MP vows to keep Delamere Forest open to the public (From Northwich Guardian)

MP vows to keep Delamere Forest open to the public

5:40pm Sunday 13th February 2011 in News

WEAVER Vale MP Graham Evans has promised he will ‘never, ever’ allow Delamere Forest to be fenced off to the public.

The Northwich MP received assurance in Parliament that the Government will protect public access rights to the largest woodland in Cheshire.

And MP Evans said he would be ‘absolutely appalled’ at the prospect of Delamere being destroyed for a short-term gain.

“In Cheshire, we are incredibly lucky to have some wonderful woodland such as Delamere Forest, which is a great place to take the children or go for a run,” he said.

“The Government has made it very clear that, without exception, rights of public access will be guaranteed, heritage forests protected, communities put first and biodiversity preserved.

“No other approach would be desirable or acceptable.”

About 200 concerned users of Delamere Forest met on February 4 to voice their opinions and concerns.

MP Evans added: “However, it is right to consider who is best placed to own and manage our forests and what role there can be for government, communities, charitable trusts and the private sector.

“It is also right to end the irresponsible practice of selling woodland without adequate protections which took place under the previous Government.

“This is not an unthinking sell-off, it is an open minded look at how we can best secure the future of our forest estate.”