THE possibility of Alice Holt Forest being included in the new South Downs National Park has received the backing of East Hampshire district councillors, even though it could entail a huge loss of planning control to the council.

The councils new Better Protected Environment Panel was almost unanimous in voting to support a recommendation by Secretary of State Hilary Benn that Alice Holt should be included because of the tourism benefits to the local economy as well as protection for the forest area.

For full story, see this week's Alton Herald.