More time for discussions on unique New Forest landscape

May 13, 2013 - PRLog -- The closing date for the consultation is extended to 5pm on 31 July 2013. The draft Landscape Action Plan and Landscape Character Assessment will then go to the full National Park Authority meeting on 26 September 2013 to be considered for formal adoption.

The extension to the consultation period was agreed at the New Forest Consultative Panel meeting on Thursday 2 May 2013.

Alison Barnes, New Forest National Park Authority Chief Executive, said: ‘We are really pleased that people are taking such an interest in issues that affect the landscape and, as people have requested a bit more time, we’re happy to extend it to capture as many views as possible. Meanwhile we are continuing our discussions with parish councils and others in the New Forest community.’

The draft Landscape Action Plan brings together guidance which already exists in planning documents which have been agreed by a wide range of people. It does not carry any legal weight and does not supersede the existing planning documents for the National Park – the Core Strategy and Supplementary Planning Documents.

The Landscape Action Plan was drafted with the help of a wide range of organisations. A series of public workshops (widely advertised and attended by 150 people), plus questionnaires have been held. A steering group of organisations has been meeting regularly to develop this draft before asking the wider public again for their comments, in advance of finalising the document.

You can view the Landscape Action Plan and Landscape Character Assessment on the consultation pages (http://www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/info/20044/building_conser...) at www.newforestnpa.gov.uk.
Please send your response to:

Landscape Action Plan, New Forest National Park Authority, Town Hall, Avenue Road, Lymington, SO41 9ZG; or email landscape@newforestnpa.gov.uk.

Any groups or individuals who would like to meet with the Landscape Officer to discuss the documents are asked to email landscape@newforestnpa.gov.uk or call 01590 646600.

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Notes to Editors:

About the New Forest National Park Authority

Protect - Enjoy – Prosper

The New Forest National Park Authority’s statutory purposes are to:

Conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park - Protect
Promote opportunities for understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities – Enjoy.

We also have a duty to:

Seek to foster the social and economic well-being of local communities within the Park – Prosper.

The New Forest National Park was designated in March 2005. Its unique landscape has been shaped over the centuries by grazing ponies, cattle and pigs which roam free. Majestic woodlands, rare heathland and a spectacular coastline provide fabulous opportunities for quiet recreation, enjoyment and discovery.
Visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk to find out more.

Media Contacts:
Hilary Makin, Communications Manager, New Forest National Park Authority
Tel: 01590 646608
Email: hilary.makin@newforestnpa.gov.uk