DECISION makers in the New Forest have been debating how to balance economic growth with protecting the area’s unique character.

The first New Forest Business Partnership Planning and Transport Conference was held at Hangar Farm Arts Centre in Totton.

The chief planning officers of both the New Forest National Park Authority and New Forest District Council were among the speakers, alongside leading figures from the private sector.

A session on public transport looked at the environmental impact of the visitor economy, public transport infrastructure and the distribution of goods within the forest.

Plans to improve the rival network, including reducing car traffic through better integration with other transport, were also discussed.

A cut in vehicle numbers was debated in an outline of the New Forest Matrix – an online ordering system which aims to consolidate deliveries of local produce to hotels and shops.

The audience also heard about leisure transport initiatives to reduce carbon footprints, such as the New Forest Tour and horse-drawn carriages.

Delegates questioned policy makers in two lively plenary sessions, on topics including parking provision at railway stations, connectivity of the Waterside and better integration of public transport.

The day’s discussions highlighted the ongoing conflict between the development of the forest to boost economic growth and conservation of the protected area’s special characteristics.

The conference was organised by the New Forest Business Partnership and is expected to become an annual highlight of its events calendar. The partnership is chaired by Rob Dewing of Northerwood Systems Ltd and the Federation of Small Businesses.

The conference presentations are available to partnership members in the members’ area at nfbp.org.uk