Almost 25,000 acres of new tree planting proposals approved

Rural Economy Secretary hails the ‘working together’ of those in the industry

Almost 25,000 acres of new tree planting proposals were approved in 2017, according to government figures.

Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing hailed the figures and said new planting proposal approvals were up by more than 8,500 acres on 2016.

Speaking during a visit to a tree planting site at Allanfauld Farm, near Kilsyth, Mr Ewing said 21 recommendations contained within the Mackinnon Review project were being implemented to make tree planting easier, faster and more transparent.

“Over the past 12 months a huge amount of work has been completed in order to transform the tree planting process for future years,” said Mr Ewing.

“I have been very impressed by the way everyone across the forestry sector has worked together and committed to supporting the improvements needed.

“I believe this work is now having a significant and positive impact on the forestry sector.

“This will help us all in our national endeavour to achieve our country’s ambitious woodland creation targets.”

He said new planting approval numbers for 2017 were very promising and the increased interest in woodland creation was very welcome.

“The Scottish Government is committed to driving forward tree planting programmes, whilst ensuring we get the right trees in the right place.”

He said government has ambitions to plant 10,000 hectares of new woodland every year until 2021, and 15,000 hectares each year thereafter until 2025.

The budget for woodland creation grants has also increased by £6 million to £46m for 2018/19.

I believe this work is now having a significant and positive impact on the forestry sector. FERGUS EWING

The Scottish Government has ambitions to plant 10,000 hectares of new woodland every year until 2021, and 15,000 hectares each year thereafter until 2025.