AN official request has been lodged for Craigielands Community Woodland to be transferred to the community.
The Craigielands Community Woodland group this week announced they have submitted their Community Asset Transfer Scheme (CATS) application to Forestry and Land Scotland.
They want to take on the 35 hectare site, between Moffat and Beattock, for £226,772.
The aim is to create a network of inclusively designed, waymarked paths, as well as seating and information boards.
They would manage the woodland with wildlife conservation as a key objective, conduct forest walks for school-age children, promote public participation in environmental monitoring, host woodland management courses, and sustainably produce woodland products such as firewood, sawlogs, bark chips and beekeeping products.
In particular, it is recognised that there are opportunities to participate in red squirrel protection, butterfly habitat creation, and conservation of locally scarce woodland flowers.
The group say: “It is an area with rich heritage and biodiversity value, which is well-known to the local population, who have used it recreationally for several generations.
“There is an aspiration for Craigielands to become a ‘centre of excellence’ which exhibits exemplary forestry practice and showcases low-impact silvicultural systems and management.
“Community ownership is expected to create enhanced cohesion within the community of Beattock and the wider parish, through shared enthusiasm for the woodland and participation in woodland activities.”
Letters of support from Dumfries and Galloway Council, Moffat and District Red Squirrel Group, Beattock Nursery, the SRUC and Dumfries and Galloway Woodlands have been included in their application.
Meanwhile, the woodland group want to hear from any residents who have ideas, or concerns, as well as those who want to show their support for the transfer.
An event is planned early in the new year for people to go along to speak to members, join and get involved.
* The full application, feasibility study and business plan can be viewed at https://forestryandland.gov.scot/…/craigielands-wood
