The Forest of Dean’s ongoing bid to achieve Unesco biosphere status has faced criticism, being labelled a “Green vanity project” amid concerns over limited public consultation.
Forest of Dean District Council leaders have been pursuing this prestigious designation, which would place the area alongside internationally recognised sites such as parts of the Amazon rainforest, Yellowstone National Park in the USA, and certain regions of Hawaii.
The council argues that biosphere status would highlight the Forest of Dean’s unique natural and cultural heritage, support sustainable economic growth, and attract investment.
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However, some community members and local officials have voiced their worries about inadequate engagement with the public, fearing the initiative could commercialise the area and transform it into a theme park-like attraction.
Following such concerns, councillors voted in May to extend consultations for six months, facilitating discussions with towns and parish councils throughout the district.
Lydney Mayor Tasha Saunders, a vocal critic, has expressed dissatisfaction with the level of public involvement. She described the bid as a “vanity project” primarily driven by the Green Party leadership on the district council and believes the public has not received sufficient information.
“Multiple people have shared the same sentiment, calling it a Green vanity project,” Cllr Saunders commented.
The town council remains apprehensive, with their response to the plan described as neither inspiring nor engaging. Efforts to encourage the biosphere team to address residents at the annual town meeting were unsuccessful. Furthermore, attempts to arrange meetings with the town council were met with last-minute scheduling and limited attendance, which Cllr Saunders argues is insufficient for meaningful consultation.
“Receiving less than 24 hours' notice and having only three councillors available cannot be considered genuine consultation,” she said. “The opportunity to engage with a larger public audience was missed.”
While the council acknowledged that the feedback provided was courteous, it was not favourable.
In response, a spokesperson for Forest of Dean District Council emphasised their commitment to engaging with town and parish councils as part of the biosphere designation process. They stated that feedback gathered would shape a wider consultation programme aimed at residents.
“We welcome the opportunity to meet with local councils and are proactively accommodating requests to facilitate these discussions,” the spokesperson said. “While coordinating suitable dates can be challenging, we remain dedicated to ensuring comprehensive engagement.”
They added that a meeting with Lydney Town Council had taken place, featuring constructive dialogue on both the potential advantages and concerns relating to the proposal.
The council confirmed that forthcoming consultation opportunities would be advertised via the Forest of Dean District Council website, local media, and social media platforms.
For further details on the Forest of Dean Unesco Biosphere bid, including objectives and frequently asked questions, residents are encouraged to visit the council’s official website.