‘GRAVE concerns’ were this week aired about a proposed forestry planting project near Moffat.
Some residents of the Annan Water Valley voiced their scepticism at Tuesday’s meeting of Moffat and District Community Council (MDCC), following a joint presentation detailing the proposals for Ericstane North and Ericstane South.
The proposed planting at Ericstane North is being put forward by the Border Forest Trust as a continuation of their previous rewilding efforts within the valley consisting of native species in order to restore ‘a native woodland habitat and create a healthy ecosystem to benefit both wildlife and people’ over 50.75 hectares.
Meanwhile, the proposal for Ericstane South is being spearheaded by Scottish Woodlands Ltd and would consist of conifer, pine and broadleaf trees for timber production over 64 hectares, which would be protected by a deer fence.
However, the plans were met with cynicism from the valley residents. One of them, Beryl Castle said: “I live at Corehead so I am very interested in this project, but we have grave concerns about a major deer fence being put around the commercial land because it was previously deemed unnecessary because we don’t get that many deer at that end of the valley.
“I’m also concerned about the visual impact of planting because when you look 30 to 40 years down the line you won’t be able to see the sky line anymore, and obviously the Devil’s Beef Tub is one of two so-called jewels in the crown for Dumfries and Galloway Council.
“We, as residents, intend to mount a strong campaign against this project.”
Additional concerns were raised about the impact that fully grown trees could have on beauty spots and viewpoints along the A701, as community councillor Leys Geddes added: “ The views as you turn the corner at the top of the Beef Tub are a huge draw for the town, and our economy relies heavily on tourism and visitors.
“We need reassurances that those views of the town from the A701 and the Beef Tub will not be blocked by trees because this is a scenic area.”
Further information will be on show at the town hall on Tuesday December 12 as part of a public consultation running between 2-7 pm.
