THE 1981 Forestry Act protects the Forest of Dean.

The woodlands so protected were listed by Lord Mansfield and recorded in Hansard. They were the Statutory Forest, Highmeadow Woods and Hope Wood, all defined by Lord Mansfield as having been Crown possessions that were gifted to the state by King George V in 1923/24.

Bircham Wood was part of the Highmeadow Woods Estate and is thus protected.  But despite this protection, Bircham Wood has been offered for sale.

Under the Transfer of Woods Act of 1923 if any these woods are sold, the money should go back to the Crown Commissioners and not to the Forestry Commission or the Exchequer. Can anyone explain to me the benefit of selling Bircham Wood?

– Ian Wright.