Thursday, January 22, 2026
Confor, the representative body for the forestry and timber sector, has unveiled its 2026 manifesto for the Welsh Parliament elections, calling for an ambitious twin-track approach to support the growth of productive woodlands and increase the use of Welsh timber. This detailed plan is aimed at all political parties vying for a seat in the Senedd ahead of the May 2026 elections.
The manifesto highlights the potential of the Welsh forestry and timber sector to deliver substantial economic, environmental, and social benefits. Confor stresses the importance of the next Welsh Government fully backing the Welsh Timber Industrial Strategy, which aims to establish a circular, sustainable forestry-timber economy. It places particular focus on rural communities, recognising the central role these areas will play in shaping the future of Wales’ timber industry.
Elaine Heckley MICFor, National Manager for Confor Wales, emphasised that the Welsh forestry sector already provides vital services. These include job creation, climate-supporting woodlands, and improved economic resilience. The strategy, which outlines the key steps to integrate timber into the Welsh economy, was presented to members of the Senedd on January 20, 2026, with the goal of securing political backing for its continued development.
The manifesto urges politicians to remain committed to the strategy following the election. Heckley stated, “There is a real opportunity to expand the sector, attract more business, create jobs, and establish a domestic supply chain to support Welsh timber production. We look forward to working with the next Welsh Government to ensure these goals are met.”
The Welsh timber industry holds significant potential to support the country’s economic growth. The sector already contributes nearly £3 billion annually to the UK economy. By strengthening local supply chains and increasing domestic processing capacity, Wales can reduce its reliance on imports and insulate itself against fluctuations in global markets.
Confor’s manifesto outlines the need for government intervention to stimulate domestic timber production. This would allow the country to not only meet its climate targets but also generate jobs, drive rural economic development, and contribute to meeting housing demands.
Wales is facing a severe housing crisis, with over 10,000 people homeless and more than 170,000 waiting for social housing. The manifesto advocates for timber supply targets to be directly linked to housing delivery, ensuring that Welsh timber plays a central role in the construction of homes.
Timber-framed homes offer many advantages, including faster build times, energy efficiency, and lower carbon footprints. These homes also promote healthier indoor environments. By prioritising locally sourced Welsh timber in public housing and infrastructure projects, the government can support the growth of the timber industry while addressing Wales’ pressing housing needs.
“Timber-framed homes are an efficient and environmentally friendly solution to Wales’ housing emergency,” said Heckley. “By sourcing timber locally, we can stimulate the economy, support Welsh jobs, and reduce carbon emissions.”
In addition to its economic benefits, woodland creation and management are crucial for achieving Wales’ climate targets. By planting well-designed, productive mixed-species woodlands, Wales can capture carbon, reduce flood risks, and provide rural employment opportunities. These woodlands play a critical role in supporting biodiversity and increasing carbon sequestration.
Woodlands also offer significant health benefits, improving both physical and mental wellbeing. Research from Forest Research estimates that the mental health benefits of woodland access are worth £13 million annually to the NHS in Wales. Providing easier access to forests and woodlands encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and improves overall health outcomes for the population.
The manifesto calls for continued collaboration between Confor, the Welsh Government, and the forestry sector to secure a sustainable future. Failure to invest in and support the growth of the forestry and timber industries risks higher climate costs, economic stagnation in rural communities, and worsening public health outcomes.
“With leadership, partnership, and strategic investment, Wales has a unique opportunity to create a resilient, prosperous, and low-carbon future,” said Stuart Goodall, Chief Executive of Confor. “The timber industry can help deliver long-term benefits for the people of Wales.”
The opportunity for growth is clear. A concerted effort to prioritise Welsh timber in housing construction, climate action, and rural economic development can transform Wales into a green economic powerhouse.
By supporting the Welsh Timber Industrial Strategy, the next Welsh Government can play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable, low-carbon economy, offering a better future for both the environment and the people of Wales.
The manifesto’s publication marks a crucial step in advocating for a greener, more resilient Wales, where timber plays a central role in the country’s future.
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Tags: climate change, confor, forestry sector, net zero, Timber Industry, timber supply, Welsh timber, woodworking industry, woodworking UK
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