Massive protest against Park Authority's proposals

12:57pm Saturday 4th October 2008

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MORE than 750 protesters staged a demonstration in the New Forest today to show their anger at proposals they claim would destroy their way of life.

The massive show of strength was organised by the newly formed pressure group Forest Uprising, which is battling ideas put forward by the New Forest National Park Authority.

They would mean horse owners would have to obtain planning permission for a whole range of activities connected with their animals.

Some owners said they would have to sell their animals or have them put down if they were unable to comply with the proposed new regulations.

Dog owners also condemned the NPA's recreation management plan. They claimed that plans to create "dog-free" car parks would effectively ban them from large parts of the Forest.

The demonstration at Wilverley Plain, near Brockenhurst, attracted a large number of speakers, many of whom demanded the abolition of the NPA.

Leaders of Forest Uprising said they could decide to mount a legal challenge to the proposals and launched a £50,000 fighting fund.

The NPA says it is consulting the public and will take all views into consideration before making any decisions.

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