As the reporters for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) prepare to make their recommendations to Government Ministers – the Woodland Trust Scotland is urging them to put the environment first and consider an alternative to the proposed route.
Today (8th Jan) marks the end of involvement in the AWPR for objectors to the scheme. Those opposed to the route must have their written closing submissions with the reporter by today.
In September 2008, the Woodland Trust Scotland, part of the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity gave evidence to the public enquiry which stated that 15 woods on the Ancient Woodland Inventory would be lost or damaged if the 46km route got the green light.
Advice from Scottish Natural Heritage has confirmed that many of the woods along the proposed route are of very high value for conservation due to their antiquity. Ancient woods are one of the best habitats for wildlife. They are a finite resource and we simply cannot afford to lose them, and new planting can in no way compensate for their loss.
Andrew Fairbairn, Policy and Communications Manager said “In recent months, we have seen a number of planning applications being given the go ahead that will lead to the loss of ancient woodland. Some of the woods directly affected by the bypass have been there for many hundreds of years and are of very high value for conservation. I am afraid this could be another nail in the coffin for Scotland’s natural heritage. We urge the reporters to re-consider the environmental impact and reverse this current trend.”
Notes to editors
For media enquiries contact:
Jacqui Morris on 01355 578777 or mobile 07979 706675 alternatively call The Woodland Trust Press Office on 01476 581121, e-mail
media@woodlandtrust.org.ukThe Woodland Trust
The Woodland Trust is the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity. It has 300,000 members and supporters.
The Trust has three key aims: i) to enable the creation of more native woods and places rich in trees ii) to protect native woods, trees and their wildlife for the future iii) to inspire everyone to enjoy and value woods and trees
Established in 1972, the Woodland Trust now has over 1,000 sites in its care covering approximately 20,000 hectares (50,000 acres). Access to its sites is free.
In 1984, the Trust acquired its first wood in Scotland. In the last 25 years the Trust has increased its holdings in Scotland it now owns 80 sites across Scotland covering 8,500 hectares. Further news can be accessed via this website.