BOLTON MP David Crausby has called on the Government to think again about controversial plans which could see local woodland, including Horrocks Wood, off Scout Road, at the foot of Winter Hill, sold off to the highest bidder.
Government proposals currently being discussed in Parliament will give Ministers the green light to sell off the public forestry estate in England.
The Forestry Commission is responsible for more than 1,400 woodlands in England, including Horrocks Wood, which is classed as a “heritage” woodland.
Bolton North East Mr Crausby said: “I have heard from a huge number of people in my constituency, who are concerned by the Government’s plans to rush through the sale of our national forests with no guarantees over their funding or public access.
“Most woodland in England is already in private hands. We need to keep our public forests open for everyone and ensure they remain in place for future generations to enjoy.”
The legislation allowing the government to dispose of all of English woodland is already in the House of Lords.
More than 360,000 people have signed a petition against the Government’s plans.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article