Sussex is one of the most densely wooded counties in the UK, despite its high population and its proximity to London.

But there are signs, even in these conservation-conscious days, that parts of the rich woodland heritage are at risk.

There is an insatiable demand for homes because Sussex is beautiful, desirable and convenient. The Government is allowing far too many to be built in the county.

Despite strong pleas from both the county councils, house builders are being permitted to put up thousands of homes every year.

They have to go somewhere and that can involve the destruction of ancient woodland, such as at Ashenground near Haywards Heath.

There are also plans to build hundreds of homes on part of Titnore Wood, near Durrington.

These woods are precious and they have survived for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Once the bulldozers move in, they can never be replaced.

There might be some excuse for all the homes if they were housing local people in severe need but generally they are going to wealthy people from outside Sussex.

Politicians from all parties must carry on campaigning for restrictions on building homes in the county.

Whitehall and Westminster can't see the wood for the trees. The danger is that by the time they can, it will be too late.