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3 minutes

Public invited to help shape the future of Montreathmont Woods

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is inviting local residents, forest users and interested groups to have their say on the future management of Montreathmont Forest as part of the development of a new Long Term Plan (LTP) for the woodland.

Located in east Angus, Montreathmont Forest covers 997 hectares and is known for its productive timber crops, particularly Sitka spruce and Scots pine. The forest is also widely used by local people for walking, dog exercising and cycling.

FLS is currently preparing a new 10-year plan that will guide how the forest is managed into the future. The draft plan focuses on three key objectives: maintaining timber production, increasing resilience to storm damage and expanding riparian woodland areas.

Recent years have seen significant change within the forest following storm damage, including the impacts of Storm Arwen in 2021, which resulted in extensive windblow and subsequent restocking work. The new plan provides an opportunity for people and local communities to help shape how the forest develops over the next decade.

Forestry and Land Scotland Planning Forester James Reid said:

“Montreathmont is an important forest for timber production, wildlife and recreation, and we're keen to hear from the people who know and use it. The new plan will help shape how the forest is managed over the next decade, including how we build resilience to future storm events, support sustainable timber production and enhance the wider environment.”

FLS is keen to hear from anyone with an interest in the forest, including those who use it regularly for recreation, live nearby or have knowledge of local environmental, heritage or land management issues.

Further information on the plan for Montreathmont can be found here: Montreathmont Long Term Plan | Forestry and Land Scotland

A public drop-in session will be held on Tuesday 24 November, from 5pm to 8pm, at Guthrie Village Hall, giving people the opportunity to view draft proposals, ask questions and discuss plans directly with the FLS team before it is submitted for approval.

Anyone unable to attend can also submit comments or request further information by emailing enquiries.east@forestryandland.gov.scot

Notes to editors

  1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
  2. Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot