Kilmory project up for three awards
A leading green initiative in Argyll and Bute has been nominated for three top environmental awards.
The ambitious project to create 30 hectares of native woodland in Lochgilphead has been shortlisted for three different awards across the UK, including at this year’s RSPB Nature Scotland Awards, the Scottish Green Energy Awards, and the national Utility Week Awards.
A partnership between Argyll and Bute Council, Scottish and Southern Electric Networks (SSEN) Transmission and Argyll and the Isles Coast and Countryside Trust (ACT), the project is part of the drive to cut the region’s carbon emissions, increase native biodiversity and achieve net-zero status.
Native woodland is being planted across council-owned land, located mostly around Kilmory, with the 30 hectares being delivered through ACT’s compensatory planting agreement with SSEN Transmission, as part of an upgrade to overhead lines connecting Inveraray and Lochgilphead.
Councillor Ross Moreland, Argyll and Bute Council’s policy lead for climate change and environment services, said: ‘The Lochgilphead project epitomises the work we are doing to reduce carbon emissions, re-wild with native species and achieve net zero by collaborating with our key partners and community groups to create a climate-friendly Argyll and Bute.
‘Being shortlisted for these prestigious awards is fantastic recognition for the work we’re doing to reduce our carbon footprint, improve biodiversity and safeguard the environment for future generations.’
Ross Lilley, ACT chairman, said: ‘We’re delighted to be able to work in partnership with Argyll and Bute Council and SSEN Transmission to help combat climate change and restore biodiversity whilst realising benefits for our communities.
‘The Kilmory planting complements ACT’s work on peatland and woodland restoration elsewhere in Argyll, and has been a great demonstration of what can be achieved through partnership working.’
Richard Baldwin, SSEN’s head of consents and environment, said: ‘Argyll’s rainforests are a truly stunning and precious resource and we’re delighted to be playing a small part in helping ensure the long-term sustainability of this nationally significant natural asset.’