Red Squirrels Threatened by Development in Mid-Wales
One of Wales' last natural red squirrel populations faces peril as woodland is cleared for proposed energy park
Forest under siege
A proposed energy park in mid-Wales is jeopardising one of the few remaining wild red squirrel populations. The Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales has launched a campaign in response to plans that would destroy at least 40 hectares of forest currently occupied by red squirrels. The development would raise the chances of local extinction of red squirrels in the region.
Once widespread across Britain, red squirrels have all but vanished from many areas, pushed out by non-native grey squirrels, disease and habitat loss. In Wales, only three populations remain — and the mid-Wales population is the only one that persists naturally, without reinforcement from captive-bred or translocated animals. Genetic studies show this group carries unique lineage vital for the species’ broader survival.
A risky energy proposal
The Bryn Cadwgan Energy Park, proposed by Galileo Empower Limited, would span some 1,120 hectares and include solar and wind infrastructure, plus battery storage. The site lies near Lampeter and Llanwrtyd Wells. At present, the proposal is in the pre-application consultation stage, with a final application due this year.
The core forest at risk — Bryn Arau Duon — is a rare red squirrel stronghold. It remains free of grey squirrels, whose presence elsewhere makes red populations vulnerable to squirrel pox and competition. Clearing or fragmenting canopy would force surviving red squirrels to disperse and expose them to dangers they have so far escaped.
Reducing tree cover and breaking canopy connectivity have been shown to harm red squirrel populations. Red squirrels depend on mature conifers for food and shelter — newly planted trees take decades to mature into viable habitat. Proposed mitigation in the energy scheme is regarded as insufficient to safeguard viability.
Wider impacts on biodiversity
Besides red squirrels, the proposed development sits adjacent to protected sites — including Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas, and nature reserves. It also threatens habitats for pine marten, otter, water vole, bats, and many bird species.
Voices for nature
Adam Dawson, conservation officer for the mid-Wales Red Squirrel Partnership, said that camera traps have shown how the forest is a “stronghold” for these secretive animals, and noted growing local support for the campaign. The trust warns that while renewable energy is essential, it should not be delivered at the expense of nature.
Sarah Kessell, CEO of the Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales, emphasised: “We believe that development should not come at the expense of nature. All development must be located, designed and delivered in a way that contributes to nature’s recovery, not its decline.” With one in six species already at risk of extinction in Wales, she says, the loss of another iconic native species cannot be justified.
The campaign to oppose the Bryn Cadwgan Energy Park is open until 1 October 2025, aligning with the consultation period for public comments on the draft proposal.
September 2025
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