The Show is run by the New Forest Agricultural Show Society, a registered charity whose work continues beyond the three-day event.

So just how big is the Show, and what does it contribute to the New Forest?

The wider numbers are substantial. New Forest District Council (NFDC) says tourism, hospitality, agriculture and forestry play “a key role” in the district’s £6.4 billion economy, while the New Forest National Park Authority estimates tourism alone contributes £72 million.

But how much of that economic activity can actually be attributed to the New Forest Show? Where does the Show’s money go, and what impact does three days on the Showground really have on the New Forest?

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The Society in numbers

• £7,345,003 - total income in the year to 31 October 2025

• £6,470,347 - expenditure

• £874,656 - surplus

• 67 employees

• 10 trustees

• 400 volunteers

The Show in numbers

• 85,000 visitors across the three show days

• 500+ traders

• 2,000+ horses and riders

• 100+ cattle classes

• 160+ sheep classes

• 50+ Horse of the Year Show qualifiers

Where does the money go?

The New Forest Agricultural Show Society says income generated by the Show is reinvested into its charitable work throughout the year.

According to Denis Dooley, Chief Executive Officer of the New Forest & Hampshire County Show, that includes school initiatives, Mini Forest projects, workshops and activities designed to connect young people with food, farming and the countryside.

One example took place in June, when more than 300 children from 11 primary and junior schools attended the Society’s Food, Farming & Forest Discovery Day at the Showground in Brockenhurst.

They also support young people entering the agricultural industry through the Sam Bailey Bursary, which provides financial support for students attending agricultural college.

The Society told New Forest Dispatch that “All income received through the Show is reinvested into the registered charity, the New Forest Agricultural Show Society to support its charitable remit.”

The latest accounts show a surplus of £874,656 for the year to 31 October 2025. The Society was asked for further information about its finances and charitable activities but had not responded by the time of publication.

What does the Show mean for local businesses?

The Society told us hotels and accommodation providers “often experience high occupancy” during Show week as well as restaurants, cafes and pubs benefitting from “increased customer numbers” from visitors staying locally.

Putting a figure to this is more difficult.

Careys Manor Hotel, one of the closest major hotels to the Showground, told New Forest Dispatch that it expected hotel occupancy between 59% and 72% across the show period, but could not determine whether guests were actually attending the Show.

During the show, we spoke to many exhibitors, many of which attend each year.

One told us, “It’s not cheap to set us all up with accommodation etc for the week nearby but it’s worth it for the busy footfall and to say that we are a part of such a big show.”

Another on the second day of the show told us, “It was actually quieter than usual on the stand yesterday, we made way less than usual and we’re in a good spot, we’re hoping for more business today!”

The Show as a platform

The New Forest and Hampshire County Show is not only a place for businesses to sell as organisations also use the three-day event to reach thousands of people in one place.

The New Forest Association (NFA), which used this year’s event to launch its new brand identity, said the event provided the right setting to introduce its new look and connect with people who care about the Forest.

Sarah Nield, Chair of the NFA, told New Forest Dispatch, “Launching at the New Forest Show feels right.”

For the NFA, the Show is also an important opportunity to reach people it might otherwise struggle to connect with.

“It is our showcase to those that may not have heard of us or would like to understand more about the Forest and our work to protect and sustain it.”

Nield said the Show is “vital” for organisations to reach local residents, visitors and decision-makers all in one place.

“We do not have the resources of the larger charities to attend many events, so we concentrate on the New Forest Show.”

She said the event also gives the organisation an opportunity to reconnect with existing supporters and others that know of its part in protecting the New Forest for almost 160 years.

Nield described the Show as a significant event for the wider Forest community, beyond its visitor numbers.

“It is one of the most, if not the most, important events of the year for the Forest community,” she told us.

The New Forest Show is also used by public bodies to reach people face-to-face.

New Forest District Council (NFDC) described the Show as an important event for the district, saying it brings together businesses, residents and visitors while highlighting sectors including tourism, hospitality, agriculture and forestry.

The council said the event helps “raise the profile of the New Forest, support local businesses and encourage visitors to spend time in the area.”

For NFDC, the Show has also become an opportunity to communicate directly with residents about major changes and updates, for instance, local government reorganisation.

Cllr Jill Cleary, Leader of NFDC, told us, “Being part of the show, especially over the last few years, has been beneficial as we introduced the new waste collection service.

“This year will be just as important, as we will be sharing information about changes to local government structures, which are expected to start in 2028.”

The big one: the actual economic impact

The Show’s contribution to the local visitor economy has also received recognition.

In 2025, it received the ‘Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Visitor Economy’ at the Brilliance in Business Awards, hosted by the New Forest Business Partnership.

For agriculture and equestrianism, the Show is not simply a day out.

The Society described to us the importance of the platform for farmers, breeders and exhibitors, with more than 100 cattle classes, over 160 sheep classes and more than 2,000 horses and riders taking part across the three days.

And although the Show itself lasts three days, the Society’s work continues throughout the year.

The wider economic impact of the New Forest Show is widely asserted but surprisingly difficult to quantify with hard data.

We can measure the Show’s size very easily - 85,000 visitors, £7.3m annual charity income, 500+ traders exhibiting, and hundreds of volunteers.

What we cannot measure quite so easily is the full ripple effect beyond the Showground.

But after looking behind the scenes, one thing is clear - the New Forest Show is much more than three days of livestock, competitions and entertainment.

It is a major gathering point for the Forest’s communities, businesses and organisations, and one this local journalist will happily keep coming back to.

In June, Hythe Pier Company announced it had acquired a number of assets associated with the former Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company following its liquidation.

But the ferry service isn’t the only transport challenge facing the Waterside.

From bus services and connections to Southampton to long-running proposals to reopen the Waterside rail line, residents continue to raise concerns about how people travel to, from and around the area.

So, what does the future of transport in the Waterside actually look like?

Is Hythe Ferry “one step closer to returning”?

Speaking to New Forest Dispatch, Hythe Pier owner Ashleigh Mutimear-MacMillan confirmed the Hythe Ferry assets acquired included intellectual property, goodwill of the business, the pontoon and boat.

She stressed that the deal did not involve taking over the former ferry business, employing its staff or immediately restarting services.

“We’ve still got the same problems as the Hythe Ferry Company had,” she said. “The challenges haven’t gone away - if anything they’re worse because it’s been two years.”

Mutimear-MacMillan said securing the pontoon was a key motivation behind the purchase.

“The pier needed its only landing site back, so I always wanted the pontoon to return to the pier,” she said. “The other assets were because I wanted to protect the lifeline and I wanted to protect the route.”

The pontoon is currently unusable and requires significant work before any future passenger service could operate. Mutimear-MacMillan said the purchase does not mean the immediate return of the historic Hythe Ferry and that she does not envisage Hythe Pier Company operating a ferry service itself.

Instead, she said the aim was to bring the key assets under a single owner and preserve options for the future.

“My job now is to navigate a way forward for both the pier and what it looks like at bringing a ferry service back,” she said.

However, she suggested any future service may look different from what local residents remember.

While the acquisition included one vessel, she said the boat would require significant investment and questioned whether returning it to service would be practical.

“The ferry I’ve bought needs so much money throwing at it that it doesn’t make sense to have that boat running anymore,” she said.

Instead, she said future options could include alternative types of passenger service, including a water taxi service or other vessels capable of using the route.

Asked whether the acquisition brings the route any closer to returning, Mutimear-MacMillan replied, “The service is one step closer to returning.”

Whatever happened to the Waterside rail line?

Following a government initiative in 2020, named ‘Restoring your railway’, £500m was promised to enable opportunities to reopen former railway lines and add new stations.

In 2021, the Department for Transport officially allocated £7m from the railway initiative fund to Network Rail to advance the development and business case of the Waterside Line.

The line carried passengers between Totton and Fawley until 1966 and continued to transport crude oil to Fawley refinery until 2016.

The scheme would have reintroduced passenger services on the Waterside Line between Southampton, Marchwood and Hythe. Network Rail said it would improve transport links and support economic growth in the area.

A public consultation for the railway to reopen attracted 1,508 responses in 2022.

Of those responding, 1,430 were asked additional questions with 84% agreeing the proposals offered an improved public transport offering to the Waterside and 80% said they would use a train service in the Waterside.

Despite strong public support, the scheme ultimately failed to progress.

In July 2024, the new Labour government scrapped the railway initiative originally launched by Conservatives.

Ministers confirmed more than £349m had already been spent nationally on the programme before it was ended.

According to analysis by the industry publication New Civil Engineer, approximately £6.49m was spent on the Waterside Line proposal before the project was cancelled.

The railway plans were pulled just a month before Hythe Ferry suspended services in August 2024.

As a result, the Waterside lost both an existing public transport link and a potential future one within a matter of weeks.

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Why transport remains an issue

Concerns about transport also emerged in New Forest Dispatch’s recent survey of local residents.

Transport and roads were mentioned by 20% of respondents, making them one of the most frequently raised issues.

Concerns ranged from public transport links and access to Southampton to road congestion, infrastructure and safety.

While the Hythe Ferry and Waterside rail line often attract attention, the responses suggest broader concerns about connectivity across the area remain unresolved.

Looking to the future

For now, the future of the Hythe to Southampton crossing remains uncertain.

While Hythe Pier Company has secured key assets associated with the former ferry operation, significant challenges remain before any passenger service can return. Any future service may also look very different from the historic ferry many residents remember.

The Waterside rail proposal appears even further away. Despite attracting strong public support, the scheme was cancelled as part of the Government’s decision to end the ‘Restoring Your Railway’ programme.

Yet both projects point to a wider issue.

Concerns about transport were among the most frequently raised by residents responding to a New Forest Dispatch survey, suggesting connectivity remains a challenge for many people living in the area.

While buses continue to provide public transport links across the Waterside, debates around the ferry and railway suggest questions about how people travel to, from and around the area are far from settled.

Individual projects may come and go, but transport remains a recurring concern for many residents - and one that appears far from resolved.

The county council has estimated the legal proceedings, named a judicial review, could cost up to £500,000.

There is no guarantee the challenge will be successful. Even if it succeeds, it will not automatically prevent the Government’s plans from moving forward.

Despite opposing proposals which would see the Waterside transferred into a Southampton-centred authority, New Forest District Council (NFDC) has decided not to pursue legal action.

The council published legal advice which concluded such a challenge had no realistic prospect of success.

Both authorities took legal advice. Both oppose the Government’s plans. So why have they reached different conclusions?

What has happened?

The Government is currently progressing plans to replace Hampshire’s existing two-tier system of county and district councils with a smaller number of larger unitary authorities.

Earlier this year ministers selected their preferred option for Hampshire and the Solent, known as Option 1A, which would replace the 15 existing councils with five new unitary authorities.

The proposal includes transferring the Waterside area away from the New Forest into a Southampton-centred authority in 2028.

The decision has proved controversial locally and prompted opposition from campaign groups, residents and local MPs.

During a recent parliamentary debate, New Forest East MP Sir Julian Lewis described the move as a “land grab”.

While both HCC and NFDC oppose the proposals, they have taken very different approaches to challenging them.

Why is Hampshire County Council pursuing a judicial review?

In a statement announcing the legal challenge, Leader of HCC, Councillor Nick Adams-King said starting proceedings is not a step the council “have taken lightly”.

HCC believes it has “proper grounds” to challenge the decision and has raised questions about how the Government reached its conclusion and whether ministers had sufficient evidence to justify their preferred option.

The council leader said the authority had repeatedly sought further clarification from the Government, and the lack of explanation has now triggered the formal proceedings.

The council argues the cost of legal action must be weighed against the potential long-term financial consequences of implementing an unsustainable structure.

Adams-King said: “We fully recognise the cost of legal action, but that must be set against the potentially far greater cost of getting reorganisation wrong.”

HCC says the judicial review is intended to establish whether the Government’s decision was transparent, properly reasoned and supported by the available evidence.

The county council has now formally commenced proceedings.

HCC is not alone in pursuing legal action. Portsmouth City Council also voted to formally take action and begin a judicial review process.

Hampshire County Council was approached for comment and referred New Forest Dispatch to Cabinet papers, meeting discussions and previously published information relating to its decision.

Why is NFDC not pursuing a judicial review?

Despite strongly opposing the Government’s decision to transfer the Waterside from the New Forest to Southampton’s new authority, New Forest District Council has decided not to pursue legal action.

The council said it explored all potential grounds for a judicial review and obtained two independent legal opinions before reaching its decision.

Speaking at a Cabinet meeting on June 3, NFDC leader Councillor Jill Cleary said the authority had “left no stone unturned” in examining whether the Government’s decision could be challenged.

She told councillors they had sought to identify “any possible grounds of challenge” before making a recommendation.

Given the significant public interest in the issue, the council also commissioned a second independent opinion from King’s Counsel.

According to Cabinet documents, this was intended to ensure the council had “tested the position thoroughly” before deciding whether to pursue a judicial review.

However, both legal advisers reached the same conclusion - that there was no realistic prospect of convincing a court that the Government had made a legal error when reaching its decision.

Cleary said the advice also highlighted an important limitation of judicial review.

“A judicial review would not be a re-run of the Government’s decision,” she told the meeting, adding that even if a challenge succeeded there was “no guarantee” the Government would ultimately reach a different conclusion.

While continuing to oppose the Government’s decision to split the New Forest, Cleary said the legal advice indicated there was no realistic prospect of a successful judicial review to challenge the upcoming changes.

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“Option 1A was a mistake,” Cleary said, “but the legal advice showed that the Government had the ability to impose that mistake.”

Cabinet papers state that councillors considered “the best way to represent the interests of the New Forest and its communities” was not to pursue legal action.

Instead, the council says it will focus efforts on “championing” the New Forest’s needs through the transition to new authorities.

In response to questions from New Forest Dispatch, NFDC referred to recently published legal advice considered by Cabinet before its decision not to pursue a judicial review.

Why this matters to residents

The issue of local government reorganisation has generated strong public interest locally.

In a recent New Forest Dispatch survey which received more than 200 responses, the local government changes were identified as the most significant issue currently facing the New Forest.

Read more on issues facing residents here…

Why have Hampshire and New Forest reached different conclusions?

At the heart of the disagreement is a simple question - why have two councils opposing the same Government decision reached different conclusions about whether it should be challenged in court?

NFDC’s position is based on two independent legal opinions which concluded there was little chance of success.

HCC, however, reached a different conclusion after taking its own legal advice.

Ultimately, both councils oppose the Government’s preferred reorganisation proposals.

The difference lies in the councils’ assessment of whether a judicial review offers a realistic route to challenging the decision.

Other councils have taken different views on how best to respond to the Government’s decision.

Speaking at Southampton City Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Management Committee on June 11, the new council leader Sarah Bogle said, “I think we need to all move on and accept the decision. And actually, just focus on how to make the decision work for us on the ground.”

This contrasts with many residents’ views, HCC’s judicial review proceedings, and New Forest Together’s continued campaign against the proposed changes.

Campaign group says councils faced different legal positions

Campaign group New Forest Together said HCC and NFDC were in “fundamentally different positions, both legally and operationally”.

Speaking to New Forest Dispatch, Campaign Coordinator James Hartley-Binns said HCC was “well-placed to challenge” the Government’s decision because it is responsible for the public services most affected by the reorganisation and holds “the detailed financial and service-delivery data that underpins those functions”.

He said both councils were “acting consistently with the legal advice they received and the evidence available to them”.

New Forest Together said its own independent legal advice identified concerns about the Government’s decision-making process, including questions around financial viability, public service sustainability and how consultation responses were considered.

The group said it would regard a successful outcome as the Government reopening discussions on local government reorganisation and reconsidering its preferred option.

Their aim remains to keep the New Forest together.

If HCC’s judicial review is unsuccessful, New Forest Together said they would continue campaigning during the transition process, scrutinising decisions affecting the New Forest and advocating for future boundary changes.

So, what happens now?

As HCC is now formally commencing the judicial review process, the next stage will be for the courts to decide whether the challenge can proceed.

A judicial review does not determine whether a decision was right or wrong, but whether it was reached lawfully.

Even if HCC were successful, this would not automatically overturn the Government’s plans to split the New Forest.

Instead, the Government could be required to look at the decision again before deciding whether to proceed.

The judicial review for HCC may ultimately succeed or fail.

However, the decision has already exposed a significant divide between Hampshire’s councils, with authorities that oppose the same Government proposals taking very different approaches to challenging them.

New Forest Dispatch will continue following developments on local government reorganisation and what it means for New Forest residents.

What issue do you think deserves more attention in the New Forest right now?

Well, more than 160 responses later, the answers paint a fascinating picture of what people are really worried about across the district.

Unsurprisingly, Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) was the single most-mentioned issue. But beyond the political debate, many responses focused on the day-to-day challenges impacting people’s lives - from roads, transport and housing to healthcare, animal deaths on Forest roads and the impact of Forestry England parking charges.

While responses raised different concerns, several clear themes emerged.

Here’s what New Forest residents told me deserves more attention.

Local government and politics

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) was the single most-mentioned issue raised by readers, appearing in around 35 responses.

Many expressed concern about the proposed split of the New Forest between two new councils, with several describing it as the most important issue currently facing the area.

Roly’s response was simple: “LGR by a mile.”

Lee agreed, saying, “Local government reorganisation I think is the biggest issue affecting everyone in the New Forest and the one that seems to have created most anger. The New Forest District is a historic area and should not be split.”

However, while LGR dominated political discussion, many responses focused on the issues affecting everyday life across the New Forest.

Transport and roads

Transport and roads were mentioned 33 times, making them one of the most common concerns raised.

Several readers highlighted poor public transport links, particularly on the Waterside, while others raised concerns about road safety, congestion and infrastructure.

Claire said, “Transport - there’s hardly any. Many areas are cut off from other Waterside areas because of no or limited public transport.”

Denise added, “Definitely transport! We need a ferry and train.”

Others felt road safety deserved greater attention, particularly where it impacts both residents and animals using the Forest.

Housing and development

Many readers raised concerns about housing - the affordability, rental costs and the type of homes being built locally.

Katy said, “They are building more and more retirement properties (when existing ones are empty and hard to sell) and there is a shortage of properties for younger people to buy. There is a big shortage of rentals in the area too.”

Rae described the personal impact of being priced out of the area.

“The housing situation forced me, as a first-time buyer, to leave the area where my family and roots are. People often overlook the emotional cost of being priced out of your own community, but the impact on mental wellbeing can be significant.”

Another resident, who asked not to be named, said rising rents, second homes and short-term lets were making it increasingly difficult for local people to remain in the area.

“The rental market has gone crazy. Since Covid prices have gone up a good £400-£500 a month.”

Healthcare

Many readers highlighted difficulties accessing GP and dental services.

Several respondents said population growth and new housing developments were placing additional pressure on already stretched services.

Claire shared her experience of losing access to an NHS dentist while undergoing cancer treatment.

“I lost my NHS dentist mid chemo and desperately needed treatment whilst off work long term sick,” she said. “I had to go £2,000 into debt to be seen at a time where I desperately did not need the extra stress.”

Mental health services were also mentioned, with Suzanne calling for greater support for autistic young people and improved mental health provision.

Public services

Public services were mentioned less frequently but still generated strong feelings, particularly around New Forest District Council’s recent waste and recycling changes.

Pam shared, “To be honest, I just want my old bins back. I found the leaflets explaining the new system so confusing, and the bins don’t fit down my path so now make my previously pretty garden rather hideous.”

Another respondent, who works with elderly residents, raised concerns about accessibility.

“The elderly cannot physically lift the lid and throw a bag into the bins,” they said, adding that some residents were leaving waste beside bins, creating further issues with wildlife.

Environment and forest issues

Issues affecting the Forest itself were mentioned 35 times, making this the second most significant theme to emerge.

Animal deaths on Forest roads featured heavily, with many readers calling for stronger action to improve road safety.

Fiona said, “Livestock deaths due to speeding on forest roads.”

Sue called for lower speed limits and better enforcement “to reduce the number of livestock and ponies killed on the roads.”

The new Forestry England parking charges continue to generate significant discussion.

Lynn said, “Parking charges and having to use an app as machines don’t take cash.”

Several readers questioned the impact of the charges on both residents and visitors, while others raised concerns about the wider effect on local communities and businesses.

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Economy, business, jobs

Business and economic concerns were mentioned less frequently but were often linked to Forestry England parking charges.

Gina said businesses in Burley were already feeling the effects.

“What you need to be looking at is the fact that businesses in areas such as Burley are losing money and getting no customers since the forest parking charges came in,” she said.

“It’s going to be disastrous for many businesses.”

Several respondents felt the economic impact of decisions affecting the Forest deserved closer attention in the months ahead.

What next?

While this was not a scientific survey, the responses provide an interesting snapshot of the issues currently on people’s minds across the New Forest.

While Local Government Reorganisation concerns dominated political discussion, many readers were equally concerned about housing affordability, access to healthcare, transport links, road safety and the future of the New Forest itself.

Perhaps most notably, many of these concerns are connected.

Housing growth, pressure on local services, transport infrastructure and environmental protection were frequently mentioned together, suggesting residents are thinking not just about individual issues, but about the future direction of the New Forest as a whole.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their views. More than 160 people shared their views for this article. Supporters help make community-focused journalism like this possible.

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If you value this kind of local journalism, please consider supporting NFD from just £3.50 a month. Your support helps fund future reporting, investigations and community-focused journalism across the New Forest.

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New Forest Dispatch is taking part in Indie News Week 2026.

Indie News Week is a national celebration of independent news publishers and the vital role they play in keeping communities informed.

From 15-21 June, independent publishers across the UK will be hosting events, sharing their work, and connecting with readers.

And this year, New Forest Dispatch is taking part too!

Story Clinic

Free Story Clinic sessions

As part of Indie News Week, I’m opening my diary for six free Story Clinic sessions.

Whether you’re:

• a resident concerned about a local issue

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…you’re welcome to book a free 15-minute session.

There is no charge and no obligation.

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Can you help support independent local journalism?

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This Indie News Week, my goal is to find 10 supporters to help fund future reporting and continue building an independent news publication for the New Forest.

Longer-term, I’d love to work towards New Forest Dispatch becoming a sponsor of the New Forest Show and strengthening its place in the local community.

If you value clear, independent reporting on the issues affecting local people, I’d be incredibly grateful if you’d consider becoming a supporter.

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Kerri L Watt
Editor, New Forest Dispatch

The Liberal Democrats won the most seats locally, securing four out of 10 New Forest seats.

Reform UK and Conservatives each won three seats.

Reform UK recorded strong vote shares across the New Forest, winning three divisions and placing second in all others.

Winners

• Brockenhurst: Dan Poole, Conservatives

• Dibden and Hythe: Malcolm Wade, Liberal Democrats

• Lymington and Boldre: Jack Davies, Liberal Democrats

• Lyndhurst and Fordingbridge: David Jonathan Millar, Liberal Democrats

• New Milton: Julie Vigor, Reform UK

• New Milton North, Milford and Hordle: Fran Carpenter, Conservatives

• Ringwood: Martin John Eyre, Reform UK

• South Waterside: Paul Stephen Barrett, Reform UK

• Totton North and Netley Marsh: Neville Stuart Penman, Conservatives

• Totton South and Marchwood: David Harrison, Liberal Democrats
  

What has changed

• Conservatives lost five previously held New Forest divisions.

• The winning vote share in eight divisions decreased compared to the last local elections in 2021.

• Reform UK also gained three seats and finished second in the remaining seven divisions.

The table below compares the 2021 and 2026 election results across New Forest divisions, showing how voting patterns have changed.

Turnout

This year’s local election turnout increased in all divisions compared with 2021.

Average turnout across the 10 New Forest divisions was 35% in 2021, now 45% in 2026.

The table below shows how voter turnout changed in this election.

Overall control of Hampshire County Council was still being confirmed at the time of publication.

New Forest Dispatch has pulled together a full list of candidates standing locally, along with what they say matters most in their area.

Hampshire County Council is responsible for major local services including roads, education and social care. This is separate from New Forest District Council, which covers services like household waste, planning and housing and has its own election cycle.

Each New Forest division elects one councillor to represent the area at county level, with 10 of the council’s 78 seats covering the New Forest.

These elections were originally due to take place in 2025 but were delayed as part of wider plans to reorganise local councils. The changes will not affect this vote, with any reorganisation expected to happen in the coming years.

For more on proposed changes to local councils, you can read our previous coverage here.

Candidates standing across the New Forest

These are the candidates standing across the New Forest in this week’s Hampshire County Council elections, where voters will elect one councillor in each division.

Brockenhurst

• Barbara Czoch (Green Party)

• Peter F Dance (Labour Party)

• Hannah Phillips (Liberal Democrats)

• Dan Poole (Local Conservatives)

• Simon Smith (Reform UK)

Dibden & Hythe

• Ruth Margaret Arundell (Green Party)

• Peter Carroll (Labour Party)

• Kate Crisell (Local Conservatives)

• Jon Golding (Reform UK)

• Doug Holloway (Your Party)

• Malcolm Spencer Wade (Liberal Democrats)

Lymington and Boldre

• Jack Davies (Liberal Democrats)

• Barry Frank Dunning (Reform UK)

• Jacqui England (Independent)

• Sally Johnston (Labour Party)

• Ian Mark Loveless (Local Conservatives)

• Nizam Mamode (Green Party)

Lyndhurst and Fordingbridge

• Jason Lewis (Reform UK)

• David Jonathan Millar (Liberal Democrats)

• Janet Elizabeth Richards (Green Party)

• Brice Stratford (Local Conservatives)

• Chris Willsher (Labour Party)

New Milton

• Wynford Bevan Davies (Liberal Democrats)

• Kirsty Elizabeth Gray (Green Party)

• Alan Dennis O’Sullivan (Conservative)

• Julie Vigor (Reform UK)

• Jerry Weber (Labour Party)

New Milton North, Milford & Hordle

• Fran Carpenter (Conservative)

• Lindsey Cooper (Reform UK)

• Sherri Johnstone (Labour Party)

• Clare Jessica Muir (Green Party)

• Aidan John Reed (Liberal Democrats)

Ringwood

• Janet Cox (Green Party)

• Luke Andrew Thomas Dadford (Liberal Democrats)

• Martin John Eyre (Reform UK)

• Peter Kelleher (Labour Party)

• Steve Rippon-Swaine (Conservative)

• Michael Hamilton Thierry (Independent)

South Waterside

• Peter James Armstrong (Independent)

• Paul Stephen Barrett (Reform UK)

• Pauline Brown (Labour Party)

• Chris Jones (Green Party)

• Laura Kim O’Halloran (Local Conservatives)

• Angela Louise Pearson (Liberal Democrats)

Totton North & Netley Marsh

• Ian Charles Coombes (Reform UK)

• Jasper Francis Arthur Dalby (Green Party)

• Adrian Johnstone (Labour Party)

• Neville Stuart Penman (Local Conservatives)

• Caroline Louise Rackham (Liberal Democrats)

Totton South & Marchwood

• Oliver William Alford-Evans (Green Party)

• Len Harris (Local Conservatives)

• David Harrison (Liberal Democrats)

• Ken Kershaw (Labour Party)

• Kevin Smith (Reform UK)

What candidates say matters locally

New Forest Dispatch contacted a range of candidates across the main parties standing in New Forest divisions.

Candidates were contacted with a set of standard questions about local priorities. Responses have been published as received.

David Harrison
Totton South & Marchwood, Liberal Democrats

“The most important issue is the rising cost of Adult Social Care and Children’s Services (including Special Educational Needs), which now takes up 75% of all expenditure.

“Government have failed to address the issue, driving most upper tier authorities towards financial collapse. Finding a proper means of funding these will allow more resources to be spent on other items that badly need it, including maintenance of our roads and pavements.”

Steve Rippon-Swaine
Ringwood, Conservative

“The most important issue at the moment is the Local Government Reorganisation and the division of the New Forest.

“I endorse the work of the New Forest Together Campaign in their efforts to get a Judicial Review of this total disregard of extensive local feeling to remain a single entity.”

Nizam Mamode
Lymington and Boldre, Green Party

“The key issues in Lymington are the cost of living, housing, social care provision (including mental health), river pollution, public transport and parking.

“Young people can’t access affordable housing and literally wait for years for access to mental health services.

“Also, pollution of Lymington River continues while Southern Water profits. Car parking charges are extended and increased, meaning it is difficult to access the town; this is especially important for the elderly, who cannot wait hours for a bus which never arrives.”

Sally Johnston
Lymington and Boldre, Labour Party

“The lack of genuinely affordable housing needs addressing urgently. It is a critical factor driving our ‘Relative Poverty Gap’ (one of the largest in the country!). Key lower paid workers, young local people and families are unable to afford to live here.

“The council should also focus spending on reversing the decline of our High Street and on encouraging small and medium enterprises (SMEs), because our prosperity depends on their sustainability!

“I believe the council should decrease business rates, extend free parking, actively promote support and use of our local shops and businesses, improve our roads and invest in public and greener forms of transport.”

Kirsty Elizabeth Gray
New Milton, Green Party

“The cost-of-living crisis is hitting hard, the lack of affordable housing and public transport, combined with rising costs in all areas of life is taking its toll.

“Sustainable transport, there’s been some great work being done in the New Forest on this issue already and one I believe I could build consensus on and effect positive change. A small rural mini bus allocated to routes people need would have a significant impact.”

Adrian Johnstone
Totton North and Netley Marsh, Labour Party

“The most important issues facing my area right now are the rising cost of living, environmental concerns, and the need for more reliable infrastructure. By investing in renewables through Great British Energy, we can create local jobs, lower energy bills, and improve long-term energy security.

“At the same time, tougher oversight of water companies is essential to tackle sewage discharges and protect our rivers and green spaces, which are vital to the health and wellbeing of our community.”

Malcolm Spencer Wade
Dibden and Hythe, Liberal Democrats

“Local Government Reorganisation is the most important issue. I am against splitting the New Forest and support NFDC in looking into the legal aspects of the proposal to join a unitary with Southampton to see if there is a case for a judicial review.

“Also important, getting the Hythe Ferry service back and the impact of the parking charges in the New Forest on our local residents.”

Fran Carpenter
New Milton North, Milford, Hordle, Conservative
“The biggest issue for many residents in my division is the threat of around 4,800 new homes being built on land currently protected as Green Belt - losing swathes of valuable farmland and would fundamentally change the rural character of this beautiful part of the New Forest. I will strongly oppose this scale of development if these proposals progress.”

Peter Carroll
Dibden & Hythe, Labour Party

“Residents need transport that reduces pollution and carbon emissions while also cutting travel times. Better integration between buses, trains, cycling routes, walking paths, and reopening the Hythe Ferry would help link communities more effectively. Access to hospitals and major workplaces remains a concern, particularly for those without cars.”

Barbara Czoch
Brockenhurst, Green Party

“So, we’ve had the winter flooding, and it seems we’re already into the summer droughts: this is why it’s called the Climate Crisis. Locally, we are all too well aware that it causes horrendous flooding and devastating wildfires. The impact on our day-to-day life is enormous, and the long-term risks to the environment and our precious New Forest Heritage are catastrophic.”

Ian Mark Loveless
Lymington and Bolder, Local Conservatives

“It must be to first address the inherent flaws in the funding formula that seems to work against well run county councils - we need a just settlement from central government funding. This has to be the #1 priority.

“Other priorities will flow from this to improve community facilities - hubs for families, sports and youth in the Pennington and Buckland wards.”

Fun election fact
(Thanks to Kirsty Elizabeth Gray, New Milton, Green Party)

What happens if there’s a tie?

If candidates receive similar or exactly the same number of votes, a recount can be requested.

Should results remain tied, it is decided by a lot - a random draw carried out by the officer in charge of counting, often by something as simple as pulling a name out of a hat or tossing a coin.

Polling day is Thursday 7 May, with results expected on Friday. New Forest Dispatch will publish a results breakdown and what it means for the New Forest.

As part of a local government reorganisation (LGR) within Hampshire, it’s been confirmed the New Forest district will be separated in two with the Waterside area merging with Southampton, Eastleigh and part of Test Valley. The rest of the New Forest will receive services from a ‘mid-Hampshire’ council covering East Hampshire and Winchester.

The government’s decision goes against the New Forest District Council’s (NFDC) proposal submitted in January to keep the district together and combine with Test Valley, Winchester and East Hampshire.

In this proposal, NFDC stated that keeping the New Forest together would deliver long-term savings estimating £63.9m with costs recovered within three years.

According to the council’s figures, 3,141 people responded to the consultation, making it the authority’s “highest survey participation”. 70% of all respondents supported the council’s final preferred option, as did 98% of New Forest businesses.

Southampton City Council had originally backed the option ultimately selected by government, merging the east of the New Forest, the Waterside, with Southampton and Eastleigh.

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Council backs legal advice after heated meeting

At a meeting on April 13, New Forest District Council considered its response to the government’s reorganisation plans, following a petition from newly formed campaign group New Forest Together.

The petition, presented to councillors at the meeting, called on the council to pursue a judicial review if legal advice confirms there are grounds to challenge the decision.

Councillors agreed to extend the meeting’s debate from 15 to 30 minutes, as more than 200 people gathered outside the council offices in support of the campaign.

Cheers and shouts from protesters could be heard inside the chamber as the discussion unfolded.

The motion, backed unanimously by councillors, means the council will now obtain specialist legal advice on whether a challenge is possible.

Speaking at the meeting, Councillor Peter Armstrong said, “What is being done to the Waterside and Totton has not been done for us - it is being done to us.

“However slim the chance of overturning the government’s decision, we have a duty to stand up for our residents.”

Councillor Janet Richards added, “We need to wait for legal advice on whether there are grounds for a judicial review, but we also need to be aware of the risks.

“Even if a legal challenge is successful, the new decision may not be the one we want.”

The legal process

In practice, this means NFDC will seek advice from specialist public law barristers, often a King’s Counsel (KC), on whether there are legal grounds to challenge the government’s decision.

Only if those grounds exist would a judicial review then be considered.

Any such legal challenge would only focus on the way the decision was made, rather than whether the decision itself was right or wrong.

This means, even if the government were requested to go through the decision process again, they could come to the same outcome.

So, even a successful legal challenge may not stop the New Forest being split.

The New Forest is not alone as other authorities across England are also understood to be exploring legal options in response to reorganisation proposals.

“The future of the New Forest is at stake”

We spoke with James Hartley-Binns, Campaign Coordinator of New Forest Together, who confirmed the next step depends heavily on the outcome of the council’s legal advice, which is expected within a relatively short timeframe.

He said if the legal advice identifies grounds for a legal challenge, the council will need to act quickly - with any judicial review required to be logged with the High Court within three months of the original decision.

“Even if we’re not successful in the High Court, I’m feeling more confident that we could frustrate the process enough… and actually this does get scrapped.”

Alongside this, he said the campaign is continuing to build momentum through their petition, currently at almost 19,000 signatures, with hopes of reaching 25,000 to strengthen their case politically as well as legally.

He suggested the issue goes beyond administrative boundaries, pointing to concerns about long-term development, local identity and how decisions are made about the area.

“I think that the future of the New Forest is at stake,” James shared, warning that changes to governance could have lasting impacts over the coming decades.

While a legal challenge is one possible route, campaigners acknowledge it is not guaranteed to overturn the decision.

Instead, they say success could come through a combination of legal pressure, political momentum and sustained public opposition.

“There’s every chance that we could frustrate the process enough,” James added, suggesting delays alone could have an impact on the outcome.

Councillor Malcolm Wade told New Forest Dispatch, “I support the view of the residents, that of keeping the forest together, therefore any legal action New Forest District Council can take to achieve the wishes of local people has my support.”

Whether a legal challenge proceeds, and if it could alter the decision to break apart the New Forest, now depends on advice expected in the coming weeks.

New Forest Dispatch will continue to follow this story.

What’s happened so far…

• September 2023 - Red Funnel acquires Hythe Ferry (the Hythe and Southampton Ferry Company)

• August 2024 - Hythe Ferry stops running

• December 2025 - Red Funnel and Hythe Ferry are acquired by Njord Partners

• February 2026 - Hythe Ferry put up for sale again

• 09 April 2026 - Hythe Ferry enters voluntary liquidation

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Voluntary liquidation means the company is closed by shareholders and directors, converting assets into cash, and then will cease to exist.

The Hythe Pier owner said the liquidation does not impact public access to the newly reopened pier.

Councillor Malcolm Wade said in a social media post that the liquidation was “very sad” but “not very surprising” given the lack of progress in restoring the service.

We spoke with Ashleigh Mutimear-MacMillan, owner of the Hythe pier, and also an employee of the ferry company until the liquidation announcement.

“A ferry service does not affect the pier. The pier will have a life of its own, even, for now, without the ferry.”

She told us she has spent months behind the scenes working towards reopening the pier after it remained closed despite £12,000 repair work in 2025.

The pier reopened in early April, after being tidied extensively and showcasing artwork from local artists.

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“I’m always optimistic. The pier has been a part of the ferry’s history, so I’d love to see it return.

“I don’t believe this is it - it just needs a fresh, innovative approach.

“The ferry company may cease to exist, but I’m convinced that there should be a water service to connect the Waterside to Southampton.”

While the current ferry company may be winding down, many locally, including the pier owner, believe this is not the end of a water service connecting Hythe and Southampton.

Hythe pier is currently open to the public with a £1 entry fee. Further updates are being shared on the pier’s social media pages.

December’s monthly briefing brings together stories that reflect both pressure and resilience across the New Forest - from the closure of a local nursery and ongoing uncertainty around Hythe Ferry, to council decisions, business developments and infrastructure projects affecting life here in the forest.

Kerri L Watt
Editor

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Lymington nursery issued eviction notice as owner disputes council claims

The Nurture Den nursery in Lymington has been asked to leave its premises leaving the owner “devastated” and parents struggling for childcare in the New Year.

Lymington and Pennington Town Council gave the nursery under three weeks to vacate following claims of missed meetings and a year-long dispute of unpaid utility bills, rent and fire door repair requests.

Nursery owner Sarah Renyard said, “We were only three weeks late for just one rent payment, November, and that was due to our government funding coming in late.

“The day after we made the November and December payment together, we received the letter asking us to leave with no warning.”

The town council said the eviction notice followed unpaid bills and the nursery owner’s failure to attend scheduled meetings. The nursery owner told New Forest Dispatch she had been extremely unwell at the time of the two arranged meeting and had notified the council in advance, but said the message was not seen before the meeting took place.

Sarah said the unpaid bills dispute related to the one month missed rent and a high water bill after a neighbouring property water leak resulted in them being “incorrectly billed“ £1,000 by the council.

She told us, “Telling staff and parents our nursery was facing closure felt like dropping a bomb, it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done.”

In a statement shared with New Forest Dispatch, the Mayor of Lymington and Pennington, Councillor Colm McCarthy, said the original timescale was chosen “in the hope that parents could find alternative childcare provision in time for the new term.”

Cllr McCarthy stated the council had listened to feedback from parents and recognised the need for additional time to secure childcare, particularly for children with more complex needs.

As a result, the council has offered The Nurture Den an extension up to the end of February 2026, to allow parents the time to find alternative provisions.

The extension is subject to paying any outstanding fees and rent for the extension period paid in advance.

Nursery owner Sarah told New Forest Dispatch earlier this week that a number of parents had already secured alternative childcare after being informed the nursery was set to close, resulting in a drop in remaining numbers.

When first offered the extension, Sarah said she would assess whether the number of children still enrolled, and the upfront payment requirements, would make an extension financially viable.

Two days later, Sarah told NFD she believes “the damage is done” and said the proposed extension “has not helped at all”. She says parents no longer feel secure and other childcare settings are encouraging families to commit to January start dates elsewhere.

Sarah believes information shared publicly about her business and its finances has been inaccurate. She also disputes the legality of the eviction notice, saying only one rent payment was three weeks late and does not constitute grounds for eviction. She is now seeking legal advice.

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Your Voices: Hannah Howley on joining the New Forest small business community

The newest feature here, Your Voices, gives a platform to the people who know the Forest best - its residents, businesses, and local councillors. Each month we feature letters, opinions, and open commentaries that deserve to be heard, ensuring the New Forest’s stories are told by the community itself.

Below Hannah Howley shares a letter with us outlining why community support keeps a small business alive.

Why supporting small businesses really matters
by Hannah Howley, Howley Coffee Co

Starting a new business is scary - especially when you’re building everything from scratch. There’s so much to it, from marketing to building your brand to running the place to ordering stock and arranging events, to making sure the social media is popping. Not to mention the consistency that is required even when it feels like nothing is coming from it.

Luckily, the New Forest is an incredibly supportive place filled with small businesses. As soon as you join the ranks, they really do have your back! The help and support network is there, there’s no need to feel alone - we got you !!

We’ve all heard the phrase “use it or lose it”. I cannot say that enough to people that still support corporations over small businesses all the time.

Corporations have shown us time and time again the impersonal side of business, but if you ever want to see the impact YOU have on a small business owner, all you have to do is shop with them first.

You’ll make their day, help heat their house and put food on the table. It sounds drastic but if you lose small businesses and they keep closing, not only do we lose an integral part of the New Forest. They’ll also lose their dream, their passion, their livelihood.

A trend with my business, a mobile horsebox coffee trailer, at the moment would definitely be the black forest hot chocolate! People go mental - as soon as I run out I get customers messaging asking for it to come back quickly! And a couples trend currently is a flat white and a cappuccino. The question is which one would you choose?

Do you have an issue you’d like to share your views on with our readers? Email your letter (200-300 words) to editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

Hythe Ferry: what’s happening?

Work is underway on a new series looking at the future of the Hythe Ferry, including ownership, finances and what it means for local residents and businesses.

The ferry has not been operating since August 2024 and councillors and locals alike want to see it restored.

Red Funnel, who bought Hythe Ferry in 2023, have now been acquired by investment firm Njord Partners, with the deal now formally approved by the Government.

A deeper look will follow in January.

Local council and regional updates

New Forest District Council has this week highlighted “encouraging early signs” from the new waste and recycling service.

Councillor Geoffrey Blunden spoke at a council meeting sharing that they are seeing “the highest recycling rate the council has ever recorded, at 43%”.

Whilst this is provisional data from only one quarter and cannot be used as official waste data, the council believe the new service is “moving in the right direction”.

Due to the local government reorganisation, an already delayed Mayoral election has been pushed back another two years to May 2028.

The election for a new Hampshire and Solent Mayor was set for May 2026 and the delay has left councillors and Mayoral candidates frustrated and one feeling “democracy has been surrendered”.

Despite multiple local councillors campaigning for Forestry England not to charge for car parking in the New Forest, the fees are due to still go ahead in 2026.

Do you believe forest car parks should remain free or agree with the proposed charges? Let us know how it will impact you - editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

Business updates

Nineteen businesses celebrated award wins at the annual New Forest Brilliance in Business Awards this month hosted by New Forest Business Partnership.

The New Forest Show won ‘outstanding contribution to the visitor economy’, and Hockey’s Farm won business of the year.

More awards as Scott Bailey LLP is “so proud” to win the Financial & Professional Services Company of the Year award at the 2025 Hampshire Business Awards.

New Forest Botanics was also named Daily Echo’s Trader of the Week.

Wightlink ferry, operating from Lymington to the Isle of Wight, has warned that extending the UK’s Emissions Trading Scheme to maritime services in 2026 could have unintended consequences as well as potentially cost their business up to £1m a year.

They shared with us this could threaten vital investment plans including a hybrid ferry scheduled for 2026.

Residents updates

The first phase of repair work on part of a Milford on Sea seawall is now complete after 550 tonnes of rock armour were placed to protect it over winter. Phase two will begin in spring 2026.

Upgrades to the A326 are confirmed which will include widening parts of the road, upgrading junctions, improving crossings, designed to ease congestion and make the road safer.

Estimated costs have grown to £187m, with up to 85% of this funded by the Department for Transport.

Design work is planned for spring 2027 to summer 2028, with initial works taking place late 2027 to early 2029. The main construction is then scheduled from early 2029 to the end of 2032.

Following our recent autumn budget reporting, a local councillor got in touch to say…

“Thank you for reporting on local matters. Local journalism is never more important, thank you.”

Messages like this are a reminder of why independent, community-focused reporting matters - and why New Forest Dispatch will continue covering the stories that shape life across the Forest.

That’s our monthly briefing for December. We’ll return next month (year!) with updates on local issues, crime, introduce our ongoing Hythe Ferry series, and so much more.

I report and write every story myself to keep the New Forest informed - no clickbait, no big backing, just journalism powered by readers.

If you have a story to share, a business you’d like me to interview, want to write a Your Voices letter, or to ask about sponsorship, please get in touch at editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk. I’d love to hear from you.

❤️ And if you liked this edition, share with a friend, or hit subscribe so you never miss the next one.

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If you’re new here or catching up, you can also read last month’s briefing here….

Today is our official relaunch, and we’re kicking off with a beaut - reactions to the Autumn Budget. I recommend grabbing a cuppa, people had a lot to say.

Here’s what is coming up in this edition:

• Autumn Budget: New Forest MP, councillors, businesses and residents reactions

• Plus: Ferry mentioned in Parliament and quick update on the local government reorganisation

If you have a story you’d like to share or would like to sponsor a future edition, please reach out editor@newforestdispatch.co.uk.

Enjoy!

Kerri L Watt
Editor

Autumn Budget: New Forest MP, councillors, businesses and residents reactions

It wouldn’t be Budget day in Parliament without some drama, and this year did not disappoint - the full report was leaked and discussed in the media before the Chancellor even stood to make the live announcements.

And let’s not forget the migraine-inducing shouting from oppositions, and constant interruptions, while Chancellor Rachel Reeves was speaking.

What it means for the New Forest

In the last day, we’ve spoken directly to local leaders, businesses and residents who shared mixed responses to today’s Budget. While some welcomed support for households and the end of the two-child cap, others raised concerns about frozen tax thresholds and rising costs for small firms.

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Highlights from the announcements…

• National Minimum Wage rising from £12.21 to £12.71 (4.1%) for over 21s

• Income Tax and National Insurance thresholds frozen until 2031

• State pensions rising 4.8% from April

• Two-child benefit cap ending from April

• Taxes increasing on savings interest, dividends and property income

• Prescription charges frozen at £9.90 for 2026-27

Cost of living, wages and household pressures

Today’s Budget brought a mixture of relief and concern for residents. While the rise in the National Minimum Wage was widely welcomed, many noted this alone won’t offset higher taxes, frozen thresholds and rising living costs across the New Forest.

Anonymous resident
“Higher taxes on property income will hit renters, not landlords. I’ve already been evicted twice in three years because landlords either raised rents or sold up. I’m worried this will push already astronomical rents even higher.”

Employment concerns were also raised by younger workers who say the job market feels increasingly hostile.

Hannah, house and pet sitter
“I’ve applied for over 100 jobs I’m over-qualified for and heard nothing back. I have fallen into house sitting as it was always a side job while working. I might make £30 a day, so £900 a month, if I’m able to have a client every day.

“Employment in the UK is devastating. I have a degree and a good CV, but I don’t know how millennials in our mid-30s are expected to afford rent, let alone save for a house deposit.”

Local councillors also said the freeze on tax thresholds will hit working families.

Councillor Alex Wade, Liberal Democrats, Hythe Central
“Freezing tax thresholds will bring more of us into higher tax bands. It raises the tax burden on working people who are already struggling with the cost of living.”

Local government, MP and council services

Council voices raised concerns about the lack of long-term funding support for local authorities - a key issue in the New Forest where services are already under strain.

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Councillor Alex Wade, Liberal Democrats, Hythe Central
“It’s deeply embarrassing and frankly irresponsible how the Budget was leaked.

“More playground and library funding is welcome, however, it is catching up on years of local government funding and this government has yet to provide the support needed for valued services at all council levels.

“Hythe and Dibden budget £100,000 per play area improvement so the government’s £18m won’t get you far as you think.

“Rising fuel duty will impact New Forest residents and businesses who have no choice to drive in a rural area.”

Councillor Steve Clarke, Conservatives, Milton
“I am extremely disappointed with the budget. This has led to the highest level of taxation in modern times.

“The average hard working family will be worse off with many paying higher taxes.

“I fear all business whether large or small will feel the effects and will hesitate to employ more staff, especially young people most in need of employment.

“Those who have paid the higher cost of an EV car on the promise of cheaper and greener usage have been betrayed by the imposition of mileage tax which will not promote the use of electric vehicles and in turn have a negative impact on the motor industry.”

Speaking to the New Forest Dispatch, our New Forest West MP was highly critical of the Government’s handling of the Budget and the economic outlook.

Rt Hon Sir Desmond Swayne MP, Conservatives, New Forest West
“The economy is still reeling from the impact of the Chancellor’s last budget. Business confidence was destroyed months beforehand when we were warned that things were bound to get worse before they got better.

“Their anti-growth agenda is only half the story. The other half is that the government is over-spending, even its bloated plans overshot by 4.1%. The retreat from its very modest proposals for restraining the growth of the benefits bill is a disaster.

“Entrepreneurs and investors are leaving in droves to more business-friendly climates. The Chancellor is killing the goose.”

Nationally, local government leaders criticised the overall direction of travel.

Jonathan Carr-West, Chief Executive, Local Government Information Unit (LGIU)
“This Budget treats councils as tax collectors for Whitehall: taking all of the political heat but getting none of the benefit.

“Most telling of all is the introduction of an additional levy on council tax - money that won’t support cash-strapped councils but will instead go straight back to Whitehall not the town hall.

“This government came to power promising devolution, localism and community empowerment. Based on this budget, that’s still work in progress.”

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Local business reaction: wage rises, tax changes and uncertainty

Local businesses across the New Forest expressed cautious concern, with several describing the Budget as a mixed picture for employers already under pressure.

Matthew Lawson, Chair, New Forest Business Partnership
“From our conversations with New Forest businesses, responses reflect a strong level of concern across companies of all sizes, with recurring themes around business rates, VAT, labour costs and investment confidence.

“The hospitality sector in particular faces severe challenges, with 63% expecting decreased profit margins over the next year.

“The most pressing concerns centre on business rates, described as “crippling” and “devastating,” alongside strong calls for VAT reduction.

“Combined labour cost pressures from minimum wage increases and employer National Insurance changes are forcing businesses to consider reduced hours, job cuts and price increases.

“Investment confidence has been significantly damaged, with 76% reporting negative effects on plans for refurbishment, technology and sustainability initiatives.

“Businesses overwhelmingly feel unsupported, with the vast majority believing the Budget will fail to adequately support workforce development.”

Andy Pringle, Business Support Manager, IncuHive
“The minimum wage rise is good for workers facing rising domestic bills, but it adds strain to businesses on tight margins. Many of our local employers are now facing difficult choices. The biggest positive is that uncertainty has lifted and businesses can finally plan ahead.”

John Fogg, Principal, John Fogg Financial Planning
“Above-inflation rises to the minimum wage will impact hospitality and high street businesses already under pressure. Lower business rates for 750,000 retail, hospitality and leisure properties from 2026 will hopefully mitigate some of this.”

To find out what the Budget means for New Forest businesses and entrepreneurs, the Chamber of Commerce is hosting an event with John Fogg Financial Planning. For more information: click here.

Housing market uncertainty

Peter Johnson, Co-Owner, Homes of Hampshire
“Leaks and rumours in the run-up to the Budget slowed the housing market. The new High Value Council Tax Surcharge (Mansion Tax) will affect properties over £2 million.

“Eighty five percent of affected homes are in London and the South East. Landlords paying an extra 2% tax on property income may decide to sell, reducing rental supply and should that occur, rents will rise.”

One councillor also raised concerns about the proposed mansion tax, noting in a Facebook post:

Councillor David Harrison, Liberal Democrats, Totton South and Marchwood
“Pleased to see that the budget includes a plan to include a new mansion tax on properties valued at over £2 million. It isn’t something that the Conservatives would have ever included.

“Many people will be hit by tax rises but there are some measures which will help alleviate the problem of growing inequality, particularly child poverty. It’s frankly best that those who can afford to pay a bit more, do so.”

Wider funding pressures

Broader financial pressures were also raised, with the New Forest continuing to face ongoing funding challenges.

Councillor David Harrison, Liberal Democrats, Totton South and Marchwood
“The most significant impact on the New Forest specifically is how funding for National Parks has been treated.

“The core funding which enables it to operate has been reduced by about 12% once inflation and National Insurance contributions have been taken into account.

“The funding for farming in protected landscapes (FIPL) has been extended for a further year but this money is of little benefit to the Authority when it comes to its’ distressed condition caused by repeated underfunding.”

Together, the responses paint a mixed picture for the New Forest - cautious support for some measures, set against deep concern over rising costs, frozen thresholds and the lack of long-term investment in local services.

As ever, New Forest Dispatch will continue to track what these changes mean for the area we call home.

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November updates

Ferries mentioned in Parliament

Earlier this month, Isle of Wight East MP Joe Robertson presented his Ferry services Bill in Parliament proposing new laws regulating how private ferry companies operate.

He believes ferries should have the same rules on pricing, timetabling and performance as private train and bus companies.

New Forest Dispatch spoke with Wightlink, who provide a ferry service from Lymington to Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight.

CEO Katy Taylor said: “We actively gather customer feedback through Meet the Team events, conversations with local MPs, and customer reviews, and we welcome direct dialogue on how we can continue to improve our services.

“Currently, 90% of Island resident journeys use fixed price or discounted tickets. Multilink vehicle passes start from £31.35, foot passenger passes from £7, and season tickets from £6.25 per day. This summer, we also introduced a £40 fixed price vehicle ticket exclusively for residents.

“Our timetable includes up to 140 sailings a day across three routes and six ports, operating 364 days a year, with a 24-hour service between Fishbourne and Portsmouth. Our winter schedule offers more sailings than any other Island operator.”

The bill will return to Parliament for further discussion on January 16.

Local government reorganisation

Click here to have your say on the current plans.

Thanks for joining me for this relaunch edition!

If you’ve got a tip, story, question or concern about life in the New Forest, my inbox is always open…

editor@newforestdispatch.co.uk

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We publish clear, trustworthy local journalism covering everything from council decisions and community issues to investigations, accountability reporting and the stories shaping everyday life in the New Forest.

Our focus is the issues affecting everyday life in the New Forest - from transport and local government to business, housing, healthcare and community concerns.

Founded and edited by journalist Kerri L Watt, New Forest Dispatch was created to offer something different in local media - careful, slow reporting with no corporate owners, no ad pop-ups, no political agenda, and absolutely no ‘icky’ clickbait.

You won’t just find the story of what happened. We aim to go a level deeper and ask: why does this matter, how does it affect local people, and what happens next?

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Got a story?

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If you have a tip, story idea, question, or something happening in your part of the Forest, you can contact me directly:

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Anonymous tips are always welcome, and full discretion is assured.

This edition we’re looking into the new charges coming in for New Forest car parks as well as a brand new feature ‘Your Voices’ with a letter from a local councillor.

Coming up…

• What’s happened in the New Forest recently

• Parking charge proposals spark concern across the Forest

• (New feature!) Your voices: Councillor’s fears over losing free car parks

• Council signs off on local government reorganisation proposal

• New Forest businesses prepare for the festive season amid new parking incentives and awards celebrations

• Residents invited to shape the Forest’s future and join new digital drive

Kerri L Watt
Editor

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What’s happened in the New Forest recently…

• New Forest National Park Authority elected a new Chair, wildlife conservationist Victoria Mander.

• Real Jam & Chutney Company, part of Minstead Trust, spotted its handmade preserves in a scene on BBC Two’s Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing episode.

• Lymington councillor Barry Dunning left the Conservative party to join Reform UK.

• Family of rock legend Ozzy Osborne visited Sunnyfields Farm to see the giant mural of him using over 10,000 pumpkins and squashes.

• New Forest Police issued crime prevention advice following nine thefts from vehicles reported in one area between October 17 and 18. Six thefts were from vans so police are reminding trade vehicle owners to remove tools, add security markings, and register tools to assist with tracing stolen items.

• Arts Council England announced New Forest ‘Culture in Common’ will receive £1m over the next three years for arts and culture activities.

• Hampshire County Council confirmed M27 closure between junctions 9 and 11 from December 24 8pm to January 04 4am.

• Pannage season has been extended to January 04 2026.

• Pennyfarthing Homes has bought the Ringwood Brewery site with plans to redevelop and convert into their new office headquarters.
  

Parking charge proposals spark concern across the Forest

Forestry England has confirmed plans to introduce new parking fees at more than 120 car parks across the New Forest in 2026, replacing the long-standing free-parking model in popular spots outside village centres.

The organisation says the income will help fund car park maintenance, conservation work, and allow more patrolling rangers to look after the forest.

However, local campaigners and parish councillors have also voiced fears that the new system could deter day visitors, increase verge-side parking, and put further strain on nearby high streets.

The New Forest National Park Authority has urged that “all income raised to be reinvested in the Forest, a concession scheme for local people, and robust measures to prevent verge parking.”

Andrew Parry-Norton, New Forest Commoners Defence Association (CDA) Chair, agrees, “It is only fair that this money remains within the Forest to support its protection, maintenance and sustainable management.”

The CDA are “concerned” that diverting this car parking income elsewhere would “undermine public trust” and “fail to reflect the specific environmental and cultural needs of the New Forest.”

Parking charges will start from £1.50 for one hour, payable only via an app or website, and the new fees could commence from spring 2026.

Your Voices: Councillor’s fears over losing free car parks

The newest feature here, Your Voices, gives a platform to the people who know the New Forest best - you. Every month we’ll feature letters, opinions, and open commentaries that deserve to be heard, ensuring the Forest’s stories are told by the community itself.

Our first letter comes from Councillor Malcolm Wade outlining his concerns about the real impact of the new Forestry England parking policies.

No Parking Charges for Local People

by Councillor Malcolm Wade, Liberal Democrats, Dibden and Dibden Purlieu

The New Forest environment has always been free for people to visit and park in. There is little or no public transport to reach its leafy glades and woodland, you can only go by car.

The new parking charges potentially prevent low income families and elderly pensioners from using them.

In the New Forest District we have an aging population with 29.8% over the age of 65 with serious pockets of deprivation and poverty. Using 23/24 figures, amongst our New Forest school age children there are 20.4% on free school meals compared to 19.4% across the county and 19.7% across the Southeast region. This reflects the number of low-income families we have across the district. Even Disabled Blue Badge Holders will have to pay along with everyone else.

The impact will be either they lose that wellbeing benefit from walking and visiting in our forest or there will be parking displacement, on verges or other inappropriately patches of land.

In addition there will be parking in areas around the edges of the forest like the area I represent the Dibden and Dibden Purlieu parts of Hythe and Dibden just on the other side of the A326.

If they wish to bring in parking charges they should give New Forest District residential addresses a free pass or at the very least a 50% reduced yearly pass. That way Forestry England will still attract visitors outside of the holiday period and have an income outside of the holiday season.

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Council signs off on local government reorganisation proposal

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has agreed a final proposal for the local government reorganisation.

In a unanimous vote, councillors backed the creation of a new rural unitary council for mid-Hampshire, covering the New Forest, Test Valley, Winchester and East Hampshire.

More than 3,000 residents and businesses shared their views during consultation, with the final decision on the reorganisation expected in spring 2026.

The council’s Local Plan consultation has paused to ensure its alignment with the potential changes the local government reorganisation could bring. They have assured residents that they will work to ensure the Forest’s voice is heard in both the reorganisation and any future development of the Local Plan.

NFDC also approved its new Air Quality Strategy for 2025, setting out how it will “continue to improve air quality, protect public health, and help meet environmental targets.”

Meanwhile, community groups have until 31 October to apply for small-grant funding through the council’s Community Grants scheme. Click here to apply.

New Forest businesses prepare for the festive season amid new parking incentives and awards celebrations

Four free-parking days have been confirmed for December - on the 6th, 20th and 21st, with a fourth date available for each town or village to choose around local Christmas events. NFDC says the move acts as an incentive to shop locally at a vital time for local businesses.

The New Forest Business Partnership (NFBP) has also announced finalists for its Brilliance in Business Awards 2025. Shortlisted names include the New Forest Show, Minstead Trust, Howley Coffee, Shine Studios, Hockeys Farm Shop, Fully Woolly and the New Forest Hamper Company. The finals will take place at Brockenhurst College on December 04. Click here for more details.

In a separate initiative, local firms are being urged to join a new safe-driving group to help cut animal collisions and accidents on forest roads. Businesses with vehicle fleets in the area are encouraged to register and educate employees. This comes after 62 animal accidents were recorded on forest roads so far this year, 36 resulting in deaths or injuries. Click here to register.

Meanwhile, Digital Island Business Services is inviting companies with five or more employees and growth ambitions of 20 percent or more to apply for a tailored support programme running until August 2026. Click here to apply.

Residents invited to shape the Forest’s future and join new digital drive

Phase two of the district’s new waste and recycling service has now begun, with households in Fordingbridge, Ringwood and surrounding areas.

Of the 32,000 individual bin collections in this area, there were 208 reports of ‘missed collections’, less than 1% of the total.

The rollout aims to deliver a “more efficient and sustainable waste and recycling service” and the final phase, areas including Hythe and Marchwood, will join the new service in March 2026.

Meanwhile, residents are being asked to share their views on life in the National Park as part of the New Forest National Park Authority’s survey. The previous survey, in 2021, received more than 2,700 responses and 10,000 comments. Feedback will help shape priorities for services and projects in the years ahead. Click here to take part before 30 November 30.

In a separate initiative, the Click & Connect programme launched to help both residents and small businesses improve digital skills and access faster broadband.

The free support scheme, backed by New Forest District Council, offers workshops and one-to-one help to get households online. Click here to register interest.

Hampshire County Council is calling for “nurturing foster carers” around the county during Foster Focus Week, October 27 to November 02. Click here to attend a drop-in session or find out more .

Returning for its 13th year, New Forest Walking Festival runs October 18 to November 02. There are 45 guided walks planned with accessible routes, half term Halloween walks, long hikes and guided rambles. Click here to browse all the events.

That’s our monthly briefing for October

We’ll return next month without deep dive into crime in the New Forest and… our new name!

I report and write every story myself to keep the Forest informed - no clickbait, no big backing, just journalism powered by readers.

If you have a story to share, a business you’d like interviewed, or you’d like to write a Your Voices letter, please get in touch at kw@kerrilwatt.co.uk. I’d love to hear from you.

❤️ And if you liked this edition, share with a friend, or hit subscribe so you don’t miss the next one.

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Here’s what’s coming up in this edition…

• What’s happened in the New Forest recently

• Council rejects calls to pause new waste and recycling service

• Latest crime figures

I have so many plans for this local publication sharing news and investigations from the New Forest and Hampshire (including a new name!), although due to my health and an ill-timed house move, I’ll have to pop some of those plans on pause this month.

As always, if you want to share any news or have an issue you’d like a journalist eye to dive into, email editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

Kerri L Watt
Editor

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What’s happened recently in the New Forest…

• Pennington Lib Dem Councillor Jack Davies announced running for Mayor of Hampshire and Solent.

• The Malt pub building in Hythe has been given permission to change its use to a nursery despite hundreds of objections from locals. 94% of letters received by NFDC opposed the new site and 6% were in support.

• Maritime archaeologists from Southampton University excavated an 18th century slipway, used to launch Royal Navy warships, during their summer project at Buckler’s Hard, Beaulieu.

• Proposed plans for a travellers caravan site in Marchwood has not been well received by residents and a local councillor. Of the 47 public comments on the plans, 45 objected, and two were ‘neutral’.

• Nominations are open for the New Forest Business Partnership awards until 30 September.

• Michael Portillo visited Steff’s Kitchen at Fairweather’s Garden Centre in Beaulieu.

• New Forest ‘drift’ pony roundup began in August running through to November. Check out which car parks and areas are closed during this time - click here.

• Bodie the “only wolverine in Hampshire” has arrived at The New Forest Wildlife Park.

• New Forest National Park Awards 2025 winners included Sway Butchers and Ringwood Repair Café.

New places opening…

• Botanical café Tonic Rooms has opened at Sunnyfields Farm near Marchwood/Totton.

• Pregnancy and postpartum wellness centre Autumn Rose opens in Lyndhurst this week.

• The playpark at Lepe Country Park has reopened after a refurbishment.

• A new “tabletop gaming megastore” Board on the Waterside is opening in Dibden Purlieu next month (in the old Capers unit).
  

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In case you missed it…

Council rejects calls to pause new waste and recycling service

On September 03, New Forest District Council (NFDC) voted against delaying the rollout of its new waste and recycling service, despite concerns raised by some councillors.

In August, six councillors had requested an ‘extraordinary meeting’ to review, and potentially pause, the scheme which began in June. Phase one of the rollout introduced the new service to around 31,000 homes in Lymington and nearby villages.

The scheme is designed to modernise collections and improve recycling rates, but has faced criticism over operational issues.

During the Cabinet meeting, Cllr Jeremy Heron, Portfolio Holder for Finance, warned that halting the original plans could have cost NFDC at least £2.5m.

Cllr Malcolm Wade, one of the councillors requesting the rollout pause, said, “We've had a whole plethora of issues since the start of phase one. Part of this process has not been planned properly or we wouldn't have these problems.”

Addressing the Cabinet, Cllr Wade shared, "It is your responsibility as the administration - it's your watch when this has happened, it is down to you to fix it.”

Deputy Leader of the Cabinet, Cllr Steve Davies, said lessons from phase one would benefit later stages.

“Phase two and three will benefit from what phase one has learned. We should continue as we are and make sure we monitor and correct any issues as best as we can.”

Cllr Derek Tipp added, “We should have confidence that the issues are being addressed. I think it's perfectly right that we should continue with it.”

Leader of the NFDC, Cllr Jill Cleary, concluded that the action plan in place was sufficient and recommended the Cabinet endorse continuing the service as planned.

Cabinet members agreed with Cllr Cleary’s recommendation and there will be no pause to the new waste service plans.

Phase two of the rollout is scheduled to begin in October 2025, with phase three following in March 2026.

Latest crime figures

The most recent police data shows 48 crimes were reported in the New Forest during June, the latest month with publicly available figures.

Of these crimes, 10 are violence and sexual offences, seven are vehicle crime, one shoplifting crime and five public order. Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst had the most offences sharing 54% of all reported crimes in the area.

Fun fact

‘Pannage’ will begin this month where pigs are turned out to eat fallen acorns and chestnuts to protect ponies and cattle from poisoning.

It is an ancient tradition dating back to the time of William the Conqueror, founder of the New Forest.

Around 600 pigs and piglets will roam free in the New Forest during pannage from September 15 to November 28 to forage this seasons acorn crop.

And this week was no different.

After social media enjoyed my ‘things you only see at the New Forest Show’ type posts, instead of the usual show report I decided to take this first event roundup a different route and share more of them here.

Enjoy!

Kerri L Watt
Editor

Five things you only see at The New Forest Show

1. Ferrets walking around the food tent

2. Muffins half the size of your head

3. People fishing in the middle of a field

4. A guy doing an epic front crawl in a hot tub (in front of a crowd too)

And my personal favourite…

5. Passive aggressive notes left in the baking tent

“Really sorry but the cake is undercooked, so I didn’t try it. (Sad face)”

Special shout out to local exhibitors at the show

Pig Beer, New Forest Tartan Company, Forest Edge Roasting, New Forest Spirits, New Forest Cider, Brock Ice, New Forest Shortbread, New Forest Tea Company, New Forest Marque, Calshot Activities Centre, and New Forest Escapes.

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Time for our 100% unofficial New Forest Show awards

Coolest thing in the Antiques Tent goes to…

Cutest thing in the Craft Tent goes to…

And the most intense stare goes to…

One of my favourite times of year is, without doubt, the New Forest and Hampshire County Show.

I usually sneak in before 8am opening and start the day with the most expensive Americano outside the press tent gazing at the empty horse show arenas before the chaos and crowds ensue.

Those moments of peace immediately centres me and I feel weirdly at home, so I can’t wait to be back there next week! If you’d like to be featured in our show roundup, comment below or email editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

What’s coming up in this edition;

• Is Hythe Ferry coming back? Exclusive interview with the Hythe Pier owner

• What’s happened in the New Forest area recently

• Latest food hygiene ratings

• New Forest predictions for the next General Election

• Update on the local government reorganisation plans

Kerri L Watt
Editor

What’s happened in the New Forest recently…

• The latest ‘deliberate tax defaulters’ receiving penalties published by HMRC has no New Forest based individual or businesses listed. There was one in Bournemouth and six in Southampton.

• Residents in Bransgore, Fordingbridge and Ringwood will start receiving wheelie bins in August for phase two of the New Forest District Council’s new waste service beginning in those areas in October.

• Local Liberal Democrats have opened a petition pressuring Redrow to build a pedestrian bridge in Lymington promised in 2011 as part of their building application.

• The Hythe Pier Museum and Shop opened 28 June.

• The New Forest Show announced four new shaded areas after last year’s heatwave, and a “chat stage” with new celebrity speakers.

• School meals cost for parents will go down from £3.20 a day to £2.75 (a 14% decrease) due to Hampshire County Council appointing a new catering provider.

• The Green Gram in Fordingbridge saved 100,000 plastic containers from landfills in July.

• Crafts and gift store Lovells has opened in Hythe, taking over the old Lloyds bank building.

• The cafe at Sunnyfields Farm is no longer in operation.

Is Hythe Ferry coming back? Our interview with Hythe Pier owner

With the first anniversary of Hythe Ferry ceasing its service in August, we spoke with Hythe Pier owner Ashleigh Mutimear-Macmillan can confirm she is “confident” the ferry will return to service.

Phase one of the three-phase infrastructure work began in May involving testing the strength of the structure supporting the walkway before beginning repairs to the pontoon.

Mutimear-Macmillan shared, “The Pier is my passion project and I want it to have its own identity separate to the ferry.

“As it has a different set up as a private business, we can’t apply for lottery funding or the like. I am in discussions with the Hythe Pier Heritage Association for funding opportunities for the future.”

Mutimear-MacMillan has been “working hard behind the scenes with councillors, contractors, services etc”.

After a recent flood in the Waterside left residents struggling to access Southampton or leave the area, Mutimear-Macmillan believes “we cannot rely on one road in and out for only cars and buses. We should be utilising the waterway.”

She confirmed discussions are open with Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, and Hythe and Dibden council around local water-based transport and Hythe Ferry’s role within that.

Mutimear-MacMillan wants to make Hythe Pier more accessible and regularly hosting events. Recently they trialled a ‘Pilates and Prosecco’ event with 48 guests doing pilates down the pier, and a baby shower and would “love to do more private pop-up events”.

Ashleigh Mutimear-MacMillan is an employee of Hythe Ferry since 2021 and purchased Hythe Pier in November 2024.

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New Forest election predictions

From recent and predicted future election results, Electoral Calculus has predicted that if there were a general election, the two New Forest constituencies would move from Conservative to Reform.

They predict that nine New Forest East wards and nine New Forest West wards would have a Reform majority and both constituencies could lose their current MP.

The latest Food Standards Agency hygiene rating scores for the New Forest have been announced.

At the time of writing, 261 establishments have been scored so far in 2025 with 70% of them achieving the highest ‘5’ rating.

Those who scored a recent ‘5’ rating include:

• Steff’s Kitchen, Beaulieu

• Tilley’s Bakery, Hythe

• Langley Tavern, Langley

• The White Hart, Lymington

• The Brock Tearoom, Brockenhurst

Scored 1-2:

• Sir John Barleycorn, Cadnam

• New Forest Bistro, Blackfield

• The Wheatsheaf Inn, New Milton

Update on the local government reorganisation plans

With three options for the reorganisation, New Forest District Council are supporting ‘option one’, a new rural council for mid Hampshire.

This would serve businesses and residents of New Forest, Test Valley, Winchester and East Hampshire as opposed to adding the New Forest or Waterside in with larger cities.

Final proposals with be sent to government by the end of September and they will ultimately decide on the reorganisation.

Have your say on the reorganisation before 27 July here: https://newforest.gov.uk/article/4030/How-to-have-your-say

Feature in our New Forest Show roundup next week

If you’d like your business to be featured in our show roundup (exhibitors, sponsors, attendees, anyone!) comment below or email editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

The New Forest and Hampshire County Show takes place 29 to 31 July 2025.

More information or to buy tickets: https://linktr.ee/NewForestShow (we do not receive any commission on ticket sales).

In doing so, I’ve found a love of investigating local issues and even political stories. And I have some fab content planned for the next few months.

So, in this edition I’m sharing news on the local government reorganisation and devolution as well as a roundup of what has happened in the New Forest recently.

Enjoy!

Kerri L Watt
Editor

What’s happened in the New Forest recently…

• Hampshire County Council confirm more than 90% of Year 6 pupils in Hampshire were offered their first preference secondary school.

• Lime Wood Hotel, Chewton Glen Hotel and New Park Manor have been named in The Times top 100 places to stay in the UK, with New Park Manor also named ‘best family-friendly hotel’.

• Junior Park Run launches at Gang Warily, Sunday’s 9am.

• Carey’s Manor Hotel in Brockenhurst has reportedly been sold (they have been approached for comment).

• Nearly 40 rare species have been recorded in a report by Wild New Forest.

• The New Forest Show launches new premium tickets for summer show.

• New Forest Jazz and Arts will be hosting local artist and musicians at Meridian Lounge, Hythe in April.

• Butcombe Brewing Co (chain that owns The Fish Inn, The High Corner Inn, Ringwood, and The Mayflower, Lymington) named the official beer partner for The New Forest Tour 2025 cycling event in September.
  

Local government reorganising and devolution update

Fifteen councils across Hampshire and the Solent, including New Forest District Council, have developed an “interim plan” in response to a local government reorganisation invitation from the government.

An anonymous survey of 186 council leaders, from 150 of the 317 councils across England, by the Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) revealed:

• Fewer than one in four think the reorganisation would improve council finances.

• One in five officials believe the timescales for reorganisation are deliverable.

• Fewer than one in five believe that there has been sufficient clarity thus far.

Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Nick Adams-King, said: “Our number one priority is to ensure that whatever local government structure is in place in the years to come, the needs of residents are front and centre of everyone’s thinking.”

New Forest District Council Leader, Councillor Jill Cleary, said: “If local government reorganisation is unavoidable, I believe the best model for the forest is a rural-focused unitary council, bringing together the New Forest area with mid-Hampshire to form a sustainable and balanced authority that respects our heritage, supports our economy, protects our unique environment and can deliver high-quality local services building on our strengths in partnership working.”

Councillor Jill Cleary will be recommending the interim report for council consideration to the Cabinet on 21 March.

Final reorganisation proposals are to be submitted to the Government by September 2025, although our authorities are seeking an extension to 28 November.

Click here to have your say in the open consultation (closes 13 April): www.gov.uk/government/consultations/hampshire-and-the-solent-devolution

Upcoming business-y events…

• Networking breakfast
  20 March, 7.15-9.00am. Rhinefield House Hotel, Brockenhurst. Hosted by Lymington Chamber of Commerce. £19.50. Click to book.

• Business skills workshop on AI
  20 March, 9.00am-12.30pm. Carey’s Manor Hotel, Brockenhurst. Hosted by New Forest Business Partnership. £24. Click to book.

• Business breakfast
  26 March, 7.30-9.30am. Chewton Glen Hotel, New Milton. Hosted by New Forest Business Partnership. £33. Click to book.

• ‘LinkedIn Local’ networking and gin tasting
  01 April, 5.00-7.00pm. Shallowmead Nurseries, Lymington. Hosted by New Forest Business Partnership. £19. Click to book.

• New Forest Walk and Work
  08 April, 9.30-11am. The Haven, Lymington. Hosted by Oakhaven Business Club. £15. Click to book.

• Business breakfast
  08 April, 7.30-9.30am. Chewton Glen Hotel, New Milton. Hosted by New Forest Business Partnership. £33. Click to book.

• Coffee morning
  10 April, 10.30-11.30am. The Quench Coffee Shop, New Milton. Hosted by New Forest Business Partnership. £5. Click to book.
  

Coming in the next edition…

• An update on the Hythe Ferry and Pier

If you have any stories to share or issues you’d like a journalist to dive into, email editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

I couldn't be more thrilled to welcome all our new subscribers. 🚀 Following the buzz around the Hythe Pier article in the last edition (1.5k eyeballs on release day alone), our readership has grown immensely and I couldn't be happier to have you all here.

If you're new, get comfy! We've got some exciting investigations and stories brewing, so stay tuned and keep those eyes peeled for what's coming next.

In case you missed it…

What’s coming up in this edition…

• We speak to Hampshire County Council about disabled bus users losing free companion tickets

• What’s happened in the New Forest recently

• Busker asking for support after complaints and Police warnings

• Latest New Forest crime stats

• Local government reorganisation and May elections update

And if you have any news to share or issues you’d like me to look into email editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

Kerri L Watt
Editor

Disabled bus users to lose free companion tickets left “distressed and outraged”

Hampshire County Council have announced changes to their concessionary travel scheme for 200,000 eligible disabled and elderly residents due to “funding pressures”.

The changes include the removal of free carer or companion tickets for disabled customers and free weekday travel now beginning from 9.30am.

Charities have begun campaigning to stop the changes and many residents are “outraged” and “distressed”.

The new regulations are said to save Hampshire County Council £75,000 a year and will begin April 01.

A local carer told us their client uses the bus daily and is “very distressed” as these changes will cost her an additional £100 a month, on top of already paying for one-to-one care.

Another carer said, “How does allowing a person to have someone sit next to them on the bus free of charge to keep them safe have any financial impact on the council?”

The Concessionary Bus Travel Act 2007 entitles eligible residents in England to travel for free on eligible off-peak services and bus operators are reimbursed for concessionary passengers.

The bus pass team at Hampshire County Council confirmed “funding pressures” as the reason for not providing enhancements “over and above Hampshire County Council’s statutory obligation”.

Speaking with Hampshire County Council this week, they confirmed the changes were agreed by the council’s Cabinet on October 14 along with additional savings across services, followed by a “well-publicised” public consultation.

A spokesperson for the council said, “The unprecedented financial challenges facing the County Council have meant that we have to focus our limited resources on providing the core services that we are legally obliged to deliver.

“After careful consideration of the consultation feedback and examination of every possible option, the Cabinet opted to scale back the original savings proposals for passenger transport services.

“While some savings looked at in isolation may seem relatively small, the County Council’s budget position requires that all areas of expenditure are looked at, as every pound is crucial for balancing the budget and ensuring long-term financial stability.”

“We appreciate that the changes will mean some people may need to make adjustments to their travel arrangements, or pay for some journeys, however bus pass users will continue to be able to use their bus pass enabling free travel 9.30am-11pm.”

New Forest resident Kate, 32, said, “I’m disabled and already facing constantly rising costs. Losing free companion bus tickets may seem small but it is huge to us.

“I know many people who will be greatly impacted by this and they will potentially not be able to access their day centres, trips out, or to meet family. This makes me really sad.”

Many frustrated Hampshire residents have taken to social media stating, “We should be supporting independence, and carers are enabling that!” and “Disabled and pensioners are being targeted in every way.”

Waterside Changemakers have created a petition calling Hampshire County Council to stop the “damaging changes”, removing the “lifeline for many disabled and elderly people”.

They believe these cuts will “increase isolation and financial strain on the most vulnerable”, worsening the mental health crisis.

For more information or to sign the petition challenging the changes: click here.

What’s happened in the New Forest recently…

• New Forest District Council announced their new waste collection plans for 2025-26. New Milton, Lymington and surrounding areas are the first of three phases, beginning from June. Phase two begins October including Ringwood and Fordingbridge, and phase three including Waterside begins March 2026.

• Plan for 200 new homes (with 35% affordable homes) on 60-acre Holbury site by Wates Developments has been validated although local residents have mixed views.

• In Fordingbridge, La Lambretta has closed and The Branch Cafe reopened.

• The Little Doughnut Company are consistently selling out of their popular donut deliveries (we’ve tried them and they’re amazing!)

• New Forest District Council are asking for help to shape their local plan - click here.

• Local resident, Daniel Coombes, children’s book on divorce launches in high street shops and Amazon.

• Trial to lure New Forest ponies away from licking gritted roads with saltlicks named a “success” and will save animals lives.

• Over 60 animals were seized at three locations in Pennington, Sway, and Lymington by Police and RSPCA warrants for one individual.

• Costa Coffee in Lyndhurst closed abruptly with no explanation.

• Priestlands School in Lymington decided to extend school days by 10 minutes starting in September for an additional week off in the autumn half-term.
  

Busker asking for support after complaints and Police warnings

Local busker, Tobias Strongman, has reached out for support online after multiple complaints and Police warnings against his performances in Lymington.

Mr Strongman “loves busking” and says his passion is “to sing and bring joy to people.”

He claims a small number of market traders reported him to the market manager and the Police “said they could arrest me for breaching the peace” should any additional complaints be received.

After Strongman’s plea for support on social media there has been an outcry of encouragement from businesses and residents.

The Highstreet Kitchen “love listening” outside their restaurant and Mountain Warehouse staff welcomed him to be outside their store.

One resident even invited Strongman to sing by her house instead and others booked him to sing at events.

Latest New Forest crime stats

Data taken from the month of December 2024

• 47 reported crimes in ‘New Forest Heart’, including 10 burglary and 4 arson

• 124 reported crimes in Lymington, including 27 criminal damage and arson

• 179 reported crimes in Hythe, including 30 for shoplifting
  

Local government reorganisation and May elections update

New Forest District Council has been invited by the government to work with councils in Hampshire and the Solent to develop a reorganisation proposal.

Due to this process, elections for Hampshire County Council in May will now be postponed to May 2026.

Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Nick Adams-King said: "This is exciting news for Hampshire. Devolution represents the biggest change to local government in a generation.”

Councillor Jack Davies, Lymington, is “disappointed” to see elections cancelled as elections are a “fundamental part of democracy”.

Talking on which councils will merge, he said, “They should do it properly and keep the whole of the New Forest separate or split the forest based on where each part looks to, north to Wiltshire, west to Dorset, east to Southampton/Test Valley.”

“What worries me more is the very real possibility that the timeline slips further and elections get postponed again past 2026.

The reorganisation is expected to be in place by April 2027 or 2028.

I’m currently researching some meaty stories (and working on a rebrand) and on the lookout for more, so if there are any issues impacting your life that you’d like an investigative eye to look into, get in touch on editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

Here’s what is coming up in this edition…

• Hythe Pier’s new chapter: our interview with the new owner

• What’s happened in the New Forest recently

• New Forest District and Southampton City Council merge rumours

• Upcoming business-y and family events

Enjoy!

Kerri L Watt
Editor

Hythe Pier’s new chapter: our interview with the new owner

The historic Hythe Pier, a cherished landmark since its opening in January 1881, is embarking on a new chapter under the ownership of Ashleigh Mutimear-MacMillan.

As the driving force behind the Hythe Pier Company, Ashleigh has ambitious plans to restore the pier into the heart of the community.

Ashleigh, a Hythe resident and entrepreneur, acquired the pier from Blue Funnel in 2024.

Her vision is clear: “I want to bring the pier into the 21st century, to restore it and bring it back to the community.”

With the Hythe Ferry service between Hythe and Southampton’s Town Quay out of operation since August 2024, Ashleigh faces both challenges and opportunities in revitalising the pier.

To generate income for the business, and any restoration, Ashleigh plans to introduce several initiatives:

• Hosting chargeable events at the base of the pier.

• Launching an annual "Friends of the Hythe Pier" membership.

• Reviving the popular "Sponsor a Plank" scheme, which allows residents and supporters to leave a lasting legacy on the pier.

While many locals hope for the return of the Hythe Ferry, Ashleigh clarified that her focus is on the pier itself.

“I’m not in charge of the ferry service itself, but I understand how important it is to people and will work with them to do all I can” she shared.

Ashleigh is no stranger to creating community-focused ventures.

As the owner of I Am Group, an events company she launched in 2022, she has successfully organised a variety of markets and events, including a cheese and wine night held at the pier.

In 2024 alone, the company hosted 14 events and an events calendar for 2025 will be released soon.

“I started I Am Group as a side hustle and decided to go ‘all in’ last year,” Ashleigh explained. “Now, I’m determined to turn this into a business that makes money, while preserving the pier’s legacy.”

Despite her dedication, financial limitations mean certain aspirations, such as opening a café and toilets at the pier’s end, remain on hold.

Ownership of the pier and ferry services is complex.

The Hythe Pier Company, under Ashleigh’s leadership, owns the pier and tracks, while the Hythe Pier Heritage Association owns the historic tractors and carriages.

Red Funnel, which acquired the ferry service through its purchase of Blue Funnel Ferries, must approve any plans by the Hythe Pier Company.

“As long as we don’t impact the ferry service, we are able to utilize the pier to generate income,” Ashleigh noted.

Her commitment to the community is evident, not only in her restoration plans but also from her track record.

In 2021, she spearheaded a crowdfunding initiative and a sponsored "Walk the Pier" event, raising £37,500 for the pier’s preservation.

While the road to restoration is long, Ashleigh’s determination is unwavering.

“I’m not a secret millionaire, but I’ll explore every funding opportunity to make this dream a reality,” she said.

As Hythe residents eagerly watch the transformation unfold, one thing is clear: the pier, under Ashleigh’s stewardship, is poised for a vibrant future.

What’s happened in the New Forest recently…

• A petition for safer crossings on the A326 Hythe bypass opened after a 14-year-old was struck by a car in October 2024 - sign here.

• New Forest District Council has announced changes to recycling and rubbish collections, starting this summer - read more.

• Hythe Ferry gained a lot of media attention this week from the BBC after announcing they need £250,000 to fix the pontoon and relaunch the service.

• Lymington Firewood, a sustainable firewood company launched last month.

• The Bold Forester pub in Marchwood receives a Food Standards Agency rating of 2 but remains open to the public.

• Buckler’s Hard featured in a BBC Two episode of Villages by the Sea last month.

• Waitrose brings back free coffee without the need to purchase anything.
  

Is New Forest District Council merging with Southampton City Council?

The government have announced plans to change local government structures leading to rumours of New Forest District Council (NFDC) merging with nearby Southampton.

NFDC serves around 180,000 residents and confirms no formal proposals have been made at this time.

Cllr Jill Clearly, NFDC leader, said: "We would not willingly want to see an end to a council that we are proud of, and we know that our residents value.

“However, it is important that as the government has made its intentions clear, we do engage in the process to ensure that we deliver the best outcome possible for New Forest residents and businesses within this devolution framework.

“New Forest District Council supports the view that local democracy is important and that consultation with residents on such a fundamental change is vital."

Some councillors believe the merge would be beneficial although many residents have shared their fears at the prospect on social media.

At this time there is no timeline for the decision or implementation. New Forest News will keep you informed with updates as they develop.

Upcoming business-y events

• Federation of Small Businesses
  24 January, 9.00-10.00am. Online networking for Hampshire and IoW. Click to book.

• New Forest Business Partnership
  30 January, 9.30-11am. Marketing masterclass on brand strategy. SpudWorks, Sway. £19. Click to book.

• New group for business owners in the New Forest and surrounding areas
  30 January, 6.45-8.30am. Chapel Gate. Click here for info.

• Federation of Small Businesses
  14 February, 9.00-10.00am. Online networking for Hampshire and IoW. Click to book.

• Oakhaven Business Club
  27 February, 10am-12pm. Coffee and cake networking plus guest speaker. Rhinefield House Hotel, Brockenhurst. £12.50. Click to book.

Family events

• Lego Display Extravaganza
  01 February, 10am-4pm. St John’s Church, Hythe. £2. Click here for info.

Sponsor New Forest News!

As part of our rebrand and focus for more investigations in 2025, I’m looking for businesses or organisations looking to promote themselves and partner by sponsoring NFN.

Find out more or share your interest at editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

Before the world switches off for the festivities, and myself to consume my body weight in Pringles (daily!), I wanted to say thank you for being a part of the New Forest News journey this year!

As we grow, I’m now opening up sponsorship for the publication as well as organising a rebrand and diving into some investigative stories. I have big plans, and I couldn’t do it without you wonderful readers.

Here’s what is coming up in this edition…

• What’s happened in the New Forest recently

• Social media helps local Police catch shoplifters

• Trending in the New Forest

• Over 10,000 New Forest constituents join the 3-million signatures to call a general election

• Brilliance in Business Awards

• Upcoming business-y events

As ever, send your stories, enquire into sponsoring NFN, or say hello on editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.

Kerri L Watt
Editor

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What’s happened in the New Forest recently…

• A Waterside school was evacuated and bomb squad called after child brought potential explosive to ‘show and tell’ - making local and national headlines… all from NFN Editor’s initial tip-off.

• Hythe Pier has been sold to local business owner Ashleigh Mutimear-MacMillan

• Deer rutting season has come to an end

• Exactly what our interview last edition on National Insurance rises and employers rethinking hiring has indeed happened and now making headlines - link to story

• Lymington Police had 105 reported crimes in October 2024, 8 of those were shoplifting offenses

• Tickets to the New Forest Show on 29th – 31st July 2025 went on sale

• Fish and chip shop Chip n Tails in Hythe is for sale

• The Crown Stirrup pub in Lyndhurst reopened December 14 under new management

• Mums Mean Business company launched in Hythe

Image: Claire Knowlton and Chernice Thompson, Mums Mean Business launch event

Social media helps Police catch shoplifters

Police forces are utilising social media to help identify and catch those involved in criminal activity caught on camera.

New Forest police regularly share photographs with full details of the crime asking followers to identify shoplifters.

A spokesperson for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said: “We do often receive further information from the public off the back of these appeals, helping us to progress our investigations and identify suspects.

“There was a recent case in Fordingbridge where the suspects themselves got in touch with us to identify themselves and admit their responsibility, which further demonstrates their effectiveness.”

Trending in the New Forest

New Forest Academy school had the biggest increase in Google searches with users who’d previously searched New Forest. NFN believe this could be due to the recent secondary school application season.

New Forest fencing also saw the biggest ‘query’ increase in searches, no doubt due to last week’s storm.

Over 10,000 New Forest constituents join the 3-million signatures to call a general election

A recent poll petitioning for a general election has hit almost 3-million signatures, believing Labour have “gone back on promises” laid out during the July election.

In the New Forest, 10,431 people have signed the petition so far (5,287 in New Forest East, 5,144 in New Forest West).

Sir Desmond Swayne, MP for New Forest West, told NFN: “If only!

“I have come across many severe cases of ‘buyer’s remorse’. I spent weeks on the doorsteps telling people exactly what would happen, sadly, many voters had simply stopped listening.

“I’m afraid there is no relief to be had however many signatures are collected. The Government will simply respond to affirm the real petition took place on 4th July.”

Once the petition hit 2-million signatures, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer shared statements with the media ruling out a new election and told television show This Morning viewers this “isn’t how our system works”.

It has been confirmed Parliament will debate the petition on January 06.

Brilliance in Business Awards

New Forest Business Partnership hosted its annual Brilliance in Business Awards at Brockenhurst College in November with 260 attendees gathered for the 18-award celebration.

Lymington-based New Forest Escapes won the prestigious New Forest Business of the Year award, as well as the Sustainable Business of the Year award.

Matthew Lawson, Chairman of New Forest Business Partnership, said: “The awards shine a light on the entrepreneurs, the innovators, the job creators who are writing the next chapter of our local economy.

“Whether you're a solopreneur just starting out, a family-owned business that has weathered decades of change, or a larger enterprise driving regional growth, your stories inspire us all.”

Other winners included New Forest Hamper Company, New Milton Sand and Ballast, Impress Travel, Camping New Forest, FLYTE Creative Media, and Furzey Gardens.

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Upcoming business-y events

• Lymington Chamber of Commerce
  19 December, 7.30pm. Christmas party. Lanes of Lymington. £45. Click to book.

• New Forest Business Partnership
  14 January, 7.30-9am. Business breakfast. Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa, New Milton. £32. Click to book.

• Lymington Chamber of Commerce
  16 January, 7.15-9am. Breakfast and 2025 “goal-setting for business success”. Rhinefield House, Brockenhurst. £19.50. Click to book.

• New Forest Business Partnership
  21 January, 5-7pm. LinkedIn Local New Forest Gathering. St Barbe Museum, Lymington. £20. Click to book.

• Oakhaven Business Club
  21 January, 10am-12pm. Coffee and cake networking plus guest speaker. Rhinefield House Hotel, Brockenhurst. £12.50. Click to book.

• Oakhaven Business Club
  27 February, 10am-12pm. Coffee and cake networking plus guest speaker. Rhinefield House Hotel, Brockenhurst. £12.50. Click to book.

• New Forest Business Partnership
  30 January, 9.30-11am. Marketing masterclass on brand strategy. SpudWorks, Sway. £19. Click to book.
  

Sponsor New Forest News!

As part of our rebrand and focus for more investigations in 2025, I’m looking for businesses or organisations looking to promote themselves and partner by sponsoring NFN.

Find out more or share your interest at editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.