A DATE for the re-opening of the Forest of Dean's woodlands remains inextricably linked with the foot and mouth crisis and the lifting of 'D' notices on local farms and smallholdings where stock has still to be examined and blood tested.
A handful of premises still remain to be tested by MAFF officials. Results can take up to 10 days.
MAFF has said that for the area to achieve foot and mouth disease free status it is essential for veterinary officers to complete surveillance inspections on all farms within a 3km radius of where the disease had previously been confirmed.
"For cattle and pigs this involves a clinical inspection. For sheep and goats, where signs of the disease can be harder to detect, a blood sample is taken as well as clinical inspection.
"The blood sampling cannot begin until 21 days after the completion of preliminary cleansing and disinfection on the infected premises. To take samples, it is essential that MAFF receive the co-operation of farmers. Restrictions cannot be lifted until inspections at all farms within the 3km area have been made and proved negative and there are no further confirmed or unresolved cases in the 3km zone," said a statement.
Though MAFF has no authority over when the Forest can re-open it is thought unlikely Forest Enterprise would agree to the public visiting woodlands at least until the last test results have been received.
Meanwhile members of the recently established task force set up to come up with ideas to promote and regenerate the area have produced their first plans.
Chairman Ray Wright told the Review: "Some very good suggestions have already been made ... we would like to involve as many people as possible who can come up with some good and workable ideas which will benefit visitors and residents."
A book of Forest recipes is already in progress and more contributions are needed.
A 'Grand Opening Celebration' at Speech House is being planned and could include bands, choirs and local craftspeople.
It has been suggested that money raised from the event could be invested for the future benefit of the return of a Forest maternity unit or a midwifery centre.
"As we hope to see the Forest re-opened in the not too distant future, plans must get underway as soon as possible. Anyone who can offer assistance in planning, organising, providing entertainment, or who wishes to book a stall to display local crafts is urged to contact me," said Mr Wright.
A meeting will be called before "the all-clear" to co-ordinate the event.
•Mr Wright can be contacted on Dean 832535.