Forestry on Arran the focus of drop-in sessions

Forestry and Land Scotland is inviting residents to a drop-in session next month to learn more about FLS’ work and challenges for sustainable forest management on Arran.

The events will provide an opportunity to discuss timber harvesting and transport on Arran, the FLS recreation offering on the island, the new FLS office and residential accommodation plans at Whitefield Farm, Kingscross, as well as options for tree planting, woodland creation and the feasibility of a new timber export point.

Colin Binnie, FLS’ South Region Deputy Manager, said;

“Over the next 10 to 15 years there will be a significant upturn in our output from Arran and we’re looking to harvest and export just over one million tonnes of timber.

“This upturn presents challenges and options. We have some ideas on how we can successfully meet these challenges and come up with balanced solutions and we are keen to discuss these with local residents and gather feedback and points of view on those ideas.

“We’d like to invite anyone with an interest in finding out more to come along and have their say.”

The drop-in sessions will be:

• Wednesday 24th September – 2.30pm to 6.00pm at the Brodick Community Hall
• Thursday 25th September – 12.30pm to 6.00 pm at the Whiting Bay Village Hall

The upturn in timber production presents opportunities for forestry companies to invest in staff, equipment and shipping options for the island and the timber supply chain for Scotland.

FLS has invested significantly in Market Road, Brodick - the main and primary timber export point on Arran – having purchased and upgraded the site.  However, with the anticipated upturn in timber production, and with most of that timber coming from the South of the island, options for potential additional timber export facility at Whitefield Farm, Kingscross are also being explored.

Separate from that, the Whitefield Farm site will also be developed to provide a new FLS office, yard and staff residential accommodation on the island, helping to support long-term staff retention. 

FLS is especially keen to get feedback on options for tree planting and woodland creation at this site at Kingscross, and its wider recreation offer which will be subject to review in 2026/27.

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. Home - Forestry and Land Scotland | twitter.com/ForestryLS