The islands of North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist and Barra together form the southern part of the Outer Hebrides, known as the Southern Isles. This proposal came from the local community, which was keen to restore native woodland to a part of Scotland where very little woodland now survives. Six sites throughout the islands were selected as being suitable for woodland, four of which are close to crofting communities. The woodlands will bring valuable conservation and amenity benefits and also demonstrate the potential for woodland on similar croft land. A total of 244ha has been enclosed with deer or stock fencing, and the suitable ground within planted with native species. At Meall Mor on South Uist the few remnant native trees provide the only opportunity for natural regeneration at one of the most attractive but remote of the sites. Visitors to the woodlands will be able to take advantage of information panels, which tell the story of the woods and what they might find there.

(Click map to enlarge)