Parking charges being brought in for the New Forest
Forestry England say its due to rising costs
You're going to have to pay to park in the New Forest.
Parking charges are being brought in for the first time next year.
Forestry England say its due to rising costs and visitor numbers.
They say the money raised by parking charges will help them continue their critical work and avoid closing car parks or trails.
They say the scheme will also significantly boost the numbers of rangers on patrol to look after the Forest.
Craig Harrison, Forest Management Director for Forestry England in the South explained:
“The New Forest is a very special place. Not everyone is aware of the huge amount of work it takes to look after the area including planting thousands of trees and caring for the forest’s special wildlife. We clear litter, remove fly-tips, speak to visitors, and patrol the area every day of the year. We also maintain hundreds of trails, paths and car parks so that people can enjoy getting out into nature.
“This vital work is no longer affordable given rising prices and visitor numbers. Charging for car parking will play an important role in us being able to continue to look after this precious landscape.
“We know how much the New Forest is valued by the local community so those who come here often will be able to benefit from highly discounted parking by becoming a Forestry England member. Everyone paying to park will be making a valued contribution in helping to look after this special place for all to enjoy.”
Prices
Prices will start at £1.50 for one hour, £3 for 2 hours, £5 for 4 hours and £8 for over 4 hours. Tickets will be transferrable between all Forestry England car parks in the New Forest making it easy to visit several locations with one payment.
An annual Forestry England membership will offer unlimited parking for less than £2 a week in all New Forest car parks with the added benefit of free parking at all Forestry England car parks across the country.