CALLS are being made to pause plans to designate the Forest of Dean as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve amid growing concern from commoners and residents.

The Forest of Dean Commoners’ Association has launched a campaign urging decision-makers to halt the current application process, arguing that local people have not been adequately consulted on proposals that could have long-term implications for the area.

The Forest, widely regarded as a unique working landscape, is shaped by centuries of tradition. Commoners, Freeminers, horse riders and walkers all rely on historic rights that campaigners say must be protected before any international designation is considered.

Concerns raised by the group include how public access could be affected, whether free-roaming sheep grazing would be restricted by potential conservation measures such as fencing, and how Freeminers would be able to exercise their rights if land use changes are introduced.

The association claims it was only recently made aware of the biosphere proposal, despite it having been in development for several years. As a result, members say they have “too many questions” to make an informed decision on whether the designation would benefit or harm the Forest.

A petition calling for a pause in the process has gathered hundreds of verified signatures, with supporters highlighting the Forest’s long history of resisting external control. One supporter pointed to past campaigns and historic uprisings, arguing that the area’s identity has been preserved through collective action by local people.

Campaigners are calling for full transparency, including the publication of any proposed zoning or land management changes linked to the biosphere status. They also want meaningful consultation with residents and stakeholders before any application progresses further.

Despite these concerns, it is understood that the council leadership does not currently support pausing the application timeline. Previous updates suggested that while discussions with stakeholders may take place, the process itself is continuing as planned, with key decisions expected to be made at Cabinet level rather than by the full council.

This has prompted further criticism from those who believe such a significant decision should involve wider democratic debate, with some councillors also raising concerns about the lack of a full council vote before submission.

The Commoners’ Association has confirmed it will continue its campaign and has dismissed suggestions that it intends to support the biosphere proposal. Organisers say their position remains firmly in favour of pausing the process until proper consultation is carried out.

A public meeting has been scheduled for Saturday, May 9 at 7PM at Littledean Village Hall, specifically focused on the campaign to pause the biosphere application, where residents will have the opportunity to discuss concerns, ask questions, and hear directly from members of the Commoners’ Association about why they believe the process should be halted.

Campaigners say the Forest of Dean is “not just a landscape but a living community,” and insist that its traditions and rights must remain at the centre of any future decisions, warning that any changes imposed without consent could have lasting consequences.