Whiston Woods, a cherished natural oasis located in St Helens, is in danger of being sold by Forestry England to Knowsley Council without the required public consultation. This transaction, spearheaded without transparency and adequate public involvement, threatens not only the local ecosystem but also the bond that residents have cultivated with this treasured landscape.

The decision to sell off this woodland without seeking the opinions of those who cherish it shows a clear disregard for the community's rights and the democratic process.

In addition, Government legislation protects the public forest estate from sale. While past plans for selling parts of the Public Forest Estate were met with public outcry and concerns that government bills could facilitate this, the legislation was amended to explicitly prevent any sale of public forests.

• Past legislative threats: Around 2011 and 2013, the government's plans to sell parts of the Public Forest Estate led to public outcry and a call for protection.
• Protective amendments: Amendments were added to the Infrastructure Bill in 2014 to ensure the public forest estate could not be sold off.
• No-sell-off policy: Current government policy and legislation clearly protect the public forest estate from being sold.
• Consultation requirement: Even for other land management changes, like woodland creation, Forestry England is required to consult with stakeholders and the public, as detailed in their Woodland Partnership scheme application process.

It is crucial for Forestry England to engage with the community. We therefore demand that Forestry England:

• Immediately halt any sale, transfer, or agreement relating to Whiston Woods;
• Undertake a full and transparent public consultation, ensuring that all local residents, community organisations, and stakeholders have the opportunity to contribute; and
• Recognise and uphold Whiston Woods’ status as an Asset of Community Value, ensuring that any future decisions prioritise the public interest and the long-term protection of this land for community benefit.

Until these actions are taken, any progression of the sale will be viewed as a breach of public trust and potentially a violation of statutory duties.
Please join us in advocating for transparency and environmental responsibility. Sign this petition to ensure Whiston Woods remains a public asset, widely cherished and responsibly managed, for generations to come.