NPA Update June 2026

National Park access work is progressing with expected government “Access For All” funding of about £150,000, similar to previous years. Much of the funding is already allocated, but new accessibility project ideas are still being invited. Rights of way volunteering has begun, focusing on ditch and drain clearance and surfacing until August due to bird nesting season, then clearing overgrown paths until October before returning to conservation tasks. Corporate volunteer groups are now being welcomed to broaden participation and generate a small amount of income to cover costs. Work continues toward opening stretches 2 and 5 of the Highcliffe to Calshot section of the England Coast Path by March 2027, with the National Park Authority responsible for establishment works. A bid has been submitted for Franchises Lodge to support large-scale rhododendron clearance and landscape recovery, with some public rights of way upgrades included.