The overwhelming opposition to the proposed sale of the public forest estate showed how highly people value green space for outdoor recreation. This has been recognised by the Prime Minister in the House of Commons (16 February 2011) who said: ‘…what is important is that we should be making sure that, whatever happens, we increase access to our forests…’ Growing participation can only occur with a consistent approach to land management. The Forestry Commission should aim to extract the maximum public benefit from the existing estate and seek to improve recreational and sporting opportunities in privately owned woodland.

Background

• The Forestry Commission is the single largest landowner providing sport and recreation opportunities in the country.
• The proposed sale of the public forest estate resulted in a 500,000 signature petition against the Government’s plans.
• The subsequent U-turn launched a review of forest and woodland policy by an independent panel set to make recommendation in 2012.

Current status

• David Cameron and Caroline Spelman publically supported increasing access to our forests.
• The Government created an independent panel to review policy and will report back in 2012.
• A parallel NGB panel will ensure the Government does not go back on its word.

Action Points

• Parliamentarians should ensure that the Government responds to public demand and give greater access to our forests and woodlands.
• The best way of protecting recreational access for sport and recreation is to ensure access is not lost irrespective of ownership.
• The Alliance and the Forestry Commission is taking forward a strategic partnership project to improve sport and recreation opportunities.

For further information please contact Martin Key at mkey@sportandrecreation.org.uk.

Download Briefing (PDF)