How it will ensure that ancient woodlands are central to policies on planning, woodland and forestry.

National Planning Policy Guideline (NPPG) 14: Natural Heritage notes that planning authorities should seek to protect trees, groups of trees and areas of woodland where they have natural heritage value or contribute to the character or amenity of a particular locality. The policies contained in NPPGs are material considerations to be taken into account in development plan preparation and development control.
The protection, enhancement and expansion of ancient and native woodland are key priorities under the current Scottish Forestry Strategy. Feed-back from public consultation on the review of the strategy confirms there is strong support for these priorities, and we are now considering how to develop them in the draft revised strategy which will be issued for consultation in February. To help identify target areas, a Scottish Native Woodlands Survey project is currently being piloted by Forestry Commission Scotland which aims to create a comprehensive map and database on the extent, type and condition of native woodland, including ancient native woodland. Also, the commission leads the Native Woodland Partnership for Scotland, a body comprising representatives from government, owners’ associations, professional bodies and Non-Governmental Organisations. The partnership leads the implementation of native woodland habitat action plans, whilst advising on relevant policies, best practice and research. It is currently developing proposed habitat action plan targets which will be considered as part of the strategy review process.