MSP praises woodland work

The work to improve access and boost community involvement in Castlemilk Park’s woodlands has been praised by Environment Minister Mairi McAllan.

The urban woodlands have been used extensively by local people for volunteering, health walks and for teaching school children about the environment.

To encourage more people to enjoy the greenspace, a new Connect with Castlemilk Park leaflet has been produced, detailing all the nature trails in the woodlands.

During a recent visit to Castlemilk Park, Ms McAllan stated how impressed she was by the ongoing work.

She said:“The work being carried out here by local volunteers is getting more people involved in their local woodland and green space.

“It’s a great example of what can be achieved right in the heart of an urban area.

“The woodlands are providing a place for people to reconnect after a very tough 18 months.

“Even during lockdown, virtual woodland walks were being offered as part of a number of online activities.

“I’m glad to see that in-person activities are now resuming and would encourage people to get involved.”

Scotland’s Forestry Strategy aims to increase the diverse range of people and groups using woodlands.

Scottish Forestry has been supporting Castlemilk Park since 2011 through the employment of a Community Woodland Officer.

The work at the woodland has won several awards in the past and continues to deliver multiple benefits for the local community, while volunteers are involved in woodland maintenance and are actively involved in hosting events.