Foreword by Huw Irranca-Davies
I am delighted to welcome this delivery plan for The National Forest to 2014.
The National Forest is maturing as one of the country's boldest landscape and forestry projects and a leading example of sustainable development in practice. Local residents and communities clearly value it immensely, as shown in the consultation for this plan. I am sure that the transformation of the landscape will continue to bring forward a wide range of benefits across The National Forest's 200 square miles.
The consultation highlighted key challenges which the National Forest Company, together with stakeholders and partners, will address through the delivery plan. Continuing the involvement and understanding of local communities will be vital to maintaining the current woodlands as will further developing the long-term quality of the Forest. The plan proactively addresses these and other challenges and changes necessary at this stage of the Forest's development.
I look forward to seeing The National Forest continue and increase its contribution to the Government's environmental, economic and social objectives to 2014 and beyond.
Huw Irranca-Davies
Formerly Minister of State with responsibility for The National Forest
National Forest Company, Enterprise Glade, Bath Yard, Moira, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE12 6BA.
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