MONMOUTH MP Hugh Edwards is claiming a round one victory after championing the campaign to save Chepstow Park Wood from development as a holiday village.
Mr Edwards says Forest Enterprise has now agreed to delay any further action on the possible sale of the wood until a period of public consultation has taken place.
"Forest Enterprise have acknowledged the strength of public opposition to the proposed sale of Chepstow Park Wood and admit they should have consulted over the decision to advertise the sale," he said.
He was speaking after meeting Forestry officials at Itton with campaigners for the Save Our Wood movement, which is fighting to keep the area as a peaceful public amenity.
"Forest Enterprise assured us that no irrevocable decision had been taken regarding the two bids that have been received," said Mr Edwards.
"We are pleased that they have agreed to reconsider the situation for up to six months in order to consider local views.
"They also need confirmation from Monmouthshire County Council that it is not in the County Structure Plan to support a major development in the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
He said the matter would be raised when the director of Forest Enterprise Wales, Bob Farmer, meets Welsh Assembly Secretary Christine Gwyther in Cardiff this week.