PLANS to protect one of the most popular beauty spots in the New Forest have been given the go-ahead.
The National Park Authority (NPA) has approved an application to enhance the 16-acre Hatchet Pond, near Beaulieu, by moving the car park away from the water's edge.
The Forestry England scheme also includes measures to prevent people parking on a verge beside the neighbouring B3055.
It follows increasing concern about the number of people visiting the site, a decline in water quality and a spike in anti-social behaviour.
As reported in the Daily Echo, ice cream sales have been banned at the attraction to try to limit its popularity.
An NPA report described Hatchet Pond as a popular year-round destination for visitors to the Forest.
It also cited "increasing pressure" resulting from the large amount of new housing being built in areas just outside the national park.
The report said: "The application seeks consent for the relocation of the car park away from the margins of the pond and closer to the access from the B3055.
"The proposed development is an integral measure necessary to address the issues in this sensitive location."
Under the scheme, the new car park will use the existing access and will also provide the same number of spaces.
The report said: "The ecological impacts of the proposed development have been assessed against relevant legislation and planning policy.
"There is a strong need for the proposed development due to the decline in water quality at Hatchet Pond. Alternative solutions have been considered and discounted."
The application was opposed by Friends of the New Forest, formerly known as the New Forest Association.
In a letter to the NPA it cited "uncertainties" surrounding the scheme, adding: "We consider the application will result in destruction and degradation of wildlife."
But Natural England said it had no objection to the proposals.
A Forestry England spokesperson said: "Hatchet Pond is the New Forest’s largest body of fresh water and home to some of the UK’s rarest wetland plants and freshwater animals.
"As one of the most wildlife-rich water bodies remaining in lowland England, it has the highest possible conservation status as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area for Conservation.
“This renowned local beauty spot is under major threat from pollution and over-use and a restoration plan was agreed in 2019.
"A number of actions have already taken place including the taking down of the toilet block, the removal of non-native fish, and improved signage and visitor information.
"A planning application was also submitted to relocate the car park to higher ground in order to reduce the run off and pollution entering the water.
"Planning approval has now been given allowing the works to be progressed. Further information on timings will be provided in due course.
"The relocated car park will retain the same amount of car parking spaces and views over the Pond.
“Visitors also have a critical role to play in helping to ensure this special place can survive by not entering the water for swimming or any other reason, and not allowing dogs into the water.”
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