Roads & Traffic

Reducing the impact of traffic on the Forest

Roads have had a significant impact on the New Forest since the mid-20th century. Major routes, including the A31, A337 and A35, have been widened and fenced. Minor roads have also been widened, straightened or treated in ways that feel increasingly urban. The result is more traffic, more noise and a steady loss of tranquillity in places that should feel quiet, rural and set apart.

The effect is not only visual. Traffic affects how people experience the Forest and how safely commoners’ animals and wildlife can use it. Ponies, cattle, donkeys, pigs and deer all move through a landscape crossed by busy roads. Cyclists, walkers, residents and visitors also share that same space.

Collisions involving animals remain unacceptably high. Lower speed limits are important, but speed limits alone are not enough. The New Forest Association believes that reducing the impact of traffic is essential to protecting the Forest’s animals, landscape, commoning and tranquillity.

Accepting some limits on vehicle use and speed is a reasonable responsibility in return for access to such a rare and fragile landscape.

We support measures that reduce traffic impact through better road design, sensitive landscaping, traffic and demand management, speed enforcement and public awareness. We also support practical steps to reduce animal accidents, including physical design changes, targeted campaigns and the trial of new or seasonal traffic management approaches.

The A31 trunk road has a particular visual and noise impact as it cuts across the Forest. We support action to reduce that impact and, where possible, restore a greater sense of tranquillity.

We oppose new roads, road upgrades or highway works that increase traffic, urbanise the Forest or damage its rural character. We also oppose piecemeal widening or straightening of minor roads, further highway fencing, intrusive signage, kerbing, verge hardening and other urban treatments in Forest villages.

We will continue to press for stronger traffic calming, better enforcement and a review of the New Forest Highway Strategy. This should include serious consideration of average speed limits, seasonal or permanent road closures, vehicle capacity limits, car park relocation or closure, and stronger control of verge parking.

The Forest cannot speak for itself. By reducing the harm caused by traffic, we help protect its animals, tranquillity and future.

Join us and help protect the New Forest from the impact of traffic.