142 Hectares of New Woodland
The Mount Stuart Trust Forestry Team are continuing their exciting tree-planting project on Mount Stuart Trust land at Achavoulaig, on the north-west side of the Isle of Bute.
The project is being delivered in phases:
Phase 1 – Spring 2026
The first phase saw 66,000 native broadleaf trees planted. The MST Forestry Team were proud to plant the first trees onsite.
Phase 2 – Underway
Phase 2 has now started, with a further 60,000 native broadleaf trees planned. We expect this phase to continue through to Spring 2027.
Looking ahead
The scheme includes 40 acres of open space, with the aim to introduce public access when the trees have established.
This project is a fantastic example of MST's strategic aims in action, supporting our commitments to Conservation and Sustainability through woodland creation, biodiversity and environmental regeneration. Future public access will also help support our ambitions around Community and Engagement, allowing more people to enjoy and connect with Bute's natural environment.
It's a huge, long-term undertaking and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved so far.
A little woodland perspective
The total area of woodland that will be planted covers approximately 350 acres (142 hectares) – equivalent to around 234 football pitches!
