The relationship between this low-lying area and the sea has not been without tragedy. The element of tension and jeopardy is demonstrated most starkly by the catastrophic flood of 1607. A tidal surge—some think tsunami—put large areas underwater on both sides of the Bristol Channel. It is estimated that 2,000 or more people were drowned, houses and villages swept away, an estimated 200 square miles of farmland inundated, and livestock destroyed, wrecking local economies. The coast of Devon and the Somerset levels as far inland as Glastonbury Tor, 14 miles from the coast, were said to have been affected. This disaster and numerous subsequent floods highlight the continued imperative for close and careful management of flood defences, water levels and the drainage system, but also serve as a reminder of why our local stories should never be forgotten. A visit to St Mary Magdalene's Church in Goldcliff or St Mary's Church in Nash will show plaques and wall markings recording the flood event and water heights.

And, of course, Dirprwy Lywydd, it isn't only the levels' historic value that should be celebrated. Its ecology is hugely significant, sustaining a great variety of wildlife. The ditches and reens provide a myriad of opportunities for different species, from the world's smallest flowering vascular plant and the king diving beetle to top predators like the grass snake, little egret and otter. A number of European and UK protected species have been confirmed to be present, including dormice, grass snake, some bat species, great crested newt and water vole. The charismatic water vole—a personal favourite of mine, as I am the Wildlife Trust water vole species champion—had become locally extinct, but are now numbered in the hundreds and increasing, thanks to a re-introduction and mink control programme managed by Gwent Wildlife Trust.

The RSPB reserve and visitor centre, created as habitat compensation for the loss involved in the Cardiff Bay barrage development, is a bird lover's paradise. It is the only place in Wales to see the magnificent cranes breeding for the first time in 400 years, and is also home to other Welsh rarities such as bearded tits, bitterns and harriers. The specific conditions created by the distinct water level and vegetation management regimes contribute to this rich environment. There are eight wetland sites of special scientific interest that are home to rare and vulnerable birds and diverse species with complex habitats.

It has the second largest tidal range in the world, with 15m recorded between the extreme high and low tides. It's a remarkable area with great value for Wales, its residents, local populations and potential visitors, especially those from nearby urban areas. It really does have a great deal to offer, but its story and landscape is subtle and, more often than not, undersold.

Given the environmental, social, cultural and economic value, it is heartening to see work under way to better recognise and celebrate this importance. Our planet, climate, environment, biodiversity and wildlife are under threat and imperilled, and, sadly, people have never been further away from the natural world in their daily lives as we are today. A strong human dimension is needed to create a greater sense of understanding and appreciation of these wetlands and this is where the Living Levels project, currently under way, has stepped to the fore. Their landscape partnership has come together to deliver a programme of work that will promote and reconnect people to the history, wildlife and wild beauty. It is worth some £4 million and heritage lottery funded, and led by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. The aim is to conserve and restore the important natural heritage features of the area, to develop a far stronger appreciation of the value of the landscape, and to inspire people to learn about and participate in its heritage. It involves the reintroduction of apple orchards, connecting with local schools, collaborations with Newport City Council to combat fly-tipping, and the popularity of cafes and eateries at Goldcliff and the RSPB wetlands centre. There is now a fresh opportunity for sustainable development and utilising the wonder of the levels.

We must, Dirprwy Lywydd, encourage more people to visit and enjoy what this special area has to offer. Walking, cycling, exploring and experiencing will enable a better understanding of why it should be cared for and preserved. It is an oasis of peace, tranquillity and calm, aiding well-being and health. Thankfully, the RSPB centre and the Gwent Wildlife Trust’s Magor marsh nature reserve welcome thousands of visitors every week, including very many school children undertaking activities and enjoying learning about nature.

Of course, these are challenging times, and the landscape faces dangers as well as offering opportunities. The proposed M4 relief road route across the levels is a major threat and would cause significant and long-lasting damage were it to go ahead. Whereas the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 and the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 together create an enabling framework for managing Wales’s natural resources more sustainably, collaboratively and at scale.

Major investment through the Wales coast path and national cycle network routes have raised the potential of the area to serve an increasing number of leisure-seeking residents and visitors from the city region and further afield. Greater appreciation and investment is imperative to ensure that the area, its wildlife, its history and the people it is inherently connected to are sustained for Wales and future generations. The landscape is iconic but fragile, and we must work together to build a more resilient future. Understanding the heritage, history and biodiversity of our communities will ensure we all take a sense of ownership over their conservation.

So, I’d like to encourage everyone to pay a visit to this very special place in south-east Wales. Whether it is seeing the wonder of a starling murmuration at Newport wetlands, observing the water voles at Magor marsh, taking part in one of the many interesting workshops run by the Living Levels project, or walking the full length of the sea wall at Goldcliff on the hunt for a prehistoric find, the best way to learn about this unique and wonderful part of Wales is to come along and enjoy it, and, in doing so, learn why the levels deserve to be protected and sustained for today and future generations.

Diolch yn fawr.