Issue - meetings

Update from Timber Transport Group

Simon Stuart provided the Forum with a verbal update, advising that he has been engaging with Forestry and Land Scotland to ensure that they are following their timber transport management plans. Mr Stuart advised there is a proposed change to the timber link which could result in more timber travelling via road rather than ships and that less timber is going to Ireland due to disease problems may also result in more timber travelling via road. Councillor Sinclair voiced his concerns that more timber may be travelling via road than ship.

Simon highlighted that the timber lorry service is supported by the the Strategic Timber Transport Scheme, with £5 million being given by Transport Scotland and £2 million from Scottish Forestry, adding that the service is facing increasing pressures as the money from Transport Scotland is no longer available.

Outcome

The Forum noted the update from the Timber Transport Group.

Simon Stuart introduced himself as taking on the representative role for Argyll with the Timber Transport Group, all his contact details are on the website if anyone needs to get in touch.

Outcome

The Forum welcomed Simon to the Group.