NEW FOREST residents are being urged to have their say on a council plan to improve access to the countryside.

The draft plan relates to the area of the New Forest National Park together with the surrounding coastal and urban areas.

It is the fourth Countryside Access Plan for Hampshire and is based on research carried out with local residents and landowners under the guidance of the New Forest Access Forum.

The forum represents land management, commoning, walking, equestrian interests, cycling and conservation. Hampshire County Council drew up the access plan, one of seven in the county, to meet the requirements of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.

The plan raised issues such as a shortage of open space for recreation and routine exercise outside the New Forest National Park, within or near major settlements, a high reliance on cars to get to the countryside, and scope to improve access for people with limited mobility.

The plan also recommended the promotion of paths around open areas and better use of public transport and alternatives to the car.

The county council's executive member for recreation and heritage, Councillor Margaret Snaith, said: "This consultation process is about people having their say to help us produce a plan that is both relevant and beneficial to the local needs."

Copies of the draft plan can be viewed at the New Forest National Park Authority offices at South Efford House, near Lymington, and at local libraries and information centres.

To request a free copy of the draft plan contact access.development@ hants.gov.uk or view it online at www.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ access.