Tuesday, June 1
New Forest National Park - Chief Executive #3
Yet another appointee as Chief Executive of the New Forest National Park Authority takes up their post today.
That's nine months after the original announcement of the plan for replacement. But already five months after the start of 2010 target.
The NFNPA CE position is proving a difficult one to sustain. And with the frequency of changes at this senior level the real work of bedding down the NFNPA during its formative period has been diversionary for the organisation as a whole.
The jury is out.
Lets see what happens on this particular turn of the wheel.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Thursday, October 22
New Forest National Park - Revised plan (update)
A quick follow up to yesterday's NFNPA piece.
Here's the first responses from the Forest Uprising Group (Thread:New Forest National Park Management Plan - New Draft) & One Voice.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, October 21
New Forest National Park - Revised plan
For those who have been following this site's observations with the birth pangs of the NFNP Authority there comes hot news - the NFNPA draft Management Plan will be available for public review from Thursday 22nd Oct.
Public responses has a bare three weeks to provide feedback on the revised document (i.e. comments back by 12 November)
Let's see what is on offering this time around.
(Edit: Wed 18:50 - the document appears to be available already - find it here)
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, September 6
NFNPA - New Leaf or Sleight of Hand
Following last week's public meeting with the New Forest National Park Authority representatives there's been much media & web discussion on how sincere the NFNPA's 'climb down' may prove to be.
The One Voice group has summarised the meeting & follow-up in this PDF document. Similarly the Forest Uprising Group have their own impression & details of a new advisory group.
So is it a U-Turn, or a ploy?
Time and events will tell.
My own limited take on matters is somewhat mixed. The NFNPA representatives have clearly got the message as to how poor their P.R. & policy stance has been.
Which is good.
But I spotted one worrying note in that the authority’s recently appointed Chief Executive, Barrie Foley, is due to leave at the end of 2009.
I, for one, hadn't picked up the fact his involvement was to be so short.
If his goal has been damage limitation following the sudden departure of the previous CE, then the boy has done good.
But in 2010 there will be yet another incumbent, and another new broom.
The key question. How much of the current improvement in NFNPA stance will be in place next year?
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Thursday, June 25
If a tree falls in the (New) Forest, does anyone care?
Farewell then Lindsay Cornish, soon to be ex-Chief Executive of the New Forest National Park Authority, who resigned at today's annual meeting of the park authority.
"I also believe that the recent perception of me and my role by some sections of the public, ill informed and libellous as some of it is maybe damaging the reputation of the entire authority. For these and other personal reasons I will therefore be leaving the authority at the end of the month" (snippet courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo)
Speaking as a mere wage slave, leaving a job with barely six days notice comes as a bit of a sudden surprise. If not to say extremely convenient.
One suspects a damage limitation exercise by the National Parks Authority, possibly involving DEFRA, and decided on some time long before this juncture.
I guess that means the potential libel cases can be ignored now?; And the real issues concerning the NFNPA policies can start to be positively addressed?Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Tuesday, June 23
One Voice - Public Meeeting
I've not mentioned the activities of One Voice for a little while. But as you'd expect OV continues to agitate for public & open consultation concerning the New Forest National Park Authority's plans.
I've just been dropped an e-mail about their next step - an open public meeting in support of a Petition for fuller public consultation.
Location, naturally, is in the New Forest at Tiptoe on Monday June 29th with speakers from the majority of the key grass root groups & the local New Forest MP..
Full details can be downloaded here
Its a very positive move bringing, as it does, the diverse interest groups together under one roof, to present a formidable united and very visible presence.
On this occasion I'm not likely to make the meeting, but if there's anyone out there who wants to let me have their thoughts after the event, I'll be happy to post an update of the general mood & further activity.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Saturday, June 20
New Forest National Park - Circling the wagons
Hot on the heels of my piece last week comes further news concerning the beleaguered NFPA as events continue to unfold.
Or should that be unravel?
Earlier in the week a parliamentary question raised by New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne (refer "National Parks: New Forest")
Back at NPA, rebuttal of press enquiries "..because of legal issues.."
(New Milton Advertiser 20/6/09 quoting NPA deputy chairman Barry Rickman)
Then threat of libel action comes in a statement from NFNPA Chief Executive, Lindsay Cornish; The subject of the current fervour.
"We have taken legal advice in the light of allegations ……published on websites and in newspapers……Our legal representatives will contact those who published the allegations, seeking an unreserved apology and immediate withdrawal from publication…."
Full text is on FUG's site. Along with further updates which include the arrival of NFPA letters delivered to FUG organiser's homes earlier today.
(Thread: Statement sent on behalf of Clive Chatters...)
(Edit: A copy of NFNPA's letter can be seen here, along with their own thoughts on the matter here)
No link for the NFPA - their site doesn’t seem to carry the statement or any news on all of this, as far as I can see.
Forest Uprising's response was typically pragmatic "We're not exactly quaking in our boots…"
Quite so ladies.
Naturally I've rechecked my own jottings. Rest assured I will continue to report on the NFPA's increasingly disjointed efforts; They continue to avoid the real issues, whilst embroiling themselves in a scandal arising as a direct result of their own activities.
As for any legal activity directed in this direction?
Well I guess that means someone will need to try and find me first.
Ho hum. The joys of Internet anonymity.
[JH-Posted from laptop & mobile phone; Somewhere deep in the heart of the New Forest; With not an ice-cream van in sight]
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, June 10
New Forest National Park - Trouble in the woods?
Since my last piece back in January various rustles have continued deep down amongst the New Forest undergrowth. However in truth there had been little real progress to report, hence my silence. Until now.
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly. Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, February 1
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
That's nine months after the original announcement of the plan for replacement. But already five months after the start of 2010 target.
The NFNPA CE position is proving a difficult one to sustain. And with the frequency of changes at this senior level the real work of bedding down the NFNPA during its formative period has been diversionary for the organisation as a whole.
The jury is out.
Lets see what happens on this particular turn of the wheel.
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
New Forest National Park - Revised plan (update)
A quick follow up to yesterday's NFNPA piece.
Here's the first responses from the Forest Uprising Group (Thread:New Forest National Park Management Plan - New Draft) & One Voice.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, October 21
New Forest National Park - Revised plan
For those who have been following this site's observations with the birth pangs of the NFNP Authority there comes hot news - the NFNPA draft Management Plan will be available for public review from Thursday 22nd Oct.
Public responses has a bare three weeks to provide feedback on the revised document (i.e. comments back by 12 November)
Let's see what is on offering this time around.
(Edit: Wed 18:50 - the document appears to be available already - find it here)
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, September 6
NFNPA - New Leaf or Sleight of Hand
Following last week's public meeting with the New Forest National Park Authority representatives there's been much media & web discussion on how sincere the NFNPA's 'climb down' may prove to be.
The One Voice group has summarised the meeting & follow-up in this PDF document. Similarly the Forest Uprising Group have their own impression & details of a new advisory group.
So is it a U-Turn, or a ploy?
Time and events will tell.
My own limited take on matters is somewhat mixed. The NFNPA representatives have clearly got the message as to how poor their P.R. & policy stance has been.
Which is good.
But I spotted one worrying note in that the authority’s recently appointed Chief Executive, Barrie Foley, is due to leave at the end of 2009.
I, for one, hadn't picked up the fact his involvement was to be so short.
If his goal has been damage limitation following the sudden departure of the previous CE, then the boy has done good.
But in 2010 there will be yet another incumbent, and another new broom.
The key question. How much of the current improvement in NFNPA stance will be in place next year?
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Thursday, June 25
If a tree falls in the (New) Forest, does anyone care?
Farewell then Lindsay Cornish, soon to be ex-Chief Executive of the New Forest National Park Authority, who resigned at today's annual meeting of the park authority.
"I also believe that the recent perception of me and my role by some sections of the public, ill informed and libellous as some of it is maybe damaging the reputation of the entire authority. For these and other personal reasons I will therefore be leaving the authority at the end of the month" (snippet courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo)
Speaking as a mere wage slave, leaving a job with barely six days notice comes as a bit of a sudden surprise. If not to say extremely convenient.
One suspects a damage limitation exercise by the National Parks Authority, possibly involving DEFRA, and decided on some time long before this juncture.
I guess that means the potential libel cases can be ignored now?; And the real issues concerning the NFNPA policies can start to be positively addressed?Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Tuesday, June 23
One Voice - Public Meeeting
I've not mentioned the activities of One Voice for a little while. But as you'd expect OV continues to agitate for public & open consultation concerning the New Forest National Park Authority's plans.
I've just been dropped an e-mail about their next step - an open public meeting in support of a Petition for fuller public consultation.
Location, naturally, is in the New Forest at Tiptoe on Monday June 29th with speakers from the majority of the key grass root groups & the local New Forest MP..
Full details can be downloaded here
Its a very positive move bringing, as it does, the diverse interest groups together under one roof, to present a formidable united and very visible presence.
On this occasion I'm not likely to make the meeting, but if there's anyone out there who wants to let me have their thoughts after the event, I'll be happy to post an update of the general mood & further activity.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Saturday, June 20
New Forest National Park - Circling the wagons
Hot on the heels of my piece last week comes further news concerning the beleaguered NFPA as events continue to unfold.
Or should that be unravel?
Earlier in the week a parliamentary question raised by New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne (refer "National Parks: New Forest")
Back at NPA, rebuttal of press enquiries "..because of legal issues.."
(New Milton Advertiser 20/6/09 quoting NPA deputy chairman Barry Rickman)
Then threat of libel action comes in a statement from NFNPA Chief Executive, Lindsay Cornish; The subject of the current fervour.
"We have taken legal advice in the light of allegations ……published on websites and in newspapers……Our legal representatives will contact those who published the allegations, seeking an unreserved apology and immediate withdrawal from publication…."
Full text is on FUG's site. Along with further updates which include the arrival of NFPA letters delivered to FUG organiser's homes earlier today.
(Thread: Statement sent on behalf of Clive Chatters...)
(Edit: A copy of NFNPA's letter can be seen here, along with their own thoughts on the matter here)
No link for the NFPA - their site doesn’t seem to carry the statement or any news on all of this, as far as I can see.
Forest Uprising's response was typically pragmatic "We're not exactly quaking in our boots…"
Quite so ladies.
Naturally I've rechecked my own jottings. Rest assured I will continue to report on the NFPA's increasingly disjointed efforts; They continue to avoid the real issues, whilst embroiling themselves in a scandal arising as a direct result of their own activities.
As for any legal activity directed in this direction?
Well I guess that means someone will need to try and find me first.
Ho hum. The joys of Internet anonymity.
[JH-Posted from laptop & mobile phone; Somewhere deep in the heart of the New Forest; With not an ice-cream van in sight]
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, June 10
New Forest National Park - Trouble in the woods?
Since my last piece back in January various rustles have continued deep down amongst the New Forest undergrowth. However in truth there had been little real progress to report, hence my silence. Until now.
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly. Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, February 1
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Here's the first responses from the Forest Uprising Group (Thread:New Forest National Park Management Plan - New Draft) & One Voice.
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
New Forest National Park - Revised plan
For those who have been following this site's observations with the birth pangs of the NFNP Authority there comes hot news - the NFNPA draft Management Plan will be available for public review from Thursday 22nd Oct.
Public responses has a bare three weeks to provide feedback on the revised document (i.e. comments back by 12 November)
Let's see what is on offering this time around.
(Edit: Wed 18:50 - the document appears to be available already - find it here)
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, September 6
NFNPA - New Leaf or Sleight of Hand
Following last week's public meeting with the New Forest National Park Authority representatives there's been much media & web discussion on how sincere the NFNPA's 'climb down' may prove to be.
The One Voice group has summarised the meeting & follow-up in this PDF document. Similarly the Forest Uprising Group have their own impression & details of a new advisory group.
So is it a U-Turn, or a ploy?
Time and events will tell.
My own limited take on matters is somewhat mixed. The NFNPA representatives have clearly got the message as to how poor their P.R. & policy stance has been.
Which is good.
But I spotted one worrying note in that the authority’s recently appointed Chief Executive, Barrie Foley, is due to leave at the end of 2009.
I, for one, hadn't picked up the fact his involvement was to be so short.
If his goal has been damage limitation following the sudden departure of the previous CE, then the boy has done good.
But in 2010 there will be yet another incumbent, and another new broom.
The key question. How much of the current improvement in NFNPA stance will be in place next year?
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Thursday, June 25
If a tree falls in the (New) Forest, does anyone care?
Farewell then Lindsay Cornish, soon to be ex-Chief Executive of the New Forest National Park Authority, who resigned at today's annual meeting of the park authority.
"I also believe that the recent perception of me and my role by some sections of the public, ill informed and libellous as some of it is maybe damaging the reputation of the entire authority. For these and other personal reasons I will therefore be leaving the authority at the end of the month" (snippet courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo)
Speaking as a mere wage slave, leaving a job with barely six days notice comes as a bit of a sudden surprise. If not to say extremely convenient.
One suspects a damage limitation exercise by the National Parks Authority, possibly involving DEFRA, and decided on some time long before this juncture.
I guess that means the potential libel cases can be ignored now?; And the real issues concerning the NFNPA policies can start to be positively addressed?Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Tuesday, June 23
One Voice - Public Meeeting
I've not mentioned the activities of One Voice for a little while. But as you'd expect OV continues to agitate for public & open consultation concerning the New Forest National Park Authority's plans.
I've just been dropped an e-mail about their next step - an open public meeting in support of a Petition for fuller public consultation.
Location, naturally, is in the New Forest at Tiptoe on Monday June 29th with speakers from the majority of the key grass root groups & the local New Forest MP..
Full details can be downloaded here
Its a very positive move bringing, as it does, the diverse interest groups together under one roof, to present a formidable united and very visible presence.
On this occasion I'm not likely to make the meeting, but if there's anyone out there who wants to let me have their thoughts after the event, I'll be happy to post an update of the general mood & further activity.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Saturday, June 20
New Forest National Park - Circling the wagons
Hot on the heels of my piece last week comes further news concerning the beleaguered NFPA as events continue to unfold.
Or should that be unravel?
Earlier in the week a parliamentary question raised by New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne (refer "National Parks: New Forest")
Back at NPA, rebuttal of press enquiries "..because of legal issues.."
(New Milton Advertiser 20/6/09 quoting NPA deputy chairman Barry Rickman)
Then threat of libel action comes in a statement from NFNPA Chief Executive, Lindsay Cornish; The subject of the current fervour.
"We have taken legal advice in the light of allegations ……published on websites and in newspapers……Our legal representatives will contact those who published the allegations, seeking an unreserved apology and immediate withdrawal from publication…."
Full text is on FUG's site. Along with further updates which include the arrival of NFPA letters delivered to FUG organiser's homes earlier today.
(Thread: Statement sent on behalf of Clive Chatters...)
(Edit: A copy of NFNPA's letter can be seen here, along with their own thoughts on the matter here)
No link for the NFPA - their site doesn’t seem to carry the statement or any news on all of this, as far as I can see.
Forest Uprising's response was typically pragmatic "We're not exactly quaking in our boots…"
Quite so ladies.
Naturally I've rechecked my own jottings. Rest assured I will continue to report on the NFPA's increasingly disjointed efforts; They continue to avoid the real issues, whilst embroiling themselves in a scandal arising as a direct result of their own activities.
As for any legal activity directed in this direction?
Well I guess that means someone will need to try and find me first.
Ho hum. The joys of Internet anonymity.
[JH-Posted from laptop & mobile phone; Somewhere deep in the heart of the New Forest; With not an ice-cream van in sight]
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, June 10
New Forest National Park - Trouble in the woods?
Since my last piece back in January various rustles have continued deep down amongst the New Forest undergrowth. However in truth there had been little real progress to report, hence my silence. Until now.
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly. Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, February 1
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Public responses has a bare three weeks to provide feedback on the revised document (i.e. comments back by 12 November)
Let's see what is on offering this time around.
(Edit: Wed 18:50 - the document appears to be available already - find it here)
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
NFNPA - New Leaf or Sleight of Hand
Following last week's public meeting with the New Forest National Park Authority representatives there's been much media & web discussion on how sincere the NFNPA's 'climb down' may prove to be.
The One Voice group has summarised the meeting & follow-up in this PDF document. Similarly the Forest Uprising Group have their own impression & details of a new advisory group.
So is it a U-Turn, or a ploy?
Time and events will tell.
My own limited take on matters is somewhat mixed. The NFNPA representatives have clearly got the message as to how poor their P.R. & policy stance has been.
Which is good.
But I spotted one worrying note in that the authority’s recently appointed Chief Executive, Barrie Foley, is due to leave at the end of 2009.
I, for one, hadn't picked up the fact his involvement was to be so short.
If his goal has been damage limitation following the sudden departure of the previous CE, then the boy has done good.
But in 2010 there will be yet another incumbent, and another new broom.
The key question. How much of the current improvement in NFNPA stance will be in place next year?
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Thursday, June 25
If a tree falls in the (New) Forest, does anyone care?
Farewell then Lindsay Cornish, soon to be ex-Chief Executive of the New Forest National Park Authority, who resigned at today's annual meeting of the park authority.
"I also believe that the recent perception of me and my role by some sections of the public, ill informed and libellous as some of it is maybe damaging the reputation of the entire authority. For these and other personal reasons I will therefore be leaving the authority at the end of the month" (snippet courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo)
Speaking as a mere wage slave, leaving a job with barely six days notice comes as a bit of a sudden surprise. If not to say extremely convenient.
One suspects a damage limitation exercise by the National Parks Authority, possibly involving DEFRA, and decided on some time long before this juncture.
I guess that means the potential libel cases can be ignored now?; And the real issues concerning the NFNPA policies can start to be positively addressed?Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Tuesday, June 23
One Voice - Public Meeeting
I've not mentioned the activities of One Voice for a little while. But as you'd expect OV continues to agitate for public & open consultation concerning the New Forest National Park Authority's plans.
I've just been dropped an e-mail about their next step - an open public meeting in support of a Petition for fuller public consultation.
Location, naturally, is in the New Forest at Tiptoe on Monday June 29th with speakers from the majority of the key grass root groups & the local New Forest MP..
Full details can be downloaded here
Its a very positive move bringing, as it does, the diverse interest groups together under one roof, to present a formidable united and very visible presence.
On this occasion I'm not likely to make the meeting, but if there's anyone out there who wants to let me have their thoughts after the event, I'll be happy to post an update of the general mood & further activity.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Saturday, June 20
New Forest National Park - Circling the wagons
Hot on the heels of my piece last week comes further news concerning the beleaguered NFPA as events continue to unfold.
Or should that be unravel?
Earlier in the week a parliamentary question raised by New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne (refer "National Parks: New Forest")
Back at NPA, rebuttal of press enquiries "..because of legal issues.."
(New Milton Advertiser 20/6/09 quoting NPA deputy chairman Barry Rickman)
Then threat of libel action comes in a statement from NFNPA Chief Executive, Lindsay Cornish; The subject of the current fervour.
"We have taken legal advice in the light of allegations ……published on websites and in newspapers……Our legal representatives will contact those who published the allegations, seeking an unreserved apology and immediate withdrawal from publication…."
Full text is on FUG's site. Along with further updates which include the arrival of NFPA letters delivered to FUG organiser's homes earlier today.
(Thread: Statement sent on behalf of Clive Chatters...)
(Edit: A copy of NFNPA's letter can be seen here, along with their own thoughts on the matter here)
No link for the NFPA - their site doesn’t seem to carry the statement or any news on all of this, as far as I can see.
Forest Uprising's response was typically pragmatic "We're not exactly quaking in our boots…"
Quite so ladies.
Naturally I've rechecked my own jottings. Rest assured I will continue to report on the NFPA's increasingly disjointed efforts; They continue to avoid the real issues, whilst embroiling themselves in a scandal arising as a direct result of their own activities.
As for any legal activity directed in this direction?
Well I guess that means someone will need to try and find me first.
Ho hum. The joys of Internet anonymity.
[JH-Posted from laptop & mobile phone; Somewhere deep in the heart of the New Forest; With not an ice-cream van in sight]
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, June 10
New Forest National Park - Trouble in the woods?
Since my last piece back in January various rustles have continued deep down amongst the New Forest undergrowth. However in truth there had been little real progress to report, hence my silence. Until now.
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly. Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, February 1
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
The One Voice group has summarised the meeting & follow-up in this PDF document. Similarly the Forest Uprising Group have their own impression & details of a new advisory group.
So is it a U-Turn, or a ploy?
Time and events will tell.
My own limited take on matters is somewhat mixed. The NFNPA representatives have clearly got the message as to how poor their P.R. & policy stance has been.
Which is good.
But I spotted one worrying note in that the authority’s recently appointed Chief Executive, Barrie Foley, is due to leave at the end of 2009.
I, for one, hadn't picked up the fact his involvement was to be so short.
If his goal has been damage limitation following the sudden departure of the previous CE, then the boy has done good.
But in 2010 there will be yet another incumbent, and another new broom.
The key question. How much of the current improvement in NFNPA stance will be in place next year?
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
If a tree falls in the (New) Forest, does anyone care?
Farewell then Lindsay Cornish, soon to be ex-Chief Executive of the New Forest National Park Authority, who resigned at today's annual meeting of the park authority.
"I also believe that the recent perception of me and my role by some sections of the public, ill informed and libellous as some of it is maybe damaging the reputation of the entire authority. For these and other personal reasons I will therefore be leaving the authority at the end of the month" (snippet courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo)
Speaking as a mere wage slave, leaving a job with barely six days notice comes as a bit of a sudden surprise. If not to say extremely convenient.
One suspects a damage limitation exercise by the National Parks Authority, possibly involving DEFRA, and decided on some time long before this juncture.
I guess that means the potential libel cases can be ignored now?; And the real issues concerning the NFNPA policies can start to be positively addressed?Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Tuesday, June 23
One Voice - Public Meeeting
I've not mentioned the activities of One Voice for a little while. But as you'd expect OV continues to agitate for public & open consultation concerning the New Forest National Park Authority's plans.
I've just been dropped an e-mail about their next step - an open public meeting in support of a Petition for fuller public consultation.
Location, naturally, is in the New Forest at Tiptoe on Monday June 29th with speakers from the majority of the key grass root groups & the local New Forest MP..
Full details can be downloaded here
Its a very positive move bringing, as it does, the diverse interest groups together under one roof, to present a formidable united and very visible presence.
On this occasion I'm not likely to make the meeting, but if there's anyone out there who wants to let me have their thoughts after the event, I'll be happy to post an update of the general mood & further activity.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Saturday, June 20
New Forest National Park - Circling the wagons
Hot on the heels of my piece last week comes further news concerning the beleaguered NFPA as events continue to unfold.
Or should that be unravel?
Earlier in the week a parliamentary question raised by New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne (refer "National Parks: New Forest")
Back at NPA, rebuttal of press enquiries "..because of legal issues.."
(New Milton Advertiser 20/6/09 quoting NPA deputy chairman Barry Rickman)
Then threat of libel action comes in a statement from NFNPA Chief Executive, Lindsay Cornish; The subject of the current fervour.
"We have taken legal advice in the light of allegations ……published on websites and in newspapers……Our legal representatives will contact those who published the allegations, seeking an unreserved apology and immediate withdrawal from publication…."
Full text is on FUG's site. Along with further updates which include the arrival of NFPA letters delivered to FUG organiser's homes earlier today.
(Thread: Statement sent on behalf of Clive Chatters...)
(Edit: A copy of NFNPA's letter can be seen here, along with their own thoughts on the matter here)
No link for the NFPA - their site doesn’t seem to carry the statement or any news on all of this, as far as I can see.
Forest Uprising's response was typically pragmatic "We're not exactly quaking in our boots…"
Quite so ladies.
Naturally I've rechecked my own jottings. Rest assured I will continue to report on the NFPA's increasingly disjointed efforts; They continue to avoid the real issues, whilst embroiling themselves in a scandal arising as a direct result of their own activities.
As for any legal activity directed in this direction?
Well I guess that means someone will need to try and find me first.
Ho hum. The joys of Internet anonymity.
[JH-Posted from laptop & mobile phone; Somewhere deep in the heart of the New Forest; With not an ice-cream van in sight]
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, June 10
New Forest National Park - Trouble in the woods?
Since my last piece back in January various rustles have continued deep down amongst the New Forest undergrowth. However in truth there had been little real progress to report, hence my silence. Until now.
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly. Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, February 1
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
"I also believe that the recent perception of me and my role by some sections of the public, ill informed and libellous as some of it is maybe damaging the reputation of the entire authority. For these and other personal reasons I will therefore be leaving the authority at the end of the month" (snippet courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo)
Speaking as a mere wage slave, leaving a job with barely six days notice comes as a bit of a sudden surprise. If not to say extremely convenient.
One suspects a damage limitation exercise by the National Parks Authority, possibly involving DEFRA, and decided on some time long before this juncture.
I guess that means the potential libel cases can be ignored now?; And the real issues concerning the NFNPA policies can start to be positively addressed?
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
One Voice - Public Meeeting
I've not mentioned the activities of One Voice for a little while. But as you'd expect OV continues to agitate for public & open consultation concerning the New Forest National Park Authority's plans.
I've just been dropped an e-mail about their next step - an open public meeting in support of a Petition for fuller public consultation.
Location, naturally, is in the New Forest at Tiptoe on Monday June 29th with speakers from the majority of the key grass root groups & the local New Forest MP..
Full details can be downloaded here
Its a very positive move bringing, as it does, the diverse interest groups together under one roof, to present a formidable united and very visible presence.
On this occasion I'm not likely to make the meeting, but if there's anyone out there who wants to let me have their thoughts after the event, I'll be happy to post an update of the general mood & further activity.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Saturday, June 20
New Forest National Park - Circling the wagons
Hot on the heels of my piece last week comes further news concerning the beleaguered NFPA as events continue to unfold.
Or should that be unravel?
Earlier in the week a parliamentary question raised by New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne (refer "National Parks: New Forest")
Back at NPA, rebuttal of press enquiries "..because of legal issues.."
(New Milton Advertiser 20/6/09 quoting NPA deputy chairman Barry Rickman)
Then threat of libel action comes in a statement from NFNPA Chief Executive, Lindsay Cornish; The subject of the current fervour.
"We have taken legal advice in the light of allegations ……published on websites and in newspapers……Our legal representatives will contact those who published the allegations, seeking an unreserved apology and immediate withdrawal from publication…."
Full text is on FUG's site. Along with further updates which include the arrival of NFPA letters delivered to FUG organiser's homes earlier today.
(Thread: Statement sent on behalf of Clive Chatters...)
(Edit: A copy of NFNPA's letter can be seen here, along with their own thoughts on the matter here)
No link for the NFPA - their site doesn’t seem to carry the statement or any news on all of this, as far as I can see.
Forest Uprising's response was typically pragmatic "We're not exactly quaking in our boots…"
Quite so ladies.
Naturally I've rechecked my own jottings. Rest assured I will continue to report on the NFPA's increasingly disjointed efforts; They continue to avoid the real issues, whilst embroiling themselves in a scandal arising as a direct result of their own activities.
As for any legal activity directed in this direction?
Well I guess that means someone will need to try and find me first.
Ho hum. The joys of Internet anonymity.
[JH-Posted from laptop & mobile phone; Somewhere deep in the heart of the New Forest; With not an ice-cream van in sight]
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, June 10
New Forest National Park - Trouble in the woods?
Since my last piece back in January various rustles have continued deep down amongst the New Forest undergrowth. However in truth there had been little real progress to report, hence my silence. Until now.
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly. Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, February 1
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
I've just been dropped an e-mail about their next step - an open public meeting in support of a Petition for fuller public consultation.
Location, naturally, is in the New Forest at Tiptoe on Monday June 29th with speakers from the majority of the key grass root groups & the local New Forest MP..
Full details can be downloaded here
Its a very positive move bringing, as it does, the diverse interest groups together under one roof, to present a formidable united and very visible presence.
On this occasion I'm not likely to make the meeting, but if there's anyone out there who wants to let me have their thoughts after the event, I'll be happy to post an update of the general mood & further activity.
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
New Forest National Park - Circling the wagons
Hot on the heels of my piece last week comes further news concerning the beleaguered NFPA as events continue to unfold.
Or should that be unravel?
Earlier in the week a parliamentary question raised by New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne (refer "National Parks: New Forest")
Back at NPA, rebuttal of press enquiries "..because of legal issues.."
(New Milton Advertiser 20/6/09 quoting NPA deputy chairman Barry Rickman)
Then threat of libel action comes in a statement from NFNPA Chief Executive, Lindsay Cornish; The subject of the current fervour.
"We have taken legal advice in the light of allegations ……published on websites and in newspapers……Our legal representatives will contact those who published the allegations, seeking an unreserved apology and immediate withdrawal from publication…."
Full text is on FUG's site. Along with further updates which include the arrival of NFPA letters delivered to FUG organiser's homes earlier today.
(Thread: Statement sent on behalf of Clive Chatters...)
(Edit: A copy of NFNPA's letter can be seen here, along with their own thoughts on the matter here)
No link for the NFPA - their site doesn’t seem to carry the statement or any news on all of this, as far as I can see.
Forest Uprising's response was typically pragmatic "We're not exactly quaking in our boots…"
Quite so ladies.
Naturally I've rechecked my own jottings. Rest assured I will continue to report on the NFPA's increasingly disjointed efforts; They continue to avoid the real issues, whilst embroiling themselves in a scandal arising as a direct result of their own activities.
As for any legal activity directed in this direction?
Well I guess that means someone will need to try and find me first.
Ho hum. The joys of Internet anonymity.
[JH-Posted from laptop & mobile phone; Somewhere deep in the heart of the New Forest; With not an ice-cream van in sight]
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, June 10
New Forest National Park - Trouble in the woods?
Since my last piece back in January various rustles have continued deep down amongst the New Forest undergrowth. However in truth there had been little real progress to report, hence my silence. Until now.
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly. Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, February 1
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Or should that be unravel?
Earlier in the week a parliamentary question raised by New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne (refer "National Parks: New Forest")
Back at NPA, rebuttal of press enquiries "..because of legal issues.."
(New Milton Advertiser 20/6/09 quoting NPA deputy chairman Barry Rickman)
Then threat of libel action comes in a statement from NFNPA Chief Executive, Lindsay Cornish; The subject of the current fervour.
"We have taken legal advice in the light of allegations ……published on websites and in newspapers……Our legal representatives will contact those who published the allegations, seeking an unreserved apology and immediate withdrawal from publication…."
Full text is on FUG's site. Along with further updates which include the arrival of NFPA letters delivered to FUG organiser's homes earlier today.
(Thread: Statement sent on behalf of Clive Chatters...)
(Edit: A copy of NFNPA's letter can be seen here, along with their own thoughts on the matter here)
No link for the NFPA - their site doesn’t seem to carry the statement or any news on all of this, as far as I can see.
Forest Uprising's response was typically pragmatic "We're not exactly quaking in our boots…"
Quite so ladies.
Naturally I've rechecked my own jottings. Rest assured I will continue to report on the NFPA's increasingly disjointed efforts; They continue to avoid the real issues, whilst embroiling themselves in a scandal arising as a direct result of their own activities.
As for any legal activity directed in this direction?
Well I guess that means someone will need to try and find me first.
Ho hum. The joys of Internet anonymity.
[JH-Posted from laptop & mobile phone; Somewhere deep in the heart of the New Forest; With not an ice-cream van in sight]
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
New Forest National Park - Trouble in the woods?
Since my last piece back in January various rustles have continued deep down amongst the New Forest undergrowth. However in truth there had been little real progress to report, hence my silence. Until now.
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly. Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, February 1
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
The New Forest National Park Authority are still in situ; Still attempting to do things their own sweet way.
But recent news indicates that all may not be happy behind the doors of the NFNPA organisation.
First the announcement of the departure of Richard Lemon, NFNPA Director of Planning, & Strategy.
(He joined in Nov '08)
Last week came the shrill sound of whistle blowing NFNPA staff - and their issues with NFNPA's Chief Executive Lindsay Cornish. A noise which has even (finally!) reached the ears of the the local newspaper.
(The letter can be read here, along with FUG's response)
All of this on top of the May announcement extending the timescale for approval of the National Park Plan "to the end of October (09) to allow adequate time for the draft to be revised in the light of the many comments received" (ref)
I leave you to form your own opinion.
But try not to giggle too loudly.
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
New Forest National Park- Response
For those following current events One-Voice has received a formal response from the New Forest NPA which can be found here.
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Monday, January 26
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Recent work activity has have meant my forthcoming round-up of the current activity/next stage has been put on the back burner for a short while.
Well that and a piece of intriguing kit that arrived during the week, and is already under test.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.
Lottery win permitting.
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
New Forest National Park-Public Consultation?
When the New Forest National Park Authority's Consultation Paper was published a number of local interest groups, both commercial and 'amateur;, were concerned enough to form themselves into public lobbyists. For many a new and strange experience.
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Sunday, January 25
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
Some were able to adapt their existing group/club to meet the challenge, keeping their membership informed, and co-ordinating feedback. Most quickly linked up with other groups via the well established network of contacts already covering the New Forest area.
Other organisations, such as the Forest Uprising Group (FUG), came together originally from a grass root sharing of information built around their own outdoor interests. Feelings running high that individual voices were not likely to be truly represented without some sort of umbrella organisation.
One such group formed as an outcome of a public meeting was ONE VOICE. However its a group that has been more in the background than some of its allies.
(I'll come back to this organisation, their co-lobbyists, and their aims in a later piece)
However today I'd like to pass on details of an on-line petition which you may be unaware of, and possibly wish to support.
ONE VOICE spokesperson Sue Baillie explained:
"The recently formed New Forest National Park Authority (NFNPA) has put together their 20-year "Vision" in 2 draft consultation documents: The Park Plan and the Recreation Management Strategy.
Their proposed policies will have a devastating effect on living, working or visiting the New Forest.
If you ever visit the New Forest for recreational pursuits you may find yourself heavily limited in where you can walk, cycle, pitch tent or caravan.
The general public was excluded from the consultation process which is why ONE VOICE was formed.
We have submitted a Formal Complaint on the process of this exercise and should get a response by the end of January 09.
You will find the complaint at http://www.onevoice.officeoverload.com where you can add your support in opposition. Even if you only visit one day a year - you are entitled to have your say.
People of the South Downs - be afraid - whatever is rubber stamped for the NFNPA, DEFRA have stated that it will be the blueprint for all subsequent National Park Authorities. Show your support and lets make sure they get it right for everyone"
Undoubtedly ONE VOICE doesn't instantly carry the emotional overtones associated with some other local lobby organisations. Its aims are centred on proper representation during a statutory due process, rather than a reaction to the NFNPA's perceived threat against specific outdoor interest groups.
But their key message ultimately has a much broader impact. Potentially defining the consultation process of future National Parks (South Downs for one) that will go through a similar birthing process to the NFNPA.
The on-line petition can be read and signed here.
What's all this to me you may be asking?
Those associated with the 2008 Wildcamping E-Petition quickly learnt how important it was to co-ordinate the disparate voices of many outdoor activity groups. And to use a variety of statutory processes to get real public concerns out into the open. To be heard in the right places. A first step.
So perhaps you walk or camp in the New Forest area? Or maybe are interested as to how National Park Authorities in general will listen to NP users when deciding future strategy (or is that restrictive practices?)
Then here's your chance to have your say. Whilst you still have a voice.
More to follow .........
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
New Forest National Park Authority - The Battle Rages On
Coincidental with a piece I'm currently researching about the ongoing saga of the NFNPA and the debacle of their consultation/strategy exercise, BBC TV's Countryfile earlier today aired some of the arguments.
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
Wednesday, January 7
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
If you missed this it can still be seen on the Countryfile Watch-It-Again-Now for the next seven days (starts at 2 minutes into the program)
The NFNPA's official reaction to those who responded to the original consultation document is due at the end of January.
I've a few more checks to make before my article is fit to publish. But the fight for those living or using the New Forest is still very much alive and kicking.
More to follow ..........
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest, One Voice
New Forest National Park consultation - in the Muck
For those following recent events concerning the New Forest National Park's "public" consultation debacle, which directly led to the formation of local lobby activist FUG, there's further disquiet.
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Wednesday, October 8
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
A campaign group, One Voice, has formally complained about the consultation process.
Despite some quick research I'm no wiser about who/what this organisation is.
But putting up an 18 page formal complaint is definitely one way of playing the NFPA at their own game.
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
New Forest National Park - Circle The Wagons
No apologies for returning to this topic so soon folks.
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & linksLabels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
Saturday, October 4
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
As I mentioned previously, despite widespread media attention, there appears to be meagre blog coverage, particularly amongst those covering outdoor matters, by which I mean those Blogs outside the normal walking\camping reads (A Big Shiny Star to Weird Darren who has already raised some interesting questions as to the New Forest Access Forum's stance, and purpose)
Naturally I'd happily be corrected about on-line coverage. In the meantime my own concern remains both personal as professional.
Personal. I'm one of the many regular Forest users, potentially affected.
Professional. Intrigue as to how a 'new' National Park establish policy. Once, which if allowed to be created unopposed, may well be virtually impossible to change for many years ahead.
Apologies therefore to those readers who may be less interested in this side path wandering from my usual airings on backpacking, wild camping and walking.
But how this issue eventually plays itself out may ultimately help with an understanding of how to influence NPA policy (support wildcamping?) and a better understanding of access rights for all outdoor users. And thats not just those special interest groups currently backing FUG.
It would seem, following the NPA's tepid TV presence last weekend, that they have stepped up their own media offensive. Chris Packham, local TV/Radio personality and naturalist has gone very public with his vocal support for the NPA.
Time will tell if this turns out to be a step rather too vocal & too closely associated with the NPA, especially if things get mucky as things develop
'At the NPA's headquarters, Mr Packham said the authority has to put people first and animals second, but "what disappoints me is that people are reluctant to accept change"'(copyright BBC website)
What the ........?
Assuming the quote was covered in context, the implication of that comment is hardly likely to sway those already nursing an increasing number of grievances. The sort that start with the piss-poor NPA Consultation Process and then scamper sulkily towards some serious and very real hard nose economic & lifestyle decisions.
Wonder if Mr P knows the name for that rather special breed of bird?
The sort that will sometime come home to roost at just the wrong time.
To keep up with events, the FUG Website has regular news updates & links
Labels: blog media, E-Petition-Wildcamping, Forest Uprising Group
New Forest NPA Plans - A Forest Uprising
A walk with a decidedly different slant for this morning's wander amongst the wood and heathland of the New Forest.
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
Monday, September 29
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
As promised earlier in the week my route was planned to coincide with the Forest Uprising Group (FUG) Protest Rally. Primarily to cover the meeting as one of the few Outdoor Bloggers down here in the deep south of the UK. But also as one personally affected by some of the concerns being aired. And then there is a curiosity to observe a new and suddenly flourishing grass roots campaign. An interest resulting from my experiences earlier this year with the Legalise Wild Camping Campaign. Lessons possibly, for that campaign in the future .
So how did this one score?
Well, as protest movements go I can report that its fit, healthy, and full of fight.
The scene had been carefully prepared with prior notification of the event on local radio, TV & press. The morning's weekly area newspaper, The New Milton Advertiser announced the rally on its front page. Alongside an article on the New Forest National Park (NFNP) vice-chairman, attacking his own authority's management plans. Inside the paper 50% of the letters page was given over to the topic. All supportive.
So come the day - a wet and windy Saturday morning. The demo set to start at a time when supporters would normally be involved with their own affairs, especially true of local stables, and the equestrian vote. The chosen location set some distance from the nearest town, and its source of easier attendance. But local feeling was running high. Enough to attract 600-700 people onto Wilverley Plain, many walking or riding from distant locations.
Later reports in the local press, a source more practised at assessing such things, estimated the attendance at 750 people. (edit-late revised to 2,000 according to FUG who were collecting signatures of those present) Those gathered listened to passionate speeches from both of the local MPs and then other, less authoritative figures. The 'little' people feeling threatened by the NFNP suggestions.
Media coverage was widespread, with slots on both the BBC & ITV local evening news. On-line press interest as well, very quickly published, with a promise of further print coverage on Monday. And news of BBC Radio Solent phone-in on Monday morning.
A quick recap. The last official English National Park to be set up was Northumberland back in 1956. The New Forest NP came into being in March 2005, some 50 years later, and despite much opposition. So what valuable lessons have been learnt after so many years of the various and diverse National Park Authorities co-existencing with their populace?
Apparently not at lot where this Authority is concerned so it seems.
Today the mood of the meeting was militant. Very militant. Middle England roused. With each speaker's demand to abolish the NFPA, a cheer went up.
In an incredibly short time FUG has pulled together many disparate New Forest interests. This combined group now reacting strongly against a confused and lengthy consultative document issued from the NFNP. And FUG's voice is going to get louder over the coming weeks with public meetings, media coverage, and their involvement with other interested parties (Let's leave aside the potential of legal action for the present)
The challenge will remain for FUG to consolidate the sometime conflicting interests amongst their coalition parties. And no doubt some of today's attendees may possibly have their own personal agenda, always a risk when building a campaign with the speed and passion here.
But already FUG have shown that they understand the need for credibility, involvement, flexibility and a solid organisation. And most of all, that Important Voice. A way to get The Message Heard. A Lot.
Here's hoping the group's aims can remain clear & focused.
Meanwhile what of the New Forest National Park Authority?
Their limited public appearances show them already on the back foot at a critical place in their short life. A time during which they must gain acceptance as a credible organisation. Or suffer some alternative reaction, thereby tarnish the principle of all National Parks, by inference.
The next FUG meeting, organised by NFDOG, will be on Sunday 12th Oct at Brockenhurst Village Hall. There is to be attendance from a representative of the NFNPA, with, I'd bet, a hostile welcome waiting in readiness.
But also an opportunity for the NFNPA to clearly communicate their ideas and plans. And also to show their human side. The ability to listen; To learn; To perhaps even compromise;
And maybe, just maybe, start to salvage something from the P.R. disaster. A trend, which if continued, may threaten their continued existence as a credible authority involved in the future of the New Forest.
Speech! Speech!
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, New Forest
New Forest National Park Niggles
All is not happy in the new New Forest la-la land that its NP Authority seems intent on creating.
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
Recently came news of the 'innovative' idea to make motorists pay to use New Forest roads, which would make it the first National Park in the country to make such a charge.
There's few hard facts out in the public forum, but mention has been made that there would be experimental closures of selected minor routes during peak periods between Easter and September, and possibly at weekends throughout the year. In some parts of the New Forest this could mean total denial of access to some areas.
As if that wasn't enough in itself to unsettle local serfdom other options are being aired. These include banning dog walkers from certain car parks & tightening restrictions on owning horses for recreational use.
Whoops!
Mess with our livestock? In this part of the world that's akin to real fightin' talk. A step too far methinks.
And so it seems, with a lobby group Forest Uprising coming together from nothing to set up a public meeting at 3 days' notice, but still attracting 250+ people, rather than the anticipated 100.
Double Whoops!
Nice one New Forest NPA. That's the way to get the local population on side. Not.
There will be an open air demonstration at Wilverley Plain (on the road between Brockenhurst and Burley) on Saturday October 4 at 10.30am (Map here)
I hope to cover the event and report back on the mood of the meeting. Suitably accompanied by dog & walking boots of course. Perhaps even a wildcamp in the middle of the plain (down John - that's just plain naughty- lol)
I may add, all at some personal risk to myself as I see 'Face Painting for the kids' is being threatened. Even a Vietnam war correspondent didn't have to face that kind of risk to get The Big Story! I'll probably be having flashbacks for weeks. Something to do with orange and black stripy tigers with HUGE charcoal whiskers.
Shudder.
Labels: Forest Uprising Group, nature, New Forest
All site material © John Hee - ask before you snatch
