A major programme of work aimed at protecting and restoring Newborough Forest for future generations is set to begin this autumn, Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has announced.

The work forms part of an approved 30-year Forest Resource Plan designed to help the internationally important landscape adapt to environmental pressures including climate change, coastal erosion and shifting sand dunes.

Starting in October 2026, NRW will begin carefully managed thinning and felling operations across parts of the forest. The work will help restore more natural woodland along the dune system, allow valuable sand dune habitats to expand and strengthen the health and resilience of the conifer forest further inland.

Trees that are diseased, damaged or reaching the end of their life will be removed, while thinning will create space for a greater variety of species to thrive. Over time, NRW says the changes will support the development of more natural dune landscapes and native broadleaf woodland.

Visitors can expect some disruption while the work is underway, with temporary road closures, traffic management measures and changes to parking arrangements planned to ensure public safety. NRW said visitors will be informed in advance of any restrictions to help them plan their journeys.

Alongside the forestry operations, the organisation is also exploring ways to improve access and visitor facilities at the popular site.

Subcontractors have been appointed to assess options for a potential new access route at the northern end of the existing car park. However, NRW stressed that proposals remain at an early design stage and will be subject to detailed environmental surveys before any decisions are taken.

Dylan Williams, NRW’s North West Operations Manager for Land and Assets, said the work was essential to securing the future of one of Wales’ most treasured natural landscapes.

“Newborough is a changing landscape, and carefully planned forest thinning works are central to helping the site adapt for the future,” he said.

“Pressures such as coastal erosion, shifting dunes and climate change mean the current landscape and access arrangements are becoming less sustainable. With rising costs and increasing safety concerns, it’s important we act now.

“We’re taking an evidence-based approach to manage the forest and surrounding environment, supporting natural processes while keeping visitors safe and protecting this unique landscape.”

NRW is inviting local residents and visitors to learn more about the plans at a public drop-in session taking place at the Prichard Jones Institute in Newborough from 1pm to 7pm on June 11.

The session will provide an opportunity for people to ask questions, discuss the proposed works and hear more about the long-term vision for the forest.

Newborough Forest and its surrounding dunes are among the most important coastal environments in Wales, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year while providing a home for a wide range of wildlife. NRW says the planned work will help ensure the landscape remains resilient and accessible for decades to come.