The information in this section gives more details of the WIAT programme.
The programme provides the focus for Forestry Commission Scotland's work on improving quality of life in towns and cities. The first phase ran from April 2005 - March 2008.
The WIAT programme document (PDF 3Mb) for phase 2 outlines the work to be undertaken in and around towns from April 2008 to March 2011 in order to:
- create new woodland
- bring neglected woodland into active management
- work with people to help them use their local woodland.
Where is the WIAT area?
WIAT activities will take place in woods within 1km of settlements with a population of over 2000 people. The Land Information Search contains a map of the WIAT area in Scotland.
WIAT 'baseline survey' (March 2007)
This report provides a baseline dataset of people’s attitudes, perceptions and values towards their local open space and woodlands and will be used to assess the impact of the WIAT programme on target communities.
- Download the WIAT baseline survey (PDF 5.5 Mb)
WIAT progress report, (Summer 2006)
Funding for WIAT
- Forestry Challenge Funds are focused on bringing woodland into active management.
- Rural Development Contracts: there are forestry options for the creation and management of a range of woodland types. An additional contribution will be available for woodland creation of at least 1 ha in the WIAT area.
Evaluating social forestry initiatives
In 2008/09 an evaluation framework is being piloted for selected health-related forestry initiatives, built into Woods in and Around Towns and Forestry for People Challenge Funds and various social forestry programmes.
