We’re pleased to share another progress update from Kidland Forest.

Year 1 of the contract was completed on schedule at the end of September 2025, a significant milestone on this challenging site. Year 2 is now set to continue, and we expect works to run through until autumn 2026.

As the photos show, the scale of devastation caused by Storm Arwen, now some four years on, remains a major challenge. Combined with the extreme steepness of the forest, this continues to demand careful planning, specialist equipment, and experienced operators.

A huge credit goes to everyone involved for maintaining progress safely and efficiently under such demanding conditions. More updates to follow as work continues.

Progress at Kidland – Tackling the Steep Slopes

When we first visited Kidland back in January, we knew this was never going to be an easy site. Three phases, steep ground, and unpredictable weather – the challenges were clear from the start.

Now, with Phase 1 almost behind us and Phase 2 about to begin, the scale of the work is really coming to life. The ground here is so steep it feels more like a mountainside than a forest – yet, thanks to an exceptionally dry year, we’ve been able to press on without skylines and winches.

The photo tells the story better than words: Ant, on the Harvester, is barely visible against the slope, his machine clinging to the hillside as it works through the timber. Meanwhile, Phil, on the Forwarder, edges along tracks that would make most people’s stomachs turn – hauling timber safely down to the roadside with steady hands and nerves of steel.

This is forestry at its toughest – and at its best. Huge credit to both operators, and our thanks to Blacklock Harvesting for their skill, courage, and commitment in tackling one of the most demanding sites we’ve worked on.

We’re excited to share that A&J Scott Ltd will once again be heading to Wooler this June to take part in one of our favourite events of the year – the Children’s Countryside Day, hosted by the Glendale Agricultural Society.

Taking place on Thursday 5th June 2025 at the Glendale Showground, this much-loved event invites over 1,700 primary school children from across the North East to discover the wonders of rural life. For many, it’s their very first hands-on experience with the countryside – and we’re proud to be part of making it both fun and educational.

So, what will A&J Scott be doing there?

We’ll be giving children a unique look into the world of timber – where it comes from, how it’s processed, and how it plays an essential role in everything from construction to conservation. As one of the UK’s leading sawmills, we’re passionate about sustainability and proud to share how responsibly managed forests support both the environment and the economy.

Expect us to bring a little bit of the forest to the field! Our team loves chatting with curious young minds about how trees are grown, harvested, and turned into useful products. Whether it’s learning about different types of wood or discovering how sawmills work, there’s something for every child to get excited about.

We believe events like the Children’s Countryside Day are more important than ever. In a world that’s increasingly disconnected from nature and food production, this day offers children a rare chance to get up close to animals, farm machinery, and rural trades – and to see just how vital the countryside is to daily life.

We can’t wait to join the incredible line-up of over 75 exhibitors who’ll be creating a real-life “Countryside Classroom” at the showground. If you’re a teacher, parent, or pupil heading to the event – be sure to stop by and say hello!

See you in Wooler!