Mainshill is a former opencast coal mine site. Land forming and soil remediation works, in preparation for woodland creation on site, were completed in 2020. Operations under this Land Management Plan will deliver a new mixed woodland. Lower slopes to the north and west will be planted with native broadleaf species, maximising habitat and amenity benefits close to the water bodies and access points, whilst productive conifer species will be established on the upper slopes to the south and east of site.

The retained mine headwall, with its exposed geological strata, is of educational interest both in the terms of the natural landscape and the site's industrial heritage. The site is well serviced with a network of forest roads and rides, for access throughout the new woodland.

The land management plan for Mainshill was formally approved in April 2019. However, with the land forming and soil remediation now complete, and in consideration of additional community consultation undertaken, Forestry and Land Scotland now seek to increase the area of broadleaf planting through an amendment to the plan.

Timeline

• Summer 2018 - site survey, site analysis
• Autumn 2018 - initial design concept for the woodland including tree species choice and shapes
• Winter 2018 - community consultation undertaken in conjunction with Scottish Mines Restoration Trust (SMRT)
• Early Spring 2019 - application submitted for formal approval
• Spring 2019 - plan formally approved
• Spring 2021 - plan amendment

Documents and maps

• Amended Planting Map (PDF) – adjustments to the planting plan made in spring 2021, to increase broadleaf woodland area
• Approved land management plan (PDF) - main document containing the detailed proposals
• Maps (PDF)