A new woodland is to be created at a Glenkens beauty spot under a revised planting regime agreed with the community.
Developers Scottish Woodlands had initially earmarked much of Waterside Hill above Dalry for Sitka spruce.
But concerned locals demanded a more sympathetic scheme at the popular vantage point on Earlstoun Estate.
Dalry Community Council agreed and delegated member and ecologist Dr Kerry Morrison pressed for changes.
The move paid off and now only native trees will be planted as part of the Waterside Two scheme.
Commercial forestry will still feature – but the Sitka will be grown on lower ground behind the hill.
Dr Morrison said: “We got confirmation last week that Waterside Two has been approved.
“I hope people will be happy – this was always going to be a compromise.
“For some it won’t be ideal because the hill is still going to be forested – but it’s a far better forest than it was.
“Given that we had limited scope I think we have got a good result.”
She added: “I am very happy that we have not got the first scheme.
“That would have seen Sitka planted all over the hill – people did not want that. It would be great if more schemes were split this way because we don’t want Galloway covered in Sitka.”
Scottish Forestry had approved Scottish Woodlands’ initial application, Waterside One, despite objections over the Sitka plantation.
Protests led to the plan being mothballed pending talks with stakeholders to agree a revised scheme, Waterside Two, drawn up by Dr Morrison and Scottish Woodlands’ assistant regional manager Alison Wallace.
Ms Wallace confirmed to the News this week that the remodelled project would go ahead – and praised Dr Morrison for helping find a solution.
She said: “Kerry has been an absolute trooper and I would commend her dedication and commitment. I think it has been a great partnership and working with Kerry has been a positive experience.
“It’s a successful outcome formed through close collaboration with the community council.
“It will be a nice woodland for everyone in future years.
“Hopefully the community will enjoy it in years to come.”
Ms Wallace added: “We’ll probably look to start doing some fencing later this summer.
“People will find pathways improved and there will be a little area set aside for the community to develop as they see fit.”
The 128,21 hectare scheme – around half a square mile – will feature 66 hectares of native broadleaves, Scots pine and Douglas fir on the lower slopes of Waterside Hill.
Both sections will include substantial areas of open ground.
