§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what consideration led to the Forestry Commission being allowed to dispose of the wood at Spottiswoode near Westruther in Berwickshire with no provision for protection for future access by the public; [21437]
(2) if he will pay an official visit to Spottiswoode to discuss the extent of use of the wood by the local community; [21438]
(3) what attempts he will now make to secure public assess when the wood at Spottiswoode is offered for sale; and if he will make a statement. [21441]
§ Sir Hector MonroThe Forestry Commission follows guidelines laid down by Ministers before selecting properties for sale. These guidelines take account of all relevant factors, including the existing levels of public access and recreation. The commission considered that the level of public access to Spottiswoode was low and that the wood could be sold. My right hon. Friend does not, therefore, consider it necessary to pay an official visit to Spottiswoode.
The Forestry Commission has already offered to enter into an access agreement with Borders regional council, which would have secured public access in the future, but the council declined the offer.
§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland how many school pupils visiting Pyatshaw outdoor centre used the wood at Spottiswoode for educational or recreational purposes over the past five years. [21439]
§ Sir Hector MonroPupils visiting the Pyatshaw outdoor centre may make occasional informal use of the wood for recreational purposes, but there is no record of this.
§ Mr. KirkwoodTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received regarding the disposal of Spottiswoode and its implications for public access. [21440]
§ Sir Hector MonroMy right hon. Friend and I have received representations from the British Horse Society and two individuals about the sale of Spottiswoode and its implications for public access.