DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer
Councils are required to prepare a Forestry and Woodland Strategy which sets out how trees and woodlands should be looked after and developed across the council area. It identifies important and sensitive woodlands, highlights places where new woodland could be created, and explains how woodland should be protected, improved and made more resilient to climate change. The strategy helps the council make consistent and well‑informed planning decisions and provides clear guidance for developers, land managers and communities. It also supports the local development plan by ensuring that trees and woodlands are properly considered alongside housing, transport, infrastructure, nature recovery and climate objectives.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Planning
Duty type
Compliance
Social determinant of health
Neighbourhood and environment
Emerging policy and legislation
0
National bodies with shared interest
Heads of Planning Scotland (HOPS)
Standards and frameworks
3