Spare my old village the fear of being swamped

A WIDELY-respected New Forest figure has launched a bid to save his village from being engulfed in a National Park authority. He claims it will be like a "giant playground".

Sir Edward Hulse believes Breamore, near Fording-bridge, would become swamped by tourists and lose the unique character of its many historic listed buildings.

But the Countryside Agency insists that the village's "internationally important" character is exactly why it should be included within the boundary, and promises expert management to prevent it being overrun.

Speaking at the ongoing inquiry into the National Park proposals at Lyndhurst, Sir Edward argued that the boundary line should be drawn at the A338, and exclude Breamore.

He said the historic character of the village, which has 82 listed buildings, was at odds with the natural landscape attractions of the New Forest. Breamore had not been considered part of the area since at least 1280.

"The people of Breamore believe it is a unique place, not in any way similar to other villages in the Forest," he explained.

"We are frightened that National Park designation will result in additions to our buildings, and that our car parks and other facilities will be totally inadequate to cope with visitors. We can only cope with small numbers.

"There are already increasing problems with people who believe they are entitled to park or camp anywhere, and that would only get worse. I fear we would become part of a giant playground."

However, agency experts responded that it was precisely because of the "international importance" of Breamore's buildings that the draft boundary was extended to include it.

They said a National Park would bring additional funding and expertise to ensure its special nature would survive.