Our marine project in Pembrokeshire

Published: 6 May 2026

Pembrokeshire is one of the most exceptional coastal and marine landscapes. Alongside the National Park designated for its outstanding coastline, its seas support rich wildlife and sustain deep cultural connections between people and place. These waters are central to Pembrokeshire’s identity, the wellbeing of coastal communities and are recognised across Wales, the UK and internationally for their incredible value. 

Yet many of Pembrokeshire’s marine protected areas are in unfavourable condition. Pressures on the marine environment, together with the impacts of climate change, highlight the need to strengthen the health and resilience of the coast and sea. At the same time, there is a clear need to support thriving coastal communities whose livelihoods, culture and futures are closely tied to the marine environment. 

This project brings these challenges together. It is a collaborative exploration of how Pembrokeshire’s coast and sea could be improved through joined‑up planning and management across land and sea. The project recognises that many marine pressures are shaped by what happens on land and asks whether greater integration could deliver stronger outcomes for nature and people. 

We aim to create space for open, evidence‑led exploration. Working with partners and local stakeholders, it will consider a range of possible approaches to the future management of Pembrokeshire’s marine environment. This includes, alongside other options, examining the potential value of a seaward extension of the National Park or the designation of a Marine National Park. 

The work is rooted in a shared partner statement and is designed to complement and support their important work. Local knowledge, lived experience and stakeholder insight are central. 

A core focus is on understanding how land and sea are connected – ecologically, socially and economically. The project asks what changes might be needed to secure long‑term sustainability, so that the benefits of Pembrokeshire’s exceptional marine environment continue to flow to future generations. Young people are an important part of this journey. Building on existing youth engagement in Pembrokeshire, the project will help create opportunities for young people to display their passion for the sea and develop leadership skills, ensuring their voices help shape decisions that affect their future. 

While rooted in Pembrokeshire, the project also aims to inform wider policy thinking in Wales and support delivery of Y Môr a Ni (ocean literacy strategy). Campaign for National Parks plays an independent role, supporting constructive dialogue with partners, Welsh Government and the Senedd and helping to test what might work. At its heart, the project is an invitation to work together to explore how Pembrokeshire’s coast and sea can be better protected, better managed and better valued for generations to come.  

Knowledge exchange across the UK will be supported, included working with the working the National Marine Park Alliance, and a National Marine Park pilot project that is under development in England.