Gower forum gives platform for local issues

Preventing livestock getting killed on Gower roads and internet access are two of the topics that will be raised at this years’ annual Gower AONB forum.

Residents with an interest in Gower life will be able to put their views to a panel at this year’s event which is being held at Reynoldston Community Hall on July 4.

The event is organised by the Gower AONB Partnership and includes representatives from Swansea Council and organisations or individuals who live and work on Gower.

The forum will also focus on work that has been carried out in the AONB and what the partnership has planned for the coming year.

The event will include speakers from Swansea Council’s Planning Policy unit alongside members of the Gower Society and the Gower Landscape Partnership.

Nearly £2million was awarded to the Gower Landscape Partnership over a four year period and has helped fund a wide range of schemes and initiatives all designed to conserve and protect Gower’s natural heritage.

One of the success story’s is the development of the ‘This is Gower’ smartphone app which provide plenty of information as well as guided walks in the region and has been downloaded by around 4,000 people.

Robert Francis-Davies, Cabinet Member for Enterprise, Development and Regeneration, said “Gower is a special place, and needs us all to work together to preserve and improve its wonderful features.”

“The annual forum is part of a new approach to open up the management of the AONB, and to give the public a bigger say in how we protect Gower.”

Designated in 1956 for its classic limestone coast and the variety of its natural habitats, it was the first AONB designated in the UK. Now there are 46 AONBs and 13 National Parks in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Legislation gives Gower the same protection as a National Park.

This year Gower is celebrating 60 years of being designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.