Natural Resources Wales confirms cuts and closures to plug gap

Further information would be provided at forthcoming public meetings, it added.

It also confirmed the closure of its environmental library, based at its offices in Bangor.

Environment groups and the trade union Unison had also criticised the planned cuts to the organisation, claiming the range of job roles being closed “put Welsh nature at risk”.

But NRW’s Chairman Sir David Henshaw said the changes being made would “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,” he said.

While some activities would be “adapted or delivered differently”, resources would be freed up to allow additional investment in areas such as monitoring and improving water quality.

“We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and resilience our staff have shown throughout this period of change,” Sir David added.

“We understand these changes come with a personal cost, and we are committed to supporting our team as we move forward.”