Decisions made locally and nationally can shape the future of the New Forest. That is why the New Forest Association works with local MPs, public bodies, national park organisations and environmental partners to make sure the Forest has a clear, independent voice.
Protecting the New Forest depends on strong relationships, clear evidence and a willingness to speak up when decisions may affect the Forest’s future. The New Forest Association works with local MPs, public bodies, national park organisations and environmental partners to ensure the Forest’s voice is heard.
The New Forest is shaped by decisions made locally, regionally and nationally. Planning policy, environmental legislation, transport, housing, farming, water, biodiversity, recreation and climate policy can all affect the Forest, even when decisions are made far beyond its boundary.
That is why the New Forest Association maintains regular contact with local Members of Parliament. We raise key local issues with them and respond where proposed legislation could affect the Forest’s habitats, landscape, commoning traditions, communities or long-term protection.
We also work closely with the New Forest National Park Authority through regular meetings and shared discussion on issues affecting the Forest. As the National Park Society for the New Forest, the Association has an important role in helping ensure the Park’s purposes are protected and properly understood.
Our work is strengthened by collaboration with other local groups, including the Commoners Defence Association, New Forest Biodiversity Forum, NFDOG and others who bring specialist knowledge, lived experience and practical insight.
The Association is also affiliated with the Campaign for National Parks, which represents the interests of national parks across England and Wales and has strong links with Parliament, Government and national environmental bodies.
We maintain regular contact with local branches of national environmental organisations, including the RSPB, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, the National Trust, Freshwater Habitats Trust and CPRE. These relationships help build shared understanding and stronger responses to the challenges facing the Forest.
The Forest cannot speak for itself. By working with MPs and partner organisations, while keeping our independent voice, we help ensure the New Forest is represented wherever decisions about its future are made.
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Photographs courtesy: Clive Chatters, Gale Pettifer, Steve Laycock, Mike Read, Brian Tarnoff, Peter Roberts, John Ward.