Member News
8th June 2011
There is much to welcome in this white paper, but it fails to set a woodland creation target for England at a time when tree planting rates are going down, writes the Woodland Trust.
The paper must also have cross departmental buy-in and herald significant improvements in the planning system for the protection of ancient woodland.
Sue Holden, chief executive of the Woodland Trust, said: "There is much to welcome in this white paper: it's the first of its kind for 20 years in England and we are pleased its recognises woods and trees as cost-effective vehicles for delivering a range of services to society, from flood alleviation to public health benefits - as evidenced by last week's independent National Ecosystem Assessment (NEA).
"The white paper acknowledges the Read Report's conclusions on the role of forestry in combating climate change, and champions the importance of woodland creation, woodland management and the restoration of planted ancient woodland sites (PAWS) damaged by conifers. The Read Report recommended woodland creation of 10,000 ha per annum.
"What it lacks however - worryingly - given the NEA highlights the decline in the UK carbon forest sink in the last 20 years - is a tree planting target for England. All other parts of the UK have set a planting figure, so why not England? We need an ambitious target and a timetable for action, to match the scale of the challenge in one of the least wooded countries in Europe.
"To realise the many environmental, social and economic benefits of woods and trees we need around 15,000ha of woodland planted every year, so it's disappointing that planting has decreased.
"The Independent Panel on Forestry can help shape how we get there, but government needs to be providing leadership and taking immediate action. The public called for a rethink on Forestry Commission land sales, not on woodland creation.
"Additionally, while we welcome the paper's emphasis on protection of valuable habitats such as ancient woodland, this is going to require action by other government departments beyond Defra. It is vital that the new National Planning Policy Framework being prepared by DCLG ensures proper protection for our irreplaceable ancient woodland heritage."
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