Inverness Woods Long Term Plan amendment

Inverness Woodlands Long Term Plan (LTP) is an amalgamation of Culloden Woodlands, Ord Hill, Craig Phadraig and Daviot. Inverness Woodlands stretch from the Black Isle in the north to Daviot in the south, and from the western edge of the city of Inverness to Cawdor in the east. Inverness Woodlands cover an area of approximately 1,156 ha of largely mixed coniferous forest. 

In this amendment there is a change to planned felling of trees and the species in which these areas will be planted afterwards. 

The change to the planned felling is due primarily to the current crop reaching or exceeding maturity and now present an increased risk of windblow. Given the potential for fallen trees to impact Network Rail infrastructure, their removal is proposed as part of Forestry and Land Scotland’s ongoing sustainable forest management programme. These areas are to be felled in stages to safeguard the rail network while minimising disruption to the local community. Broadleaves will be retained where safe to do so.

The changes to tree species selection are to introduce a more diverse mix of conifer and broadleaf species across parts of Culloden and Cullernie. By moving away from single species planting, the revised approach will improve the forest’s resilience to pests, disease, and climate change, while also enhancing habitat quality for wildlife. Increasing species diversity supports a healthier, more adaptable woodland that will deliver long term environmental and ecological benefits.

This amendment to the Long Term Plan has been developed carefully to minimise any impact on the local water environment. One of the watercourses within the proposed felling areas is known to flood, occasionally affecting nearby homes, so particular attention has been given to protecting water quality and managing runoff. The revised proposals take account of this risk by ensuring operations and future planting choices support good drainage, help stabilise soils and reduce the likelihood of contributing to downstream flooding.

We acknowledge the areas of Culloden and Cullernie are used extensively for informal recreation and we will plan alternative routes and diversions where possible.

We recognise the diverse interests represented among our many stakeholders from environmental groups, local residents, and recreational users and we remain committed to maintaining an open, transparent land management process. 

We welcome any questions or feedback you may have regarding these changes within our 28-day consultation period.

• Map 1 - Management
• Map 2 - Future species
• Map 3 - Water