THE New Forest will have to generate its own income under radical government plans that will put it under the control a charity.

Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman unveiled plans this morning that she claims will protect the "heritage" forest and ensure walkers, riders and cyclists enjoy exactly the same rights to use it as they currently do.

Although she has rowed back from plans to put areas like the New Forest into private ownership the cabinet minister will still take it out of public ownership.

Government will fund a new charity that will take over responsibility for its management but that will be "expected to move towards self-reliance".

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs officials said funds could be raised through installing adventure park-style "high-wires" or selling off excess wood for domestic use.

Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman said: "State control of forests dates back to the First World War, when needs were very different.

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"There's now no reason for the Government to be in the business of timber production and forest management.

"It's time for the Government to step back and allow those who are most involved with England's woodlands to play a much greater role in their future.

"We want to move from a 'Big Government' approach to a 'Big Society' one, so that we can give different groups - individuals, businesses and civil society organisations - the opportunity to be involved in managing the natural environment.

"And we will make sure that public access is maintained and biodiversity protected."

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