News

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has approved a revised approach to preparing the district’s new Local Plan, following significant changes in the national planning system and the government’s recent decision to withdraw the local government reorganisation decision for Hampshire.

Residents are being invited to comment on the revised draft Local Plan for the New Forest National Park during a six-week public consultation, running from 17 August to 30 September 2026.

Local residents, landowners, stakeholders and businesses are being invited to take part in a public consultation on the revised draft Local Plan.

New Forest District Council has said government measures announced (Friday 14 August 2026) to restrict the sale of disposable barbecues nationally will add further protection against wildfire risk in the New Forest, Hampshire, complementing existing local measures at a time when the emergency response to a heathland fire, which started on Sunday 9th August 2026 affecting more than 100 hectares, continues into its seventh day, and the risk of fire remains high.

Firefighters worked through the night and continue to tackle a fire affecting heathland near the A31.

New Forest District Council (NFDC) welcomed visitors to its stand at the New Forest and Hampshire County Show, where they were invited to find out more about Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and what it means for the future of council services.

New Forest District Council’s (NFDC) Cabinet will next week (5 August 2026) consider switching to the government’s new planning system to produce a stronger, more deliverable Local Plan that reflects national reforms, Local Government Reorganisation, and the work already carried out with communities.

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has reintroduced an anti-littering campaign on the A35.

New Forest District Council (NFDC) is advising residents that waste and recycling collections will start earlier than usual this week due to high temperatures.

New Forest District Council  (NFDC) Leader, Cllr Jill Cleary, has issued a video update to residents outlining the council’s work following the government’s decision on local government reorganisation (LGR).

New Forest District Council (NFDC) is advising residents that waste and recycling collections will start earlier than usual this week due to extreme heat.

At Council yesterday (Thursday 26 February), New Forest District Council (NFDC) approved its budget for 2026/27, ensuring continued investment in essential services.