Why timber is transported in our region
Around 31% of Dumfries and Galloway is covered by woodland and our region produces about 30% of Scotland’s home‑grown timber each year.
This timber is used for everyday products such as:
- fencing
- paper
- pallets
- building materials
To move timber from forests to processing sites, it must be transported, most commonly by lorry.
Why timber lorries use rural roads
Many forests can only be accessed by smaller rural roads. These routes were not originally designed for modern haulage vehicles and we understand this can sometimes cause concerns for people who live in or travel through these areas.
We work closely with industry partners to minimise disruption wherever possible.
What is being done to reduce impacts on communities
The forestry and timber sector takes several steps to manage transport safely and reduce its effect on communities:
- using modern vehicles designed to reduce environmental and road‑surface impact
- planning haulage for agreed times and routes
- reducing the number of journeys where possible
Their goal is to move timber responsibly while respecting local road users.
How timber transport is managed locally
Timber companies, Dumfries and Galloway Council and other partners are active members of Regional Timber Transport Groups. These groups:
- identify areas where transport can cause disruption
- develop agreed routes for timber haulage
- produce local protocols to improve road safety and efficiency
You can view the agreed routes map on the Timber Transport Forum website.
Watch how timber transport is managed safely
Sharing the road safely
Timber is vital to rural jobs and the wider UK economy. Transporting locally grown timber reduces 'timber miles' and helps lower reliance on imported wood.
The industry is committed to using the public road network responsibly and safely, and to working alongside other road users.
Find out more
The Timber Transport Forum provides a list of frequently asked questions, which explain:
- why timber transport is needed
- how transport routes are planned
- what is being done to reduce impact on communities