PEOPLE using Epping Forest may end up paying for parking and cycling under plans to change its 140-year-old founding Act of Parliament.

Campaigner Paul Morris said: “Everyone is under the assumption that this is the people’s forest. The City of London Corporation’s take is that it isn’t.”

The campaign culminated in the Epping Forest Act of 1878 and the City of London’s role as conservator of the forest came after a successful campaign to save the forest for public use.

Queen Victoria stood before a crowd of half a million on May 6, 1882 when she dedicated Epping Forest to the people.

Over the years the Act has been the subject of many changes in order to bring governing up to modern-day regulations.

But this time, the proposed changes have been met with opposition from people who want a say on the land promised for the enjoyment of them and generations of their family to come.

The City Corporation’s elected members are currently considering plans to ask Parliament for additional legislation to “regulate” green spaces.

According to the forest guardians, the main reason for the changes is to allow them to strengthen power to deal with anti-social behaviour and provide more ways for them to generate income through letting accommodation and events.

Paul Morris, who founded the Epping Forest Forum after the successful campaign to save the tea hut, is calling for the set-up of a community group which can have a say on the future of the forest.

“The act has been changed quite regularly over the decades, but as you know, little amendments can make big differences,” he said.

“Everyone loves this forest; it is the jewel in the crown of this area. The district takes its name from it; the MP sits as Member of Parliament for Epping Forest.

“There needs to be some form of local representation established so that decisions are not made behind closed doors.

“If we start paying for things now, how long will it be before there is a charge for cycling and other things, more restrictions?”

Proposals include allowing events such as wedding receptions and exhibitions in the forest and creating licenses for people who make money on corporation land, such as dog-walkers and fitness instructors.

Maximum leases for cafes and similar businesses could be extended from three to 21 years, and fines for those who break by-laws could be increased dramatically.

Buckhurst Hill resident and Freeman of the City of London, Sue Jay, said: “I am dismayed at the changes that the City of London are proposing without seeming to consider any alternatives, especially in regard to funding.”

Sue Ireland, director of open spaces at the City of London Corporation said the changes will not be detrimental to the promise made to the people.

She said: “Epping Forest is, and will remain the people’s Forest.

“An Open Spaces Bill would complement, not supersede the 1878 Act – and the existing duty to preserve the natural aspect of the Forest will be maintained.

“The purpose of our role as conservators of these green spaces is for them to remain as a natural amenity for public recreation and enjoyment. The proposed changes will not undermine that.”

The City of London Corporation will enter a bill of proposed changes to Parliament next month ahead of a debate in January or February next year.