Forestry Commission - News - survey highlights “stress-busting” qualities of english woodlands, as commission brings people of london closer to wildlife

Coming closer to wildlife and escaping the stresses of modern day life have been cited as the main reason that people in London visit a woodland, according to the most comprehensive study ever undertaken to find out what the English public think of their forests and woodlands.

The results were announced today from the Forestry Commission’s “Public Opinion of Forestry 2005: England” survey. This survey sets out English regional results from a Great Britain survey of public attitudes to forestry and forestry-related issues.

In London, 50% of respondents said that they had visited woodland in the last year; 54% influenced by the opportunity to see wildlife, and 53% seeking peace and quiet. 59% of respondents also said they wanted to see more woodland in the region.

Ron Melville, the Forestry Commission’s Conservator for London, said:

“Despite a smaller amount of managed woodland in the capital, Londoners have shown they value the role of woods and the benefits they offer.

“Many of our main forest areas are within easy travelling distance from London – at Bedgebury in Kent, Thames Chase in Greater London, and all around the South East. The size and scope of the woodlands we manage enables us to offer activities ranging from horse-riding and cycling, to the quieter nature walks. There is enough for a great day out for almost all families - whatever your interests.

“We are working closely with partners across Greater London to enhance the quality of the trees and woodlands within the urban environment, and bring some of these green benefits in to the heart of London.”

The publication also shows that for England:

· 50% of adults have seen or read about forests, woodlands or trees on the television, radio or in the newspapers in the last 12 months.
· Providing places for wildlife to live, providing places to visit and walk in, helping to prevent the ‘greenhouse effect’ and global warming, and improving the countryside landscape are seen as the main reasons for supporting forestry with public money.
· 65% of adults would like to see more woodland in their part of the country.
· 6% of adults have been consulted about plans for creating, managing or using woodlands. 41% would like to be consulted in future.
· Of those who had been shopping for wood products in the last few years, 37% recognised the FSC symbol, a label that indicates the wood came from a certified sustainably managed source.
· 36% of adults can get to a woodland easily without using a car or other transport.
· Wildlife, peace and quiet, and attractive scenery were the most important factors when choosing to visit woodland.
· 89% who had heard of the Commission were aware it “improved woodland habitats for wildlife” and 88% that it gave free public access to walking in forests and woodlands, but less than 46% were aware of the cabin and campsite holidays if offers, and 39% of the grants it gives to private woodland owners.

Notes to Editors
1. Similar reports for separate public opinion of forestry surveys in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are available from www.forestry.gov.uk/statistics. Paper copies are available on request. The report for England contains more detailed analysis for respondents by region and demographic variables than the GB survey.

2. Forestry Commission England is responsible for the sustainable management of existing woods and forests; and a steady expansion of our woodland area to provide more benefits for society and our environment. It delivers the forestry policy for England, on behalf of DEFRA, according to its strategic priorities and programmes. These are based on four key interconnected programmes: forestry for rural development; forestry for economic regeneration; forestry for recreation, access and tourism; and forestry for the environment and conservation. Further details about the strategy and the work of FCE, as well as recent campaigns and events are available at www.forestry.gov.uk.

3. The survey responses for London cover the Government Office boundary definitions.

4. Active Woods is a national drive being led by the Forestry Commission to promote the vast range of health and fitness opportunities offered by Britain's woodlands. Hundreds of events are being organised across the UK reflecting the campaign's three themes of naturally active, naturally stimulating and naturally relaxing. The campaign aims alert people to the link between trees, woodland and forests and human health and well-being. Research has shown that exercising in natural environments reduces stress levels and can speed recovery from illness. For more information visit www.forestry.gov.uk/activewoods

Press contact:
Rebecca Britton, Forestry Commission England Press Office
Tel: 01223 346027
e-mail: rebecca.britton@forestry.gsi.gov.uk