A Forest Park for

Tighnabruaich

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The Kilfinan Community Forest Project aims to acquire 1100 acres of Acharossan Forest just behind Tighnabruaich. With enough community support the project will be fully funded by external agencies. This forest resource could potentially deliver a range of benefits directly to Tighnabruaich, Kames and the wider community of Kilfinan.

A series of community consultations were held in August and October 2005 to establish what the actual issues and concerns of the Kilfinan community were. The strongest messages arising out of this were the need for affordable housing, sustainable jobs and the need to have more permanent residents in the area.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          View towards Ardlamont from Acharossan Forest

The project has the potential to provide multiple benefits such as: 

l Timber for the construction of much needed affordable housing. Many local people with skills, knowledge and family connections are unable to find affordable houses and have to move away. Local affordable housing will allow families and young people to stay, live and prosper.

l A Forest Park could be developed to open up access and offer recreational benefits by creating a safe play area for children and path networks including the Kilfinan path. Tourism opportunities could also be explored increasing turnover for local businesses.

l The project also aims to include training and employment opportunities in forest skills and building. As a result, a range of small businesses could develop which could broaden the local economic base. 

l Environmental education and conservation benefits will be developed with nature trails. The forest will be actively managed to provide a sustainable timber resource to the community and improve the conservation value of the native oakwoods.

This is a marvellous opportunity for the community to become directly involved in the development of their local area. A feasibility study is currently looking at how this project can benefit the Kilfinan Community. This involves a range of areas being explored such as local affordable housing, socio-economic development, energy provision and an environmental assessment. This is being funded by Communities Scotland through Fyne Homes with AliEnergy and WHELK Leader+ support.