Fonds GB 0210 CPRW - Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales (CPRW) records

The Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales (CPRW) is a national charity founded in 1928 by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis under the title of The Council for the Preservation of Rural Wales. The name was changed to the Council for the Protection of Rural Wales in 1962, followed by its current title in 1991. The aim of CPRW is to protect the countryside of Wales and to encourage development that will not detract from the natural environment or cultural heritage. The organisation has established itself as a highly respected consultation body for national and local government, environmental and heritage groups and private individuals. From the main directors' office in Welshpool a liaison officer supervises the Living Wales Project which employs two officers, one in North Wales and one in mid-Wales, whose work time is shared by the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority. Both the professional staff and volunteer members are employed to examine the environmental, ecological, economic and aesthetic aspects of planning applications and to undertake the necessary lobbying and campaigning. The implementation of proposals and financial matters are overseen by the Executive Committee and the Financial and General Purposes Committee. Close co-operation is maintained with bodies such as Cambrian Archaeological Association, Wales Wildlife and Countryside Link. Rural land use issues are discussed with government institutions within Britain and the European Union, the National Assembly and local authorities including National Parks. The CPRW also seeks to influence private developers and others who may threaten the qualities it seeks to protect. It provides a library service and it uses education and media publicity to inform the public of its function and activities.

The CPRW operates a scheme of Rural Wales Awards, presented to organisations or individuals who are considered to have made a substantial contribution to the preservation of the landscape and environment in Wales. There are seventeen regional branches and quarterly bulletins keep members informed of the organisation's activities. Annual study conferences have attracted distinguished naturalists and historians. The CPRW also produces annually three editions of Rural Wales Magazine which are distributed to members, politicians, local authorities, statutory and voluntary organisations and the media. Past presidents have included Lady Megan Lloyd George, 1949-1965, Wynford Vaughan Thomas, 1968-1972 and Lady (Baroness) Eirene Lloyd White, 1973-1989. Other distinguished members of CPRW committees have been Cecily Williams-Ellis, Capt. H.R.H. Vaughan and Col. Morrey Salmon.