Our Big Idea:
A “Crown of Trees” for the historic city of Stirling
At our Autumn Gathering on the 28th October 2023 we unveiled our ‘Big Idea’ to an enthusiastic response from TreeLink Stirling members and others.
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Our Big Idea is to realise a 'Crown of Trees' around the city of Stirling which creates a 36km walking route which connects important woodlands such as Abbey Craig, Balquhidderock Wood, Gillies Hill and Craigforth with important historical locations like the sites of the battles of Bannockburn (1314) and Stirling Bridge (1297).
Most of the route is served by existing footpaths and is well wooded, but we are keen to work with landowners and local communities to fill the gaps and manage the woods.
We think the Crown of Trees could become a significant destination for local people and visitors to Stirling alike, as well as a tangible focus for climate change action. Alyn Smith, MP for Stirling was at the Autumn Gathering where the Crown of Trees idea was unveiled. He commented "What a fantastic vision for Stirling! This is not just a vision for Stirling, but a series of scalable, deliverable community projects which will make a real difference." Councillor Jen Preston, Convener of the Stirling Council Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee added “I was delighted to meet the passionate and committed volunteers who make up Treelink Stirling. Trees make communities better places to live as well as being a crucial part of Stirling’s response to the climate emergency, and I look forward to learning more about these exciting plans.”
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TreeLink is already in discussion with some land managers where tree planting or woodland management activities will be an important contribution to the Crown of Trees.
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Soon there will be opportunities for people to volunteer in these activities and help in the realisation of our ‘Big Idea’, so watch this space!
Stirling Castle is at the centre of the ‘Crown of Trees’
Craigforth from Kings Park