MP expresses concerns over growing threats to Epping Forest

Dr Hudson, a veterinary surgeon by profession and the first vet elected to the House of Commons since the 1840s, began by placing Epping Forest in its historic and environmental context.

Describing it as the “heart and lungs of north‑east London and west Essex”, he highlighted its 6,000 acres of ancient woodland, its 55,000 ancient trees and its status as one of the earliest Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

He traced its protection back to the Epping Forest Act 1878 and Queen Victoria’s dedication of the land “for the use and enjoyment of my people for all time”.

Turning to modern pressures, Dr Hudson warned that the forest and surrounding green belt remain “under constant threat” from speculative development and major energy infrastructure.

He raised objections to several large housing proposals, including plans for hundreds of homes near Stewards Green Road and Old Pastures, arguing they lacked proper environmental assessment and were unsuitable for the area.

While acknowledging the need for more housing, he stressed that new homes must be built “in the right places”, supported by the necessary GP surgeries, schools and transport connections.

On climate change, Dr Hudson expressed support for renewable energy but questioned the impact of “huge solar plants” on productive farmland and the Green Belt.

He called for a balanced approach that protects food security and biodiversity while still advancing the transition to cleaner energy.

He also addressed day‑to‑day concerns, focusing on the troubled Central line service, which he uses daily to commute to Parliament.

He criticised overcrowding, delays, excessive heat, screeching noise and persistent graffiti, and said he would continue to press Transport for London for improvements and for the acceleration of train refurbishment.

In a candid section on mental health, Dr Hudson drew on both his veterinary background and his rural experience.

He spoke about the trauma experienced during the 2001 Foot and Mouth outbreak and the higher rates of suicide within the veterinary profession.

He praised local initiatives, including the Epping Forest Youth Council’s work on vaping, and welcomed national action on disposable vapes while stressing that more needed to be done to protect children.

Closing his speech, Dr Hudson paid tribute to The Epping Society and other local groups for their long‑standing advocacy.

Their efforts, he said, mean that while the Green Belt is “not out of danger, it is safer than it might be”, and he urged residents to continue lobbying their elected representatives.

If you would like to join The Epping Society, please visit: eppingsociety.org,

• Richard Mathams is a member of The Epping Society.