Council votes to pause UNESCO Biosphere application process to allow extended consultation
At its Full Council meeting on Thursday 21 May, Forest of Dean District Council considered a motion at Full Council relating to the proposed UNESCO Biosphere designation and agreed to extend the consultation process before making an application to UNESCO. The decision will enable a further six months of engagement with residents, community groups, landowners and other interested parties, ensuring people have more time to understand the proposal and share their views.
A UNESCO Biosphere is an internationally recognised designation that highlights places where communities, local businesses and the natural environment work well together. It would not change how the Forest of Dean works or introduce new restrictions but would provide global recognition that helps strengthen the Forest’s voice, support local decision‑making and open opportunities for partnership working, education and investment.
Councillors noted that the timing of the application in relation to planned local government reorganisation is a relevant consideration. If a nomination is not submitted before reorganisation takes place, responsibility for progressing it would pass to a new authority, and there can be no certainty over whether or when the proposal would be taken forward.
Councillor Chris McFarling, Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency and Biosphere, said:
“I am disappointed that the application process will be put back, particularly given the amount of work already undertaken and the opportunity this presents for the Forest of Dean. However, we have heard the feedback from those who feel they have not yet been fully involved, and this extension provides an opportunity to work more closely with them as the proposal develops.
“We recognise that some people still have questions and want greater clarity, and it is important that everyone with an interest in the Forest of Dean, including those who support the proposal as well as those who have concerns, has the opportunity to engage with the process and understand what is being proposed.
“We will continue to engage with communities and stakeholders to ensure there is a clear understanding of what a UNESCO Biosphere designation means, and just as importantly, what it does not mean.
“Our intention has always been to celebrate and promote the Forest of Dean, protect its ancient rights and traditions, and secure international recognition for a place that so many people were born in, live in, work in and care deeply about. Achieving UNESCO Biosphere status would be a significant achievement for the Forest, recognising its unique character and the relationship between its people, economy and environment.”
The Council will provide further information on how people can take part in the extended consultation and what this means for the next stages of the proposal in due course. This will build on engagement already undertaken and reflect feedback received.
Further information about the biosphere proposal, including the initial nomination stage, previous and future engagement opportunities, and frequently asked questions, is available on the Council’s website. https://www.fdean.gov.uk/biosphere