The Hartwood Forests Land Management Plan (LMP) covers circa 522 hectares around the settlement of Hartwood, near Shotts, in North Lanarkshire. 

This plan sets out proposals for approximately 185ha of woodland creation and 100ha of peatland restoration over a ten-year period from 2024 to 2034, and includes the existing forests of Murdostoun and Mossband and the adjoining land at Hartwood Home Farm. 

Our long-term vision for this site is to establish and maintain diverse and resilient woodlands capable of providing a range of ecosystem services including timber production, biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and public recreation. In addition, we aim to restore peatland habitats to a more natural state to improve biodiversity value and secure a long-term carbon sink.

Following extensive analysis and consultation, the Hartwood Forests Land Management Plan was formally approved by Scottish Forestry, Central Scotland Conservancy in May 2024 and is scheduled for renewal by May 2034.

Timeline

• October 2021 - June 2022: Initial Brief and design concept for Hartwood Home Farm
• July 2022: Pre-planning community engagement on plans for Hartwood Home Farm
• December 2022: Murdostoun and Mossband and Hartwood Home Farm amalgamated into Hartwood Forests LMP
• August 2022 - September 2023: Detailed planning for Hartwood Forests LMP
• November 2023: Formal public consultation on LMP
• December 2023 - February 2024: Final updates to plan prior to formal submission
• March 2024: Plan submitted to Scottish Forestry for regulatory approval
• May 2024: Plan formally approved by Scottish Forestry Central Scotland Conservancy

Plan documents