Forestry and Land Scotland is advising members of the public that there will be no public access to Durris, Fetteresso and Drumtochty Forests on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 August.

The restrictions (under Section 11 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003)  are to help ensure public safety during the Grampian Forest Rally.

The organisers have already announced that the event will be spectator free.

Justin Livesey, FLS’ Area Visitor Services Manager, said;

“Because of COVID-19 restrictions the Rally organisers are running the event without spectators.

“However, closing the forests will help ensure that everyone is kept safe. These three forests are very popular with local people and welcome lots of forest users on most days - it would be alarmingly easy for a forest visitor to lose their bearings or for a dog to run off in the wrong direction.

“The event organisers will take steps to ensure that entrances are closed off and that advisory and warning signage is in place.

“We would strongly encourage all forest users to behave responsibly and – for these two days – find an alternative place to visit.”

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.