RESIDENTS living near forests in Hurn are celebrating good news on the future of public forests.

Those living near the public estate forests at Hurn have greeted the findings of an independent panel, set-up to look into the future of public forests, with delight.

A government consultation launched last year suggested some forests currently managed by the Forestry Commission might be sold off or leased to commercial operators.

Cllr Margaret Phipps, chairman of Hurn Parish Council , mounted a Save Hurn’s Forest Campaign and got a petition going opposing the sell-off.

She also launched Friends of Hurn’s Forests, stating: “If you value your local woods and forests for recreation and wildlife, then come along and join the Friends. “Our forests need a local voice to protect their future.”

And in the face of opposition from around the country, the government scrapped the consultation, setting up a panel to look at the future estates managed by the Forestry Commission . The Friends of Hurn’s Forests continued their campaign, presenting their petition of 1,700 signatures to Chris Chope MP, for him to give to the panel.

The panel has now published its final report with a recommendation to increase woodland cover in England from the current 10 per cent to 15 per cent by 2060.

They have also recognised that well-managed woodland offers potential to create jobs, sustain skills and livelihoods, improve the health and wellbeing of people, and to provide better and more connected places for nature.

Cllr Phipps, now also portfolio holder for the environment at Christchurch Borough Council , said: “The panel’s report is excellent news for people, wildlife and forestry.

“I am delighted that they have listened to what people want and recommended that public forests should be held in trust for the nation.

“Our forests are highly valued by local people, which was proved by the huge support for our campaign last year. I want to thank everyone who signed the petition to save Hurn’s forests.”