Bute Community Forest is celebrating a major funding boost, with the announcement of a grant of £214,329 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
This generous award will go towards the development of a new Welcome Hub at the former quarry site, located near the existing entrance to Moss Wood.
The Welcome Hub will be a key development for the growing forest project, offering a range of facilities designed to enhance the experience for visitors and improve access to the forest.
Planned features include a small visitor cabin, a toilet and shower block, parking for 12-15 cars, and active travel provisions, such as bike stands and a bus shelter for a new proposed bus stop.
The funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund will help make the site more accessible and support the increasing popularity of the forest’s events.
It will also unlock the potential for an additional £100,000 in future funding from other sources, further enhancing the community forest’s capacity to offer a wide range of educational and recreational opportunities.
One of the most exciting aspects of the project is the new access point it will provide into the forest.
New paths will be created from the Welcome Hub, allowing visitors to enjoy circular walks, including routes through newly planted woodland areas.
In addition to improving access, the project will play a crucial role in preserving Bute’s unique Atlantic Temperate Rainforest heritage.
The forest is a vital part of the ‘Argyll Amazon’, one of the most ecologically significant rainforests in Europe.
The development aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the north end of the island, connecting more people to the natural world around them.
Bute Community Forest has expressed gratitude to several local organisations for their support, including Fyne Futures, Bute Conservation Trust, ACT, and the Red Squirrel Project.
The project has also been bolstered by the generous backing of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, along with those who contribute through playing the National Lottery.
This exciting development marks a new chapter for Bute Community Forest, helping to ensure the long-term sustainability of the forest while enhancing the experience for future visitors.
The Welcome Hub promises to be a vital resource for both locals and tourists alike, further cementing the forest’s role as a treasured community asset.
For more information on the project and upcoming events, visit Bute Community Forest’s website or follow them on social media.
