FORESTRY and Land Scotland (FLS) has published the final draft of its plans to shape the recreational development of Newcastleton Forest.
The framework is the culmination of wide-ranging public consultation with local people, businesses, forest users and other organisations incorporating the feedback and ideas put forward.
Potential opportunities identified include developing additional mountain bike and long-distance trails, enhancing car parks and providing additional facilities like toilets, catering outlets, and exploring accommodation options such as low-cost camping to attract a wider range of visitors.
FLS will continue to work with strategic partners across the region – including the Newcastleton and District Community Council and Community Trust, South of Scotland Enterprise, South of Scotland Destination Alliance, Scottish Borders Council, VisitScotland and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland – to work towards realising the vision set out in the framework.
FLS regional visitor services manager, Martin Page, said: “We listened and learned from everyone and are delighted to be able to publish the final draft of our vision and ideas.
“Harnessing the tourism potential of Newcastleton Forest will play an important part in supporting and growing the local economy and realising the ambitions of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy.”
Any development opportunities put forward will be subject to a detailed business case process, a sustainable management plan, internal approvals, community consultation and successful external funding bids before being progressed.
Martin added: “Through working with others towards a common goal, we aim that the forest will better meet the needs of all our visitors in the future, including walkers, cyclists or mountain bikers and horse-riders.”
Find more information on our ideas and vision for Newcastleton here: forestryandland.gov.scot/media/nebniama/fls-newcastleton-framework-rec-inv-v17.pdf
The framework for Newcastleton is the first in a region wide programme being developed and delivered by FLS for key visitor destinations across the South of Scotland.
More details can be found on the FLS website.
