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New rules come into force in the Forest from 1 July
This summer, local people and visitors are being encouraged to make sure they know about new measures in the New Forest to ensure they have a safe and enjoyable time here.
We have introduced two Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), supported by Forestry England, the New Forest National Park Authority and the Verderers of the New Forest.
The use of BBQs and fires in the Forest and feeding and petting ponies or donkeys are all banned, with those failing to comply liable to a fixed penalty fine or prosecution.
The new orders apply from 1 July 2023 and where necessary can be enforced by issuing fixed penalty notices of £100. This sum can rise to £1,000 following a successful prosecution.
You can read more at https://newforest.gov.uk/article/3322/Know-before-you-go-this-summer-new-rules-come-into-force-in-the-New-Forest
Grass cutting
We recently took part in ‘No Mow May’ and reduced our grass cutting programme in the areas we are responsible for. This is part of our commitment and response to declaring a climate and nature emergency.
Leaving areas unmown for a time means plants have been encouraged to grow as food for pollinators and create protection for nature.
You may now start to see certain areas being trimmed back to avoid invasive species growing. We will not remove the cut grass, as we are leaving it to break down naturally into the soil.
We’ve also developed 16 wildflower areas in places such as Hythe and Lymington. Pathways are cut into these areas and regularly cut for residents to enjoy walking through and around the planting.
If you’d like us to consider the suitability of a local open space for wildflowers, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
No Mow May is a national campaign from Plantlife. Visit their website to find out more of what you can do at home to help wildlife: https://www.plantlife.org.uk/let-it-bloom-june-no-mow-may-is-over-whats-next/
Christchurch Bay consultation
This article is about the coastal flood and erosion risk for Christchurch Bay and Harbour over the next 100 years and how you can have your say on the options.
Climate change is putting significantly more properties, infrastructure and open spaces at risk from coastal flooding and erosion.
Assessments indicate that, if there is no action, the coastal frontage in the Christchurch Bay and Harbour area will suffer around £1 billion in damages over the next 100 years. This includes erosion risk to around 1,600 properties, and coastal flood risk to over 2,200 homes and non-residential buildings.
A ‘Christchurch Bay and Harbour Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy’ is being produced by BCP Council and New Forest District Council, in partnership with the Environment Agency and AECOM (technical consultants).
The strategy will allow a bid to government for coast protection funding.
Complete the Christchurch Bay and Harbour survey at https://haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/christchurchstrategyphase5
You can meet the strategy team at face-to-face and online events:
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Discover more about the project at https://twobays.net/project/christchurch-fcerm-strategy/
Cost of living information and advice
Pension Credit
If you’re over State Pension age, you may be eligible for Pension Credit.
Pension Credit is separate from your State Pension and can top up:
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Find out more and apply on the GOV.UK website at https://www.gov.uk/pension-credit
Please share this with family and friends who may not be aware of this information.
More cost of living advice and support are available on our website: https://newforest.gov.uk/costofliving
Help to save scheme
Help to Save is a type of savings account.
It allows low-income earners entitled to Working Tax Credit, or receiving Universal Credit, to save between £1 and £50 a month and get a bonus of 50p for every £1 they save over 4 years, worth up to £1,200.
The Help to Save scheme has been extended until April 2025.
Eligible people can find out more and how to apply at https://www.gov.uk/get-help-savings-low-income
Keeping safe in hot weather
A heatwave alert has been issued by the Met Office.
This means there’s a high probability of very warm temperatures from tomorrow, 9 June, until Monday 12 June.
As the temperature rises, it’s important to take extra steps to stay safe and well.
Keep safe by:
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Remember to check in with family, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable.
For more advice, visit the NHS website at https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/
Take part in our online customer research survey
We’re making improvements to how we work and deliver our services, and asking residents to complete an online customer research survey.
The survey asks:
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You can get involved by taking part in our online survey https://newforest.gov.uk/WebSurvey
All feedback is anonymous.
Visit us at the New Forest Show
We’ll have a stand at the New Forest Show this year and our theme will be “caring for the climate”. We’ll be showcasing our plans for climate action for the coast and across the district.
If you’re visiting the show, come and chat to us to find out more about our plans, and take part in fun, interactive activities which bring to life the ways that we can all understand, adapt to, and prevent environmental damage.
Read about how we’re committed to tackling climate change: https://newforest.gov.uk/article/3112/Climate-change
Find out more about the New Forest Show and purchase tickets on their website: https://www.newforestshow.co.uk/
Cows needed for grazing in Milford on Sea
We’re looking for Dexter or Hereford cows to graze on land at Milford on Sea.
If you’re a cattle farmer of small stature stock and would like to support sustainable grazing methods in our area, please contact us. We’d like to talk further about how you can help to meet our core themes and values relating to climate and nature recovery. Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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