Ancient and modern side by side as new woodland takes root in Glasgow

A new native woodland is set to take root in Glasgow with 20,000 trees to be planted on former pastureland on the southern edge of the city.

Article Source: Glasgow City Council
Last Updated: 11 September 2020 10:53

Backed by Glasgow City Council and Green Action Trust, the £125k project will see nine different species of native broadleaf trees planted across 15 hectares next to the Cart and Kittoch Valley Site of Special Scientific Interest, near to Carmunnock.

Planted in line with the 45 hectares of ancient woodland that has been preserved and managed at Cart and Kittoch since before the 1750s, the new woodland will also spread towards the existing woods at the adjoining Cathkin Braes Country Park. Once the 20,000 trees begin to mature, it is intended that a network of paths will be installed within the deciduous woodland that will link neighbouring communities and these greenspaces.

The initiative follows a review of the city's landscapes by the council and Green Action Trust in collaboration with communities that found there were significant opportunities for expansion of woodlands and habitats at the southern edge of the city.

Work to prepare the council-owned pastureland for planting is underway and fencing is being erected to keep deer away from saplings that can measure just 50cm in height.

In time, however, the native trees being planted will grow up to 15metres tall and help to create a habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna, including bluebells, primrose and foxgloves to hedgehogs, badgers and birds. With the lifespan of the trees being planted anywhere between 60 and 100 years, it is anticipated that the new woodland will be able to regenerate and continue indefinitely with appropriate management.

Establishing the woodland, which will cover a space the size of 21 football pitches, will also create a store for carbon from the atmosphere and contribute to Glasgow's efforts to tackle the climate emergency.

Councillor Anna Richardson, City Convener for Sustainability and Carbon Reduction, expressed her hope the new woodland would provide a significant legacy for the local area but also for the city as a whole: “Our woodlands are a huge asset, providing space for recreation and a natural haven within the city environment. Throughout the Covid crisis, our open spaces have been greatly appreciated and so it is vitally important we cultivate these places for future generations to use as much as possible.

“But with the council also declaring a climate and ecological emergency, preserving and enhancing our open spaces also has a practical purpose. Creating a new woodland at Cart and Kittoch will help to support some of thousands of species that exist in Glasgow, but will also add to our carbon reduction efforts.

“The new Cart and Kittoch woodland is a community project and we want to involve the residents and groups at each stage of it development. As the woodland matures we hope it becomes somewhere that is treasured by the community.”

The Green Action Trust, one of Scotland's leading environmental regeneration charities, is driving forward the delivery of Europe's largest greenspace initiative, the Central Scotland Green Network.

Douglas Worrall, Director of Service Delivery at the Green Action Trust, explained the importance of woodland creation projects like these: “There are substantial and long-lasting benefits to investing in tree planting. As well as filtering air pollutants, woodlands sequester carbon and alleviate flooding. They also create a place for people to feel good in an environment which supports healthy lifestyles and well-being.

“With Scottish Forestry's support through its forestry grant scheme, we look forward to working with Glasgow City Council to create this new native woodland that will contribute towards the Central Scotland Green Network vision of enriching the environment of central Scotland, benefiting local communities and wildlife, and helping to mitigate against climate change.”

The plans for the new woodland have been presented to the Linn Area Partnership and staff from the council's Parks Development Team have been linking with Carmunnock Community Council.

John Lawless, Chair of Carmunnock Community Council said: “As a Community Council we welcome the Cart to Kittoch tree planting initiative. We recognise the obvious benefits to the environment in producing oxygen, capturing carbon dioxide and increasing wildlife. Importantly for Carmunnock, the proposed woodland further protects the green belt. There will also be health benefits to future generations as the woodland will provide access to more trails and paths in the local area.”

The species of trees being planted at Cart and Kittoch are Common Alder (10%), Downy Birch (20%), Bird Cherry (10%), Holly (5%), Pendunculate Oak (10%), Sessile Oak (10%),Rowan (20%), Hawthorn (5%),Hazel (10%).

Green Action Trust secured the £125k fund for the project through a grant from Scottish Forestry.

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Glasgow News

Breaking the Silence Gig: Last Minute Tickets available for Oran Mor

Last-minute tickets are still available for JJ “Jinky” Gilmour’s Breaking the Silence show at Oran Mor on Thursday 27th November.

Santa clocks in early: Scotland shift heroes among 30,000 invited to claim free festive meal

Greene King pubs is raising the spirits of Scotland's hardest workers this festive season, hosting 'The Big Christmas Shift' across 700 pubs nationwide, giving away 30,000 meals on Monday 1st December

Festive days out to make the most of the season

From wreath-making workshops through to New Year’s Eve street parties, here's a rounded up some of the best events to help make the most of the season with loved ones in a fun and creative way.

SAY Award winner announced as Kai Reesu

Kai Reesu’s ‘KOMPROMAT vol.i’ was tonight announced as winner of The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award, as the country’s national music prize Ceremony took place in Dundee’s Caird Hall.

Flight Club Glasgow launches limited edition Winter Menu and Festive Brunch

Flight Club Glasgow kicks off Christmas party season with the unveiling of its specially curated limited-edition menu and festive celebration-worthy bottomless brunch.

Citizens Theatre announces Associate Companies and Artists programme plus new shows for 2026

The Citizens Theatre has announced a new initiative to support and collaborate with artists and theatre companies, alongside more productions in its reopening year.

Glasgow Kelvin College hosts Big Scottish Breakfast and beauty event for STV Childrens Appeal

Glasgow Kelvin College students dished up community spirit in style earlier this month, raising £700 for the STV Children's Appeal through a Big Scottish Breakfast and beauty event.

Aldi opens applications for Christmas food donations programme in Glasgow

Aldi is calling on charities, community groups and food banks in Glasgow to sign up for surplus food donations from its stores this Christmas.

Public vote opens for Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 as scene flourishes

A stellar lineup of nominees has been announced for the Scottish Jazz Awards 2025, showcasing the exceptional talent flourishing across Scotland's vibrant jazz scene.

From Pop to Print: Bobby Bluebell Unveils Forevermore at Glasgow Print Studio

Glasgow Print Studio is delighted to announce the launch of Forevermore, a new limited-edition print by Bobby Bluebell.

Winter Wonderland at St Enoch Square set to open this Thursday

Glasgow's Winter Wonderland gets underway this week with the opening of St Enoch Square on Thursday 6th November from 12 noon until 9pm.

The Christmas tradition of the year is back...

Scotland's biggest Christmas drive-in returns: 11 days of Elf, Home Alone & more at Loch Lomond Shores!

Have a merry little Christmas at Glasgow Science Centre

Make this winter one to remember at Glasgow Science Centre! Discover a line-up of unmissable seasonal events packed with science, wonder and festive fun!

Four top chefs in Glasgow team up to raise money for Hospitality Health

Four of Glasgow's top chefs are teaming up on Thursday 13th November to host a charity dinner for Glasgow based charity, Hospitality Health.

Go to Christmas market for locally made gifts returns to Glasgow city centre

Mary's Meals' much-loved market – where your Christmas shopping can help feed hungry children – returns at The Social Hub this November!

Peter Kay announces triumphant return to the OVO Hydro next year

Extra tickets released including premium seats to celebrate his record-breaking stand-up tour.

Unfolded brings sustainable pop up shop and sample sale back to Glasgow for one weekend only at the iconic Buchanan Galleries

Groundbreaking Scottish sustainable ladies fashion brand Unfolded is returning to the heart of Glasgow and the homeland of ladies fashion for one weekend only.

Martin Compston to bring star power to Hoolie in the Hydro as co host

Celebrated Scottish actor Martin Compston has been announced as the co-host for this year's highly anticipated Hoolie in the Hydro: The Big Yin.

Buchanan Galleries marks Purple Tuesday with Charity Partnerships

Buchanan Galleries is marking Purple Tuesday, on 4th November, with a series of initiatives designed to champion accessibility and inclusion within the centre.

Pizza Punks is coming to town with an all new door to door delivery service

Pizza Punks Glasgow have revealed a revolutionary new service, door to door delivery, and to celebrate, the pizza scene disrupters are offering 50% off your first order!

Reward offered for return of Elvis artwork stolen from The Clutha Bar in Glasgow

The Clutha Bar and local artist Moe Rocksmoore are appealing for the safe return of Elvis, a much-loved artwork created by children and young people from Glasgow and Renfrewshire schools.

Book Tales: Storytelling through the lives of readers past and present

This November, the University of Glasgow and The Mitchell Library invite you to explore the rich and historical life of books in a series of engaging Being Human Festival.

First Bus gives Remembrance free travel for all Armed Forces, veterans and cadets

First Bus is offering free travel for all veterans and UK Armed Forces personnel travelling to Remembrance Day activities of Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.

Scotland Meats Germany

Scotland's favourite beer, Tennent's Lager, has unveiled the world's first ever Square Wurst - a Scottish classic with a German twist - to mark the launch of Tennent's Bavarian Pilsner.

Cineworld Glasgow Silverburn unveils luxury recliners and immersive 4DX experience

Cineworld Glasgow Silverburn has just completed a major transformation, introducing luxury recliner seating and an immersive 4DX auditorium!

Scottish Ensemble brings warmth to wintry nights with Concerts by Candlelight tour

Concert by Candlelight, Scottish Ensemble's celebrated long-running winter tour, returns for eight awe-inspiring performances in intimate settings around Scotland this December.

Crossbasket Castle unveils festive events for 2025

As the festive season approaches, five-star Scottish castle, Crossbasket Castle, has unveiled its calendar of seasonal events and experiences.

Feel the festive cheer at Dobbies Charity Christmas Shopping Night

Dobbies is encouraging customers to come along to their nearest store and to be the first to shop exclusive Black Friday offers at its late-night shopping event, in aid of Alzheimer's Research UK.

Autumn Offers at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection

Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched new offerings designed to inspire cosy autumn getaways and early festive escapes across Scotland.