Illegal Tree Felling: Restocking Notice Appeals Backlog

I wish to update the House on the action I have taken with the support of the Forestry Commission and DEFRA officials to cut the backlog of restocking notice appeals and to build a faster appeals process that protects nature and growth.

This Government are committed to expanding, protecting and improving England’s trees, woodlands and forests. We are investing more than £1 billion in trees over this Parliament to support nature recovery, climate resilience, local communities and economic growth. This includes creating three new national forests. To support this effort, it is vital that our existing trees are looked after.

In instances of unauthorised tree felling, the Forestry Commission issues restocking notices, which require trees to be replaced. This gives local communities confidence that illegal felling will not go unchecked.

In 2024, when I took on responsibility for restocking notice appeals, I inherited a backlog dating back as far as 2018. When appeals are delayed, this affects nature restoration, can lead to costly appeals and impacts growth where development is inhibited.

I have taken steps eliminate the backlog while improving the appeals process so it never happens again. I am taking action across three fronts: cutting the backlog, reducing the number of new appeals, and streamlining the process to avoid the risk of a backlog.

We are doubling the number of appeal hearings held each month by booking hearings in blocks by geographical location and introducing hybrid—in-person and remote-attendance—hearings. The first month of block-booked hearings has been a success. I am almost doubling the pool of independent panellists hearing appeals to support this increased capacity.

I am working across Government to increase public awareness of tree felling legislation. Local authorities and local partners play a key role in giving early advice to developers and landowners, making clear that trees should not be felled without a felling licence, if required. I have used established planning and local government channels to reinforce this message. This will help prevent unlawful felling, reduce avoidable appeals and support responsible development.

The Forestry Commission is now undertaking stronger engagement with landowners before a restocking notice is served. This helps deliver a more proportionate approach and ensures that much earlier resolution is achieved where possible—before a restocking notice is issued.

I am streamlining the process by increasing automation of administrative processes, making better use of digital resources and speeding up decision making. I will issue new public guidance this summer to explain how individuals or organisations can appeal a restocking notice and what they can expect at the appeal hearing. This will provide much needed clarity for potential appellants.