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The Forestry Commission-controlled wood is about four miles from Knowle on the Warwick Road.
It has been classed as a “small commercial” site by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs as part of a programme of land transfers and sales.
These are “small commercially valuable forests and woodlands which typically can produce timber and have other commercial opportunities, such as sporting use”.
Defra said: “Levels of public benefits are generally low or moderate, but may include conservation features, such as ancient woodland, and informal use by
local walkers, cyclists and horse riders.
“Few of these woods are well known nationally but they can be of local or regional importance.”
It said “many” would be sold by 2015 but leasing and transfer to community and charitable groups were other options.
The controversial plans have been put forward by environment secretary Caroline Spelman MP, whose Meriden constituency includes Knowle and Dorridge.
She said: “State control of forests dates back to the First World War, when needs were very different.
“There’s now no reason for the Government to be in the business of timber production and forest management.
“It’s time for the Government to step back and allow those who are most involved with England’s woodlands to play a much greater role in their future.
“We want to move from a ‘Big Government’ approach to a ‘Big Society’ one, so that we can give different groups – individuals, businesses and civil society organisations – the opportunity to be involved in managing the natural environment. And we will make sure that public access is maintained and biodiversity protected.”
The Campaign to Protect Rural England said: “We are concerned that current proposals do not contain strong enough guarantees that any change in future ownership will not undermine the quality of the landscape, the rich diversity of wildlife or people’s ability to get out there and enjoy our forests.”
The Forestry Commission website says of the wood: “Whether walking, riding or picnicking, Hay Wood is the perfect place to get away from it all and relax.
“As a peaceful ancient woodland site there is a great diversity of wildlife to look out for; foxgloves, bluebells, birds, butterflies, rabbits and Muntjac deer are just a few you could encounter.”
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