Moray Council is inviting residents to input their views on the creation of a woodlands strategy.

The initiative will aim to expand woodland cover within the region but will also promote development opportunities for tourism, recreation and housing.

A working group has been set up to oversee the preparation of the strategy, with representation from the council, the Forestry Commission, Scottish Natural Heritage and HIE.


A 'call for ideas' document has been produced which outlines the main objectives of the strategy and invites people to make their views known.

A report to Moray Council's planning and regulatory services committee stated: "The content of the strategy will be informed by stakeholder engagement and reflective of the opportunities and challenges affecting forestry in Moray.

"It will also be a local interpretation of national priorities that reflects the unique qualities of Moray and demonstrates the importance of the forestry industry locally."

The draft strategy will be presented to the committee in November and a final version will be approved early next year.

(LM/MH)