Political Priorities for Senedd 2025

With the Senedd elections approaching in 2026, this year we are working to put rural Wales at the heart of political debate, ensuring that government policies support growth, innovation, and long-term prosperity.

At CLA Cymru, we are committed to championing policies that drive resilience across Wales’ rural economy, alongside addressing key member priorities. Our Generating Growth: A Vision for the Rural Economy report, launched from the CPG (Cross Party Group) last year, outlines 19 key goals to unlock the potential of rural businesses, from farming and tourism to renewable energy and infrastructure.

Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS)

The Welsh Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) must support a thriving rural economy while ensuring environmental sustainability. We are advocating for a fair and viable scheme that balances food production with biodiversity, offering farmers the financial security they need to invest in the future. The process continues this year in more round tables with stakeholders, ahead of the formal funding and launch of the scheme at the end of 2025. Our Director Victoria Bond, remains at the heart of the debates in play, alongside other key stakeholders.

Inheritance Tax (IHT)

Alongside the national team, we will continue to press for a more realistic approach to Inheritance Tax, ensuring that generational businesses and family farms are not unduly penalised. We outlined key arguments to the Deputy First Minister at the end of 2024 and will continue to advocate and exemplify arguments against the current policy with our Welsh MP's.

Infrastructure – Strengthening the Electricity Grid

Rural Wales urgently needs investment in grid infrastructure to unlock the full potential of renewable energy. Without improvements, landowners and businesses will struggle to connect new projects, stalling efforts to make Wales a leader in green energy. Our Director Victoria Bond sits on the newly formed Infrastructure Government Committee and we are continually working with the Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Evans Team on both issues and opportunities.

Tourism: Supporting Wales’ Rural Visitor Economy

Tourism is a cornerstone of the rural economy, providing jobs and investment. However, recent regulatory changes - including potential tourism levies and the 182 day rule - could have unintended negative consequences. We are pushing for proportionate policies that support, rather than hinder, rural tourism businesses.

Planning: Enabling Sustainable Development

Planning reform must reflect the needs of rural businesses and communities. We are campaigning for a more flexible, responsive system that supports farm diversification, rural housing, and business expansion. This includes streamlining processes for renewable energy projects, essential infrastructure, and economic development. We have met with the Director of Planning for the Welsh Government and have been exploring the barriers to change and how CLA Cymru can support delivery of their goals.

Waterwise Programme

Wales faces increasing challenges in water management. Our Waterwise programme has been developed to explore, educate and advocate implications for land use and farming. We are ensuring that policy decisions are practical, evidence-based, and consider the needs of landowners and rural industries. As well as showcasing examples of best management and practice that could be adopted on a wider basis. We also have highlighted key barriers and cross departmental red tape that hinders progress.

National Park Proposal in North Wales

While national parks bring conservation benefits, we are engaging with policymakers to ensure any new designation does not impose unnecessary restrictions on landowners and businesses. A collaborative approach is essential to ensure local communities benefit from such proposals.

SSSI

We are monitoring the designation process for new areas of Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) , advocating for a system that recognises the role of land managers in maintaining biodiversity while allowing sustainable economic activity.

As we approach the 2026 Senedd elections, we are working to place rural issues at the heart of political debate. We will be engaging with all parties to secure commitments that support rural economic growth, environmental sustainability, and business resilience.

Our Commitment

CLA Cymru will continue to advocate for policies that balance economic prosperity with environmental responsibility. By working closely with government, stakeholders, and our members, we are ensuring that rural Wales remains a vibrant, innovative, and sustainable place to live and work.