A GUIDE intended to improve the process of engagement with local people and communities in new woodland-creation projects in Scotland has been launched. 

The Good Practice Guide was prepared by individuals from across the south of the country with experience in responding to woodland-creation applications and by people working in the forestry industry, with the advice and support of Scottish Forestry and the Scottish Land Commission.

Scotland’s forestry secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “Meaningfully engaging communities in discussions about woodland-creation projects is crucial as we strive to increase woodland cover across Scotland.

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“Engagement with communities during the project development and approval process helps to ensure that their aspirations and concerns are taken into account when decisions are being made about the places they live and care about.”

Last month’s launch took place at Corsock Village Hall.

Confor's Stuart Goodall welcomed the guide Confor's Stuart Goodall welcomed the guide (Image: MIKE BOLAM)

Stuart Goodall, CEO of Confor, said: “Ultimately, the aim of the Guide is to improve the process for local people, communities and the people seeking to create new woodland, and to enable Scotland’s forestry and wood processing sector to make a vital contribution to tackling catastrophic climate change.”

View the full guide here: www.confor.org.uk/media/3777050/good-practice-guide.pdf