Discover
The New Forest is an ark for nature in the busy south of England. Find out why it's so special.
PROTECTING TOGETHER, SHAPING TOMORROW
New Forest National Park
Our focus
The New Forest National Park Authority has a wide range of responsibilities, from conservation and planning to supporting local communities and helping people explore the Forest responsibly. Here are some areas you might be looking for:
Protecting
Find out about our work to care for this special place.
Enjoying
Discover the best days out and things to do in the New Forest National Park for a true Forest experience.
Planning
View or comment on an application, report a planning breach, or find clear guidance to help you through the planning application process.
Get involved
Help care for the New Forest through volunteering, recording wildlife or living more sustainably.
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Our wildlife
The New Forest is an ark for nature in the busy south of England and for some species it's their last refuge.
Our habitats
Rather than just forest as its name would suggest, the New Forest is a patchwork of ancient and ornamental woodland, open heathland, rivers and valley mires and a coastline of mudflats and saltmarshes.
The story of the New Forest
Explore the rich history of the New Forest, from Royal roots to a living landscape shaped by the commoning tradition and the communities who have called it home for generations.
Our Story Our Story
Our wildlife
The New Forest is an ark for nature in the busy south of England and for some species it's their last refuge.
Our habitats
Rather than just forest as its name would suggest, the New Forest is a patchwork of ancient and ornamental woodland, open heathland, rivers and valley mires and a coastline of mudflats and saltmarshes.
The story of the New Forest
Explore the rich history of the New Forest, from Royal roots to a living landscape shaped by the commoning tradition and the communities who have called it home for generations.
News & updates
Planning
Planning can be a tricky process to navigate, especially in a protected landscape like the New Forest. Whether you’re just getting started or know exactly what you need, here are some useful starting points to help guide you through.
Visit planning
Visit planning
View or comment on a planning application
Submit a planning application
Reporting unauthorised development
Protecting the New Forest
The New Forest is a rare blend of ancient woodlands, rich wildlife, and living traditions. Shaped by nature and people over centuries, it remains one of the UK’s most treasured landscapes.
Protecting the New ForestOur work
We lead and support projects that protect the New Forest and help it thrive. Explore our projects, progress updates and how we’re working with others to shape a sustainable future.
Climate
Discover our ReNew climate programme to reach net zero.
Nature
Our joint programme to help protect nature and support the New Forest’s future.
People
We need nature and nature needs us. Find out how we can help nature and people thrive.
Place
The Forest is a living, working landscape shaped by people.
Partnerships
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