Exceptional commercial conifer forest with further woodland creation potential, unique aspen & windfarm proposal.

• High yielding crops
• Predominantly Sitka spruce
• Weighted average age 32
• Significant volume of timber nearing harvesting stage
• Impressive 109 acres of hybrid Aspen

Location

Glenquicken Forest enjoys a highly attractive and strategic location near the village of Creetown, in the heart of Dumfries & Galloway, one of Scotland’s most productive and well established forestry regions. The property lies within close proximity to the A75 trunk road, providing efficient access east to Dumfries and west to the ferry port at Stranraer. The nearby town of Newton Stewart offers a range of local services and amenities, while the surrounding area benefits from a strong forestry infrastructure, including established haulage routes, nearby sawmills, and a skilled local workforce.

The forest sits within an area offering favourable growing conditions supported by a mild, wet climate and productive soils.

Access

The access is provided by way of a servitude shown as A1-A2 on the sale plan. The servitude access and public road have already been used for timber haulage. The property also fronts the public road elsewhere including an existing access point by Englishman’s bridge. The nearest major timber processors are:

• BSW, Dalbeatie – 36 miles
• James Jones, Lockerbie – 57 miles
• James Jones, Annan – 60 miles
• BSW, Carlisle – 77 miles

Description

The exceptional conifer forest extends to approximately 140 hectares and is predominantly composed of Sitka spruce, with areas of strong growth and high yield classes. Established in 1992, the forest is primarily Sitka spruce, complemented by lodgepole pine, smaller areas of Scots pine, Douglas fir and noble fir, along with a mix of broadleaves. More recent restocking has introduced Norway spruce and hybrid aspen, enhancing species diversity.

An approved Long Term Forest Plan is in place, setting out a 20-year programme of management, including felling and restocking. The current plan includes three remaining felling phases at approximately eight-year intervals, commencing in 2030, and averaging around 20 hectares per phase. Based on crop quality, growth rates and optimal harvesting timing, the seller estimates an annualised income in excess of £100,000 per annum. The woodland benefits from good internal access and is conveniently located near the A75 trunk road.

Approved new woodland, hill land, and identified areas in the Forest Plan, could provide over 60 Hectares of additional planting. Approved scheme site is currently dominated by bracken and benefits from natural shelter provided by the surrounding topography. Based on the quality of the soils and the performance of adjacent woodland, a yield class of 18 or higher is anticipated. There is potential to create significant water areas and add further interest to the forest. The water PH is ideal for fish, scale lends itself to holiday accommodation, and proximity to Cree Estuary attracts geese and other wildfowl.

Lapsed Retreat Centre

The former Craigneuk Steading is a traditional pre-1700 farmhouse, now in a ruinous state, set beneath the slopes of Craigneuk Fell. The property previously benefitted from planning permission for conversion into a retreat centre, which has since lapsed. Enjoying an elevated and private setting, it’s own stream and grounds, the site commands expansive views across Wigtownshire.

There is clear potential to reinstate the previous consent, subject to the necessary approvals, or to pursue an alternative development, offering an exciting opportunity in a highly scenic and tranquil location.

Windfarm Proposal

The purchaser will have the opportunity to enter into a 12-month exclusivity agreement, followed by an option agreement with RME, as a potential wind energy site.

The proposed scheme comprises between three and five turbines of up to 350 meters in height. This presents the potential to generate significant income, with payments payable to the landowner during both the exclusivity and option periods, in addition to any future development returns. There is a reservation of 40% of turbine income in favour of Glenquicken House.

Further details, including the proposed option terms and payment structure, are provided within the additional information.

Sporting Rights

The mixture of cover and open ground present fantastic opportunity for deer stalking. Over 50 Red and Roe deer shot every year. Sporting rights are included in the sale.

Boundaries

The property is bounded by dykes and stock fencing.

Mineral Rights

Mineral rights are included so far as the seller has right thereto.

Wayleaves & Third-Party Rights

The property will be sold with the benefit of, and subject to, all existing rights and burdens with the Titles.

Designations

The property forms part of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere Reserve. In addition, in the northeast corner of the subject, Glenquicken hosts part of a Scheduled Monument for the Pibble lead mines, with reference number SM5289.

Forest Grants & Management

Approved new woodland, hill land, and identified areas in the Forest Plan, could provide over 60 hectares of additional planting.

For further information contact us at Goldcrest Land & Forestry Group.