Wiltshire Council identifies timber industry potential
2 October 2014Wiltshire Council has completed an in-depth study into the opportunities for the forestry and timber industries in Wiltshire and Swindon.
The council recognised that, while quality timber is grown in the county, only a small proportion was harvested, representing a lost opportunity in terms of rural jobs, import substitution and biodiversity improvements.
The study identified there are 34,311ha of woodland in Wiltshire and Swindon. A high proportion is managed and a further 10,000m3 of timber could be sustainably harvested.
Fleur de Rhe-Philipe, cabinet member for economic development, said Wiltshire Council expected the study to act as a catalyst to the development of Wiltshire’s woodland and timber sector.
The industry is estimated to have a total economic value of £47m for the region.
The council would like to hear from woodland owners, whether they manage their woodlands or not, forestry contractors or managers, and timber users. Contact Alistair Shankland at alistair.shankland@wiltshire.gov.uk.
