Forestry plants £395m of growth

Scotland’s National Forest Estate generates £395 million every year for the Scottish economy, according to a new report.

More than 11,000 jobs in both the forestry and timber processing and tourism industries are supported through activity on the estate.

Around nine million visits are made each year, generating nearly £110 million for the visitor economy.

The figures are revealed in a new Forest Enterprise Scotland report, the first comprehensive economic assessment of the estate.

It was formed nearly 100 years ago, with the first properties being bought and planted with trees to build up a timber reserve after the First World War.

Although the need for timber for future war efforts was not needed, successive governments continued to invest in the expansion and diversification of the estate and the growing range of activities it hosts.

Over the decades, the estate has seen huge transformations. There has been a marked increase in timber production to the wood processing sector, conservation management of natural and heritage assets and landscape restoration projects.

More recently, there has been the development of starter farms, renewable energy projects and the investment in visitor attractions.

These include wildlife viewing and mountain biking centres such as the 7stanes and Cuningar Loop.

Environment Minister Dr Aileen McLeod said: “The estate is certainly one of Scotland’s greatest natural assets.

“It is more relevant today than ever before as it provides so many different benefits to Scottish society.”

The estate now covers 650,000 hectares (9% of Scotland’s land area) and is managed by Forest Enterprise Scotland on behalf of Scottish ministers.

Simon Hodge, chief executive of Forest Enterprise Scotland added: “The estate is very much a national treasure which has changed greatly over the years.

“Nowadays, Forest Enterprise Scotland generates around 80% of its income through activities on the estate, mainly through timber supplies but also through renewables development, venison and property sales.

“Our work ranges from spanning rural development to urban greening, providing opportunities for local businesses or supplying sustainable materials for national industries.

“In addition to the bulk of this work, we also provide important support to the tourism economy.”

In total, £395 million of economic activity is generated by the estate each year.

Forestry and timber processing accounts for £285 million and tourism and recreation £109.6 million.

Around 11,015 people are supported by activity on the estate, forestry and timber processing having 7,225 jobs and recreation and tourism 3,790.

Picture: Kim Cessford. Scotland’s forests, such as Tentsmuir, provide huge economic benefits for Scotland, a report says.