South Ayrshire Local Plan

Forestry, Woodlands and Trees

For the purposes of this Plan, three elements, comprising commercial forestry, woodland and tree preservation orders have been covered as separate entities although in practice, they overlap.

Woodland and Tree Planting

The Council recognises the importance of trees and woodlands in enhancing the environment, the quality of built development, providing a habitat for wildlife and for recreational opportunities. This applies throughout South Ayrshire, although some of the greatest benefits of tree and woodland planting may be obtained in urban areas, or on the fringes of urban areas, where community woodland schemes may also offer educational or economic benefits.

POLICY ENV11*

The Council will generally support tree planting/greening and woodland planting schemes which will improve the landscape and provide ecological benefits, especially where these also offer benefits for public access, recreation, education provision or will assist in the restoration of despoiled or degraded land.

The Council will prepare and promote a comprehensive greening strategy to enhance the landscape setting of major settlements as part of its positive approach to this policy.

Tree Preservation

Trees can often be a significant positive feature of the landscape, both within settlements and the countryside. Mature trees in urban areas, together with areas of ancient and semi-natural woodland, are particularly valuable resources. Some particular trees and woodlands are protected by a preservation order. The Council recognises the value of offering protection to important trees and will continue to identify and protect them through the use of such orders, especially where they may be under threat.

POLICY ENV12*

In assessing development proposals involving loss of, or works to, trees the Council will consider the extent of any adverse impact on the locality and will include as part of its assessment of such development proposals measures to safeguard trees, especially those covered by a provisional or confirmed tree preservation order.