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Sherwood Forest: Tourism
10 February 2026
Lead MP
Michelle Welsh
Sherwood Forest
Lab
Responding Minister
Not recorded
Tags
EconomyTransport
Word Count: 3761
Other Contributors: 6
At a Glance
Michelle Welsh raised concerns about sherwood forest: tourism in Westminster Hall. Response awaited from government.
Key Requests to Government:
Welsh asks the Minister to expand on what the Government is doing to protect and invest in cultural assets like those found in Sherwood Forest. She also calls for better transport links and community investments to enhance tourism.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Michelle Welsh is concerned about the deteriorating conditions in Sherwood Forest over the past 14 years, highlighting issues such as inadequate transport and economic outcomes for communities. She mentions that despite its rich history and cultural significance, parts of Sherwood Forest are facing challenges, with some historical areas not well-connected by public transport. She also notes that while there have been efforts to celebrate Sherwood Forest Day, the day-to-day support and investment in local businesses and heritage sites need improvement.
Amanda Hack
Lab
North West Leicestershire
Stressed the importance of green spaces for environmental and mental health benefits as well as economic advantages, advocating for capitalising on tourism potential across Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire forests.
David Rutley
Con
Macclesfield
David Rutley thanked Michelle Welsh for her contributions, emphasizing the importance of Sherwood Forest Day in celebrating heritage and culture. He highlighted the Mayor of the East Midlands's support for tourism efforts.
James Naish
Lab
Rushcliffe
Supported the Centre of it All marketing campaign launched last week by Mayor Claire Ward, aiming for a £1 billion visitor economy in Sherwood Forest and the Trent sports quarter in Rushcliffe.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Highlighted the importance of funding for tourism promotion to attract visitors to Strangford and suggested that such an investment would encourage repeat visits to the United Kingdom.
Michael Payne
Lab
Gedling
Celebrated Sherwood Forest Day, highlighting the historical significance of communities in Gedling that were once part of Sherwood Forest. He mentioned plans to unveil plaques in local pubs and thanked Anthony Hughes, founder of Lincoln Green brewery, for support. Recognised the importance of preserving local history through various historical societies.
Steve Yemm
Lab
Mansfield
Celebrated the legacy of Major Hayman Rooke, a resident who discovered and is associated with the Major Oak tree in Sherwood Forest.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.