Scotland's Native Trees and Shrubs
Community woodlands
During the past 40 years fairly extensive areas of woodlands have been planted in association with Scotland's roads. Many of these woodlands have now become well established. One such woodland adjacent to the M90 at Kinross has been developed in partnership with the local community for passive recreation. Passive recreation and motorways may appear to be anomalous but in this instance, with a positive approach, well-established woodland stretching well back from the motorway and the co-operation of the community, the problems were overcome. The management of community woodlands adjacent to the trunk road network could possibly create and provide a wider range of benefits including educational, employment, cultural, recreational and amenity opportunities.
A survey of existing roadside woodlands could well highlight the opportunity to create safe and much needed community footpaths, bridle and cycle ways.
Tillywhally woodland. One and a half hectares of woodland were planted to provide a screen and amenity woodland alongside the M90 at Kinross. The woodland was allowed to develop naturally, unhindered for 15 years, during which time it developed into an attractive habitat for wildlife and a place for the community to enjoy the peace and pleasure the woodland had to offer. Paths, seats and additional planting have now been added to the woodland in the spirit of community involvement.
The special character of the woodland has been preserved and the peace and pleasure is now enjoyed by many people.