Poet Meleri Davies becomes Eryri National Park's first artist in residence at Plas Tan y Bwlch

Eryri National Park Authority has appointed its first ever artist in residence, and it has chosen a poet with deep roots in the area. Meleri Davies, who grew up in Cwm Prysor in Meirionnydd, will help the authority shape the future of Plas Tan y Bwlch near Maentwrog.

Her role supports Plas y Bobol, the authority's project to establish a new headquarters and community hub at Plas Tan y Bwlch. Meleri will document and communicate that journey through poetry and other creative approaches, sharing news about the project and drawing local people into it.

"I see myself as a bridge between the National Park Authority and the local communities surrounding Plas Tan y Bwlch," she said. "There are so many considerations involved in developing an iconic centre such as Plas Tan y Bwlch, but there is also a wealth of local and community knowledge that needs to feed into the process."

Over almost a year she will work with the communities of Maentwrog, Llanfrothen, Ffestiniog, Talsarnau, Porthmadog and Penrhyndeudraeth, with a particular focus on young people. The work will complement the authority's plans with youth theatre company Frân Wen to develop arts projects in the area.

Chief executive Jonathan Cawley said Plas y Bobol was set up in response to a clear demand from residents and young people for high-quality artistic and cultural opportunities. "Access to live arts and creative opportunities in rural areas is limited, and this project aims to address that gap by providing a platform for local voices," he said, adding that it will build on the legacy of Plas Tan y Bwlch as an educational centre that has inspired conservationists and artists.

Meleri now lives in Dyffryn Ogwen and spent ten years as chief executive of Partneriaeth Ogwen, working with organisations including Cwmni Bro Ffestiniog. "I'm a Meirionnydd girl, and I'm delighted to have the opportunity to come back home to work on this project," she said. "I'll start at grassroots level, connecting with community initiatives across the area and attending relevant local events."

Naomi Jones, the authority's director of land management, said the activities will bring together the natural environment, the Welsh language and creative expression, helping young people build skills, confidence and a stronger connection with the landscape.

Follow the Plas y Bobol project and upcoming workshops through the Eryri National Park Authority website, eryri.gov.wales.