Falkirk Council and Green Action Trust have been working together on the programme, which will involve removing ageing, mainly non-native conifers that are increasingly vulnerable to wind and storm damage.

The trees will be replaced with a more diverse mix of species, helping to create a healthier woodland that is better able to withstand future storms and support local wildlife.

The project will also include improvements to walking paths, seating and signage, making the historic estate more accessible and enjoyable for visitors.

Work will begin with the construction of a temporary vehicle turning area near the main car park, followed by forestry operations. Timber harvesting is expected to start in late November or early December.

Some areas of the woodland will be temporarily closed while machinery is operating to ensure public safety.

During the works:

• The lower car park area closest to the walled garden will be closed on weekdays but remain open at weekends
• The upper car park area near the walled garden and the car park at the main drive by the Deanburn Bridge will remain open
• The main woodland felling area in the centre of Kinneil will be closed, with fencing and safety signage in place
• The grassland area and woodland paths to the north will remain open.

Paths in the woodland to the very south of Kinneil will generally remain open, although short closures may be needed during separate woodland management work.

Visitors are asked to follow safety signs, stay on open paths and never enter fenced-off working areas. 

The woodland improvements will be delivered in two phases over the next 18 months reflecting feedback gathered during community engagement.

Over the last year, local people had the opportunity to learn more about the proposals and share their views, with feedback helping to shape the approach to woodland management, re-planting design, and maintaining public access where possible.

Detailed ecological surveys have been carried out to protect wildlife and sensitive habitats, while the project team has worked with Historic Environment Scotland and local groups to safeguard the estate's important heritage features, including the Antonine Wall.

The project is being funded through a combination of Scottish Forestry grants, timber sales, contributions from nearby housing development and Falkirk Council through their Pride and Place Impact funding and Core Parks budgets.