New & Forest New South-West

Countryside Access Plan for the & South-West Hampshire 2008-2013

Countryside Access covers.indd 9-10 6/11/08 10:55:20

CRANBORNE CHASE AONB AONB

FORDINGBRIDGE M27 TOTTON DORSET A338 A326 A31 LYN D HU R S T HYTHE A35 A337 Legend New Forest & SW Hants CAP Area Motorway A Road Rivers LYM IN G TO N Built up areas Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty New Forest National Park New Forest Perambulation

County Boundary 012340.5 Miles © Crown copyright. All rights reserved, HCC 100019180 2008

The New Foreset & SW Hants CAP area

Hampshire County Council would like to thank the many people – local residents, landowners and land managers, user-group representatives, local authority officers, elected members and a host of others – who were involved in the work to produce this plan.

Particular thanks go to the New Forest Access Forum and the New Forest for their guidance and advice throughout the process.

The product of all their efforts and support is a framework which will enable the County Council and others to work together to improve countryside access across Hampshire and to make it available for the widest possible range of people to enjoy.

New Forest & SW Hants

Contents

Introduction…………………………………………………2

The New Forest & SW Hants CAP area…………….....3

Vision ……………………………………………………...... 6

Summary of findings …………………..…………….….... 6

Main issues …………………………………………………. 7

Guide to the action tables …………………………..…... 8

Issues and proposed actions ……………………….. 10-25

Appendix 1 – Extent of rights of way network

Appendix 2 – Overview of access

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Countryside Access Plan

Introduction

This Countryside Access Plan (CAP) for Each area CAP should be read in the New Forest area is one of seven area conjunction with the County Overview plans which, together with an eighth CAP, which reports on the research done ‘County Overview’ CAP, form the Rights to produce the plans, identifies the of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP) for County Council’s main, county-wide aims the county of Hampshire. for improving access to Hampshire’s countryside and explains how these plans The duty for local highway authorities to are influencing the way the County produce a ROWIP was established Council delivers its services. through the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW). A ROWIP is The area CAPs explore in greater detail intended to provide the means by which the specific issues affecting enjoyment of the highway authority will manage and the countryside in a particular part of the improve its rights of way network to meet county and propose actions to address the Government’s aim of better provision them. These actions are intentionally for walkers, cyclists, equestrians and broadly-defined and aspirational. They do people with mobility problems. ROWIPs not necessarily relate to increasing public are closely linked with Local Transport access to the countryside; many of them Plans, with the aim of delivering a more are about enhancing and improving the integrated approach to sustainable existing network. transport in rural and urban areas; where The area covered by each CAP has been the two plans share common aims this determined broadly by landscape also creates further opportunities for the character, as this reflects factors such as funding of rights of way improvements. land use, demography, soil type and Hampshire County Council’s ‘Countryside topography, which closely affect rights of Access Plans’ relate not just to the rights way, countryside sites and other access to of way network but to the whole range of the countryside. opportunities for people to enjoy The CAPs were initially published as drafts Hampshire’s countryside. These include for consultation, with a minimum of 3 areas designated as Open Access under months allowed for comment and CROW, sites managed by the County feedback from the public, user groups, Council, by other local authorities and by local authorities, government agencies and organisations such as the other organisations. There was a and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife particularly high level of interest in the Trust, together with draft CAP for the New Forest & SW woodlands, MoD land and permissive Hants; more than 500 copies of the plan access provided by farmers and other were distributed and 50 written responses private landowners. were received – twice the level of response received in other areas. This document is a revision of that consultation draft, which has taken into account all the comments and feedback received.

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New Forest & SW Hants

The New Forest & SW Hants CAP area

Definitions and Terminology This plan uses the following terms to define different parts of the plan area: Perambulation – the historic term for the boundary of the area governed by Forest Law. It is defined in the New Forest Act 1964 and encompasses Crown Land, privately owned commons and manorial wastes subject to common rights, and privately owned enclosed land. The New Forest & SW Hants – the whole of the area covered by this Countryside Access Plan. The New Forest – all of that part of the Countryside Access Plan area that is contained within the New Forest National Park Boundary. – all of the area administered by New Forest District Council (NFDC). Crown Lands – land owned by the Crown and vested in the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Crown Land in the New Forest is managed on behalf of the Secretary of State by the Forestry Commission. Open Forest – the unenclosed Crown Lands and adjacent commons which are subject to common rights.

The New Forest & SW Hants area covers represents almost 95% of the total area of approximately 78,000 hectares of South the National Park, the remaining 5% West Hampshire and includes the whole extending across the county boundary of the New Forest District, together with into Wiltshire). The National Park was a small part of Borough. The formally established in March 2005 and in western limit of the area is marked by the April 2006 the National Park Authority River Avon and the county boundary with assumed the responsibility for planning neighbouring Dorset and the north- control that was previously vested in the western boundary is shared with New Forest District Council. Although Wiltshire. under the Countryside and Rights of Way The area is mainly rural in character, the (CROW) Act 2000 the National Park main centres of population being located Authority is the access authority, at the outer edges. These include Totton responsibility for the maintenance of rights and the Waterside parishes of of way remains with Hampshire County . , , Hythe and Fawley to Council the east, and Ringwood to The purposes of National Park are: the west, and New Milton and the coastal  to conserve and enhance the natural settlements of Milford-on-Sea and beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of to the south. Immediately the New Forest; outside the area lie the major coastal  to promote opportunities for the public conurbations of Bournemouth and understanding and enjoyment of the Southampton. special qualities of the area. Approximately 70% of the CAP area lies At the heart of the National Park lies the within the New Forest National Park (this area known as the Open Forest, some

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20,000 ha of unenclosed land and into Dorset. To the north-west lies the commons which has long been open to & West Wiltshire public access on foot and on horseback. In Downs Area of Outstanding Natural the 11th century this was part of a large Beauty (AONB), part of an extensive belt expanse of heath and woodland designated of chalk downland that stretches across by as a royal southern . Only a small part of this hunting forest. A system of common rights protected area lies in Hampshire and none was developed in medieval times that still of it is in the National Park; it provides a exists today. The unique landscape of the good network of access land and rights of Open Forest has been shaped by over a way which extends across the county thousand years of by commoners’ boundary into Wiltshire and Dorset. livestock. It is an area of great beauty and The New Forest & SW Hants provides tranquillity that includes the largest some of the most extensive countryside continuous area of heath, valley mire and access to be found in the south of England. pasture woodland in lowlands Europe, There are over 30,000 ha of unenclosed making it an area of international land where people can walk freely. Most importance for landscape and nature of this is on Crown Land, which is largely conservation. Roughly 50% of the area is 1 subject to earlier legislation that provides part of the Natura 2000 network . Any more extensive rights of access than the access improvements that are likely to CROW Act, allowing freedom of access affect these protected, designated sites on foot and on horseback. Within the may therefore require an appropriate 2 Inclosures and Open Forest of the Crown assessment . Lands there is also a good network of Outside the Open Forest, the area permissive routes for cyclists and carriage covered by this plan includes a range of drivers on designated forest tracks. different countryside and landscapes which There are no public rights of way over the are enjoyed both by local people and by Crown Lands of the Open Forest. As a visitors to the area. There is result, the map of the rights of way approximately 60 km of coastline, network (see Appendix 2) has the stretching from Christchurch at the appearance of a ‘doughnut’ around the Dorset border in the west to Calshot and edge of the area, with only a few along in the east. fragments of footpaths and bridleways in This includes important areas for wildlife the centre. Within the plan area there are as well as recreational beaches. At the around 600 km of rights of way, including western edge of the area, the Avon Valley 460 km of footpaths, 125 km of provides a landscape that is distinct from bridleways, 30 km of byways and 3 km of the rest of the New Forest. The valley is restricted byways. Roughly 40% of these popular for walking and other outdoor routes lie within the National Park recreation, but because of the limited boundary. The network is particularly number of bridges there are relatively few dense towards the west and up into routes leading across the county boundary Cranborne Chase, but in the Waterside and on the south coast there are 1 Natura 2000 is a European Union-wide network significant gaps in provision. The BVPI 1783 of protected areas which includes 2 types of for Hampshire has increased steadily over designated areas: Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs). the last 5 years to 85% of paths accessible, 2 Under the Habitats Regulations, an appropriate assessment is required for any project that is likely 3 Best Value Performance Indicator 178 – the to have a significant effect on the conservation percentage of footpaths and rights of way easy to objectives of a European site in Great Britain. use by the public. 4 =

New Forest & SW Hants

which places Hampshire among the top Strategic links three authorities in the country for this An important reference in the preparation performance indicator. of this plan has been the Strategy for the There are a number of countryside sites in New Forest. Published in 2003 and the New Forest & SW Hants that have modelled on a national park management public access, which are managed by a plan, the Strategy was adopted as the New range of organisations including Forest National Park Interim Management Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Plan when the National Park Authority Trust, the National Trust and the county, was established in 2005. district and parish councils. There are also The New Forest National Park Authority two long distance routes promoted by has recently published drafts of its new Hampshire County Council, the 34-mile Management Plan (the ‘Park Plan’) and from Christchurch to Recreation Management Strategy, for Salisbury and the 60-mile from consultation. Both of these are due for Milford-on-Sea to Emsworth Harbour. completion in 2009. The County Council The New Forest is readily accessible by and the National Park Authority have road from nearby centres of population liaised closely in the development of these and has a long history of attracting day plans, and it is anticipated that actions in visitors and holidaymakers who come in the CAP will have direct links to the particular to enjoy the scenery and the objectives and policies of the two National special qualities of the Open Forest and Park documents. the coast. There are also good public The eastern part of the New Forest & SW transport links into the area, which is Hants CAP area (Totton and the served by a mainline railway from London, Waterside) is included in the area of ferry services to Southampton and the Isle South Hampshire in which Hampshire of Wight, and a network of bus routes. County Council is working through Tourism makes an important contribution ‘PUSH’ (the Partnership for Urban South to the local economy, but there is an Hampshire) to create a better place for all increasingly fine balance to be struck as who live, work and spend their leisure some parts of the area come under time in this area. This Countryside Access increasing pressure from visitors. Millions Plan supports the objectives of the of people visit each year, with local people developing Green Infrastructure Strategy representing the highest number of visits. for South Hampshire, which aims to Over 170,000 people live within the New create a planned network of Forest District. It is estimated that more multifunctional greenspaces, landscapes, than 15 million people live within 90 natural elements in the towns and the minutes’ drive of the area and this number links between them. will increase steadily as a result of further housing development in the south of The two neighbouring highway authorities, England over the next 20 years. Dorset and Wiltshire County Councils, are both preparing Rights of Way Improvement Plans for their own areas. These, together with this CAP for the New Forest & SW Hants and the County Overview CAP that accompanies it, will provide a framework for all three

authorities to coordinate effort and target resources more effectively across administrative boundaries. = 5

Countryside Access Plan

Vision

In line with the original Vision for the Strategy for the New Forest, the vision for countryside access in this part of Hampshire is:

To provide a network of access to the countryside where local people and visitors continue to gain pleasure and inspiration from the countryside within South West Hampshire, while understanding and respecting its landscape, wildlife and cultural heritage.

Taking account of aims and objectives within the National Park Authority’s developing Park Plan and Recreation Management Strategy, the New Forest District Local Plan, New Forest Transport Strategy and Forestry Commission Access and Recreation Plan, the aim of this Countryside Access Plan is to ensure that access within the area:  provides a functional, sustainable network of sites and routes for local people and visitors to enjoy the countryside of this part of Hampshire,  is managed in a way that takes account of the need to protect the environment, tranquillity and working landscape of the Forest,  is managed in a strategic, coordinated way by the range of agencies, organisations, communities and individuals involved,  supports the development of a wider range of transport options within the area for local people and visitors.

This plan supports the overall vision for the Local Transport Plan of a strategy that enhances quality of life and economic prosperity by connecting people, communities, employment, goods, services and amenities.

Summary of Findings

The main issues identified in research for is therefore particularly important that the this plan relate to the outstanding management and improvement of public landscape and habitat found within the access within this area takes account of area and its popularity with both visitors this sensitivity. There is a widely- and local people for countryside recognised need for more accessible open recreation. space close to towns and settlements to take pressure off the more sensitive areas The New Forest provides some of the of wildlife habitat. best access in Hampshire for walkers, equestrians, cyclists and people with The following pages provide a rationale for limited mobility, although there is at each of the 8 issues identified within the present limited access to and along the New Forest & SW Hants and propose coast. Some of the most accessible and actions that could be undertaken to help popular parts of the Forest, however, are to resolve them. The order in which these also the most valuable for wildlife are set out is not indicative of priority. conservation, and the most vulnerable. It

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Main issues in the New Forest & SW Hants area

1. Outside the Crown Lands of the New 5. There are limited opportunities for Forest, there is a shortage of access to and along the coast of the accessible open space for recreation New Forest & SW Hants (page 18) and routine exercise that is within or close to the major settlements 6. Provision and improvement of public (page 10) access needs to take full account of the special qualities of the New Forest 2. There is a high reliance on cars and and SW Hants area (page 20) car parks to access the countryside in the New Forest & SW Hants 7. Landowners and land managers are (page 12) concerned about some of the effects of public access, which can deter them 3. There are insufficient attractive and from providing more access suitable car free routes that link (page 22) centres of population to each other and to the countryside (page 14) 8. The extent of countryside access in this part of the county is unrivalled in 4. Countryside users are forced to use the whole of Hampshire and could or cross busy roads to link up off-road offer a high level of accessibility to all access (page 16) users (page 24)

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Guide to the Action Tables

The tables in the following pages propose a range of actions to address the issues affecting enjoyment of the countryside in the New Forest & SW Hants area. The actions relate to a series of main aims. They provide examples of how these aims could be achieved in this part of Hampshire, but should not be regarded as an exhaustive list of all the possible ways of achieving those aims. Estimated Costs The following symbols are used to indicate the estimated costs: Use of existing staff  Extra staff requirements  Costs could be met within current budgets for

£ management and maintenance (e.g. projects up to £5,000) Action would require planned investment/capital bid (e.g. ££ costs between £5,000 – £50,000) Action would require substantial investment from other £££ sources such as Local Transport Plan, joint funding with partner organisations, grant aid (e.g. projects costing more than £50,000)

Timescales Columns in the tables indicate whether the proposed actions are:  Current, on-going work or projects  Medium term (aim to achieve in the next 2-5 years)  Long term, aspirational schemes =

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Lead Bodies and Potential Partners The lead body is shown in bold, where it is known. The following acronyms are used in this column: CCAONB Cranborne Chase & West Wilts Downs AONB EA Environment Agency FC Forestry Commission HA Highways Authority HCAF Hampshire Countryside Access Forum HCC(CS) Hampshire County Council (Countryside Service) HCC(HH) Hampshire County Council (Hampshire Highways) HWT Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust NE NFAF New Forest Access Forum NFDC New Forest District Council NFNPA New Forest National Park Authority NFTA New Forest Tourism Association NFU National Farmers Union NT National Trust Parish For conciseness, where parish councils are referred to this also includes councils town councils TVBC Test Valley Borough Council User groups User organisations such as CTC (Cyclists Touring Club), British Society, Ramblers Association, British Driving Society, New Forest Equestrian Association Users People who walk, ride, cycle or drive on countryside access routes The Court of Verderers is a statutory body which has duties and powers under the New Forest Acts for the protection and administration of the rights of common, the welfare of the commoners’ animals, and the regulation of development. Their jurisdiction extends over the area within the perambulation which is subject to rights of common.

NB: Lead bodies and potential partners are suggested as appropriate. Inclusion in this part of the table, however, does not automatically indicate that these organisations have undertaken to deliver the actions.

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Issue 1 - Outside the Crown Lands of the New Forest, there is a shortage of accessible open space for recreation and routine exercise that is within or close to the major settlements

Of approximately 170,000 people living in the Waterside, however, there is little the New Forest District, over 70% live in open space for informal recreation close the major settlements of Ringwood, to the built areas on the east side of the Lymington, New Milton, Totton and the A326. As a result, many local people use Waterside parishes that lie around the the Open Forest on the western side of edge of the National Park. It has been the A326 as their nearest recreational estimated that 87% of households in the access. This involves crossing a fast and area use the New Forest National Park busy road with limited sightlines on the for outdoor recreation4. Overall, local day eastern side (see issue 4); it also imposes a visitors are the most frequent users of the high level of use on an area of the Forest New Forest, making an average of 257 which is part of the Natura 2000 network. recreational visits per year compared with an average of 45 per year for non-local Research commissioned by New Forest day visitors. Walking and dog walking are District Council5 found “that people could the two most popular main activities for be encouraged to make greater use of local visitors to the Forest. informal open space areas away from the New Forest National Park itself”. Many local people choose to travel into However, the study also found that “keys the Open Forest from the urban areas to achieving increased use will be the specifically to enjoy the peace and improvement of facilities in terms of tranquillity and the large extent of cleanliness, convenience (including accessible countryside that it provides. transport and car parking), ‘feeling safe However, it is also the case that in a and secure’ and the provision of more and number of places (e.g. around the better information” Waterside parishes and New Milton) there is a scarcity of rights of way and The study further found that such little or no alternative open space closer ‘alternative sites’ seemed to have to home that is suitable for routine particular appeal when associated with exercise, dog-walking or family recreation. water, and suggested that improving access to water could be a significant Where such space does exist, such as at incentive for encouraging people to visit in Totton, it is popular sites outside the New Forest (see Issue 6). and well-used by a wide range of local people for walking, dog walking, cycling or In informal discussions with local people, simply enjoying the wildlife and open space the areas north of Marchwood and at in a secure environment within a short have both been suggested as distance of their homes. Forest Front near potential sites for a country park or Hythe (which is part of a wider Special similar managed recreational access. Area of Conservation (SAC), though separated from the rest of the Open Forest by a busy main road) is another area which is much-used. In other parts of

4 Visitor Survey of the New Forest National Park 5 PPG17: Open Space, Sport and Recreation Study 2004-05 (NFNPA / Tourism SE) for the New Forest Area, Feb 2007 10 =

New Forest & SW Hants

Aims and proposed actions Timescales and Lead bodies estimated costs and potential On- Medium Long partners going term term AIM: Provide, maintain and promote good-quality routes that link town and countryside. NF 1.1 Continue to develop a network  HWT / of routes6 to link built-up areas HCC(CS) / with each other and with areas ££ NFDC / of countryside and open space. Water / EA / parish councils 7 / public & private landowners AIM: Provide, maintain and promote good-quality ‘countryside on the doorstep’. NF 1.2 Coordinate information about   NFDC / existing open spaces and NFNPA / promote their use within the ££ HCC(CS) / FC local area through local outlets, / parish websites etc. councils NF 1.3 Continue work to provide  HCC(CS) / access in Waterside and other NFDC parishes e.g. through Small ££ Grants Scheme8. NF 1.4 Continue to seek provision of  HCC(CS) / informal open space within and NFDC / close to new developments. NFNPA NF 1.5 Identify and investigate potential   HCC(CS) / opportunities for new areas of NFDC /

recreational open space at sites NFNPA such as former industrial sites and mineral workings.

6 i.e. paths accessible to the public, including statutory and permissive footpaths, bridleways and byways. 7 Hampshire County Council has produced a guidance pack for parish councils, which provides information and advice to parishes wishing to improve their local access network. 8 The NPA/HCC Small Grants Scheme offers up to 50% funding to parish councils and landowners towards work to improve access to their local countryside.

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Countryside Access Plan

Issue 2 - There is a high reliance on cars and car parks to access the countryside in the New Forest & SW Hants

The New Forest attracts millions of visits Only 10% of residents of the area and 12% each year and tourism forms a significant of non-locals walk or cycle to the Forest. part of the local economy. There are A very small minority use public transport: railway stations at Totton, Ashurst, “Where there is provision for cycles on trains Beaulieu Road, Brockenhurst, Sway, New there is usually a maximum of only 3 – which Milton, Hinton Admiral and Lymington, is very limiting.” and regular bus routes linking most of the towns and villages within the area. Many “Use of public transport for access to walks is holidaymakers and day-trippers arrive by difficult – timetables do not always fit in, the car, however, as there are good road links train is not an option for most areas and with other parts of the south of England. there are also difficulties in getting to buses.” 9 The National Park Visitor Survey found Because of this reliance on car use, that 88% of day visitors from the local availability of parking is a key issue for area, 94% of non-local visitors and 85% of both visitors and local people. Some of the all visitors use their car for recreational ‘managed’ sites (e.g. Testwood Lakes and visits to the Forest. The main reasons for Lepe Country Park) have adequate using the car rather than walking or parking, but in villages and at sites such as cycling were the weather, lack of time and Lymington- Nature Reserve, the practicality of transporting dogs. provision is limited. The Forestry This is a mainly rural area with a network Commission maintains more than 130 car of minor and unclassified roads, many of parks in the New Forest. Many of these them single-width, that is not designed to were created in the 1970s and their size sustain high volumes of traffic. At peak and location does not necessarily match times, and especially during the main present-day demand. holiday season, there are real concerns When car parks at ‘honeypot’ sites reach about the extent to which traffic full capacity, people park on the roadside congestion, pollution and loss of or in gateways, causing congestion and tranquillity affect the special qualities of obstruction. the area. Motor vehicles are also hazardous to grazing livestock in the Open “Cars parked in cattle grid gateways are a Forest; around 100 are killed or injured in nightmare for carriage drivers, who may have road traffic accidents each year despite a to go miles to find an alternative route.” ‘blanket’ speed limit of 40 mph and a The New Forest District Coucnil Local concerted campaign by the police and Plan aims to reduce the rate of growth in local authorities. traffic within the area. The New Forest The volume and speed of traffic is a strong Transport Strategy seeks to manage disincentive to those who might otherwise tourist and visitor movements and walk or cycle in the area. encourage the use of public transport, walking and cycling. A number of initiatives “There is a huge latent desire to cycle, but address this, including the Strategic Cycle people are afraid to go out on the road.” Network (SCN) and the .10

10 A seasonal bus with cycle-carrying capacity hat 9 Visitor Survey of the New Forest National Park follows a circular route between main visitor sites 2004-05 (NFNPA / Tourism SE) within the Forest 12 =

New Forest & SW Hants

Aims and proposed actions Timescales and Lead bodies estimated costs and potential On- Medium Long partners going term term AIM: Provide, maintain and promote good quality routes that link town and countryside. NF Continue to develop and promote  HCC(CS) / 2.1 routes providing walking and  NFNPA / cycling links from the built-up ££ NFDC / areas to the countryside, including Sustrans / FC National Cycle Network and New / Landowners Forest Strategic Cycle Network /Verderers / parish councils / users AIM: Provide, maintain and promote good quality ‘countryside on the doorstep’. NF Identify and promote existing local  NFDC / 2.2 access opportunities in Waterside  HCC(CS) / and other urban parishes £ parish councils (including the use of clear signage) / local residents AIM: Encourage and support car-free travel. NF Encourage local transport   HCC(CS) / 2.3 providers to improve services to NFDC / major sites, e.g. bus links from ££ NFNPA / railway stations, extend Solent Transport ‘Blue Line’ route and improve and providers / TSE extend the New Forest Tour / NFTA / local service. businesses / parish councils / users NF Identify and promote circular   HCC(CS) / 2.4 walking and cycling routes that are NFNPA / accessible from railway stations £ Transport and locations with bus services. companies / FC / NT NFAF /parish councils / users AIM: Optimise provision and management of parking. NF Adopt a strategic approach to car   NFDC / 2.5 parking provision that considers NFNPA / FC / factors such as size, location, ££ Verderers / signing, charging and possible parish councils effects on road use, both inside / users and outside the National Park Boundary. Link to the New Forest Transport Strategy. = 13

Countryside Access Plan

Issue 3 – There are insufficient attractive and suitable car free routes that link centres of population to each other and to the countryside

Many people living in the villages within Traffic levels have increased substantially the National Park boundary have the over recent years, and local people say benefit of good access to the countryside that as a result cycling on the New Forest directly from their homes, but overall they District’s roads has become more are the minority within the area. Most of hazardous. However, there is a strong the local residents of the New Forest & desire among some local residents to use SW Hants area live in the towns on the their bicycles as an alternative to the car, edge of the Forest, and one of the reasons particularly as the local road system that local people use their cars to travel becomes more congested. Some of these even short distances within the area is the people do cycle to their places of work, lack of suitable routes for walking or for example from New Milton to cycling from their homes out into the Christchurch and from Sway to surrounding countryside. Southampton. They would also like their “Access out of the settlements by bike is a children to be able to cycle to school or problem – Ringwood is not so bad, but routes to the local riding stables, but are concerned about road safety: out from other towns and villages are made difficult by the need to cross or negotiate busy “Family groups cycling? – definitely not on roads.” roads!” In some areas, particularly in the west of A Strategic Cycle Network (SCN) is being the New Forest & SW Hants, (see map, implemented in the New Forest District Appendix 2) there is a comparitively good to provide a network of cycling links network of footpaths linking the between towns and sites of interest within settlements with the surrounding the area. There are some issues over the countryside. In other places the rights of safety-auditing of on-road sections; there way network is fragmented by busy roads are also concerns about the or in some cases non-existent. There are environmental impact of creating tracks few, if any, suitable car-free routes linking adjacent to the roads, particularly where New Milton with surrounding towns and they run through SPAs and SACs. villages and the Forest to the north. There The SCN is the foundation on which are also particular concerns within the future cycling infrastructure within the Waterside parishes about the difficulties area will be based, and needs to link of getting across the busy A326 to walk or effectively with centres of population both ride in the nearby Open Forest: within New Forest District and in “The Parish is concerned about the lack of neighbouring local authority areas (for safe routes from the built areas of example, with routes proposed within the Marchwood across the A326 to countryside Test Valley Borough Cycle Strategy 2008) areas within the parish boundaries.” if it is to provide a realistic alternative to using the car for local journeys. It has been observed that many people drive the short distance from the Local people also highlighted the need for Waterside to walk in the Forest, simply more effective linkage and ‘family-friendly' because it is safer than trying to make the routes between existing off-road cycle crossing on foot. routes and between these routes and countryside sites.

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Aims and proposed actions Timescales and Lead bodies estimated costs and potential On- Medium Long partners going term term AIM: Provide, maintain and promote good quality routes that link town and countryside. NF 3.1 Identify, sign, improve and  HCC(CS) / promote existing cycling and  NFDC / walking routes into and between ££ NFNPA / villages, towns, public transport TVBC / FC / links and countryside. Verderers / NFTA NF 3.2 Identify ‘gaps’ in the network for  NFAF / walkers, riders, cyclists and  HCC(CS) / carriage drivers, prioritise and ££ NFDC / FC / propose solutions, e.g. creation HWT / NFNPA of new routes (dedicated, / parish permissive, e.g. extension of councils / Castleman Trail at Ringwood, Verderers / re-evaluation of off-road cycle user groups routes on Forest tracks). NF 3.3 Implement the New Forest SCN   HCC(CS) / and develop links from SCN to NFNPA / centres of population and to key £££ NFDC / countryside sites e.g. Calshot Sustrans / FC and Lepe and the off-road cycling networks. AIM: Encourage and support car-free travel. NF 3.4 Promote and encourage walking   User groups / and cycling, e.g. confidence- HCC(CS) / building events for novice and £ NFDC / ‘returning’ cyclists, consolidated TVBC / cycling map for the whole area NFNPA NF 3.5 Provide cycle parking at key   NFNPA / locations (village centres, HCC(CS) / countryside sites, visitor ££ NFDC / FC / attractions) within the SCN HWT / NFTA / User groups / parish councils

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Countryside Access Plan

Issue 4 – Countryside users are forced to use or cross busy roads to link up off-road access

This issue affects all users, and is unsettling effect on . Riders sit particularly significant for cyclists and some distance back from their horses’ equestrian users. It has already been heads and carriage drivers still further, and described how the A326 creates a barrier road crossings can only be undertaken in to people wishing to walk into the safety where there is a wide arc of vision countryside from their homes in the in both directions. Waterside parishes (Issue 1). In areas where there are few rights of way, the The need to use even minor roads to link road system can represent the only means access can involve a range of difficulties for of linking one right of way with the next. equestrian users. Many of the lanes within In some of the quieter areas this is not a the area are narrow, making it difficult for particular problem, but in others it can be horses and motor vehicles to pass. This a significant issue, e.g. where difficulty is compounded when there is a Way follows the B3054 across Beaulieu lack of understanding and consideration Heath towards . This from drivers: section of road is often busy and is consequently a less-favoured section of an “Too many people don’t know how to behave otherwise pleasant long-distance route. around horses these days. They assume that horses will get out of the way of vehicles. They Cyclists are particularly affected by the do not understand that even a well-behaved need to use the road network to link up horse can spook at something in the off-road access, as they do not have the hedgerow.” rights of access enjoyed by walkers and riders in the Open Forest. The designated Other difficulties cited by equestrian users Forestry Commission cycle tracks provide include overgrown side vegetation, which pleasant short circular off-road routes, but reduces the width available for horses to at present these do not interconnect, and avoid cars (this is a problem for all users), to devise a longer route, cyclists have to and worn, potholed road surfaces (this use the road system. This is a particular creates difficulties for cyclists as well as concern for those cycling with their horses). Riders also report that on certain families, due to the levels of traffic on the road surfaces their horses’ shod feet are Forest roads at peak periods. liable to slip. This is a particular danger when crossing the minor roads that For equestrian users, the Open Forest traverse the Open Forest; some horses provides some of the best access in the are inclined to leap the shallow ditches south of England. However, enclosed that have been dug to keep cars off the grazing land is relatively scarce in this part Forest and risk slipping and coming down of the Forest; many riders and carriage when landing on the road. drivers keep their horses on land outside the Perambulation and have to negotiate the road network to gain access to the Open Forest and forestry tracks of the Crown Lands. Busy road crossings are a major concern for equestrian users, especially where traffic is fast and includes larger vehicles, which can have an

16 =

New Forest & SW Hants

Aims and proposed actions Timescales and Lead bodies estimated costs and potential On- Medium Long partners going term term AIM: Provide good quality alternatives to road use for non-motorised users. NF 4.1 Identify verges that could be  HCC(CS) / managed to provide safer links in NFNPA / the access network and agree ££ NFAF / parish standard of maintenance councils / local required. users AIM: Raise awareness of non-motorised users’ needs in management and modification of the road network and in new road schemes. NF 4.2 Identify and consult on traffic  NFDC / management schemes to reduce NFNPA / traffic density and speed on £££ HCC(CS) / minor roads. local police / CCAONB / Verderers / NE NF 4.3 Identify key minor road links and  HCC(CS)/ prioritise for repair and HCC(HH)/ maintenance (surfaces, side ££ NFNPA / vegetation clearance etc) to NFDC / NFAF / improve safety for non- Landowners / motorised users. Users / parish councils AIM: Improve safety where the on- and off-road networks intersect. NF 4.4 Identify key crossing points and   HCC(CS) / prioritise for improvement (e.g. HCC(HH) / traffic management, better sight ££ £££ NFNPA / lines, refuges, controlled NFDC / users crossings, etc). / parish councils /

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Countryside Access Plan

Issue 5 – There are limited opportunities for access to and along the coast of the New Forest & SW Hants

The New Forest & SW Hants area Because of the lack of coastal access in includes around 60 km of coastline, from this eastern part of the area, the Solent Christchurch Bay in the west via the Way (a 60-mile long distance ‘coastal’ western Solent and Southampton Water walking route from Milford to Emsworth to Redbridge in the east. Some 85% of this Harbour) currently runs inland from coast is included in Sites of Special Buckler’s Hard to Hythe, where it briefly Scientific Interest11. The follows the coast as it approaches the Estuary is part of a National Nature ferry landing. Hampshire County Council Reserve, and there are Local Nature is working with landowners to develop Reserves (LNRs) at the Lymington- this route so that it can follow the Keyhaven Marshes, Foreshore, coastline for a greater part of its length. Calshot and the . There The Government made improvement of is a proposal to create a LNR at Sturt access to the coast a priority in its Rural Pond, Milford-on-Sea. Many of these sites Manifesto 2005, and the draft Marine Bill are also part of the Natura 2000 network. issued in April 2008 contains proposals to Our research shows that the coast is a increase access on foot to and along the popular destination for local residents and English coast. However, there are practical visitors, who come to enjoy the diversity difficulties in establishing and maintaining of wildlife and scenery or to spend the day routes; sea levels are rising along the at the beach taking part in seaside whole of Hampshire’s coast and in places activities. Access between and there is also considerable erosion. This is Lymington is relatively good and includes making it difficult to extend the Solent the route along the sea wall across the Way westwards to link up with the Avon Lymington-Keyhaven Nature Reserve. Valley Path and with the South West This is a popular area for walkers and bird Coastal Path through Dorset. watchers and is also being developed to There are very few coastal routes for provide access for wheelchair users and cyclists and horse riders. The proposed others with limited mobility. Strategic Cycle Network runs close to the From Lymington eastwards to Calshot, sea between Milford and Keyhaven and access to the coast is very limited. Much again near the Pylewell Estate to the east of the land is privately owned and there of Lymington, but many cyclists would like are few public rights of way. The public also to follow the coastal paths that are have access to the beaches at Lepe and at currently available to walkers. Calshot, both of which are managed by “It would be nice to cycle near the sea, but Hampshire County Council and attract there aren’t many opportunities.” large numbers of visitors and local people. Between Calshot and Totton there are Through the ‘Solent Circles’ project, the again almost no rights of way near to the Solent Forum is aiming to establish and shoreline of Southampton Water; some promote 10 to 14 new interpreted walks sections are too unstable, others are around the Solent coast, based on existing privately owned, developed or part of the rights of way. major industrial site of Fawley refinery. Hampshire County Council has carried out a Coastal Access Audit to assist in strategic planning of access improvements. 11 New Forest District Coastal Management Plan 18 =

New Forest & SW Hants

Aims and proposed actions Timescales and Lead bodies estimated costs and potential On- Medium Long partners going term term AIM: Ensure information is easy for all to find and understand. NF 5.1 Improve information about  HCC(CS) / existing coastal access NFNPA / opportunities, to include £ NFDC / Solent permissive access routes e.g. at Forum Pylewell, in line with NF 6.

AIM: Enhance and increase opportunities for enjoyment of access to the coast and waterways of Hampshire. NF 5.2 Monitor progress with the draft  HCC(CS) / Marine Bill (April 2008), which NFNPA / contains provisions for NFAF / HCAF improving access to the English coast on foot. NF 5.3 Work with landowners to  HCC(CS) / increase extent of coastal access Landowners / through dedicated and ££ HWT / NE permissive access. NF 5.4 Develop and promote walking,  HCC(CS) / cycling and horse riding routes Sustrans / to and along the coast. ££ NFDC / NFNPA / HWT / NE / Solent Forum

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Countryside Access Plan

Issue 6 – Provision and improvement of public access needs to take full account of the special qualities of the New Forest & SW Hants area

The lowland heaths, mires, woodlands, Both local users and land managers river valleys and coastal marshes of the consulted for the plan felt that New Forest are internationally significant coordination of effort and of information- for their biodiversity. Around 50% of the provision, together with effective total land area of the Forest and its communication with both local people and coastline is now protected by national or visitors, are essential for successful international nature conservation management of visits to the countryside. legislation. Many other sites within the “There needs to be more liaison between the area are recognised as being of local ‘powers that be’ and the regular users.” importance for wildlife. Hampshire County Council has The Visitor Survey of the New Forest demonstrated the benefits of keeping National Park found that most visitors users informed elsewhere in the county, come to the New Forest to enjoy the for example in managing access by visitors peace and tranquillity of its un-spoilt with dogs at Hill Fort (Test & countryside. There is a long history of Itchen CAP area). Involving users in the open access on foot and on horseback production of information leaflets can also within the Open Forest and for many be very beneficial; the Forestry people this is one of the special qualities Commission has worked with local user that attracts them to the area. However, groups to produce a series of best local land managers are concerned that practice guidance leaflets advising different the more fragile habitats could be users how to minimise the impact of their adversely affected by concentrated visitor visit on the landscape, habitats and pressures through disturbance to wildlife tranquility of the Forest. or erosion of surfaces The number of visitors to the New Forest There has consequently been much local & SW Hants area is not expected to debate about the effects of public access diminish; it may well increase as a result of on the landscape and habitats of the the high levels of residential development Forest. The Forestry Commission has planned for the South of England and of undertaken research into the the designation of the Forest as a National environmental impact of access through Park. As the Strategy for the New Forest PROGRESS (Promotion and Guidance for states, Recreation on Ecologically Sensitive Sites, a project launched In October 2003 to “without visitor management even those who help reconcile the needs of conservation come to quietly enjoy the Forest will with those of recreation). PROGRESS inadvertently but gradually contribute to the commissioned a study of visitor loss of its special character.” movements within the Open Forest and a Access in the New Forest thus needs to system of modelling the disturbance of be sensitively and strategically managed if wildlife within the area. This has provided this pressure is not to degrade or destroy a valuable tool to enable access managers the very qualities which attract people to to take a more structured approach to the area. This requires a coordinated accommodating recreation within the approach that involves all organisations National Park. that are responsible for planning, providing and promoting access within the area. 20 =

New Forest & SW Hants

Aims and proposed actions Timescales and Lead bodies estimated costs and potential On- Medium Long partners going term term AIM: Encourage cooperation and understanding among users and between users and land managers. NF 6.2 Develop and implement a  NFNPA / coordinated programme of HCC(CS) / information and education ££ NFDC / FC / within both South West NT / NFTA / Hampshire and the main visitor users / schools catchment area, e.g. schools/youth group activities, ‘Welcome Pack’ for people moving into the area. AIM: Ensure information is easy for all to find and understand. NF 6.3 Agree strategic locations for  NFNPA / FC / information gateways and HCC(CS) / coordinate delivery, e.g. fixed £££ HWT / NFDC / and/or mobile visitor centres. NT / NFTA AIM: Ensure that access improvements do not adversely affect wildlife conservation and seek, where possible, to enhance biodiversity. NF 6.4 Monitor visitor impact on  FC / sensitive and tranquil sites within HCC(CS) / the area and use appropriate ££ NFNPA / NT management methods to / HWT address track erosion and disturbance. NF 6.5 Develop and implement  NFNPA / FC / Recreation Management HCC(CS) / Strategies to promote £££ NT / NFDC / sustainable recreational use. NFTA

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Countryside Access Plan

Issue 7 – Landowners and land managers are concerned about some of the effects of public access, which can deter them from providing more access

In a survey of farmers and landowners Trespass is experienced by a substantial within the area12, many landowners said number of landowners in the area and that they do not have a problem with legal several said that they had received an and responsible use of public rights of way abusive and in some cases threatening across their land. They do however have response when they asked people to leave major concerns about people who exceed their land and return to the right of way. It their rights and do not respect the is possible that this problem is more countryside and those living and working prevalent in the New Forest because the in it. freedom of access that exists over the Open Forest leads people to assume that “Most people are sensible but a small they have rights of access anywhere within minority know little about how to behave in the area; this is understandably aggravating the countryside and cause all landowners to landowners. deep suspicion about the public in general.” Landowners and local people expressed The most commonly reported problems concern about motorised vehicles being in the New Forest & SW Hants area driven illegally on the Open Forest and included litter, trespass, vandalism and damage to historic drove roads through dogs out of control. Dog ownership in the use (albeit legitimate, where they are New Forest is slightly higher than the byways open to all traffic) by 4x4s and national average. A survey of visitors to motorcycles in wet conditions. There are the New Forest National Park13 found that also occasions where cyclists stray from 49% of local visitors and 24% of all visitors permitted forest tracks onto routes to the Forest came to walk their dogs. reserved for other users, or cycle across Many local dog owners walk their dogs on the Open Forest. a once- or twice-daily basis. The majority of people are accompanied by one or two Whilst some of these problems stem from dogs; a small minority (1-2%) bring 4 or deliberate acts, many arise from public more dogs at a time. Dog mess is a ignorance or disregard for where they are particular concern for farmers and land entitled to go or how to behave when out managers, especially where deposits are in the countryside. This, coupled with the concentrated around car parks. It is wide perception of the New Forest as an aesthetically unpleasant and a hazard to area with ample existing access to the health; over time it also enriches the soil, public, makes landowners disinclined to which can affect vegetation and habitat. offer additional access on their land. Other concerns about dogs include Whilst this is not a significant problem in disturbance to wildlife and livestock and the Open Forest, it does create difficulties the disruption of other people’s in work to develop links in the areas enjoyment if they are not adequately around the edge of the New Forest. controlled.

12 Survey of farmers and landowners, HCC 2006 13 Visitor Survey of the New Forest National Park 2004-05 (NFNPA / Tourism SE) 22 =

New Forest & SW Hants

Aims and proposed actions Timescales and Lead bodies estimated costs and potential On- Medium Long partners going term term AIM: Encourage cooperation and understanding among users and between users and land managers. NF 7.1 Develop coordinated and agreed  NFNPA / FC / Recreation and Visitor HCC(CS) / Management Strategies to share ££ NFDC / user information and promote visitor groups / local understanding across the New schools / Forest & SW Hants area. landowners and commoners / parish councils NF 7.2 Continue to promote the New  NFDC / Forest Visitor Stewardship NFNPA programme.14 ££ NF 7.3 Review wardening capacity  FC / NFNPA / across the whole area, providing HCC(CS) / a visible ‘presence’ promoting £££ HWT / NT / responsible behaviour. Local volunteer groups NF 7.4 Provide clear signage, where  HCC(CS) / appropriate, to inform users and NFNPA / FC / influence behaviour ££ Verderers / Landowners, HWT, NT NF 7.5 Encourage and promote  FC / responsible use of the HCC(CS) / countryside by all, including ££ NFNPA / HWT visitors and local people, and / NT / NFDC / raise awareness through parish councils initiatives such as the ‘bag it and / user groups bin it’ campaign and the New Forest Codes.

14 A NFDC scheme targeted at all visitors. This programme includes key messages in all NFDC print and on the NFDC website, also in visitor welcome packs and at Visitor Information Centres, that reflect and interpret the New Forest’s cultural heritage and landscape and communicate its unique distinctiveness.

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Countryside Access Plan

Issue 8 – The extent of countryside access in this area is unrivalled in the whole of Hampshire and could offer a high level of accessibility to all users

There already exists within the New like to improve disabled access at Forest & SW Hants area a range of level, Lakes and . surfaced routes suitable for buggies, push chairs and mobility vehicles. In some In addition, many tea rooms, restaurants places work is needed to improve the and other local businesses are improving accessibility of gates at access points and the accessibility of their premises, and other facilities, but there is a good there is at least one accommodation network of routes with gentle gradients provider catering specifically for disabled and firm surfaces that would enable a wide holidaymakers. range of less mobile people to enjoy the special qualities of the countryside in the The New Forest & SW Hants thus has a area. great deal to offer both local people and visitors with disabilities. The need Many of these routes are already used by highlighted by local disabled people is for a individual disabled visitors and by more comprehensive package of organisations such as the Disabled information to enable them to plan their Ramblers and the New Forest Disabled visits more effectively. Local disabled Drivers Association. In the National Park access group members have offered to Visitor Survey15, 8% of all visitors to the assist with an audit of local access routes, National Park had some form of disability. to include details of all the information As one local person who regularly visits needed to plan a day out, such as surface the Forest put it: conditions, potential obstacles, location of disabled car parking spaces, seating, “The healing effects and restorative qualities toilets, and accessible tea rooms and of nature should not be underestimated. other places of refreshment. Going out into the Forest makes a significant contribution to wellbeing for disabled and The National Park Authority is running a able-bodied people alike.” pilot project with the eventual aim of providing detailed accessibility information The Forestry Commission has been about many of the countryside sites working with representatives of throughout the National Park area. recreational users and disabled groups to improve access for all on the Crown Lands, and has developed an Accessibility Plan to focus and prioritise further improvements. Better access is being developed for disabled people at Lymington-Keyhaven Nature Reserve and Testwood Lakes, and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust would also

15 Visitor Survey of the New Forest National Park 2004-05 (NFNPA / Tourism SE) 24 =

New Forest & SW Hants

Aims and proposed actions Timescales and Lead bodies estimated costs and potential On- Medium Long partners going term term AIM: Identify and address the factors that limit opportunities for some people to enjoy the countryside. NF 8.1 Develop integrated outreach  HCC(CS) / programmes aimed at those who NFNPA / do not use the countryside £ AONB AIM: Improve physical accessibility of routes and sites. NF 8.2 Work with local disabled people  FC / NFNPA / to identify existing and potential NFAF / accessible routes (including HCC(CS) / delivery of the FC Accessibility parish councils Plan). / local user groups NF 8.3 Continue process of improving  HCC(CS) / physical access, e.g. identify and FC / HWT / replace stiles and other path ££ parish councils furniture that could be replaced, removal of barriers, installation of seats or perches at rest points, designated parking bays. NF 8.4 Adopt a policy of using least-  HCC(CS) / restrictive path furniture when FC / NT / installing new or replacing ££ HWT existing furniture on paths, to an agreed standard (e.g. BS5709:2001). AIM: Target information appropriately to promote wider participation in countryside recreation. NF 8.5 Develop a comprehensive  NFNPA / FC / ‘accessible countryside’ guide NFAF / based on an agreed range of £ HCC(CS)/ features and criteria e.g. Local users distances, surface conditions, gradients, frequency of rest points, extent of accessible facilities (car parking, toilets, refreshments etc). Publish and promote the guide in a range of formats including websites.

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Notes

26 =

Appendix 1

Extent of rights of way network

Length of rights of way in the New Forest & SW Hants CAP area (as at January 2007)

Length (metres)

Area (ha) Footpath Bridleway BOAT16 RB17 New Forest & SW Hants 78,379 461,491 127,333 31,274 2,626

Hampshire overall 376,866 3,301,200 746,600 223,800 286,200

(Note: these totals are indicative rather than absolute, as they include the whole length of any right of way that extends beyond the CAP area.)

Density of rights of way network in the New Forest & SW Hants CAP area

Overall Density (metres/hectare) Walking network Riding and Carriage driving (all RoW) cycling network network New Forest & SW Hants 7.95 2.06 0.43

Hampshire overall 12.09 3.33 1.35

16 BOAT – Byway open to all traffic 17 RB – Restricted byway =

Overview of access in the New Forest and SW Hants area Showing rights of way, roads and Hampshire County Council countryside sites

Martin Down

Tidpit Down

FORDINGBRIDGE

A338

n o v A r A31 e

v

i

R

RINGWOOD

A35 Legend BR

New Forest and SW Hants CAP Area HCC Countryside Sites

Footpath Bridleway Restricted byway

By-way open to all traffic NEW MIL Motorways A-roads

Minor Road Network Railways

Appendix 2

M27

SOUTHAMPTON TOTTON

ASHURST

MARCHWOOD

LYN D HU RS T A326

HYTHE

A337

FAWLEY B e ROCKENHURST au li eu R Calshot iv er Marshes

SWAY

Lepe Country Park

LYMINGTON LTON

Lymington & Keyhaven ISLE OF WIGHT Nature Reserve 012340.5 Miles

This map is reproduced from Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery Office © Crown copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. HCC 100019180 2008 For further information: 0845 603 5636* (free textphone) 0845 603 5625 www.hants.gov.uk/countryside-access-plans * Calls will cost up to 4p per minute for BT customers. Calls made using other service providers or mobiles may cost more. Alternatively, call 01329 225398 – standard and local rates apply to this number. Front cover photograph: Martin O’Neil, New Forest National Park

Countryside Access covers.indd 9-10 6/11/08 10:55:20