The UK Government has firmly said “no” to Wales’ request to control the Crown Estate—an extensive array of marine and land assets that includes much of the Welsh foreshore. Despite the Welsh Government and 22 local councils advocating for this devolution, citing success in Scotland, Westminster remains unmoved.
The Crown Estate, holding significant economic value in Wales, is at the heart of this political clash. Its assets encompass the seabed out to 12 nautical miles, various ports, and over 50,000 acres of land. The Welsh Government argues that controlling it would empower local decision-making, but the UK Government fears this could disrupt market stability and delay offshore development.
Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens argues that devolving control could lead to market fragmentation and might jeopardise crucial investment in renewable energy projects, like offshore wind. Westminster insists that such a move could also reduce Wales’ block grant, echoing the set-up in Scotland, but without boosting Welsh funding.
There’s significant support for devolution in Wales, with all local councils on board, but the UK Government’s rebuttal has only intensified the drive. YesCymru, a pro-devolution group, sees this as a reminder that Wales is viewed merely as a UK region, leading to protests and renewed campaigning efforts. Meanwhile, Plaid Cymru is making this a central issue in their upcoming election campaign, declaring it’s time for a change.
Stay updated as this unfolds—can local voices turn the tide? 🗣️🌊🏴