The latest news and updates from Friends of the Ochils — covering our campaigns, planning decisions, and conservation work in and around the Ochils.
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Green Knowes Windfarm Repowering Project
ScottishPower Renewables has proposed the repowering of the existing Green Knowes Windfarm in the Ochil Hills, replacing ageing turbines with more modern, efficient models.
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FotO Responds to Confor Draft Engagement Guidelines
FotO has submitted comments on Confor's draft guidelines for respectful and constructive engagement in Scottish forestry.
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Balquhandy Forest Long Term Forest Plan — Consultation
Scottish Forestry opened consultation on a 20-year management plan for Balquhandy Forest near Dunning. FotO reviewed the proposals ahead of the March 2026 deadline.
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Craighead Windfarm Appeal Allowed — Eight Turbines Approved
The Scottish Ministers' Reporter has allowed the planning appeal for the Craighead Windfarm near Dunning Glen, granting permission for eight wind turbines.
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FotO Objects to Amended Brunt Hill Windfarm Application
FotO has submitted a formal representation objecting to the amended Brunt Hill Windfarm application to the Energy Consents Unit.
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FotO Raises Concerns Over Glenfarg Woodland Consultation
FotO has written to Scottish Forestry expressing serious concerns about the late and inadequate stakeholder consultation by the agent on a new mixed commercial woodland proposal near Glenfarg.
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Windburn Windfarm
Friends of the Ochils have objected to the Windburn Windfarm development due to its significant adverse impact on the Ochils' landscape, visual amenity, and recreational use.
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Blackford Farms Ochil Hills Woodland Creation — Stakeholder Engagement
FotO is participating in stakeholder engagement for a proposed woodland creation scheme on the Blackford Farms estate in the Ochil Hills, with a consultation deadline of 22 September 2025.
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Ardargie Woodland Proposal: FotO Concludes Review
FotO has concluded its formal review of the Ardargie Woodland Creation application, confirming no further concerns after key access issues were resolved.
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Scotland’s Rural LandMarket and Natural Capital
FotO's response to developments affecting the Ochils landscape, including the Windburn Windfarm proposal.
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Timber harvesting Dollar Forest 2021 – 2022
An update on timber harvesting activity in Dollar Forest and what it means for the Ochils.
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Saving Scotland's Red Squirrels
A message from the Saving Scotland's Red Squirrels project, seeking volunteers and stakeholders in the Ochils area to help protect red squirrels from the spread of grey squirrels.
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Light on Dumyat by Rennie McOwan republished
A brand new illustrated fifth edition of Light on Dumyat — the classic children's adventure story by Rennie McOwan, founder of Friends of the Ochils.