Ardchattan Estate

In an exciting collaboration aimed at environmental restoration, the University of Edinburgh has partnered with Ardchattan Estate to launch a native woodland planting project on Scotland's West Coast.

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This area, renowned for its unique rainforest, is now the site of an ambitious initiative to enhance biodiversity and sequester carbon.  

Ancient woodland 

The project started in February 2024, when the ground was prepared and tree saplings planted, covering an expansive 105 hectares of Ardchattan Estate.

A significant aspect of this project is the restoration of 11.5 hectares of remnant woodland, a move will restore the area's natural heritage.

This partnership brings our commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement to life. By restoring native woodlands and enhancing biodiversity, we are addressing climate change but also helping to build resilience for the unique species that live in Scotland's ancient rainforest.

Yvonne Edwards, Forest, Peat and Rural Land Manager, University of Edinburgh.

Working in collaboration

Forest Management company, TreeStory, are managing the tree planting and ensuring that the right species are planted in suitable locations to maximise ecological benefits. The University’s in-house forester will oversee and monitor the long-term gains. TreeStory specialise in regenerative forestry, creating mix-model forests that increase forest productivity, soil fertility and improved carbon sequestration.

Ardchattan Estate is also home to a former Priory, now private dwellings, with a ruined church and graveyard in the care of Historic Environment Scotland.

The collaboration between the University of Edinburgh and Ardchattan Estate is a chance to preserve and re-establish some of Scotland’s ancient woodland and support its unique wildlife and ecosystems.

While still in its early stages, the partnership aims to demonstrate how strategic partnerships can foster environmental stewardship.

More information 

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