§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what plans he has to increase awareness of Epping forest, Essex; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CurryEpping forest is owned by the Corporation of London. It is managed under the terms of the Epping Forest Act 1878, which requires the conservators of the forest to preserve the natural aspect and the varied vegetation of the forest as well as the public's right to use it as an open space for recreation and enjoyment. It has a large variety of habitats of high nature conservation value and most of the forest has been designated a site of special scientific interest. A balance therefore has to be sought between public use and the protection of the forest's environment.
We are satisfied that the forest is well known to the general public—they already make good use of it and the 376W conservators provide several facilities for visitors—and we do not consider that it is necessary to increase awareness of it any further.