Grazing on Chase plan

Grazing animals such as sheep, ponies and cattle could be re-introduced on Cannock Chase as part of grand plans for its future, it was revealed today.

A six-month survey was carried out to find out people's views about the beauty spot and results showed overwhelming support for continuing to preserve the land.

Grazing is now being considered after 65 per cent of people expressed interest in its re-introduction.

But many people did express reservations about such a move if it was to result in areas being closed to the public.

Councillor John Wakefield, Staffordshire County Council's cabinet member for countryside issues, said: "The Chase is a unique wildlife habitat but it is a fragile ecosystem that needs to be carefully looked after."

He added: "Cannock Chase was under real threat after many years without proper management, but there has been enormous effort put in over the last decade and it has pulled the Chase back from the brink.

"This survey has given us confidence that the public back what we are doing."

Biodiversity officer Sue Sheppard said: "Animals were always traditionally grazed on the Chase and this only ended in the early 20th century. This directly contributed to the decline of the Chase heaths. Sheep and cattle helped keep bracken in check by trampling the emerging plants, while local people harvested it for animal bedding."

Country park managers will put together a new country park plan over the next year which will build on current practice and are looking for ways to get more local people involved in the debate about grazing.

A leaflet giving the main findings of the public consultation is now available in the Cannock Chase Visitors Centre in Marquis Drive.