All posts by jefftravis

Think piece: the power of geography

December 20th, 2021

I’m unashamedly a geographer. Ever since I can remember, I have always enjoyed visiting places, wanting to know what makes it tick, why some are more successful than others, and the ability of some buildings and events to inspire.  Driving friends and family mad by diving down side streets and missing the main ‘drag’ has […]

Natterjacks return! Planning Authority supports nature recovery

December 20th, 2021

Funding of almost £40,000 from the National Park Authority will help support the re-introduction of the natterjack toad. The iconic amphibian species was found at Blackmoor until the 1970s when it died out due to neglect of the heathland habitat. But now, five years since the launch of the Heathlands Reunited conservation project, the re-introduction […]

New lease of life for Repair Shop show in South Downs

December 20th, 2021

It’s an award-winning show bringing one of the National Park’s most historic settings to the lounges of millions of viewers around the UK. Now the future of the hit BBC show The Repair Shop is more secure after planning consent was granted for temporary production facilities for a period of up to five years. The […]

Holiday lodges are given the go-ahead

December 20th, 2021

Forty new holiday lodges delivering biodiversity net gain and sustainable tourism opportunities have been approved for the National Park. The Authority’s Planning Committee voted to approve plans for 40 units set in a new wooded landscape scheme in the grounds of Marwell Activity Centre, near Owslebury, Hampshire. The consent followed extensive remodelling of the original […]

Ranger report: Saving an enigma

December 10th, 2021

Ranger Tim Squire gives an update on efforts to save the grayling from local extinction. The grayling is one of the hardest butterflies to spot. Not only is it one of our most rare and declining butterflies, but it also has what is referred to as ‘cryptic colouration’, meaning it’s a real master of disguise. […]

When you wish upon a star!

December 10th, 2021

When you wish upon a star, your dreams come true, so they say. Why not start 2022 with a big bang by putting yourself in the running for a prize in our astrophotography competition? We have three £100 prizes to give away, as well as three £75 runner-up prizes, so there’s never been a better […]

A big win for nature as heathlands bounce back

December 9th, 2021

It’s a wildlife oasis rarer than the rainforest and home to some of Britain’s most endangered reptile, amphibian and bird species. Now, five years on from the start of an incredible conservation effort, the future of heathlands in the south of England is looking much brighter. The Heathlands Reunited project has successfully conserved and enhanced […]