Bid could turn forest into 'theme park' group says

There are concerns a bid for an area of ancient woodland to receive Unesco Biosphere status could turn it into a "theme park".

Forest of Dean District Council (FODDC) is applying for the status for the area, prompting concerns from Mick Holder of the Commoners' Association, which represents people who practice traditions such as grazing livestock in unenclosed woodlands.

The group said it was worried more fences would be erected for conservation projects if the status was granted.

A FODCC spokesperson said it understands the concerns and "wants to be clear" the designation will not introduce restrictions on land use, access, grazing or traditional practices.

Lucy Lovell of the Commoners' Association said parts of the forest have already been fenced off for wildlife preservation, the Local Democracy Reporting Service reports.

She added this disturbed "dog walking, tourism, free roaming of sheep, wild boar and deer".

Kevin Stannard from Forestry England said it supports the bid, and the status should be seen as "an opportunity to reconnect with our land, our heritage, and each other living in harmony with the natural world".

FODDC leaders said the application was made to "celebrate everything that makes the Forest of Dean unique".

"We are committed to ensuring that commoning, free mining and other ancient traditions are protected and celebrated as part of this process," a spokesperson said.

After discussions with the Verderers and Free Miners, FODDC said it is keen to speak directly to the Commoners' Assocation.

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