New Forest Act 1697 facts for kids
| Act of Parliament | |
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| Long title | An Act for the increase and preservation of timber in the New Forest in the County of Southampton. |
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| Citation | 9 Will. 3. c. 33 (Ruffhead: 9 & 10 Will. 3. c. 36) |
| Dates | |
| Royal assent | 5 July 1698 |
| Other legislation | |
| Repealed by | Wild Creatures and Forest Laws Act 1971 |
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Status: Repealed
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| Text of statute as originally enacted | |
The New Forest Act 1697 was an important law made in England way back in 1697. It was created by the Parliament of England, which is like the government's law-making body. This Act aimed to grow more trees in a special area called the New Forest. The main goal was to get wood for building ships for the Royal Navy, England's powerful fleet of warships.
Why the Act Was Needed
In the late 1600s, England needed a lot of wood. This wood was especially important for building and repairing ships for the Royal Navy. These ships were vital for protecting the country and for trade. The New Forest, a large area of woodland in southern England, was a natural place to find this timber.
What the Act Said
The New Forest Act 1697 had clear rules about how to grow more trees.
- Planting Trees: The Act said that certain parts of the New Forest, called "Waste Lands," should be fenced off. These areas would then be planted with new trees.
- How Much Land: The New Forest was huge, about 85,454 acres. The Act planned to enclose 1,000 acres right away. Another 1,000 acres would be fenced in 1699. After that, 200 acres would be added each year for 20 years.
- Protecting Timber: Once the trees were growing, no one could cut them down without permission from the Royal Navy. If the Navy didn't need certain wood, it could be sold in nearby towns.
- Local Rights: After 1716, people living near these fenced-off areas were allowed to graze their animals and collect firewood. This was similar to the rules that existed during the time of Queen Elizabeth I.
When the Act Ended
The New Forest Act 1697 was in effect for a long time. However, the entire Act was officially cancelled, or "repealed," much later. This happened in 1971, when a new law called the Wild Creatures and Forest Laws Act 1971 was passed.
Related Topics
- English land law
- New Forest Act 1800
