Vision for Newcastleton published following public consultations

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) has published the final draft of its plans to shape the recreational development of Newcastleton Forest.

The framework is the culmination of wide-ranging public consultation with local people, businesses, forest users and other organisations incorporating the feedback and ideas put forward.

It identifies key opportunities for future partnerships to support the development of the forest and realise its potential as a regionally important visitor destination.

FLS will continue to work with strategic partners across the region – including the Newcastleton and District Community Council and Community Trust, South of Scotland Enterprise, South of Scotland Destination Alliance, Scottish Borders Council, VisitScotland and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland – to work towards realising the vision set out in the framework.

FLS Regional Visitor Services Manager, Martin Page, said:

“During the spring and summer of 2024, we consulted extensively with the public, community groups, local organisations and businesses on FLS’ ambitions for recreation and tourism at Newcastleton Forest.

“We listened and learned from everyone and are delighted to be able to publish the final draft of our vision and ideas.

“Harnessing the tourism potential of Newcastleton Forest will play an important part in supporting and growing the local economy and realising the ambitions of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy.”

Some of the potential opportunities identified include developing additional mountain bike and long-distance trails, enhancing car parks and providing additional facilities like toilets, catering outlets, and exploring accommodation options such as low-cost camping to attract a wider range of visitors.

Any development opportunities put forward will be subject to a detailed business case process, a sustainable management plan, internal approvals, community consultation and successful external funding bids before being progressed. Successful approvals may be supported through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.

Martin added:

“The success of achieving the vision for Newcastleton will require a sustained partnership approach, with FLS managing the woodland for commercial forestry and collaborating with various community and key stakeholders to secure funding and deliver the potential projects.

“Through working with others towards a common goal, we aim that the forest will better meet the needs of all our visitors in the future, including walkers, cyclists or mountain bikers and horse-riders.”

Find more information on our ideas and vision for Newcastleton here: Newcastleton Forest Framework for Recreation Investment.

The framework for Newcastleton is the first in a region wide programme being developed and delivered by FLS for our key visitor destinations across the South of Scotland. A final draft framework for Dalbeattie will be published in the initial part of 2025 following on from public consultations held earlier this year.

FLS will be holding a further phase of public consultations for the 7stanes visitor sites at Glentrool and Kirroughtree in the first half of 2025 with the final stage of the programme focussing on forests in Ae and Mabie starting later in the year. Dates for these events will be advised on the FLS website ahead of time. 

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.
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3. Media enquiries to Neil Ratley, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07748 872785 or neil.ratley@forestryandland.gov.scot