Dean Forest Act 1667 facts for kids
Act of Parliament | |
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Long title | An Act for the Increase and preservation of Timber within the Forest of Deane. |
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Citation | 19 & 20 Cha. 2. c. 8
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Dates | |
Royal assent | 9 May 1668 |
Commencement | 10 October 1667 |
Repealed | 1 July 1971 |
Other legislation | |
Repealed by | Wild Creatures and Forest Laws Act 1971 |
Status: Repealed
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Text of statute as originally enacted |
The Dean Forest Act 1667 was an important law passed by the Parliament of England. Its main goal was to protect and increase the amount of timber (wood) in the Forest of Dean. This forest is located in Gloucestershire, England.
This law was very important because wood was a key resource in the 17th century. It was used for building ships, houses, and many other things.
Why Was This Law Needed?
In the 1600s, England relied heavily on its forests. Wood was essential for building the powerful ships of the Royal Navy. These ships protected the country and helped with trade.
The Forest of Dean was a special royal forest. It had been an important source of timber for centuries. However, over time, too many trees were being cut down.
This led to worries that England would run out of wood. Without enough timber, it would be hard to build new ships or repair old ones. This would make the country less safe.
What Did the Act Do?
The Dean Forest Act 1667 aimed to fix this problem. It was passed during the reign of King Charles II. The Act made rules to help the forest grow back.
It set aside certain areas for growing new trees. It also limited who could cut down trees and how many. The law helped manage the forest more carefully.
The Act also tried to stop people from taking wood illegally. It was a way to make sure the forest could provide timber for the future.
When Was the Act Repealed?
Laws can be changed or removed over time. The Dean Forest Act 1667 stayed in place for many years. However, it was eventually replaced by newer laws.
The Act was officially repealed (removed) on 1 July 1971. This happened when the Wild Creatures and Forest Laws Act 1971 was passed. This new law updated many old rules about forests and wildlife in England.
Even though the 1667 Act is no longer active, it shows how important forests were to England's history. It also shows how governments tried to protect natural resources.