Petition · past parliament

Give all ancient woodland statutory legal protection

Closed 887 signatures

What the petition asks

Ancient woodland is recognised as irreplaceable due to the specialised plant and animal species they support, not found elsewhere. As a result of habitat loss and fragmentation over the last 50 years 60% of those specialised species have declined significantly according to the State of Nature Report
Ancient woodlands are a vital part of our cultural heritage, often containing archaeological remains waiting to be discovered, yet 85% of it has no legal protection. If we are to commit to our climate, flood alleviation and biodiversity action plan obligations these habitats must be protected from vandalism and development. At one time woodland covered the majority of the UK, as relics of this wild wood we must ensure that our ancient woodlands survive for the benefit of future generations.

Timeline

14 Oct 2016 Petition opened for signatures
14 Apr 2017 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 887
Status Closed
Opened 14 Oct 2016
Closed 14 Apr 2017

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.