A government-funded study has revealed that 73% of England's woodlands are off-limits to the public, with many used for commercial purposes such as pheasant shoots and timber plantations. The research, conducted by Forest Research, also found that over a third of ancient trees recorded in the Woodland Trust's inventory are inaccessible.
Campaigners are calling for the introduction of a right-to-roam bill, similar to Scotland's policy, which would allow people to walk responsibly in woodlands. The Right to Roam group is planning mass trespasses across England in March and April to highlight the issue, with events scheduled in Suffolk, Norwich, West Yorkshire and Somerset.
Guy Shrubsole of Right to Roam said: 'It's appalling that three-quarters of all the woodland in England is inaccessible. Everyone loves trees, but thousands of woods are off-limits simply because of corporate logging interests or pheasant shooting.' He urged the government to introduce a right-to-roam bill in the next king's speech.
The government has instead announced nine river walks and three national forests, but campaigners argue this is insufficient. A Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokesperson said the government recognises the importance of access to nature and is taking steps to increase it.
Lack of access to green spaces has been linked to poorer mental and physical health, with studies showing a 20% reduction in anxiety and depression for those living near parks. Conversely, those living more than 800 metres from green spaces reported lower wellbeing, particularly during Covid-19 lockdowns.
