Interview with new Hythe Pier owner and NFDC merge rumours.
January's monthly briefing
Hello and happy new year (if we can still say that!)
I’m currently researching some meaty stories (and working on a rebrand) and on the lookout for more, so if there are any issues impacting your life that you’d like an investigative eye to look into, get in touch on editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.
Here’s what is coming up in this edition…
Hythe Pier’s new chapter: our interview with the new owner
What’s happened in the New Forest recently
New Forest District and Southampton City Council merge rumours
Upcoming business-y and family events
Enjoy!
Kerri L Watt
Editor
Hythe Pier’s new chapter: our interview with the new owner
The historic Hythe Pier, a cherished landmark since its opening in January 1881, is embarking on a new chapter under the ownership of Ashleigh Mutimear-MacMillan.
As the driving force behind the Hythe Pier Company, Ashleigh has ambitious plans to restore the pier into the heart of the community.
Ashleigh, a Hythe resident and entrepreneur, acquired the pier from Blue Funnel in 2024.
Her vision is clear: “I want to bring the pier into the 21st century, to restore it and bring it back to the community.”
With the Hythe Ferry service between Hythe and Southampton’s Town Quay out of operation since August 2024, Ashleigh faces both challenges and opportunities in revitalising the pier.
To generate income for the business, and any restoration, Ashleigh plans to introduce several initiatives:
Hosting chargeable events at the base of the pier.
Launching an annual "Friends of the Hythe Pier" membership.
Reviving the popular "Sponsor a Plank" scheme, which allows residents and supporters to leave a lasting legacy on the pier.
While many locals hope for the return of the Hythe Ferry, Ashleigh clarified that her focus is on the pier itself.
“I’m not in charge of the ferry service itself, but I understand how important it is to people and will work with them to do all I can” she shared.
Ashleigh is no stranger to creating community-focused ventures.
As the owner of I Am Group, an events company she launched in 2022, she has successfully organised a variety of markets and events, including a cheese and wine night held at the pier.
In 2024 alone, the company hosted 14 events and an events calendar for 2025 will be released soon.
“I started I Am Group as a side hustle and decided to go ‘all in’ last year,” Ashleigh explained. “Now, I’m determined to turn this into a business that makes money, while preserving the pier’s legacy.”
Despite her dedication, financial limitations mean certain aspirations, such as opening a café and toilets at the pier’s end, remain on hold.
Ownership of the pier and ferry services is complex.
The Hythe Pier Company, under Ashleigh’s leadership, owns the pier and tracks, while the Hythe Pier Heritage Association owns the historic tractors and carriages.
Red Funnel, which acquired the ferry service through its purchase of Blue Funnel Ferries, must approve any plans by the Hythe Pier Company.
“As long as we don’t impact the ferry service, we are able to utilize the pier to generate income,” Ashleigh noted.
Her commitment to the community is evident, not only in her restoration plans but also from her track record.
In 2021, she spearheaded a crowdfunding initiative and a sponsored "Walk the Pier" event, raising £37,500 for the pier’s preservation.
While the road to restoration is long, Ashleigh’s determination is unwavering.
“I’m not a secret millionaire, but I’ll explore every funding opportunity to make this dream a reality,” she said.
As Hythe residents eagerly watch the transformation unfold, one thing is clear: the pier, under Ashleigh’s stewardship, is poised for a vibrant future.
What’s happened in the New Forest recently…
A petition for safer crossings on the A326 Hythe bypass opened after a 14-year-old was struck by a car in October 2024 - sign here.
New Forest District Council has announced changes to recycling and rubbish collections, starting this summer - read more.
Hythe Ferry gained a lot of media attention this week from the BBC after announcing they need £250,000 to fix the pontoon and relaunch the service.
Lymington Firewood, a sustainable firewood company launched last month.
The Bold Forester pub in Marchwood receives a Food Standards Agency rating of 2 but remains open to the public.
Buckler’s Hard featured in a BBC Two episode of Villages by the Sea last month.
Waitrose brings back free coffee without the need to purchase anything.
Is New Forest District Council merging with Southampton City Council?
The government have announced plans to change local government structures leading to rumours of New Forest District Council (NFDC) merging with nearby Southampton.
NFDC serves around 180,000 residents and confirms no formal proposals have been made at this time.
Cllr Jill Clearly, NFDC leader, said: "We would not willingly want to see an end to a council that we are proud of, and we know that our residents value.
“However, it is important that as the government has made its intentions clear, we do engage in the process to ensure that we deliver the best outcome possible for New Forest residents and businesses within this devolution framework.
“New Forest District Council supports the view that local democracy is important and that consultation with residents on such a fundamental change is vital."
Some councillors believe the merge would be beneficial although many residents have shared their fears at the prospect on social media.
At this time there is no timeline for the decision or implementation. New Forest News will keep you informed with updates as they develop.
Upcoming business-y events
Federation of Small Businesses
24 January, 9.00-10.00am. Online networking for Hampshire and IoW. Click to book.New Forest Business Partnership
30 January, 9.30-11am. Marketing masterclass on brand strategy. SpudWorks, Sway. £19. Click to book.New group for business owners in the New Forest and surrounding areas
30 January, 6.45-8.30am. Chapel Gate. Click here for info.Federation of Small Businesses
14 February, 9.00-10.00am. Online networking for Hampshire and IoW. Click to book.Oakhaven Business Club
27 February, 10am-12pm. Coffee and cake networking plus guest speaker. Rhinefield House Hotel, Brockenhurst. £12.50. Click to book.
Family events
Lego Display Extravaganza
01 February, 10am-4pm. St John’s Church, Hythe. £2. Click here for info.
Sponsor New Forest News!
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Find out more or share your interest at editor@newforestbusinessnews.co.uk.