Woodland Strategy Refresh

Description

The Council is seeking to engage the services of a consultant to conduct a Woodland Strategy Refresh. Lot 1: The Council wishes to engage the services of a Consultant to: -Evaluate the impact and efficacy of the Scottish Borders Council’s current adopted Woodland Strategy (2005) including an evaluation/measure of how well the aims and objectives of guiding forestry and woodland creation to ensure maximum social, economic and environmental benefits within this Strategy have been achieved. -Review and offer a revised framework document, (which will also form the Evidence base of the next SBC Local Development Plan (LDP3), updating the local and national policy context including the Scottish Forestry Strategy, relevant environmental protection legislation and any other pertinent implications for the Borders and nationally within the wider policy landscape. -Carry out a transport assessment for timber extraction (acknowledging the lack of any major timber processing mills in the Borders) -Consult with agreed list of Consultees on refreshed strategy -Carry out community engagement -Analyse consultation feedback -Amend and alter framework document as necessary and in collaboration with the Steering Group. Procurement procedure: Quick Quote Timescale: Once Consultants have been appointed, a programme plan will be agreed with the Steering Group, which it is anticipated that it will be adhered to. Any proposed amendments to be approved and agreed with the Steering Group, in liaison with the appointed consultant. Estimated Procurement Start: 24th November 2025