People living in and around Bonchester Bridge are being invited to help shape the future management plan for Wauchope West Forest. 

Forestry and Land Scotland, which looks after the woodland, is holding a drop—in session in the William Laidlaw Memorial Hall on Thu 5 Oct (2.30-6.30) where local residents can learn more and also give their views.  

A land management plan gives a detailed description of proposed works for the ten years from 2025-2026, with an indicative proposal of the ten years after that.  

FLS’ Planning Forester, John Ogilvie, said;  

“Wauchope is visited quite regularly by local people so we’d like to make them aware of what we’re planning to do over the next ten years and also get their ideas and views. 

“It is a large and complex site and sustainable timber production will continue to be a mainstay. Making the forest more resilient to climate change by considering a wider range of species is also part of the plan, and there are a range of habitats and species in the mix too.  

“I’d encourage anyone with an interest to come along to the drop-in session to find out more and discuss our plans with us but those who can’t make it can also take part online.”  

The land management plan covers just over 4000 hectares of forest (about 400 times the size of Bonchester Bridge) and includes Shankend, Whitrope and Wauchope Burn forest blocks, as well as the old forest nursery just south of the village.  

Anyone who would like to know more can contact FLS at john.ogilvie@forestryandland.gov.scot or on 07887 822525, or take part in the consultation online. 

 

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 paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot