| |
| The Argyll and Bute Woodland and Forestry Strategy has won a coveted award at the UK Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Planning Awards. The strategy has won the ‘Rural area and natural environment’ category.The awards were established in 1978, and developed into the UK’s premier awards for planning, recognising the very best practice and rewarding outstanding achievement in the profession. More than 130 entries were received from England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland and 34 projects were shortlisted across 9 diverse categories covering topics as diverse as heritage, rural areas, and planning for business. Entrants were judged by a panel of planning experts who examined written submissions, carried out interviews and conducted site visits. Spokesperson for the environment, Councillor Bruce Marshall said, “I’m delighted the Woodland and Forestry strategy has won this prestigious award. This is a fabulous accolade for the team at Argyll and Bute Council who have worked incredibly hard and this is very well deserved, I would particularly mention Sybil Johnson and Fergus Murray. Competition from all over Britain was of the highest order for this award and it is really impressive that Argyll & Bute have come out on top” “The plan sets a framework for the future development of our forests and woodlands so that we can maximise their contribution to our local economy, to the environment, our rich heritage, and to the quality of life for our communities and residents.” Stewart Stevenson, Environment & Climate Change Minister said, "Planting the right trees in the right place is very important, so that we optimise the benefits of expanding woodland cover in Scotland. "At a national level, the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group is currently looking at this issue in great depth. There is increasing demand for land from various land based industries and we need to work together to ensure that everyone's needs are taken account of. "The woodland and forestry strategy developed by Argyll & Bute Council, in partnership with Forestry Commission Scotland, is a worthy award winner. It demonstrates how best to maximise the benefits of forestry for the economy, people and the environment in an integrated manner and I am delighted to hear that their efforts have been recognised in this way." The strategy was produced to influence the future expansion and restructuring of woodlands in our area. It also looks at local circumstances and factors for consideration when planting and felling proposals are being assessed. The strategy should ensure the benefits from future development of woodland in the area are maximised. The strategy identifies the existing resource within Argyll and Bute (excluding the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park). It gives a broad level view of what we have and where it is across a wide range of forest and woodland related activities, for example, ancient and semi natural woodlands, timber transport routes, sawmills, land capability for forestry, recreation facilities and main access. It was commissioned by Argyll and Bute Council and Forestry Commission Scotland. Funding support was also given by the Scottish Government and the European Community Argyll and the Islands LEADER 2007 – 2013 programme and Scottish Enterprise. There is an extra ten percent of funding available in Argyll and Bute because we have the strategy. The money would be used for the creation of woodlands for timber production in the “Preferred‟ and “Potential‟ areas indicated within it. The future development of forestry and woodlands could affect many people living, working and enjoying the environment within Argyll and Bute. Argyll and Bute Council made sure it included the views of people and groups of a varied cross-section of interests including economic, social and environmental were sought throughout the preparation of this strategy. Open days were held in the area, a questionnaire was created for people to give their views, an issues paper and a strategy were consulted on and an advisory group was set up. |
Showing posts with label Argyll and Bute Council. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Argyll and Bute Council. Show all posts
Thursday, 8 March 2012
Argyll and Bute Woodland and Forestry Strategy wins top award
Wednesday, 25 May 2011
Alien invasion in Argyll and Bute
Council Press Release
Argyll and Bute has been invaded by several new species – of plants! Many of our gardens have been greatly enriched by the introduction of plants from abroad but a small number like rhododendron, Japanese knotweed, Skunk Cabbage, Gold Deadnettle, Himalayan or Indian balsam and Parrot feather are highly invasive.
They are a big problem in the wider environment threatening our habitats and native species and they can be an issue in the garden too. It’s difficult and expensive to control these species but many are widely available with little indication of the damage they can do if they are allowed to escape into the countryside or disposed of carelessly. The threat to our biodiversity, native species and habitats from these plants is very serious.
You should always be aware of what you are buying and growing and make sure you avoid using plants know to be invasive. There are always alternative plants better suited to gardens. If a plant is unfamiliar to you make sure you do some research. Be wary of any labels which use terms like ‘vigorous’, ‘spreading’, ‘fast-growing’, ‘self –seeds’ and ‘good ground cover.’
If you are exchanging plants with friends you should think about how what you are offering could spread. Much of the problem with Himalayan balsam is down to gardeners donating seeds. Watch out for introducing an alien species as a ‘hitch – hiker’ as many invasive pondweeds in particular as introduced to gardens this way. It’s a good idea to quarantine newly bought pond plants to see what else might come with it. Garden waste should be composted to provide organic matter to feed your plants and cut down on costs. If you’re buying topsoil it’s always a good idea to try and see it before you buy it as this is how many alien species make it into our gardens.
You can find some useful web addresses on the council’s website at http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/
Argyll and Bute has been invaded by several new species – of plants! Many of our gardens have been greatly enriched by the introduction of plants from abroad but a small number like rhododendron, Japanese knotweed, Skunk Cabbage, Gold Deadnettle, Himalayan or Indian balsam and Parrot feather are highly invasive.
They are a big problem in the wider environment threatening our habitats and native species and they can be an issue in the garden too. It’s difficult and expensive to control these species but many are widely available with little indication of the damage they can do if they are allowed to escape into the countryside or disposed of carelessly. The threat to our biodiversity, native species and habitats from these plants is very serious.
You should always be aware of what you are buying and growing and make sure you avoid using plants know to be invasive. There are always alternative plants better suited to gardens. If a plant is unfamiliar to you make sure you do some research. Be wary of any labels which use terms like ‘vigorous’, ‘spreading’, ‘fast-growing’, ‘self –seeds’ and ‘good ground cover.’
If you are exchanging plants with friends you should think about how what you are offering could spread. Much of the problem with Himalayan balsam is down to gardeners donating seeds. Watch out for introducing an alien species as a ‘hitch – hiker’ as many invasive pondweeds in particular as introduced to gardens this way. It’s a good idea to quarantine newly bought pond plants to see what else might come with it. Garden waste should be composted to provide organic matter to feed your plants and cut down on costs. If you’re buying topsoil it’s always a good idea to try and see it before you buy it as this is how many alien species make it into our gardens.
 |
| Japanese Knotweed in Port Charlotte. |
Tuesday, 22 March 2011
Argyll and Bute Council sign up for WWF's Earth Hour
Switching your lights off for Earth Hour shows your support for people and wildlife across the globe affected by climate change. Last year millions of people in 128 countries took part in Earth Hour, and WWF are aiming at making this year’s event even bigger.
The council has signed up, but is also asking local residents, schools, businesses and other organisations to do the same and register at www.wwwfscotland.org.uk/earthhour to show their support for this cause.
Councillor Bruce Marshall, spokesperson for the environment, said: “It is great news that the council is supporting WWF’s Earth Hour 2011. Climate change affects people across the globe, and hopefully this will inspire people to think more about what they can do as individuals to help tackle climate change. I would encourage residents of Argyll and Bute to get involved by switching off their lights for Earth Hour, and by taking actions to reduce their own carbon footprints.”
For more information on how the council is promoting Earth Hour 2011, please visit
Monday, 15 November 2010
Launch of the revised Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 (A&BLBAP)
30th November - 10.45 am - 1.30pm
Venue: Dolphin Centre, Hunters Quay Holiday Park, Hunters Quay, by Dunoon.
The event will stage the launch of the revised Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan, which sets out a series of Ecosystem Work Programmes to be completed by 2015.
The programme includes presentations on the diverse projects which partners are involved in delivering.
Speakers include, Councillor Bruce Marshall- Chairman; Tom Prescott- Butterfly Conservation -‘Action for Butterflies in Argyll and Bute’; Lochgilphead High School Biodiversity/Natural Heritage Project; Gordon Gray Stephens-Scottish Native Woodlands - Atlantic Hazelwoods Projects; Andrew Campbell (Scottish Natural Heritage operations manager, Argyll)
The event, which is free, includes a poster session illustrating a range of local projects.
The revised A&BLBAP will go live on the council’s website on November 30 2010.
Venue: Dolphin Centre, Hunters Quay Holiday Park, Hunters Quay, by Dunoon.
The event will stage the launch of the revised Argyll and Bute Local Biodiversity Action Plan, which sets out a series of Ecosystem Work Programmes to be completed by 2015.
The programme includes presentations on the diverse projects which partners are involved in delivering.
Speakers include, Councillor Bruce Marshall- Chairman; Tom Prescott- Butterfly Conservation -‘Action for Butterflies in Argyll and Bute’; Lochgilphead High School Biodiversity/Natural Heritage Project; Gordon Gray Stephens-Scottish Native Woodlands - Atlantic Hazelwoods Projects; Andrew Campbell (Scottish Natural Heritage operations manager, Argyll)
The event, which is free, includes a poster session illustrating a range of local projects.
The revised A&BLBAP will go live on the council’s website on November 30 2010.
Tuesday, 2 November 2010
Argyll and Bute Council says "GET STUCK IN WITH A WEE GREEN GRANT!"
Got a great, green idea to improve your local environment? Need help to get it off the ground? Lower Clyde Greenspace is offering grants to groups to help them improve their local environment and support sustainability.
Wee Green Grants of up to £500 are available to voluntary or community groups in Argyll and Bute to help with environmental activities that encourage wildlife, support biodiversity and reduce waste.
Councillor Robert Macintyre, Argyll and Bute’s spokesperson for Economy, Environment and Rural Affairs, is delighted by the new initiative.
“Wee Green Grants are a great idea, and I would encourage local groups to get involved,” he said.
“Whether they want to develop a wildlife garden, plant native trees or reduce the energy use of their scout hut, the grants are here to help.”
Wee Green Charter Grants are funded by Lower Clyde Greenspace and the Argyll and Islands LEADER programme. Grant-funded projects should benefit a range of people and contribute to local environments or green facilities.
Councillor Macintyre said: “The Wee Green Grants are a fantastic opportunity for groups to make a significant impact on their local environment, improve the quality of life for fellow residents and enhance the area’s biodiversity. Funding is limited so I would urge groups to apply for a grant without delay.”
Wee Green Grants of up to £500 are available to voluntary or community groups in Argyll and Bute to help with environmental activities that encourage wildlife, support biodiversity and reduce waste.
Councillor Robert Macintyre, Argyll and Bute’s spokesperson for Economy, Environment and Rural Affairs, is delighted by the new initiative.
“Wee Green Grants are a great idea, and I would encourage local groups to get involved,” he said.
“Whether they want to develop a wildlife garden, plant native trees or reduce the energy use of their scout hut, the grants are here to help.”
Wee Green Charter Grants are funded by Lower Clyde Greenspace and the Argyll and Islands LEADER programme. Grant-funded projects should benefit a range of people and contribute to local environments or green facilities.
Councillor Macintyre said: “The Wee Green Grants are a fantastic opportunity for groups to make a significant impact on their local environment, improve the quality of life for fellow residents and enhance the area’s biodiversity. Funding is limited so I would urge groups to apply for a grant without delay.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
