The report published on Friday by the Audit Commission in Wales found most people who used the services provided were happy.

Its functions in maintaining heritage sites and providing information for visitors are core components of the local tourism industry

Stephen Nott, Audit Commission

However, the survey stated there was room for improvement and some fundamental issues needed to be addressed.

The park, which is a major tourist attraction, covers over 240 square miles of the region and plays key role in the local economy.

The survey was undertaken as part of a government 'best value' initiative.

Under the scheme local services are scrutinised to ensure they are as effective, economic, and efficient as they can be.

Economic role

During the review of the park the commission focused on corporate communication, information, interpretation, education and heritage sites.

Stephen Nott, Director of the Audit Commission Inspection Service in Wales said: "Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has an important role to play in the economic sustainability of south west Wales.

"Its functions in maintaining heritage sites and providing information for visitors are core components of the local tourism industry.

Recommendations

Develop clear corporate image Improve relations with local authority Produce crisis management plan Maximise use of shared facilities for visitor information and services

"It is pleasing to note that this part of the service is being delivered to a good standard at present.

"If the service is to improve, however, then the park must address some fundamental issues," he added.

The report highlighted flaws in the park's "improvement plan" and raised concerns that it did not "provide a sufficiently robust way forward".

Recommendations for ways to improve the service - which has a budget of nearly �700,000 - include developing the relationship with the local authority, maximising shared facilities and the development of a clear corporate image.

Inspectors awarded the park a two out of three star rating for the service.

Much of the delay was due to the involvement of this service in the impact locally of the foot- and-mouth crisis

Gordon Cawood, Coast National Park Chairman

Chairman of the Park, Councillor Gordon Cawood, said: "We are very pleased that our service has been recognised by the commission as a 'good service' and we welcome the constructive recommendations in it.

"Because the review process began over two years ago I am pleased to say that many of the suggested actions are already being implemented.

"Much of the delay was due to the involvement of this service in the impact locally of the foot- and-mouth crisis.

"We are particularly pleased with the inspectors' comments on our special comments on our special contribution in assisting the Pembrokeshire agricultural and tourism sectors through that difficult period," he added.

The coastal park was given national park status in 1952 and is one of three in Wales along with the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia.

It covers 240 square miles from St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south.