The Rt. Hon. Dan Rogerson MP
Parliament Under Secretary of State for
Forestry, Department for Environment,
Food & Rural Affairs
Nobel House, 17 Smith Square
London SW1P 3JR

18 March 2014

Dear Sir

March 21st is now celebrated by the United Nations as the International Day of Forests and Trees.

At this most opportune time, I am writing to you on behalf of the Oldham Liberal Democrats to ask for your support in ensuring that the Government takes the necessary action to protect Britain’s ancient woodlands.

Ancient woodlands now cover only two per cent of the land mass of the UK. They are much loved and much enjoyed by our citizens, yet contrary to popular belief, they are not fully protected.

More than 400 of our ancient woods are under threat right now from new railway lines, road widening schemes, and planning applications for campsites, car parks and even golf courses.

The Woodland Trust has recently identified a set of proposals to help save what remains and they have made a direct appeal for Government action to the Prime Minister.

The Trust’s proposals include designating ancient woods as Sites of Special Scientific Interest; reviewing relevant planning guidance; and addressing the failings of the National Planning Policy Framework.

Oldham Liberal Democrats are happy to endorse the Trust’s proposals and I hope that you will too.

I look forward to hearing back from you as to how this Government intends to ensure the survival of one of our nation’s most precious and historic resources, so that our future generations can continue to enjoy them as a natural wonder.

Yours faithfully

Howard Sykes