Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has initiated two public consultations on its proposed Land Management Plans for Glenbranter Forest and Strathlachlan Forest, both located on the Cowal Peninsula.

These consultations are part of FLS's routine ten-year review process for all land management plans, ensuring their continued alignment with FLS objectives and public expectations.

The new plans for both forests aim to balance several key objectives for the next decade. These include maintaining sawlog production to support the timber industry, enhancing and expanding areas of native broadleaf woodland, and building greater resilience within the forests. This resilience will be achieved through improved species, age, and structural diversity, crucial for mitigating the increasing threats posed by pests, diseases, and extreme weather events.

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As part of these comprehensive plans, the development of new forest roads will also be considered. Consultation on this necessary infrastructure will be carried out in stages over the coming years.

Full details and information regarding the concept plans are available online at the respective FLS webpages: Glenbranter Land Management Plan and Strathlachlan Land Management Plan.

Jamie Howie, FLS Planning Forester, emphasised the importance of community input. "Getting input and ideas from people in the local communities within the area is an essential part of the planning process, helping us develop well-informed and effective plans. So, we’re really keen to hear comments and feedback on the plans," he said.

Mr Howie outlined the broader goals: "Our general aims include to enhance productivity, expand native woodland, minimise the presence and impact of tree diseases and create forests that are more diverse while at the same time improving their conservation value for a wide variety of species. We’re also intending to maintain these woodlands’ appeal to visitors and to the local communities."

To facilitate feedback, FLS will host a public drop-in session covering both plans on 19th June 2025, from 2 pm to 8 pm at the Memorial Hall, Strachur, PA27 8DG. For those unable to attend, feedback can be provided online by visiting the dedicated Glenbranter Land Management Plan and Strathlachlan Land Management Plan pages on the FLS website. The consultation on these draft plans will remain open until 20th July 2025.