Heritage crime becomes key priority as police forces and government strengthen joint efforts

WALES’ countryside, wildlife and rural communities are set to benefit from strengthened protections under a new three-year strategy launched today (Tuesday, July 9) at the Wales Wildlife & Rural Crime Conference.

The Wales Rural Crime Strategy 2025–2028 builds on the success of the previous joint initiative between Welsh police forces and the Welsh Government, which has helped coordinate efforts to tackle crimes affecting farms, animals, habitats, and rural residents. The updated strategy adopts a comprehensive ‘4P’ approach: prepare, prevent, pursue and protect.

Almost 100 delegates from across law enforcement, government, and conservation sectors gathered at the Welsh Government buildings in Cardiff for the event, chaired by Deputy Chief Constable Nigel Harrison of North Wales Police.

One of the major developments in the new strategy is the elevation of heritage crime as a full priority area, reflecting growing concerns about damage to historic sites and cultural assets across Wales.

Gwent Police also announced at the conference that it will expand its Rural Crime Team to boost enforcement and support for communities across the region.

Temporary Chief Superintendent Jason White, Head of Neighbourhood Policing in Gwent, said:
“Crime in rural areas can have a profound impact on victims and communities. Our Rural Crime Team works closely with partners, landowners, and local groups to address concerns and provide targeted support.
We’re increasing resources this year to help tackle the types of crime that harm livelihoods, isolate individuals, and damage trust.”

The new strategy retains six priority areas, now including:

• Bird Crime
• Farm Crime
• Habitats
• Heritage Crime
• Mammals and European Protected Species
• Networking Rural Support Services

The latter uniquely recognises the need to address mental health and wellbeing in isolated rural areas.

Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said:
“Wildlife and rural crime are issues of national and international concern. These are not only crimes against nature and people, but also often linked to wider harmful behaviours, including serious organised crime.
Our partnership approach—between government, police, and both statutory and non-governmental partners—is essential. Without that collaboration, much of this work simply couldn’t happen.”

Rob Taylor QPM, the Wales Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator, added:
“Our goal is to support those who live and work in rural Wales, protecting world-class farming, rich historical sites, and wildlife habitats.
Strategic collaboration is at the heart of everything we do, and I’m proud that this updated strategy sets out a clear path forward.”

NFU Mutual recently reported that rural crime claims in Wales rose from £2.4 million in 2023 to £2.8 million in 2024. However, overall rural crime rates remain lower in Wales than in many parts of England.

Shadow Rural Affairs Minister Samuel Kurtz MS said: “This announcement will ring hollow with Welsh rural communities, who have seen rural crime statistics increase here in Wales, while Scotland and England have seen a decrease. 

“I’ve raised repeatedly the threat of quad bike theft, livestock worrying, fly grazing and rural crime more broadly in the Senedd, and while I welcome the strategy, there is much more to be done. 

“The Welsh Labour Government’s track record when it comes to supporting rural communities is weak, and I know voters are welcoming the chance to kick them out of office next May.”

The Welsh Government has confirmed funding for the Wales Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator role will continue for another three years.