Campaign win: new planning rules protect Scotland’s ancient woods and trees
Scotland's planning policy has been updated to protect irreplaceable ancient woods and trees from inappropriate development.
Scotland is home to unique and irreplaceable ancient woods and trees. Havens for wildlife like red squirrel and pine marten, they also store vast amounts of carbon - disproportionately more so than other woods. They are natural bastions in the face of the climate and nature emergencies. But they face constant threat.
Old policy was inadequate
Until now planning policy has left these valuable habitats vulnerable to damage and destruction from inappropriate development. Guidance was simply too weak to deter developers from damaging these irreplaceable habitats. Too often proposals were approved despite their impact on these precious places.
After thousands of you spoke up for trees, Scottish Government has finally strengthened planning rules to improve protection for ancient woodland and veteran trees.
Scottish woods are under threat from development
species in Scotland are at risk of extinction
the approximate area of Scotland covered by ancient woodland
Irreplaceable habitats now have better protection
Scotland’s National Planning Framework (NPF4) and Scottish Planning Policy guide where and how development happens. Scottish Government has published a new NPF with changes that will help prevent development damage to ancient woods and veteran trees. This is amazing news and thanks to the thousands of people who joined our campaign. Thank you if you were among them.