THE CENTRAL SCOTLAND FOREST – WHAT AND WHERE IS IT?
What it’s not, is a conventional forest – although if all the trees due to be planted by 2015 were in the one place they would cover an area the size of Greater Glasgow, 34000 hectares.
So where are all the trees? – they are spread throughout 620 square miles bounded by Edinburgh, Glasgow, Falkirk/Stirling and Lanark in enough woodlands for everyone to enjoy.
The creation of the ‘Forest’ is dramatically improving the image, environment and landscape of a degraded part of Scotland and will play a key role in its future prosperity.
It is providing a greener, cleaner and more versatile environment for the 750,000 people who live and work in it, as well as for the many visitors to, and travellers through, the area.
New wooded landscapes are improving its image.
Countryside access and recreation are contributing to quality of life and health issues.
Land-use change and management are providing employment and training opportunities.
It provides timber, shelter and an alternative and viable use for agricultural land.
It creates habitats for wildlife and is an important educational resource.
It provides an effective model of sustainable development.
Through environmental works, delivered with community involvement, it addresses the issues of social and environmental justice and economic development.
Most important, it has many beautiful locations; wildlife and habitats of international importance and lots of natural and commercial attractions – so, get into it!
