News
Here is the latest news from the Parish. Feed Entries
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Rough sleeping in the district reduced
The number of people sleeping rough in the New Forest is the lowest since 2015.
In 2019, up to 30 people per night were sleeping rough in the district in any one night, and this is now down to an average of 1 to 2 people per night.
Our homelessness service work with rough sleepers and partner agencies to ensure that people are safe, listened to, have the right support for their individual circumstances, and we often use innovative ways to support people.
Over 50 units of temporary accommodation are also now located in Blackfield, Ringwood, Ashley, Totton and Lymington, helping to prevent rough sleeping and homelessness, and ensuring that people are no longer temporarily housed far away from their support networks.
We’re here to support you if you’re struggling with finances, concerned about becoming homeless, or are rough sleeping. Find out more information at https://newforest.gov.uk/housing
Cultural strategy to be developed
We’re leading a partnership project to develop a cultural strategy to boost investment in the arts for the New Forest.
The strategy will promote wellbeing through the arts, such as comedy, music workshops, museums, theatre, galleries and design. It will also support businesses and enhance the district as a place to live, work and visit.
The New Forest has been identified as having low cultural investment and highlighted as one of 54 priority places by the Arts Council England. You can read more about the strategy, created in light of this, at https://newforest.gov.uk/article/3328/Cultural-strategy-to-be-developed-in-the-New-Forest
Discover the wide range of cultural organisations in the New Forest at https://www.folionewforest.org/
Garden waste price drop
You can now sign up to the garden waste collection service for the remainder of the collection year 2023 – 24 for the reduced cost of £34.50 for your first bag, and £18 for additional bags.
Collections take place fortnightly from Monday 3 July, and the subscription period will run up until the end of March 2024.
For more information and to subscribe, visit our website: https://newforest.gov.uk/gardenwaste
Please note subscriptions to the 2023 – 24 collection service will close on 30 September 2023, and there will be no further price drops for this years’ service.
Improve air quality this summer
This summer, one way to improve the quality of our air is by reducing or stopping the use of fire pits and bonfires in our gardens.
Fire pits and bonfires release harmful pollutants, which can cause respiratory issues and other health problems and damage our ecosystem.
Find more information on the Environment Centre’s website: https://environmentcentre.com/the-environment/clean-air/
Electric vehicle charging points
We have installed 41 electric vehicle charging points across our car parks for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
As the number of electric and hybrid vehicles on the roads increase, we have grown the electric vehicle infrastructure to help meet demand. We will continue to monitor the usage of the electric vehicle charging points as part of our ongoing plans for charging points in our car parks.
You can find the electric vehicle charging points in our car parks in Brockenhurst, Fordingbridge, New Milton, Lymington, Lyndhurst, Ringwood, Totton, Hythe and Beaulieu, and in our coastal car parks in Milford on Sea and Barton on Sea.
Find out more on our website: https://newforest.gov.uk/article/1235/Electric-vehicle-charging
Barton beach public toilets
Work to replace the public toilets at Barton beach is underway and they are scheduled for reopening in August 2023.
The current toilets, installed in 2009, will be replaced with a slightly larger unit. There will be three unisex toilets, toilet facilities for people with disabilities, baby changing facilities, and a family room. There will also be an external shower, and water bottle filling unit.
While the existing building is removed and the new one is connected the toilets will be closed for a short time. The nearest alternative toilets are at Marine Drive and Barton Court Avenue junction.
Information about our public toilets at 23 locations in the district is on our website at: https://www.newforest.gov.uk/article/2846/Public-toilets
Hampshire County Council budget consultation
Hampshire County Council has a consultation to understand people’s views on options to help them deliver a balanced budget over the next two years.
You can have your say at https://www.hants.gov.uk/aboutthecouncil/haveyoursay/consultations/budgetconsultation
The budget consultation runs until 11:59pm on 23 July 2023.
Christchurch Bay and Harbour online consultation event
Share your views on proposals to manage coastal flood and erosion risk over the next 100 years, from Hengistbury Head Long Groyne to Hurst Spit, encompassing Christchurch Harbour.
Book your free ticket to join an online presentation and question and answer session.
27 June 2023, from 7:00 pm to 8:15 pm. https://twobays.net/have-your-say-on-draft-christchurch-bay-and-harbour-strategy/
Cost of living scam advice
HMRC is urging tax credits customers, who are renewing their tax credits claims, to be mindful of scammers. Criminals are using deadlines, like the tax credits renewal deadline on 31 July, to try and steal personal information.
Stay alert if you receive an email or text from someone who says they’re from HMRC and asks you to give personal information, such as your bank details, or asks you to urgently transfer money.
For more information, visit the Citizens Advice website: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/scams/get-help-with-online-scams/
You can renew your tax credits on the GOV.UK website.
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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
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
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Preparing to vote in May
From mid-March, voters in the New Forest will start to receive their poll cards in the post for the 4 May 2023 district and parish elections.
The poll card looks a little different this year. Instead of an A5 card, it will be an A4 piece of paper in an envelope.
The poll card now contains more information including a full list of accepted forms of photo ID that you’ll need to be able to cast your vote at a polling station. It also explains what you need to bring with you, and where you need to go to vote.
Some polling stations have changed. Please check where yours is as you can only vote at your assigned polling station. We have previously written to the 16,000 people whose polling station has changed. Your card will also explain your options for voting if you are unable to attend the polling station.
Read more about accepted forms of photo ID, and find your polling station, on our website at https://www.newforest.gov.uk/elections
Cost of living information and advice
Pet health care costs
It can be overwhelming when your pet is unwell and you’re worried about money. Seeking advice from the vet quickly will likely reduce costs overall and be best for your pet’s health. The RSPCA offer information and advice about steps to take, including seeking help and support from animal charities who can help owners struggling with vet bills. Read more at https://www.rspca.org.uk/whatwedo/care/financial
Applications for an energy discount
Households who haven’t received their £400 energy bill support as they do not have a direct relationship with an energy supplier, may now be eligible to apply through the Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding.
Eligible households include off-grid homes, certain park home residents and partially or wholly self-funded care home residents.
We’ve already received over 600 applications for this one-off payment.
To apply, you’ll need to complete a short online form on GOV.UK. Search “apply for energy bill support if you do not get it automatically” on GOV.UK if you need any help with making your application. You may be required to provide information and payments will be made within 30 days of making your application.
Jobs fair in Lymington
If you’re looking for work, interested in volunteering, or need some support with the cost of living, you can go to a community event on Wednesday 22 March (10am to 2pm) at the Lymington Centre in New Street. This is a free event, open to all, and there will be employers from a variety of sectors, as well as training providers and support services.
For information about the cost of living, including access to food larders and further support, visit our website at https://newforest.gov.uk/costofliving
New extra care housing in New Milton
We offer ‘extra care housing’ for those who value the independence of their own home but need additional support for everyday living.
A new extra care scheme, Wooldridge View, is now available in New Milton with 50 homes for people aged 55 and over, providing on site care support, a restaurant, and wellbeing services.
To be eligible, you must have a care need assessed by Hampshire County Council, and a housing need, assessed by New Forest District Council. Check your eligibility on Hampshire County Council’s website at https://www.hants.gov.uk/socialcareandhealth/adultsocialcare/extracarehousing
There is an information event taking place on Wednesday 15 March from 11am to 3pm at the New Milton Cricket Club, opposite Wooldridge View, to find out more about the accommodation and how to express interest in it.
More information about the services Wooldridge View will offer can be found at https://www.placesforpeople.co.uk/find-a-home/homes-to-rent/wooldridge-view
To find out more about extra care housing, our partners, and assessments of care needs, visit our website at https://www.newforest.gov.uk/extracarehousing
Totton regeneration project
Last summer, over 250 people, groups and organisations shared their regeneration aspirations for the area of Totton.
Three areas of Totton were considered for improvement as part of the community engagement work and this includes the Testvale park area, the town centre including the precinct and Commercial Road area, and the older town area near Rumbridge Street and Junction Road.
The results of the engagement work will now form the actions for the next stage of our project to see Totton regenerated.
The full report and details from the council’s engagement exercise can be viewed on our website at https://www.newforest.gov.uk/article/3273/Totton-community-engagement-work-highlights-priorities-for-improvements
Recycling and rubbish
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International Women’s Day, 8 March
International Women’s Day is on Wednesday 8 March.
To celebrate, we have spoken with some of our colleagues to find out about the work they do at NFDC and what advice they would give to anyone wanting to pursue similar careers.
You can read about women working in our climate, ICT, environmental and regulation, outreach, and communications teams on our website: https://www.newforest.gov.uk/article/3278/International-Women-s-Day
Find information about working with us and see our current vacancies: https://www.newforest.gov.uk/jobs
Promote your Coronation event
If you are hosting an activity or event to celebrate the Coronation of The King and The Queen Consort, you can add your plans to a public national map of events. Just complete a short form on the official website: https://coronation.gov.uk/share-event/
We’re keen to support our community in celebrating the Coronation. If you’re planning to celebrate the event with a street party, you can apply for a free temporary road closure on our website. Applications will need to be made at least 6 weeks in advance of the road closure date.
Find out more: https://www.newforest.gov.uk/article/2955/Coronation-street-parties-and-small-community-events
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Resident survey results
We’ve released the initial findings of our survey with residents.
The survey asked about a range of topics, like climate and the environment, living in the area, safety, and access to council services.
We will be doing a lot more analysis and work with the data to see what it is telling us, but early results are positive, with some clear improvement areas identified:
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Cabinet will be discussing the results at their 1 February meeting (10am) and looking at how they can shape our priorities for the future. You can watch the meeting on our YouTube channel, either live or on playback: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY5ng2qulNNQPcqQeQ4uf4g
Thank you if you participated in the survey.
Read more, and find out how to give us your feedback at any time: https://newforest.gov.uk/residentssurvey
Being safe at the coast
Our coastal team continue to monitor the coastline after the recent wet and stormy weather.
Significant rainfall amounts since November are likely to impact on cliff stability, particularly at Barton on Sea and through to Milford on Sea.
Our engineering works team cleared the Fisherman’s Walk pathway at Barton-on-Sea and we continue to monitor the area. A section of coastal path has become unsafe and has been temporarily closed between Taddiford Gap and Milford-on-Sea.
If you are visiting the coast, please be aware of the increased risks of cliff failure due to weather conditions. Keep a safe distance from the cliff edge, which can become undercut following cliff falls, as well as the base of cliff, in case of material falling from above.
To learn more about how we manage our coastline, and to find out how to report an issue, visit our website at https://newforest.gov.uk/article/1220/Coastal-cliff-open-space
Cost of living information and advice
With the rising cost of living, we are working with local partners to help our residents.
There is lots of information and advice on our website at https://newforest.gov.uk/costofliving, including:
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Citizens Advice New Forest can also be contacted for advice and support https://newforestcab.org.uk/ or call 0808 278 7860.
How to dispose of electricals and batteries
Discarded electricals are one of the fastest-growing sources of waste in the world, and the UK.
It’s important that batteries are never added to recycling and rubbish sacks as they can cause fires when crushed in refuse trucks. This includes batteries in items like electrical toothbrushes and watches, which may be hard to spot.
Batteries can be taken to your local tip (also known as Household Waste and Recycling Centres): https://www.newforest.gov.uk/article/982/Take-rubbish-to-the-tip
You can use Recycle Now’s recycling locator tool on our website to find nearby locations where batteries, electricals, and other household items can be donated or recycled: https://www.newforest.gov.uk/Recyclinglocator
If you have a broken electrical item, it could be repaired by volunteers at Repair Cafés, usually for free or a small donation https://www.hants.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling/loveyourfurniture
New Forest Code
The New Forest National Park Authority’s New Forest Code focuses on nine simple ways visitors and residents can help care for our unique place. This includes:
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Find out more at https://www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/news/new-forest-code/
Proposed PSPOs – consultation closes in a couple of days
There are two proposed Public Space Protection Orders which you can give your opinion on. These look to ban the lighting of fires and use of barbecues, and the feeding and petting of ponies, horses, mules, and donkeys in the New Forest. Comment here before Friday 27 January: https://newforest.gov.uk/article/3212/Consultation-on-proposed-Public-Space-Protection-Orders
Christmas tree recycling results
This year, we recycled over 6,500 real Christmas trees at our drop-off point locations.
The trees have been chipped to create mulch, which will be used locally to help retain moisture around plant roots, and to prevent weeds from growing. Mulch gets hot during the composting process so we’re now waiting for it to go brown and cool, so it’s safe to lay around plants. This generally takes a few weeks.
Thank you to everyone who dropped their trees off. It all makes a difference and helps us to reduce our impact on the environment.
You can view information on where to recycle items from home or elsewhere in the district, on our website at https://newforest.gov.uk/recycling
Hampshire Kitchen Heroes
There are lots of ways you can reduce food waste and save money.
Sign up for Hampshire Kitchen Heroes for free, and complete actions for a chance to win a prize at the end of each month, such as shopping vouchers. https://www.hampshirekitchenheroes.co.uk/
As a Hampshire Kitchen Hero, you’ll have access to lots of ideas on how to cut food waste, which you can try individually or as a family or group.
Some things you can do include:
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Hampshire domestic abuse service
If you, a friend, relative, or neighbour is experiencing domestic abuse, help and access to support is available 24/7.
0330 053 3630 (Call 999 if it is an emergency) www.stopdomesticabuse.uk
Our latest job vacancies
We are recruiting for a number of jobs at the moment, including fencers, plasterers, carpenters, project managers, admin officers, and team leaders.https://newforest.gov.uk/jobs
Search all our current jobs and apply atPlease share this email with your family and friends. They can sign up to receive them in future at https://www.newforest.gov.uk/emails
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