Public Views on Woodland Management Development Invited

22 July 2003

A Woodland Strategy for the Western Isles is being developed which will promote the sustainable management of existing woodlands and the planting of new woodland in appropriate areas.

As a valuable part of the process, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and the Forestry Commission will be holding 4 open days (1 each in Lewis, Harris, Uist and Barra) to provide an opportunity for the public to offer their input on woodland management development in the Western Isles.

It is acknowledged that consideration has to be given to the role of landowners, crofters, developers, public agencies, voluntary organisations, educational establishments and the wider community in realising the main aims of the Strategy.

The public are invited to the below consultation meetings for this purpose;

29 July: 12 - 7pm: Harris Hotel, Tarbert
30 July: South Uist and Benbecula Agricultural Show - for the duration of the show
31 July: 12 - 7pm: Woodland Centre, Stornoway
5 August: 12 - 7pm: Under 5’s Centre, Castlebay, Barra

The Strategy will set out a long-term vision for woodlands in the Western Isles which will serve the needs of local people.

Chairman of the Comhairle’s Sustainable Development Committee, Archie Campbell, commented:
“The Comhairle is keen to get the public’s views on what a woodland strategy should say. Consultation is a key part of the process. The Comhairle aims to put in place a strategy that will act as a catalyst for positive management of and an increased investment in woodlands within the Western Isles and in particular in our crofting communities.”

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 01851 706412 (Home)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk