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Home , Clackmannanshire, Gartness, Highland (council area), Mugdock, Scottish Forestry, Stirling (council area)

and Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Stirling and Clackmannanshire

Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Supplementary Guidance

May 2019

Page I 1 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Stirling & Clackmannanshire Forest & Woodland Strategy Supplementary Guidance

May 2019

Further Information:

Stirling Council Planning Services, Teith House, Kerse Road, Stirling, FK7 7QA www.stirling.gov.uk

Clackmannanshire Council Kilncraigs, Greenside St, FK10 1EB www.clacks.gov.uk/

Central Green Network Trust Hillhouseridge, Shottskirk Road, Shotts, North , ML7 4JS www.csgnt.org.uk

Page I 2 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy Contents

Page

1 Introducing the Strategy ...... 4

2 The Context for Forestry and Woodland ...... 5 2.1 National Policy Context ...... 5 2.2 National Regulation and Control ...... 6 2.3 Local Policy Context ...... 6 2.4 Scotland’s Forest and Woodland Resource ...... 7 2.5 Forestry and Woodlands in Stirling and Clackmannanshire ...... 7 2.6 Other Considerations ...... 8

3 Vision and Objectives ...... 12 3.1 Vision ...... 12

4 Opportunities For Woodland Expansion ...... 13 4.1 Overarching Principle ...... 13 4.2 Sensitive, Potential and Preferred Locations ...... 13 4.3 Habitats Regulations Appraisal (HRA) and Geological Conservation Review (GCR) Sites ...... 15 4.4 Woodland Types ...... 16

List of Maps, Tables & Figures Maps 1 Strategy Location ...... 4 2 Scotland Woodland Cover ...... 7 3 Current Woodland Cover in Strategy Area ...... 8 4 Natural Heritage Designations ...... 10 5 Historic Environment Designations ...... 11 6 Potential for Woodland Expansion ...... 14 7 Opportunities for New Native Woodland ...... 18 8 Opportuntities for Mixed Woodland ...... 18

Figures 1 Key Woodland Types in the Strategy Area ...... 7 2 Woodland Ownership in the Strategy Area ...... 9

Tables 1 Forestry and Woodland within the Strategy Area ...... 7 2 Woodland Expansion Sensitivities ...... 15 3 Examples of Woodland Expansion in Potential and Sensitive Areas ...... 16 4 Right Tree in the Right Place Types ...... 16 5 Opportunties for Woodland Expansion ...... 17

Page I 3 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

1 Introducing the Strategy

he trees, woodlands and The SCFWS forms a link between forestry and woodland activities and other initiatives aiming Tforests of Stirling and to enhance the wide range of economic, environmental Clackmannanshire contribute and social benefits derived from woodlands and forests. It greatly to the quality of the also provides a strategic framework for the development and expansion of a variety of forest and woodland types landscape, environment, across Stirling and Clackmannanshire. At the broadest biodiversity, cultural heritage strategic level, the purpose of the SCFWS is to provide a local expression of how the national vision and priorities for the and the local economy. protection and expansion of Scotland’s forest and woodland resource as set out in the Strategy (SFS) will They also incorporate, or provide a be achieved. backdrop to, popular recreation and tourism destinations such as Gartmorn Dam The Strategy has also been the subject of a Strategic Country Park & Nature Reserve, the Carron Environmental Assessment (SEA), which assessed significant Valley Forest and Reservoir, the environmental effects, and a Habitats Regulations Appraisal Woodland Park, Balquhidderock Wood and (HRA), which assessed the likelihood of significant effects on and Country Parks. ‘European’ sites, that is Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas. Given these inherent qualities it is essential The replacement SG has also been screened for SEA and to ensure that any future proposals for HRA purposes. As only textual changes have been made developing and expanding Stirling and which will have no significant environmental effect then Clackmannanshire’s woodlands and forests further assessment and appraisal is not required. integrate, in a complementary and balanced way, with other land uses. Definitions The Stirling & Clackmannanshire Forestry Scotland’s Forestry Strategy 2019–2029 defines forestry as and Woodland Strategy (SCFWS) sets out ‘the art and science of managing woods and forests’. The the Councils’ vision, strategy and objectives terms forests and woodlands are used interchangeably to for the future of woodlands and forestry. include all types of woodland, from small pockets of native It is based around a 40 year vision to 2052, woodland and shelter-belts through to extensive areas of with options for 5 yearly reviews in line with tree cover. It also recognises their important contribution, Local Development Plan timescales. Map 1 including individual trees, to enhancing Scotland’s rural shows the area covered by the Strategy, and and urban landscapes, the role in addressing air pollution and their biodiversity and cultural value. its relationship to the Central Scotland Green Network and the & National Park. The Strategy has been developed by Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils, in partnership with Forestry Commission Scotland and the Central Scotland Trust, and with advice and guidance from a Steering Group comprising a range of other key players including Scottish Natural Heritage and the Community Woodlands Association. A consultant team comprising RDI Associates Ltd, C J Piper & Co, Chartered Foresters and Land Use Consultants was engaged to develop the strategy and provide professional forestry, GIS and facilitation support. Wide ranging public consultation helped inform the final version of the document. Map 1: Strategy Location

Page I 4 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy The Context for Forestry 2 and Woodland

2.1 National Policy Context Any recommendations in this strategy for forest National Policy is set by the Scottish Government’s management, forest operations and woodland Scotland’s Forestry Strategy 2019-2029, published creation also fall within the scope of existing Best in February 2019. It incorporates a 10-year framework Practices and Guidance, in particular the UK Forestry and a 50-year vision, and is a keystone of the new Standard and its associated Guidelines, and The Right statutory and administrative arrangements under the Tree in the Right Place. Forestry and Land Management (Scotland) Act 2018. The following Scottish Government planning policy Its vision, objectives and priorities are set out in the documents are also relevant: box below: National Planning Framework 3 (2014) The Scottish Governments National Planning Vision Framework 3 highlights that woodlands and forestry In 2070, Scotland will have more forests and woodlands, are an economic resource, as well as an environmental sustainably managed and better integrated with other asset. It reiterates the commitment to increase the rate land uses. These will provide a more resilient, adaptable of woodland creation to deliver 100,000 hectares of resource, with greater natural capital value, that new woodland over the next ten years. supports a strong economy, a thriving environment, and healthy and flourishing communities. Biomass has a growing role to play in providing heat and as forests mature, it will be necessary to consider Objectives timber transport networks and requirements for • Increase the contribution of forests and woodlands processing facilities. Finally forests are key areas for to Scotland’s sustainable and inclusive economic outdoor sports. growth. • Improve the resilience of Scotland’s forests and The Central Scotland Green woodlands and increase their contribution to a Network Trust (CSGNT) is a ‘National healthy and high quality environment. Development’ in the NPF3. It aims • Increase the use of Scotland’s forest and woodland to restore and improve the rural and resources to enable more people to improve their urban landscapes of Central Scotland health, well-being and life chances. under the following five themes: Priorities A Place for Growth: Creating an environment • Ensuring forests and woodlands are sustainably for sustainable economic growth. managed. A Place in Balance: Creating an environment • Expanding the area of forests and woodlands, more in balance to thrive in a changing climate. recognising wider land-use objectives. • Improving efficiency and productivity, and A Place to Feel Good: Creating an environment developing markets. which supports healthy lifestyles and well being. • Increasing the adaptability and resilience of forests A Place for Nature: Creating an environment and woodlands. where nature can flourish. • Enhancing the environmental benefits provided by A Place to Belong: Creating an environment forests and wioodlands. that people can enjoy and where they live. • Engaging more people, communities and businesses in the creation, management and use of forests and woodlands. The SCFWS has been developed with a specific aim of contributing to the complimentary aims of the SFS The following documents are also relevant: and CSGNT. The Scottish Government’s Rationale for Woodland Expansion (FCS 2009).

Climate Change Programme (FCS 2013).

The Scottish Government’s Policy on Control of Woodland Removal (FCS 2009).

Page I 5 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Scottish Planning Policy (SPP) (2014). The Clackmannanshire Local Development Plan Indicates development plans should identify (LDP): was adopted in August 2015 and is supported woodlands of high nature conservation value and by a suite of supplementary guidance including include policies for protecting them and enhancing Supplementary Guidance 8 - Forestry and Woodlands, their condition and resilience to climate change. that incorporates key advice and guidance from the Planning authorities should consider preparing SCFWS. woodland strategies as supplementary guidance. Biodiversity Action Plan 2012-2017: Supports the Ancient semi-natural woodland is an irreplaceable Council’s Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy resource and, along with other woodlands, hedgerows (2010). and individual trees, especially veteran trees of high nature conservation and landscape value, should Economic Development Framework 2008-2018: be protected from adverse impacts resulting from provides a focus for economic development in the development. Tree Preservation Orders can be area and a set of priorities to help Clackmannanshire used to protect individual trees and groups of trees realise its economic ambitions for 2008 - 2018. considered important for amenity or their cultural or Greening Clackmannanshire (2010): provides a historic interests. framework for action on the local environment and 2.2 National Regulation and Control for taking forward the environment theme of the Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) manages Clackmannanshire Alliance. It aims to enlist everyone’s the national forest estate and is also the Scottish help to care for the physical environment, address Government’s regulatory body for forestry. climate change impacts and enhance communication FCS assesses potential forest projects for their and access. environmental impact, approves and monitors publicly funded woodland proposals and ensures For Stirling Council: compliance with local and national policies and best Community Plan (2005-2020): sets out the local practice guidelines. FCS also maintains a Register of Community Planning Partnership’s vision and plan for New Planting and Felling, Register of Environmental the future prosperity for Stirling. Impact Assessments and Registers of Woodland Local Development Plan: The SCFWS forms Creation which provide information on key forest Supplementary Guidance in association with the proposals. adopted LDP. Forestry activities such as planting and felling are SG: Green Networks and Open Space: this forms not normally subject to planning controls. Local supplementary guidance to the Stirling Local authorities are, however, consulted by FCS on a Development Plan and explains the concept and range of planting and felling proposals and longer functions of the Green Network. term forest plans and therefore can influence where future woodland expansion should occur and the development of the forest industry within their areas. Where appropriate the SCFWS will inform the responses from Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils to such consultations. 2.3 Local Policy Context At the local level the SCFWS is informed by the existing plans and strategies of Stirling and Clackmannanshire Councils. Account has also been taken of views and comments of local residents, communities and other stakeholders submitted in response to the public consultation. The SCFWS links with the Councils’ Single Outcome Agreements and Local Development Plans, together with a range of other policy and strategy documents connected to the themes of the SFS. These include: For Clackmannanshire Council: Community Plan ‘Working Together for Clackmannanshire’ (2010): provides the overall framework in which community planning operates and provides a basis for the Single Outcome Agreement.

Page I 6 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

2.4 Scotland’s Forest and Woodland Resource Figure 1: Key Woodland Types Scotland’s trees, woodlands and forests make a vital Scrub 2% Broadleaves 12% contribution to the nation’s economic, environmental and social well-being. Other 12% Over 55% of Britain’s trees are in Scotland where the Conifers 49% total area of woodland and forest is currently 1.38 million hectares - equivalent to 17.8% of Scotland’s total land area. Mixed Woodland 26% Though woodland cover has increased significantly in the past 50-60 years, nonetheless it still compares relatively Included within the overall woodland cover of Stirling unfavourably with the European average of 37%. Of and Clackmannanshire, some 8,800 hectares (45%) Scotland’s woodland area, approximately 70% is currently is classified as ancient and semi-natural woodland coniferous woodland producing softwood timber and 14% (including native woodland, nearly native woodland and broadleaved woodland producing hardwood timber. 4% Plantation on Ancient Woodland Sites (PAWS)). is mixed woodland and the balance is open space within woodland. The main conifer species are Sitka spruce, Scots The proportions of the key types of woodland that make pine and Lodgepole pine, while the main broadleaved up the 21,350 hectares are illustrated in Figure 1 above. species are birch and oak. Woodland in Clackmannanshire can be divided into two Over 70% of Scotland’s forests were planted during the main categories: second half of the 20th Century. Since the 1990s there has Small areas of woodland on the edge of though been a significant shift in the type and location settlements whose main purpose is to provide an of new planting. Prior to 1990 new forests were mainly open space resource for the local community, such planted on land with reduced capability for agriculture. as Gean Park - Alloa, Back Wood - More recently planting on better land is now encouraged. and Delph Wood - ; At the same time species diversity is much greater and Larger areas of woodland/traditional woodland includes a higher proportions of broadleaves. estates in more rural parts of Clackmannanshire Native Scots pine and broadleaves have also been planted such as the area around Gartmorn Dam - to re-create native woodlands lost in earlier times. A and Harvieston Estate - . greater proportion of new planting is taking place on The woodland area totals some 2,170 hectares, land that is privately owned, or owned by voluntary accounting for 13% of the totalland area, slightly smaller organisations, charities or community groups. than the Scottish average. Conifer plantations of pine, 2.5 Forestry and Woodland in Stirling and mixed spruce and larch account for 35% of the total Clackmannanshire wooded area with the balance comprising a range of Woodland Cover and Type mixed broadleaved woodland, of which 38 hectares Stirling & Clackmannanshire’s overall woodland and forest are recorded as ancient woodland - that is, areas with cover currently extends to some 21,350 hectares or 17% continuous woodland cover since 1750. of total land area - see Map 2 and Table 1 , comparing Table 1: Forestry and Woodland within the favourably with Scotland’s 17% woodland cover. Strategy Area Area Category % (Ha) Total Strategy Area. 125,210 100 Area within Clackmannshire Council 16,395 13 (i.e. overall administrative area. Area within Stirling Council (i.e. Local Development Plan area, 108,815 87 excluding National Park). Woodland cover within Strategy 21,350 17 Area. Woodland cover within 2,170 13 Clackmannanshire. Woodland cover within Stirling. 19,180 18

Proportion of Strategy Area within 101,710 78 Map 2: Scotland Woodland Cover CSGN. (Forestry Commission Scotland National Forest Inventory)

Page I 7 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Several woodlands in Clackmannanshire are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Map 3: Current Woodland Cover in Strategy Area Interest (SSSI) including Back Burn Wood, Damhead Wood and Linn Mill. Stirling has a woodland cover of 19,180 hectares, accounting for just under 18% of the total land area. This woodland supports a wide range of tree species and contains a mosaic of different forest and woodland types including large-scale conifer plantations (e.g. Carron Valley Forest, Lennieston Muir and Braes of ), mixed traditional estate woodlands (e.g. Cromlix and Blairdrummond), small- scale mixed lowland farm woodlands, ancient woodland / long established plantation origin sites (e.g. and ) and urban woods. As in Clackmannanshire, severalwoodlands are designated as SSSI’s, including Abbey Craig, Balquidderock Wood, Woods, Kippenrait Glen and Wester Moss. The current harvested volume of softwood in Scotland 2.6 Other Considerations is between 6-7 million cubic metres per annum; The Forest and Timber Industry forecast to increase to circa 8.5 million cubic metres The forest and timber industry is one of Scotland’s in 2016, representing 60 % of the UK’s total softwood hidden assets, contributing directly and indirectly to timber production. the economy. It spans the complete lifecycle of wood - Multiple Benefits the growing of tree seedlings; the planting, managing Forests and woodlands, by their very nature, provide and harvesting of forests; manufacturing activities multiple benefits. They create places for recreation, such as sawmilling, pulp and paper production, panel promote health through cleaner air and provide and board manufacturing; and the development and habitats where biodiversity can flourish. Perhaps most production of higher value goods such as engineered importantly forests absorb carbon generated by other wood products. In addition, forest and processing parts of the economy and so provide an increasingly co-products such as wood chips and pellets can be important way of mitigating climate change. Recent used in renewable energy production. In Scotland research demonstrates that as much as 10% of 90% of renewable heat generation comes from all carbon emissions in the UK could be absorbed wood energy. In the European Union wood energy through an expanded forest industry based on more is the largest (66%) renewable energy sector. Local wooded and forested areas. examples include Norbord’s MDF and particleboard manufacturing facility at Cowie and the installation of a biomass boiler at the Viewforth headquarters of Stirling Council. The past decade has seen considerable growth in the economic impact of forest and timber industries. It currently has a Gross Value Added (GVA) of some £1.67billion, 1.8% of the total Scottish economy, and accounts for 38,500 direct and ‘downstream’ jobs.

Page I 8 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Figure 2: Woodland Ownership in the Timber Production Strategy Area Forests and woodlands in eastern Scotland – including Stirling and Clackmannanshire – currently contain Stirling & Clackmannanshire Councils 3% approximately 10% of Scotland’s total standing conifer National Forest timber stock, some 212 million cubic metres. Estate 19% Timber harvesting within the Strategy area is Privately increasing due to the legacy of past planting regimes, Owned with an increasing proportion emanating from 78% private sector woodlands. Though timber prices, especially those for fuel and firewood, have recovered Figure 2 illustrates the distribution of woodland significantly from recent past lows, mainly due to ownership within Stirling and Clackmannanshire. increased demand for biomass, prices are nonetheless Privately owned woodlands – almost 80% - subject to the influences of the global market place, predominate, with the balance - 19% and 3% and cannot therefore be predicted with confidence respectively - owned and managed by Forestry over the period of the SCFWS. At 2012 levels, however, Commission Scotland and Stirling / Clackmannanshire developing markets offer real opportunities of income Councils. As elsewhere in Scotland the pattern of from low quality timber in previously unprofitable or private ownership is highly fragmented, though also otherwise undermanaged smaller woodlands. includes a number of large-scale private commercial plantations in the more upland areas of Stirling and Certification towards the eastern part of Clackmannanshire. In the 1990’s schemes such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Landscape Types Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes (PEFC), There is a wide range of landscape types in Stirling were established to provide assurance to business and and Clackmannanshire, from relatively flat lowland consumers that forest products were sourced from river valleys to mountains and lochs; in well managed forests. An estimated 8% of world and which forests and woodlands are intrinsic elements. 45% of UK forests are now certified. Land uses are also various and diverse, from urban/ In the UK, PEFC and FSC both use the UK Woodland industrial to remote upland moors. These are derived Assurance Standard (UKWAS) (www.ukwas.org. from Landscape Character Assessments (LCAs), a uk) as the basis for owners to have woodlands standard system for identifying, describing and independently certified as being sustainably mapping landscape variation. LCAs provide baseline managed. At the national level forest certification information to guide landscape changes, which is an important mechanism for delivering national can then be used in development plans, decisions policy objectives for achieving sustainable forest of development proposals, land management management. As at 2009 approximately 87% of the 8 plans, forest and woodland strategies and agri- million tonnes of softwood roundwood harvested in environmental schemes. General information on LCAs, the UK was certified. together with more detailed landscape assessment reports guidance are held by Scottish Natural Heritage At the regional level, the level of uptake of certification and can be viewed via the link can also be used as an indicator of the environmental, http://www.snh.gov.uk/protecting: scotlands:nature/ social and economic credentials of the timber looking:after:landscapes/lca/ resource. The decision to apply for certification is, though entirely voluntary and the inspection/audit The thirteen landscape character types found within process is funded by the owner or manager. Stirling and Clackmannanshire have been used in As all Forestry the SCFWS to identify links between each landscape Commission character and potential woodland types, along with woodlands in the seven key themes of the SFS. These links are Great Britain are highlighted in Table 5 (see Page 14) and help show certified against where to best target appropriate woodland expansion the UKWAS, across Stirling & Clackmannanshire. by definition 19% of the woodland cover in Stirling and Clackmannanshire is certified. The picture is less clear within the private sector.

Page I 9 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Whilst many larger scale traditional estates Map 4: Natural Heritage Designations and commercial plantations are certified, the level of uptake of certification elsewhere within privately owned woodlands remains relatively low, reflecting the prevalence of fragmented, small scale woodlands within Stirling and Clackmannanshire where costs of certification can be disproportionate to the benefits. Timber Transport The Stirling & Timber Transport Group was established in 1996 to ensure good liaison between the forest sector and local roads authorities, with particular regard given to timber haulage on more rural roads. A key consideration is the identification of agreed routes for timber haulage, as required. Should any new timber haulage routes or extraction sites be identified, consultation with Transport Scotland is recommended to discuss the haulage route. Further details can be found on the Timber Transport Forum website at www. timbertransportforum.org.uk Biodiversity The Strategy area contains impressive high quality wildlife habitats and biodiversity, as shown on Map 4.

The UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) (2017) presumes Area (SPA), on account of overwintering bird against woodland planting on deep peat or active populations. There are nine Sites of Special Scientific raised bogs, for reasons of climate change and Interest (SSSI), the Gartmorn Dam Local Nature biodiversity. Reserve and Country Park and twenty one Local Stirling hosts some of the largest and most important Nature Conservation Sites, include woodlands such lowland raised bog habitats in the UK (e.g. Flanders as Blackmuir Wood, Braehead Woodlands, Brandyhill Mosses), upland habitats and botanical resources Wood, Cowpark Wood, Pond Wood, Red Carr Wood, north and west of , and significant areas of Devon Gorge Woodlands, Silver Glen and Woodland ancient and semi-natural woodland. It also holds Park, Twenty-five Acre Wood and Auchlinksy Burn and a key position in Central Scotland in terms of Wood. habitat networks. The Stirling Biodiversity Action A combination of agricultural, industrial and urban Plan (2005) identifies a list of priority species and pressures has, however, degraded and/or fragmented habitats, including juniper and lowland broadleaved many habitats within Clackmannanshire. woodlands. The Stirling Biodiversity Partnership is currently updating the Local Biodiversity Action Plan, Quality of Life with a view to progressively halting the decline and Forests and woodlands can enhance the general loss of biodiversity across Stirling. In addition to SPA’s, wellbeing of residents, local communities and visitors, SAC’s and SSSI’s there is also Balquidderock Wood for example by facilitating outdoor recreation in high- Local Nature Reserve and Mugdock and Plean Country quality landscapes, and providing local recreational Parks. Stirling Council is also seeking to designate a opportunities to nearby towns and villages. In range of Local Nature Conservation Sites e.g. Gillies recent years both Councils have accessed funding Hill, by Cambusbarron, designated in December 2016. from Forestry Commission Scotland’s ‘Woodlands In and Around Towns’ (WIAT) Challenge Fund to make Clackmannanshire contains examples of all major improvements to woodlands around settlements. habitat types; from the Ochil Hills uplands, estuarine habitats along the and all that lies between including woodlands, freshwaters, wetlands and lowlands. The Clackmannanshire Biodiversity Action Plan identifies several woodland habitats, including Lowland Mixed Deciduous Woodland, Upland Mixed Ashwood, Upland Oakwood, Wet Woodland and Wood Pasture, all UK priority habitats. Large parts of the Firth of Forth are internationally designated as a RAMSAR site and Special Protection

Page I 10 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Many elements of Stirling and Map 5: Historic Environment Designations Clackmannanshire’s rich cultural heritage are found in and around woodlands, an added ‘draw’ that enhances the visitor experience and can also act as a focus for environmental interpretation and education. Map 5 illustrates the range of Historic Environment designations in the Strategy area. Community Woodland In the broadest sense community woodlands are those that, whilst not necessarily directly owned by the community, are used - and in some situations involve activity by - the local community in conjunction with the woodland owner, on a formal or informal basis. Examples include woodlands owned and managed by the Local Authority, Forestry Commission Scotland or charitable bodies such as the Woodland Trust. They can also be partly or wholly owned and/or managed by a local - usually formally constituted - community woodland group. The woodland may be owned or leased by the group, or managed in partnership with In Stirling and Clackmannanshire there are now another organisation such as FCS. several established or emerging groups involved in managing, or exploring the possibility of managing, Since the late 1980’s, over 200 groups across Scotland local woodlands on behalf of their community, such as have become involved in, or responsible for, the Community Woodlands, the management of thousands of hectares of woodland Community Council and the Friends of Plean Country and open space. Park. New groups continue to form, encouraged by the For more information on community woodlands, see Scottish Government’s Land Reform legislation and www.communitywoods.org the National Forest Land Scheme www.forestry.gov. uk/nfls. Natural Flood Risk Management Community woodlands are extremely diverse, Restoration and enhancement of natural features embracing all woodland types from ancient semi- and characteristics of a landscape may play a role in natural woods to extensive conifer plantations, and managing the sources and pathways of floodwaters. ranging from less than a hectare to over a thousand Woodland planting may provide an opportunity to hectares in size. Likewise, the communities involved manage downstream flood risk via land use change lie range from crofting townships in the far north and in upland areas, for example through a combinaition west to small towns and inner-city communities in of reduced stocking densities, blocking of drains and central Scotland. creation of upland woodlands. Some of the larger groups now employ staff to It should however be noted planting in floodplain manage and develop their woods, while others are areas may: managed entirely by volunteers. Whilst aims and i) lead to more woody debris getting into the rivers objectives vary, with account taken of local needs and which can build up behind in-stream structures, aspirations and the type and scale of the woodland and managed, all groups are working towards sustainable, ii) large wooded areas may elevate flood water levels flourishing, creative, resilient and vibrant community locally. woodlands that deliver an impressive range of public benefits, such as local recreation, nature conservation, economic development, renewable energy and social inclusion. Page I 11 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

3 Visions and Objectives

3.1 Vision Through their expansion, protection and sustainable Through partnership working and integrated management, the forests and woodlands of Stirling planning, implementation and monitoring, new jobs and Clackmannanshire will provide a range of will be created, opportunities provided for active and benefits for local people and visitors and contribute to passive outdoor recreation, habitats enhanced for economic, environmental and social well being. wildlife and attractive landscapes protected, so that local people can live and work and visitors enjoy the area's natural and cultural heritage.

“Through their expansion, protection and sustainable management, the forests and woodlands of Stirling and Clackmannanshire will provide a range of benefits for local people and visitors and contribute to economic, environmental and social well being.”

Page I 12 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy Opportunities for 4 Woodland Expansion

4.1 Overarching Principle In seeking to encourage such woodland expansion The overarching principle of the SCFWS is that in Stirling & Clackmannanshire however, the SCFWS woodland expansion should be looked upon recognises that both woodland expansion and favourably in Stirling and Clackmannanshire, associated forest management operations have the but subject to appropriate scale, type, capacity to generate both positive and negative objective and overriding constraints. environmental impacts. In order therefore to ensure Furthermore it is an aspiration of the SCFWS that any woodland and forestry expansion and forest that woodland expansion should be more management operations protect internationally, integrated, more diverse, more inclusive, nationally and, where appropriate, locally important more productive, more resilient and more habitats, species, landscapes and other heritage positive; thus contributing to the delivery of assets, all relevant regulatory, approval, assessment multiple economic, social and environmental and monitoring processes should be promoted and benefits. implemented. 4.2 Sensitive, Potential and Preferred Furthermore, it should be noted that the classification Locations of “preferred” or “potential” does not automatically In order to achieve this, the Strategy has mean that any proposal would proceed. Where classified land under three broad categories woodland creation / expansion is recommended, this for woodland expansion – ‘sensitive’, ‘potential’ would need to follow current regulatory, approval, and ‘preferred. This follows recommendations assessment and monitoring processes and industry in The Right Tree in the Right Place: Planning recognised good practice to ensure compliance with for Forestry and Woodlands (RTRP) which sets the UK Forestry Standard and associated Guidelines out the broad criteria Forestry and Woodland (including the consideration of local sensitivities) and Strategies should follow. It states that “.... be approved by the relevant regulatory bodies. woodland strategies should divide land into The SCFWS also recognises that the level of woodland categories, including the suitability of different creation in Stirling & Clackmannanshire should be locations for new woodland planting.” It will subject to review every five to ten years, as too should be for planning authorities to determine the overall aims and objectives of the Scottish Forestry the detailed list of local sensitivities that will Strategy. In addition, any individual woodland creation inform the categorisation of land, but it is proposal, regardless of its size, should be assessed on expected this will include priority species and its ability to deliver the strategic priorities highlighted habitats, landscape, the cultural and historical in the Scottish Forestry Strategy and identified environment, and interactions with the water specifically in the Stirling & Clackmannanshire Forestry environment and soils. and Woodland Strategy. The RTRP Categories: “...woodland expansion Preferred - land which offers the greatest scope should be more to accommodate future expansion of a range of woodland types, and hence deliver on a very wide integrated, more diverse, range of objectives. Within preferred areas sensitivities are, in general, likely to be limited, and it should be more inclusive, more possible to address any particular site specific issues productive, more resilient within well designed proposals that meet the UK Forestry Standard and associated guidelines. Future and more positive; woodland expansion is therefore likely to be focused thus contributing to on preferred areas. the delivery of multiple economic, social and environmental benefits.”

Page I 13 Stirling and Clackmannanshire Forestry and Woodland Strategy

Potential - land which offers considerable potential Map 6 (Potential for Woodland Expansion) - to accommodate future expansion of a range of below identifies the land covered by each of the woodland types, but where at least one significant above RTRP recommended categories with the sensitivity exists. The extent to which specific proposals following additional land categories. in potential areas will be permissible will depend on Existing woodland (the current woodland how well sensitivities can be addressed within the resource). proposals. The design of schemes in such areas will require careful consideration. Unsuitable - (areas assessed as being physically unsuitable for the growth or management of Sensitive* - land where * Note: This modifies trees, based on the former Macaulay Institute’s the natural heritage, the RTRP definition Land Capability Maps for Forestry and wind farm historical or a combination in that it allows the footprints). of sensitivities restricts the ‘nature’ of a sensitivity Built-up areas - It is critical to understand, scope to accommodate to have sufficient however, that this mapping is necessarily woodland expansion or weight in itself to justify removal. Limited expansion a sensitive allocation. indicative. is only likely to be possible In the case of the where proposals are of a SCFWS this applies to scale and character which Inventory Battlefields can be accommodated at Sherrifmuir, without significant negative , impacts, and/or where it Sacuchieburn and would positively enhance Stirling Bridge features of interest. In (primarily urban). some areas cumulative impact may be a relevant consideration.

Map 6: Potential for Woodland Expansion (Available to view at a larger scale via Stirling and Clackmannashire Councils’ internet mapping services)

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Site specific constraints and opportunities exist within Geological Conservation Reviews each land classification, but cannot be effectively In addition there are also various Geological recorded or depicted at a scale appropriate for the Conservation Review (GCR) sites in the strategy FWS. Detailed assessment of individual woodland area. They vary considerably in scale and nature, creation proposals, as required by forestry legislation from the Burn to part of the southern and regulations, remains the primary means of escarpment of the Ochil Hills. covers around environmental safeguarding. The maps in this 10 sq.km, whilst Aucheneck is about 1.0 sq.km. document are therefore intended only to guide Where appropriate it may be necessary for woodland readers towards suitable sites and to highlight areas expansion proposals to take account of impacts where particularly objectives apply. on the geo- diversity value of GCR sites and also consider where woodland planting could improve As a regional strategy, the SCFWS focuses on understanding, access and interpretation. regionally significant sensitivities and environmental effects. Information on sensitivities for woodland With respect to the selected sensitivities it is expansion was therefore compiled using GIS datasets acknowledged there are a range of sites across depicting the most important environmental Stirling and Clackmannanshire within the potential features. In line with RTRP, each of the identified and sensitive categories but, on account of their sensitivities was then assigned to the ‘sensitive’ or designation, location or landscape character, the ‘potential’ category, depending on the likely level of level of sensitivity for woodland expansion varies. constraint their presence would impose on any type Examples of such sites, together with an indication of of future woodland expansion. The categorisation of appropriate woodland expansion opportunities that sensitivities are detailed in Table 2. could be considered, are shown in Table 3 overleaf. 4.3 Habitats Regulations Appraisal (HRA) and Geological Conservation Review sites Table 2: Woodland Expansion Sensitivities Habitats Regulation Appraisal Woodland Definition It is a statutory requirement that ‘a competent Type authority must not authorise a plan or project unless, by means of the appropriate assessment, they can Existing • National Forest Inventory dataset. ascertain that it will not adversely affect the integrity Preferred • No significant constraints. of a European / Natura site.’ Accordingly the SCFWS has been the subject of an • Land Capability for Agriculture Class 2-3-2. • Local landscape designations. HRA which has identified that woodland planting in Potential the following localities should be the subject of site • Sensitive historic/archaeological landscapes (from HLA). specific limitations to ensure the integrity of these ‘European’ sites are not adversely affected, that is: • Natura 2000 sites and Ramsar Wetlands. SAC (refer to restrictions). • National and Local Nature Reserves. The , , Endrick • SSSI. • Scheduled Monuments. Water and Firth of Forth SACs Sensitive (refer to restrictions). • Conservation Areas. • Inventory-listed Gardens & designed Firth of Forth SPA (refer to landscapes. restrictions). • Inventory Battlefields.

Due account should also be taken of the potential • Land Capability for Forestry - Unsuitable for connectivity between these protected sites and Water Bodies. Unsuitable woodland creation proposals on adjacent or nearby • Operational and consented wind farm land. footprints.

• Historic land-use assessment (HLA) - Built-Up built-up category.

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Table 3: Example of Woodland expansion in Potential and Sensitive Areas Site Description Classification Scope for Woodland Expansion Flanders Moss. Flanders Moss is designated Sensitive. It is unlikely that any woodland expansion in this a Special Area of area would be considered appropriate. Conservation for the raised lowland bog habitat. Trees and woods form a Sensitive. Woodland expansion and other woodland and major element of the quality management proposals which would maintain (and other Designed of the Designed Landscape and enhance the quality of the Designated Landscapes. and inevitably will require Landscape would be considered appropriate. positive management.

Areas around Listed on Inventory of Sensitive. Woodland expansion in relation to the trees Inventory Historic Battlefields due immediately around settlements and where Battlefields - to their significant cultural new woods would contribute to the delivery Bannockburn, importance. of WIAT/CSGN outcomes would be considered , appropriate, particularly where woodland could Sauchieburn and be used to improve understanding, access and Stirling Bridge. interpretation. Glen Lochay Woods. Site of Special Scientific Sensitive. Woodland expansion proposals which would Interest. enhance habitat quality and that wouldn’t compromise the quality of designated sites would be welcome. . Area of important cultural Potential. Any woodland expansion/management heritage. proposals which could enhance the cultural heritage/landscape quality of the area would be considered appropriate.

4.4 Woodland Types As well as setting out guidance on planning for forestry and woodland, RTRP also encourages planning authorities to consider what types of woodland they may wish to include within their Strategies; particularly in relation to the four main types listed and defined in Table 4 below.

Table 4: “Right Tree in the Right Placer” Woodland Types Woodland Definition Type Native Woodlands Native woodlands contributing to integrated habitat networks, Woods composed of native species, matched to local site conditions, making use of natural colonisation where evident. They are managed using mostly low intensity or minimum intervention systems with an emphasis on developing the structural and species diversity appropriate to the woodland type. As well as providing biodiversity benefits, native woods are usually well fitted for water management and soil conservation, recreation and amenity, stock shelter, fishery enhancement and sporting uses. Some are also capable of producing high quality timber or woodfuel at low intensity.

Mixed Woodlands Mixed woodlands such as farm and riparian woodlands. Mixed species woodlands often including native broadleaves (such as beech and sycamore) and conifers designed to provide year round shelter, landscape enhancement, screening or enclosure, as well as the potential to provide products for local use. In a traditional estate setting they are often known as ‘policy woods’.

Softwood Forests Forests to provide a source of softwood timber. Woods designed to provide a sufficient quantity and consistency of predominantly softwood timber for economically viable timber production. Careful design uses opportunities to protect and enhance biodiversity while also providing a backdrop for outdoor access and recreation. Modern softwood forests have substantial areas of open space, areas of native species and a growing emphasis on the use of mixed species and different silvicultural systems (where feasible) to increase diversity and resiliencein the face of climate change.

Energy Forests All woodland types capable of producing fuelwood. Woodlands where fuel wood production is the principal objective e.g. short rotation coppice using willow and short rotation forestry or coppicing systems, particularly on lower quality ground. This type of planting can also be used in flood risk areas or areas of poor quality land, acting to stabilise soils and ameliorate pollution.

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Native woodland and mixed woodland with a Land Capability for Agriculture - significant productive timber component are highlighting better quality agricultural land where the considered to be the two most appropriates priority would be supporting existing agriculture, and types of woodland expansion for Stirling and more marginal areas where woodland could add value Clackmannanshire; descriptions of softwood and for farmers and the environment alike. energy forests are included for general reference only. Furthermore, and in order to give a local geographic In order to determine areas for potential woodland context, these two woodland types have been expansion, for these two woodland types – native mapped against the thirteen Landscape Character woodland and mixed woodland – two maps have Types found within Stirling and Clackmannanshire, been developed using the indicative potential Table 5 (below) shows the relationship between each dataset as their basis, to ensure that key sensitivities Landscape Character area and potential woodland were respected in each instance (see Maps 7 and 8 type. overleaf). It should be recognised, however, that other types of Additional sources of data were used to draw out forest / woodland may be appropriate within each opportunities and different priorities; these include: of these Landscape Character areas and equally that Integrated Habitat Network datasets - the forest / woodland types suggested may not be highlighting opportunities for new native woodland. appropriate across the entire area of each.

Table 5: Opportunities for Woodland Expansion Landscape Native Woodland Mixed Woodland Character Type Potential Potential Valleys and Floodplains of the Lowlands. Yes (with some sensitivities). Yes (with some sensitivities).

High, Massive, Rolling, Rounded Hills. Not Suitable. Not Suitable.

Highland Straths. Limited. Limited.

Highland and Islands Glens. Yes (with some sensitivities). Limited.

Inland Loch. Not Suitable. Not Suitable.

Urban. Limited. Limited.

Lowland Hill Margins and Fringes. Yes (with some sensitivities). Yes (with some sensitivities).

Lowland Hills. Yes. Yes.

Lowland River Valleys. Yes (with sensitivities). Yes (with sensitivities).

Undulating Farmlands, Hills and Valleys. Yes. Yes.

Lowland Valley, Fringes. Yes (with sensitivities). Yes (with sensitivities).

Upland Hills and Moorlands. Very Limited. Very Limited.

Fragmentary character types. Very Limited. Very Limited.

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Map 7: Opportunities for New Native Woodland

Map 8: Opportunities for Mixed Woodland

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Planning Services Planning and Building Standards Infrastructure Teith House Kerse Road Stirling FK7 7QA

Stirling Council: Phone: 01786 404040 Email: [email protected] www.stirling.gov.uk Stirling Council May 2019 May Stirling Council

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