§ 72. Sir H. Studholmeasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he will make a statement about the future of the woods at Hawns and Dendles on the edge of Dartmoor, regarding which representations have been made to him; and what action he takes to preserve woodlands in places of great beauty in a National Park.
§ Mr. H. BrookeI understand that the owners of this area, most of which is unplanted at present, propose to plant trees on it and to reconstitute most of the existing woodlands. Planning permission is not required for this, but the owners have discussed their proposals with the local planning authority and have made certain changes to meet points raised by the authority. I have considered representations that I should acquire the land in order to preserve it in its existing state, but have come to the conclusion that this would not be justified.
In answer to the second part of the Question, I am always ready to consider tree preservation orders submitted to me by local planning authorities.