§ Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on arrangements to ensure the conservation of broadleaved woodlands and on felling licence regulations.
§ Mr. Viggers[pursuant to his reply, 20 January 1987]: Legislative powers are available to enable broadleaved woodlands of high scientific value to be conserved and there is ongoing survey of woodlands to identify those which require special conservation measures. The Department also has powers to make tree preservation orders where appropriate.
The Government have no plans to introduce felling licence legislation.
§ Mr. Chapmanasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what safeguards exist to protect broadleaved and ancient semi-natural woodlands from felling or conversion to coniferous woodland or agricultural land.
587W
§ Mr. Viggers[pursuant to his reply, 20 January 1987]: Truly ancient semi-natural woodland does not occur in Northern Ireland; broadleaved woodland generally is very limited in extent.
Under the Nature Conservation and Amenity Lands (Northern Ireland) Order 1985, the Department of the Environment for Northern Ireland may protect any woodland of high scientific interest either by declaring it to be an area of special scientific interest or by acquiring it as a National Nature Reserve. The Department may also enter into a covenant or management agreement with the owner of a woodland for the purpose of conserving or enhancing the natural beauty or amenity of the land.
The Department also has powers to make tree preservation orders where appropriate.