Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) have announced the development of a new Merkland Land Management Plan.

The 681ha productive forest lies just to the north of Brodick and is prominent in the iconic view of Goatfell as the Calmac ferry approaches Arran and from the Brodick seafront.

Although it sets out a ten-year plan for the site – with a more general indication of plans for the ten years after that – a substantial part of the Merkland Land Management Plan (LMP) is concerned with the removal of larch trees affected by or at risk from tree disease Phytophtora ramorum.

Andy Walker, FLS forester on Arran, said: "Merkland is a mixed conifer plantation that is associated with the designed landscape of Brodick Castle and is important for biodiversity and for recreation. It's also important for timber production.

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"Unfortunately, Phytophthora ramorum is now widespread and we will need to carry out major felling of larch over the next five years. It will have a huge impact on the forest but will ultimately improve the health of the trees and the woodland overall.

"However, the substantial work that we have to do also gives us an opportunity to redesign the forest to make it more resilient in years to come, but also to enhance its visual amenity in the landscape and for local people and visitors, and also allow us to continue with sustainable timber production.

"We would like to hear the view of local residents so would invite anyone interested to look over the plans that are online and give us feedback on them at their leisure."

Anyone who for any reason is unable to take part in an online consultation can request printed copies of the plan summary from [email protected]

The online consultation will remain open until 5th December 2021. A further consultation will take place next year once initial feedback is assessed and firm proposals for the site are drawn up.