Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is looking for feedback on its draft plans for Lewinside, a former dairy farm in South Lanarkshire, 3 km (just under 2 miles) south of Forth.

The 65 hectare site wraps around Winnyknowe Wood, which is to the southeast, and is bordered by mixed agricultural land, and Mouse Water to the west.

The draft plan sets out how FLS intends to focus on new woodland creation and on balancing a long-term sustainable supply of timber with improved biodiversity, improved habitat alongside Mouse Water and in the former Lairg Greenholes Lime Works.  

FLS Planning Forester, Laura Gardner, said;

“All of our land management plans set out what we intend to do at a forest location over a ten year period, and also give an indication of our plans for the ten years after that.

“The new woodland that we’re intending to plant will be just part of our drive to create more habitats to increase the site’s biodiversity. But over time it will also provide a great backdrop for people to visit for recreation and will become a fantastic community asset. It will fit in really well with the adjacent Scheduled Monument and National Monuments features.

“Getting public feedback on our plans is really important and we’d be happy to explain the opportunities and issues and hear some ideas.

“Unfortunately, with COVID-19 still impacting on how we all work, we are not holding public meetings or events. Instead, we are putting everything – including an introductory film - online so that people can look at it and feedback on it at their leisure.

“We’d really like to hear from as many people as possible.”

Anyone who wants to find out more, or leave feedback on the draft plans, can contact the local planning team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0300 067 6700 (West Calder Office).

The consultation will remain open until 14 March 2021.

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. forestryandland.gov.scot | twitter.com/ForestryLS

3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.