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Forest of Dean Council Seeks UNESCO Status Amid Local Concerns

3/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Forest of Dean District Council announced it will apply for UNESCO biosphere status.
Residents fear the designation could affect rights of way and historic mining rights.
Steve Dunford (local resident) says locals lack representation and favors a National Landscape designation for stronger protections.
Public response was 519 from about 89,000 residents, while the council argues biosphere status would benefit the economy.

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Story summary

The Forest of Dean District Council announced it will apply for UNESCO biosphere status.
Residents fear the designation could affect rights of way and historic mining rights.
Steve Dunford (local resident) says locals lack representation and favors a National Landscape designation for stronger protections.
Public response was 519 from about 89,000 residents, while the council argues biosphere status would benefit the economy.