Partners on board to support Forest of Dean Biosphere bid

A motion tabled by Cabinet Member for Climate Emergency, Cllr Chris McFarling at a recent Gloucestershire County Council meeting received overwhelming backing from members and will see the County Council provide additional funding and resources to support the Forest of Dean District Council’s Biosphere bid. 

Cllr Chris McFarling said:

"This designation will be a tremendous achievement for us in the district, and county, bringing international recognition and support from the United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), of the special culture and stronghold for nature that lives in the Forest of Dean. 

“I am delighted that Gloucestershire County Council has recognised overwhelmingly how important the Forest of Dean Biosphere will be to all who live and visit this special place. They are signing up as a lead partner and are committed to making a success of this initiative. 

“We know nature is in crisis and is in desperate need of protection. Biospheres teach people to understand and reconnect with nature in a meaningful way that helps us live healthily within the natural world, earning a living without destroying the environment upon which we depend, now and in the future.  

“If the application is successful, we in the Forest will join the other 7 Biospheres nationwide, in showing how we can benefit now and in the long-term.”  

Having previously consulted with residents, Forest of Dean District Council recognises that respondents sought reassurance around the economic effect on those already living within the district and the effect on house prices, particularly for first time buyers. There were also points raised around potential restrictions that might be placed on publicly accessible Forestry England land.   

The evidence and reports from other designated biospheres in the UK and beyond indicate that there are numerous benefits to the local economy, with a clear return on investment in setting up a biosphere, including supporting job creation for residents.  

People are essential to biosphere reserves and biosphere designation aligns with promoting sustainable tourism in the Forest of Dean, where visitors make broader use of a destination for a richer experience.  

It is important to note that such designation does not introduce any new legislation or statutory controls and does not have powers to remove access rights powers or stop development. This means that the historic right to Free Mine, which allows individuals certain traditional mining rights in the Forest of Dean, remains fully intact. Biosphere designation does not alter these rights, nor does it impose new restrictions on mining activities.

Cllr McFarling added:

“Biosphere designation is a global accolade to be celebrated, adding an even greater pride of place in the Forest of Dean. 

“Being recognised as a biosphere will not stop growth and development in the area, however, it will help to guide that development and ensure it acknowledges and recognises the value of the natural world and works with it for the benefit of the district. 

“We understand how a biosphere can be a challenging concept to get one’s head around and urge people to go to the Biosphere website on the Councils website and learn more.” 

Further events where residents, visitors and business can find out more and ask questions are being planned. People are encouraged to keep up to date via the Council’s website and the Climate Newsletter, where information, updates and event details will be shared as the bid progresses.  

Details for how to sign up, as well as frequently asked questions and details of previous consultations can be found here: www.fdean.gov.uk/biosphere