Woodland Creation Advice Note

New Woodland Creation Guidance for Landowners and Applicants

Perth & Kinross Council has developed new guidance to support anyone considering woodland creation or preparing forestry proposals. Engaging with the Council early helps ensure your planting plans are well‑designed, environmentally appropriate, and aligned with local priorities.

Scottish Forestry encourages applicants to consult with neighbours and relevant organisations before submitting applications. PKC is one of those key consultees, and getting in touch at the pre‑application stage can provide valuable insights specific to your site.

The new guidance explains why consulting with the Council is beneficial, what information you can expect in response, and how this can help shape a successful woodland proposal.

Why Contact PKC?

By emailing PKC’s Woodland Enquiries Inbox ([email protected]) before applying, you can receive tailored advice to help you understand:

• planning and regulatory considerations
• local environmental sensitivities
• community and landscape interests
• potential constraints or challenges on your proposed site

Early engagement can strengthen your proposal and help avoid delays in the approval process.

What PKC Will Provide Advice On

Environmental Sensitivities and Designations

The Council will identify any designations affecting your site, such as:

• Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)
• Special Protection Areas (SPAs)
• Special Areas of Conservation (SACs)
• Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs)
• Conservation Areas

The guidance explains how these designations may influence your proposal and outlines any related requirements.

Site Suitability and Strategy Classifications

PKC will assess your location using the Forest & Woodland Strategy to determine whether your site is classed as:

• Preferred
• Potential
• Sensitive
• Unsuitable

This helps establish early on how feasible woodland creation is on your land and what considerations may be necessary.

Nearby Development Proposals

The Council will highlight any existing or proposed developments near your site. Understanding surrounding land uses helps you design woodland that fits into the wider area and avoids conflicts.

How Your Proposal Aligns With Key Themes

Your plans will be reviewed against the main themes of PKC’s Forest & Woodland Strategy, including:

• climate change
• sustainable timber
• business development opportunities
• community benefits
• public access
• environmental quality and biodiversity

This feedback helps ensure your proposal supports wider local objectives.

Biodiversity and Habitat Considerations

PKC will also comment on ecological aspects of your proposal, such as:

• appropriate species choice
• proportions of native species
• open space and habitat structure
• deer management
• protection of rare habitats
• presence of protected species
• peatland considerations
• track creation
• sensitive landscape features
• deadwood provision
• enhancing habitat networks

The Council may suggest changes to improve biodiversity value or minimise impacts.

What to Expect From PKC’s Response

Your consultation response will summarise how well your proposal aligns with the Forest & Woodland Strategy and may include recommended changes to improve its accordance. Even if you are not applying for grant funding, PKC is still happy to provide feedback on potential tree planting projects.

Further guidance for schools and community groups is also available for those looking to plant trees outside of the Scottish Forestry application process.