Major operation to clear-up storm damage to begin on Solway coast

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is set to begin a major clear-up operation in Mark Hill Forest, Kippford in a bid to tackle the significant damage caused by recent and past storms. 

The forest has been badly hit by windblow leaving a large area of uprooted and snapped trees and poses a serious risk to people’s safety. FLS has been forced to close all walking and cycling trails for an extended period.

Following an extensive assessment of the damage and detailed planning, FLS teams in the south can now undertake the large-scale work needed to clear-up the damage.  

Work will be done in phases to minimise the impact on the local community and people who use the forest.

FLS Area Visitor Services Manager Katharina Koehler said:

“Whilst we have no official trails in this forest, Mark Hill with its superb views over Kippford Bay and across the Solway, is very popular with locals and visitors and lies within easy reach from several villages and caravan parks. 

“We have agreed on a phased approach to the operations which will include chainsaw work, the use of heavy machinery and isolating power lines to remove the damaged trees. 

“This phased approach will hopefully mean people can begin accessing and visiting the forest while work progresses.

“Tackling the damage at Mark Hill has been a challenge with Storms Arwen and Eowyn forcing land management plans to be revised and resubmitted for approval. We appreciate the understanding that has been shown during this time.”

The combination of felled trees, hanging trees and unstable trees that are still standing along with the machinery that will be on site will mean a there needs to be a strong focus on health and safety during operations.

Katharina added:

“Our priorities will be on keeping staff, contractors and the public safe while restoring safe access to the forests. To ensure we do our best to keep everyone safe we are urging visitors to observe and follow any signage and instructions from staff on site.

“We thank the local communities and visitors for continuing to being patient with us as we continue our work.”

FLS will be hosting a public drop-in session to explain the work, the constraints and what will be needed from the public to safely support the operation.

The drop-in session will take place at the Kippford Village Hall, Kippford, DG5 4LL on Wednesday 4th February between 4pm – 7pm.

Notes to editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
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