Glen Cannel Woodland Creation
Benmore Estate, Isle of Mull
Large-scale Native Upland Oak-Birch woodland planting on the Isle of Mull
Highfield Forestry Ltd is working with Benmore Estate to prepare a 220 hectare new native woodland planting project on the valley slopes south of Loch Ba on the Isle of Mull. The project seeks to enhance the visual and ecological diversity and value of the area by extending the Mull Atlantic Oakwood habitat into the glen, while contributing to carbon sequestration targets.
Updates:
April 2025: All initial ecological surveys have been completed. We are working with Scottish Forestry to progress to Environmental Impact Assessment Screening and Forestry Grant Scheme Approval.
Anticipated Timeline
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1. Initial Preparation
Complete
Initial consultation, site surveys and due diligence to prepare the draft design.
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2. EIA Screening and FGS Grant Application
Currently Ongoing
The draft design and supporting information (e.g. habitat / archaeological reports) will be submitted to Scottish Forestry to review.
Once satisfied all potential factors have been identified and adressed / protected the project will be approved and planting can commence.
The project will be placed on Scottish Forestry’s Public Register for Woodland Creation Applications for final public consultation before approval.
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3. Upgrade and Extension of Estate Track
Mid 2025
The main estate track into Glen Cannel will be repaired and upgraded.
The track will be extended to reach the planting east of the river with new bridges to enhance access.
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4. Deer Fencing
Late 2025
Deer fences will be constructed around the main planting blocks. This will protect the new planting along with existing veteran trees from herbivore browsing, allowing the habitat to establish and recover.
The enclosures will have a robust network of signposted gates to allow public access. All existing tracks will remain accessible.
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5. Cultivation and Planting
Phase 1: September 2025 - May 2026
Phase 2: September 2026 - May 2027
Ground preparation and planting will commence over winter 2025/26. If required this will be split into two phases, with the second completing winter 2026/27.
Low ground impact techniques will be used to prepare the land for planting. All seedlings will then be planted by hand.
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6. Ongoing Maintenance
2026 - 2031
The project will be regularly monitored until the trees establish. Weeding will be done as necessary and any dead seedlings replanted.
Documents
The lead forester for this project is currently Iain Stirling. If you would like further information on this project, or to provide comment, you can contact us via the link opposite, or via our Contact page.