During the last 48 hours I have received a number of messages from constituents concerned about the future of Cannock Chase. The source of this concern appears to be a collection of documents from Staffordshire County Council regarding the future of County Council owned Country Parks, including Cannock Chase Country Park.
I have already spoken to the responsible Cabinet Member and the Leader of Staffordshire County Council about these fears, and I would like to make two points very clear. Firstly, there are not currently any plans to sell Cannock Chase Country Park. Secondly, if there were any such plans, I would oppose them wholeheartedly. It is my firm belief that Cannock Chase must remain in public ownership.
A full public consultation is due to take place later this year. I will participate fully in this process, and represent the views of my constituents. I welcome any constituent contacting me to register their views, and I will work to ensure that all Cannock Chase residents have full opportunity to participate in any discussions on the future of Cannock Chase Country Park.