In the Past

The New Milton Residents' Association (NMRA) started in about 1905 and was called the Ratepayers' Association until 1990 when 'rates' were replaced by the Community Charge.

FOCUS was not introduced until 1963 and the Committee were appealing for a small army of volunteers to deliver them straight to people's homes, a wonderful 'Army' that still exists, over 700 issues later.

The First Edition of FOCUS printed in 1963, almost needs a magnifying glass to read but, eerily, many of the items discussed then would not be out of place in today's FOCUS so, although much has changed in New Milton, the issues have not! An example of this is that, at one time, they planned a flyover along the A337 at Old Milton Green!

Most of the time, the Association works silently in the background for the benefits of all of the residents in the town, examples of which are below:

• NMRA was involved in discussions and planning of some of the Cycle Ways in New Milton.

• During recent years, NMRA has donated 5 Benches, at the Recreation Ground; Brooke Avenue/Fernhill Lane; Outside the Town Hall; Caird Avenue and most recently at the Ballard Water Meadow.

• The Association was closely involved in the consultations about the Navitus Bay Wind Farm and successfully lodged strong objections alongside other local organisations which resulted in the Plans being shelved.

NMRA regularly supports local causes including the Poppy Appeal and donations towards the Christmas Lights in the town each year. In the recent past we have also donated £1,000 to provide equipment for our local ambulance and donations were given to all three of our Local Surgeries.

Pictures from Milton Heritage Society