The River Teifi - its past, present and future
Voice of the River Llais yr Afon is a partnership project that addresses the community's aspirations to restore and protect the River Teifi, while creating opportunities to be involved in its improvement. This is two-year project currently supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, informs and engages through the arts and environmental science.
The River Teifi is one of Wales' most iconic waterways with its rich, diverse wildlife, cultural and historical significance. However, like many rivers, it faces increasing pressures from pollution, climate change and unsustainable land use.
In 2024-2025 Small World Theatre, spacetocreate, Save the Teifi and West Wales Rivers Trust created a People's Plan with input from over 300 local people. The project worked in the Lower Teifi Valley communities of Cenarth, Llechryd, Cilgerran, Aberteifi and Llandudoch, using arts and citizen science to engage five primary schools and residents.
The People's Plan sets out a shared vision for the river's future - one that prioritises ecological health, sustainable management and community involvement.
Please follow the link to The People's Plan to read the Community's Recommendations
Through public consultation so far, we have identified five categories of public concern connected to the River Teifi:
Access
The lack of clear access to the river is one of the biggest barriers preventing people from connecting to the Teifi.
See more about Access
Biodiversity
People of all ages value the rich biodiversity of the River Teifi, where there are still thriving pockets of wildlife along its course.
See more about Biodiversity
Food & Farming
The challenges farmers face in protecting the river, living by the river and restoring its health.
See more about Food & Farming
Water Quality
The cleanliness of the river is a deep, shared concern. Kick sampling activities offer a hands-on way to explore and understand the life that depends on the riverbed.
See more about Water Quality
Culture & Heritage
The Teifi continues to shape the cultural identity of communities along the Lower Teifi Valley. From new and old traditions, to the famous Idris Mathias map.
See more about Culture & Heritage