New Forest National Park welcome their new boss, Alison Barnes

Alison Barnes, formerly employed by Natural England as its regional director for London, has been appointed chief executive of the National Park Authority (NPA).

The Lymington-based organisation has been without a permanent leader since Lindsay Cornish resigned almost a year ago.

Ms Cornish quit her £90,000-a-year role at the annual meeting after colleagues criticised her leadership style in a letter to one of Britain’s top civil servants.

It followed months of protests and demonstrations over proposals including road tolls, dog-free car parks and tighter restrictions on horse keeping.

The controversial plans were replaced by a new set of policies following the appointment of interim chief executive Barrie Foley.

Mr Foley, widely credited with restoring the NPA’s battered reputation, will work alongside Ms Barnes for several weeks before formally handing over.

“During the hand-over period Alison will be introduced to many individuals and organisations in the national park,” said Mr Foley.

“Alison went through a rigorous recruitment programme to make certain that the authority made the right choice.

“She has a wealth of experience and is keen to engage with all parties.”

Mr Foley is not the only person who is standing down.

As reported in the Daily Echo, Clive Chatters and Barry Rickman are quitting as chairman and deputy chairman respectively but will continue to be members of the organisation.

The NPA is currently based in temporary accommodation in South Efford House.

One of Ms Barnes’s first tasks will be to oversee the authority’s move to Lymington town hall, which it will share with New Forest District Council.

Speaking after her appointment was announced in March she said: “I’m young enough to bring energy and determination to the role but I’m also experienced enough to understand the complexities involved.”

The Daily Echo understands that Ms Barnes has already bought a house in the New Forest.