Castle Crawford Wood, a phallic-shaped woodland known as "Penis Woods" visible from the M74 motorway, is being cut down despite backlash from local communities. The trees on Twegill Hill south of Biggar have been "welcoming people to Scotland" for two centuries, according to locals.
Petition to save the 'Treenis'
Plans to fell the woodland, nicknamed the "Treenis" due to its distinctive outline, sparked a petition to save it. The petition starter wrote: "The Penis Woodland is a cultural landmark visible from the M74 in Scotland. This iconic cultivation is going to be felled."
"It's not just any woodland, it's a penis shaped woodland, visible from the motorway." The petition has been backed by more than 2,700 signatures. Locals said the trees should be a "protected landmark".
Scottish Forestry explains decision
A spokesman for Scottish Forestry said: "Castle Crawford Wood, which was originally planted in the late 1800s, has reached the end of its natural lifecycle and is experiencing significant windblow, leaving many remaining trees unstable and at risk of further failure."
"Following assessment and public consultation, Scottish Forestry has approved the felling of the woodland, which is in progress. This forms part of the wood's long-established management, with the site having been felled and replanted several times throughout its history."
"The area is required to be restocked with an appropriate mix of trees species, helping to ensure a sustainable woodland long-term." Castle Crawford Wood has featured on maps from as early as 1849.
