Proposals to designate Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) in Wales are still an option for the Welsh Government, according to a letter received from local Assembly Member Paul Davies. Last month the Welsh Government confirmed that it would be developing proposals on a Wales-wide basis and in response to questions posed by Mr Davies, the Welsh Government has confirmed that NVZ designations could still be an option.

Local Assembly Member Paul Davies said, “It’s very disappointing that the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Planning and Rural Affairs is still considering NVZ designations, following a year-long consultation on this matter. Farmers are already facing excessive levels of red tape and so the introduction of NVZs across Wales would be wholly unreasonable and unnecessary. We all have a responsibility to protect the environment and cut nitrates but the Welsh Government should consider voluntary approaches before introducing more regulations against the will of Welsh farmers. There are examples of some very successful voluntary schemes that have been well-received by farmers and I believe that working in partnership with the agricultural industry would be the best way forward. Therefore, I will be raising this matter with the Cabinet Secretary at the earliest opportunity – and I encourage farmers across Wales to do the same and make sure their voices are heard.”