In 2023 the National Landscapes Association commissioned Catrin Evans Consultancy to carry out an independent evaluation of Wales’ National Landscapes Sustainable Development Fund (SDF), covering the period from 2018 to 2021. The evaluation highlighted the fund’s positive impact and extensive delivery against both local and national priorities. It also revealed that the SDF effectively supported projects reflective of local National Landscape priorities and facilitated closer collaboration between National Landscape partnerships and local communities, acting as a strong enabler for community-focused delivery​​.

The fund demonstrated excellent value for money, with an intervention rate of 31% across the evaluation period, though broader outcomes were often not captured within current reporting mechanisms​. Recommendations to enhance the fund’s effectiveness included refining grant documents, increasing targeted reporting, and raising the profile of the fund through case studies and national promotion​​. These improvements aim to build on the exceptional work already delivered and ensure the SDF continues to meet key priorities both nationally and locally.

The National Landscapes Association will now participate in the Welsh Government’ SDF Task and Finish Group to refine the SDF and help deliver some of the evaluations recommendations.