This survey is now closed. We have kept the post active for information purposes:
“DCT is considering the purchase of two woodlands at Orbost: Cruachan Wood and Cnoc nan Craobh (also known locally as Bluebell Hill), which are both currently owned by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE). If there is community support for the proposal, DCT would be pursuing an Asset Transfer, which enables eligible community organisations to acquire land from public bodies at a discount from market value. It’s our hope that this will be the small beginning of a locally driven effort to address depopulation and a lack of affordable land and homes.
‘Cruachan Wood covers 8.7ha. It has been felled and restocked over the last 20 years and mostly comprises native broadleaves and naturally regenerating conifers, with significant areas affected by salmonberry and gorse. There is no active woodland management or provision for public access. DCT wishes to address the scarcity of affordable land and sees the wood as a potential site for the development of two woodland crofts with associated house plots, under a model of tenure that retains the houses in the affordable sector and prevents speculation. Cnoc nan Craobh (0.6ha) comprises open mature woodland on a small hill with a mix of mature and younger broadleaves. It is a beautiful spot of special significance to the community, and an established local destination for walks and outdoor recreation. DCT is keen to preserve the nature of the wood whilst enhancing its use by e.g. forest school.”
Link to Layout Options and Proposals Map
Link to Full Feasibility Study
