Give your views on trees and woodlands strategy

A consultation has been launched this week on a tree and woodland strategy for Orkney. 

The strategy looks to incorporate the planting of trees, shrubs and hedges through the planning process within the county and is a requirement of the Planning (Scotland) Act 2019 and National Planning Framework 4.   

The draft strategy has been put together with input from Scottish Forestry, Woodland Trust Scotland, the Orkney Woodland Group as well as the Scottish Government Payments and Inspections Directorate (SGRPID), the National Farmers Union, the County Archaeologist, and the Council's Climate Change Officer.   

The consultation will run for eight weeks, and a final version of the strategy document will be presented to the Development and Infrastructure Committe in the Spring.   

Kristopher Leask is Chair of the Development and Infrastructure Committee.  He said; “Orkney might not have the forests of other areas of Scotland, but the trees and woodland we do have are hugely valued by our community – whether that be walks enjoyed at Muddisdale, Happy Valley or Binscarth, the protection from the wind provided to gardens and farmland, or the habitat, shelter and food they provide to wildlife.

“The strategy document – and the actions contained within - set out how we aim to support this, and I’d encourage our community to take a look and make their views know.”   

More information is available here – Trees and Woodland Strategy 

The consultation closes on 23 March 2025.