its financial situation.

In the new financial year (25/26) there will be an increase in funding from Welsh Government, partly due to the consequences of changes in UK funding.

Some of this resource will be allocated to specific activities, with around £4m directed towards priority investment areas - water, biodiversity, evidence monitoring, and flood risk management.

NRW is approaching the final stages of its transformation process, ensuring the organisation is focused on delivering the greatest impact for people and nature and is on course to achieve the financial savings previously outlined, with implementation set for completion by 1 April.

Over the past few months, this restructuring under the Case for Change process has reduced around 200 posts—many of which were vacant— building a more resilient and sustainable workforce.

A small number of staff members are expected to leave through voluntary redundancy, with the majority of affected employees securing alternative roles within the organisation.

Moving forward NRW will be actively recruiting for positions allowing a refocus on delivering key activities and services such as supporting nature’s recovery, tackling climate change, and minimising pollution.

Ceri Davies, NRW’s acting chief executive, said:

“Having scaled back certain services to ensure resources are used as efficiently and effectively as possible, we are now better placed to continue our leadership role in protecting Wales' natural resources, driving positive change for future generations.

“I would like to thank our staff for their hard work, dedication and professionalism throughout this process.

“This additional funding will not alter our Case for Change plans, but will be earmarked to areas we have identified as investment priorities, as we look to achieve the ambitions set out in our Corporate Plan.

“Now we are openly recruiting for roles, we are committed to shape a stronger, more agile organisation, capable of meeting today’s challenges and preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities.

“Our priority is on creating a stable and resilient workforce, avoiding cycles of rapid expansion and contraction.

“Therefore, options such as external procurement, grants, partnerships, placements, apprenticeships and temporary staff will be considered rather than defaulting to permanent staff.

“We will welcome new colleagues to strengthen our capabilities, increase the number of contracts we let, and expand our apprenticeship opportunities, helping the next generation to develop their skills.

“Change is never easy, but it is often necessary. We have made the tough decisions, and now we move forward with purpose and confidence.

“Our commitment remains unwavering - to serve the people of Wales and secure a Wales where nature and people thrive together.”