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Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is inviting the local community from Whitburn, Harthill, Fauldhouse and Longridge to come along discuss the area and help inform the design of a new woodland.

The Polkemmet site was purchased by FLS in 2020 with the aim of establishing a new multipurpose woodland delivering timber production, carbon capture, biodiversity value, as well as community and social benefits.

FLS is now developing a Land Management Plan (LMP) that will detail the design of the new woodland and outline site management activities for a period of 10 years.

Tom Roberts, Planning Forester for FLS, said;

“At this early stage in the process, we are seeking views and ideas from local communities to help inform the design of the new woodland and the overall management of the site.

“We’re looking to get as much feedback as possible. Everything is online so people can look over the plans and offer feedback and they can also come along to our stall at the Fauldhouse & Breich Valley CDT annual fair on Saturday 3 September (11am – 2pm) and chat to us about the plans and give us their views.

“We hope that everyone with an interest will get involved and help shape the new woodland.”

Following our community engagement, a Land Management Plan for the area will be developed and there will be a period of formal stakeholder consultation towards the end of 2022.

 

Notes to editors

  1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.

  2. forestryandland.gov.scot | twitter.com/ForestryLS

  3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot