The Forest of Dean’s ambitious bid to gain Unesco biosphere status has faced criticism, with some residents labelling it a “Green vanity project” due to what they perceive as inadequate public consultation.
Leaders at Forest of Dean District Council have been developing the bid, which aims to secure a prestigious Unesco designation comparable to recognised natural sites such as the Amazon rainforest, Yellowstone National Park in the United States, and parts of Hawaii.
According to council officials, biosphere status would highlight the Forest of Dean’s distinctive natural and cultural heritage, while fostering sustainable economic development and attracting investment to the area.
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Despite these intended benefits, concerns regarding the limited community engagement have led to fears among some that the status might transform the area into something akin to a theme park, detracting from its authentic character.
In response to such feedback, councillors voted in May to allow for an additional six months of consultation, focusing on gathering views from towns and parish councils across the district.
Lydney Mayor Tasha Saunders has been vocal about the lack of public involvement, expressing scepticism about the council’s approach. She described the biosphere bid as a “vanity project” promoted by the district council’s Green Party leadership and highlighted that the public had not been adequately informed.
“Multiple people have told me the same, it’s a Green vanity project,” said Cllr Saunders. She noted that the town council remains unconvinced and that their feedback on the initiative has been neither enthusiastic nor engaged.
Cllr Saunders recounted efforts to improve dialogue: “We invited the Biosphere team to our annual town meeting to present and explain the project to residents. Despite numerous requests for attendance at the town council, when the team proposed possible dates, confirmation came less than 24 hours before the meetings, resulting in only three councillors being available.”
“Such short notice hardly constitutes consultation,” she added. “We requested a meeting with the full council, but they preferred longer time frames, which in my opinion was a way to merely tick the consultation box without genuine engagement. When consultation involves only three councillors, it cannot be considered meaningful. They missed the chance to address a larger public forum at the annual meeting. The feedback we provided was polite but clearly sceptical.”
A spokesperson from Forest of Dean District Council responded by emphasising their commitment to thorough engagement. They stated that meetings with town and parish councils are ongoing and that input received will shape a broader consultation programme.
“We welcome every opportunity to meet with local councils and are making proactive efforts to accommodate requests for meetings,” the spokesperson said. “Coordinating convenient dates for multiple organisations can be challenging, but our dedication to inclusive engagement remains steadfast.”
The spokesperson further explained that recent discussions with Lydney Town Council were constructive, addressing both the potential advantages and risks associated with the biosphere proposal.
“Details of upcoming consultation opportunities will be published on the Forest of Dean District Council’s website and promoted through local and social media channels,” they added. “Additional information about the Unesco biosphere bid, including its objectives, goals, and frequently asked questions, is also available on the council’s website.”
The district council’s decision to extend the consultation period underscores their recognition of community concerns and their intent to ensure that residents and local representatives can actively participate in shaping the future of the Forest of Dean’s natural heritage.