Concern over Forest of Dean Unesco biosphere bid

Residents of one of England's most ancient forests have raised concerns about their council's bid to designate the land as a Unesco biosphere.

Forest of Dean District Council (FDDC) announced on Thursday it was drafting a formal application to get the status - which is held by several other areas around the world.

But concerns have been raised amid public consultations, with fears that such status would affect rights of way and historic free mining rights for residents.

The authority insisted these rights would remain unchanged regardless, adding that local groups would be consulted on future decisions affecting the area.

Becoming a Unesco Biosphere means an area is internationally recognised as a learning place for sustainable development, where people and nature coexist in a healthy balance.

But resident Steve Dunford said he is concerned over the move being led by wildlife and environmental groups, with little representation from "ordinary local people".

"Whilst I have an open mind over the proposal, I do think the Forest would be better served with designation as a National Landscape," he said. "With the legal protections that offers rather than a designation that has no legal powers but vague hints of restrictions within it.

"There is very little hard information about how living in a biosphere would impact on everyday life, both now and in the future."

Resident Simon Lewis claimed there had been a lack of information surrounding the proposal, with "probably 90%" of people in the area never even hearing of the bid.

A report collated on the responses states that the council received 519 replies to the consultation.

The most recent ONS population data shows that as of 2024, there were nearly 89,000 residents living in the district, meaning fewer than 1% of Forest residents responded to the survey.

"You can't have widespread approval from half a per cent of the population," he added.

Lewis said he wants the application to be paused so more information can be shared and people can make an informed choice.

Forest of Dean District Council cabinet member for climate emergency, Chris McFarling, said the bid was about creating a "lasting legacy" for the area.

"Biospheres provide a positive platform for innovation and long-term wellbeing," he said.

"Securing Unesco Biosphere status for the Forest of Dean would help strengthen our local economy, create a wide range of opportunities and benefits for local residents and businesses, and especially protect our ancient traditions."

Unesco has been contacted for comment.

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