Polkemmet was purchased by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) in 2020 with the aim of establishing a new multipurpose woodland delivering timber production, carbon capture, biodiversity value, and social benefits on a former opencast coal mining site.

The site is located between the town of Whitburn and the villages of Harthill, Fauldhouse and Longridge in the West Lothian Council area. It extends to approximately 243 hectares and adjoins existing FLS land at Fauldhouse and West Benhar to the west (see Location Map).

West Benhar and Fauldhouse are covered by a separate Land Management Plan, which is due for renewal in 2028.

Following extensive analysis and consultation, the land management plan for the Polkemmet was formally approved by Central Scotland Conservancy in January 2024 and is scheduled for renewal by January 2034. 

Timeline  

• 2020: Site purchased
• 2022/2023: Site surveys and draft proposals
• June/July 2023: Public consultation on draft plan
• September 2023: Draft plan sent to Scottish Forestry for approval
• January 2024: Plan formally approved
• Winter 2026/2027: Commencement of planting

Documents and maps

• Polkemmet Land Management Plan (PDF)
• Polkemmet Location Map (PDF)
• Polkemmet Access Map (PDF)
• Polkemmet Current Land Use Map (PDF)
• Polkemmet Context Map (PDF)
• Polkemmet Concept Map (PDF)
• Polkemmet Management Map (PDF)
• Polkemmet Planting Map (PDF)
• Polkemmet Future Habitats and Species Map (PDF)
• Polkemmet Habitat Restoration Map (PDF)