NEW Forest National Park residents are being urged to comment on plans to preserve the character of the area in which they live.

A draft action plan has been created which outlines a range of projects to help conserve the character and appearance of the Western Escarpment Conservation Area.

The area, which includes the parishes of Hale, Woodgreen, Godshill and Hyde, as well as parts of Ringwood, Fordingbridge and the parish of Ellingham, Harbridge and Ibsley, was designated a conservation area in March 2008. Plans include protecting buildings of architectural and historic interest.

Full details of the proposals are available at newforestnpa.gov.uk/western-escarpmentconsultation or from local parish clerks or the Hyde and Woodgreen shops.

The consultation period runs until February 29 and comments should be emailed to building. conservation@newforestnpa.gov.uk or posted to the New Forest National Park Authority, Lymington Town hall, Avenue Road, Lymington, SO41 9ZG.