Crime and Woodlands




It is well known in crime prevention circles that open well-lit areas
discourage crime, so it is no surprise that easily accessed woodlands
are the criminals' choice for misdemeanors.

Crimes involving anti-social behaviour, drugs, rapes and murder are
regularly perpetrated in woodlands where the public are encouraged to
access.

Many of these woodlands are owned by charitable trusts, who, although
they don't charge of admission, make their money by soliciting for
donations and membership fees.

One such organisation, The Woodland Trust, converts many relatively
inaccessible woodlands into recreation areas by constructing pathways
and "controlling" wildlife. It openly claims its woodlands are for
"recreation" and "quiet enjoyment of the public", but makes no attempt
to ensure this commitment is upheld.

Only recently a woman was raped in one of its woodlands and in another
area members of the public are concerned about entering a Trust's
woodland because of anti-social behaviour.

By changing the status of woodlands to formal recreational use, it
seems odd that owners are not currently required to ensure that
criminal activities are not taking place within the confines of their
properties.

Perhaps it is time to consider the licensing of woodlands that
encourage formal access, and require the owners to establish similar
safety measures to that of other leisure providers.

There is no doubt that easily accessible woodlands are a major factor
in criminal activities.
Angus Macmillan
www.roots-of-blood.org.uk
www.killhunting.org
www.con-servation.org.uk

All truth passes through three stages:
First, it is ridiculed;
Second, it is violently opposed; and
Third, it is accepted as self-evident.
-- Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860)
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