Hi;

Photographs indicate that the area forward of the breakwater was planked. However the part of the deck in which there was anchor handling equipment was bare metal, painted dark gray. The reasoning was that the anchors, chains and restraints would have shredded a wooden deck in short order. Later British designs usually had the entire deck forward of the breakwater completely metal.If you can find it, Norman Friedman's book about British cruisers, gives ample illustration. Hope this is helpful.
Regards, rjccjr