Written question asked by Christopher Chope (Conservative) on Monday, 13 October 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 16 October 2008. It was answered by Huw Irranca-Davies (Labour) on Thursday, 16 October 2008 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Parking: New Forest

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs which car parks under the control of the New Forest National Park Authority are being considered for designation as dog-free car parks; and what evidence there is to justify such a designation in each case.

Answer: I understand that the New Forest national park authority does not control any car parks in the New Forest. If the concept of 'dog free' car parks is developed it would be implemented by the landowner or operator, as has been the case where the Forestry Commission has introduced a few temporary closures during the breeding season for ground nesting birds.The authority has published a number of proposals in its draft Recreation Management Strategy, including on the issue of dog-free car parks and responsible dog-walking, that are the subject of a public consultation until 14 November 2008. All interested parties are free to make their views known to the authority and to have those views fully considered.Decisions on these issues are for the authority to take. It is an independent authority operating within the local government framework and legislation.

Secondary information