The Great Outdoors Is Indeed Great!

The findings of a new survey released today show that nearly everyone in Wales enjoys visiting the great Welsh outdoors – and that more than half of us want to enjoy it so much more!

The Welsh Outdoor Recreation Survey is the most comprehensive survey of the informal use of the outdoors by adults living in Wales. It is commissioned jointly by CCW and Forestry Commission Wales, and is undertaken every three years. The results from the 2011 survey have just been published, and provide not only a detailed view of how, where and why people are using the great outdoors, but also compares the results with the last survey conducted in 2008 to see what has changed.

Amongst the highlights of the report are:

95% of people have visited the outdoors at least once in the previous year.
60% want to visit outdoors more for recreation and in particular to do more walking and cycling.
Only just over a quarter (27%) visit the outdoors frequently enough for it to benefit their health.

The survey also found that the outdoors is open to everyone, regardless of income or gender. However, not everyone gets out to enjoy the outdoors as much as others, with lower levels of participation from elderly people and those with a disability.

Speaking about the report, Environment Minister, John Griffiths said:

“In a week in which we are basking in the glory of London 2012, I think many of us are feeling inspired to live more active and healthy lives.

“This report gives us valuable intelligence about how people across Wales are living. It is heartening that so many of us are already enjoying getting out and about in Wales, and that 60% of us are keen to do so more frequently.

“The challenge now is to turn that good intention into action. The Welsh countryside and coast is the perfect back drop for a family stroll, a bracing walk, a bike ride or a run, and with the opening of the Wales Coast Path earlier this year there has never been a better time to get out enjoy all that Wales has to offer.”

Although the overall level and frequency hasn’t changed over the last three years, what activities people do has altered. In particular there has been a significant increase in the use of outdoors for informal games and visiting playgrounds; wildlife watching; and some more active pursuits such as mountain biking, cycling and running.

According to Dr David Parker, CCW’s Director Evidence and Advice:

“Whilst walking is still the most popular way to enjoy the outdoors, it has declined. This, coupled with the increase in the increase in more active pursuits, clearly shows the increased diversity of activities that people undertake. These findings will help us understand what we need to do differently in future if everyone is to have the kind of opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, in a way that is right for them” added David Parker.

People visit a wide range of places for outdoor recreation – from the mountains to the sea and from forests to local parks. There has been a significant increase in visits to woodlands and forests as well as to beaches, but a decrease to visits to local parks.

Ends.

For more information about this press release please contact Bran Devey on 07747767443 or Meinir Wigley 07720428644

NOTES TO EDITORS

The full report can be found on http://www.ccw.gov.uk/enjoying-the-country/welsh-outdoor-recreation-surve.aspx
The Countryside Council for Wales is a Welsh Government Sponsored Body, working for a better Wales where everyone values and cares for our natural environment. More information about our work is available on www.ccw.gov.