Protesters ‘insulted’ by New Forest plan time limit (From Bournemouth Echo)

Protesters ‘insulted’ by New Forest plan time limit

8:21am Tuesday 30th June 2009 in

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CAMPAIGNERS last night launched their second major battle against controversial blueprints for the future of the New Forest.

Dozens of protestors, including New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne, packed the Young Farmer’s Club in Tiptoe to start a petition calling for more time to view a controversial set of proposals for the ancient woodland and heath.

Members of the campaign group One Voice have been told they will have just seven days to view the final draft of the management plan, before it is adopted by New Forest National Park Authority.

Last night they called for the time to be doubled, labelling the consultation time an “insult”.

The original document provoked outrage when it suggested curbs on keeping horses, moves to create dog free car parks and the possibility of road tolls.

The meeting comes just days after the under-fire chief executive of the NPA, Lindsay Cornish, quit her post.

She resigned amid a storm over a letter criticising her management style and role at the authority.

The management plan is due to be formally adopted in October.

One Voice leader Sue Baillie issued a new rallying call at last night’s meeting.

Her plea for an extension to the seven-day viewing period was echoed by other groups represented on the night, including Forest Uprising, New Forest Business Partnership and the New Forest Equestrian Association.

Penny Gayler from New Forest Dog Owners added: “It is insulting to suggest that one week is sufficient before the members vote to adopt the plan. Judging by the draft plan, it will be a lengthy and complex document, full of undertones and hidden intentions that will take quite some degree of deciphering. Many groups will need time for legal consultation. Seven days is totally inadequate.”