Forests worth almost £10m hit the market as investor demand grows

Prime Angus woodland that was once part of an historic estate and includes several interesting archaeological features has been launched for sale, as the forestry market is boosted by an increase in investor demand.

The launch of the Panmure Woodlands near Carnoustie is one of six prime forestry and woodland properties worth a combined total of £9.8m to be launched to the market by GOLDCREST Land & Forestry Group in recent weeks. It comes as the selling agent reports a pronounced uplift in buyer interest.

Part of the ancient Panmure Estate, the Panmure Woodlands have come to the market for offers over £2.7m through Goldcrest. The estate dates back to the 13th century and was owned by the Maule family until it suffered political setbacks after supporting the Jacobite Rising of 1715, which led to the confiscation of Panmure and other family estates.

The 479-acre mixed forest near Carnoustie in Angus boasts a 15m Category A-listed column, a historic folly, a burial mound, a battle site, a listed single-arch bridge, a listed gazebo folly and a post-medieval sawmill site with remnant water channels indicating the historic diversion of water to power sawmilling machinery.

Panmure benefits from prime conditions for forestry and includes attractive broadleaved trees and two ponds which add to the amenity value.

Jon Lambert, partner at Goldcrest, said: “Panmure is an interesting high-quality forest. Its archaeological and architectural features combined with amenity assets make it an attractive proposition and an excellent investment opportunity.

Other recent property launches include West Glensherraig, a 1300-acre Arran estate combining peatland, heather and native woodland. With coastal views and a charming bothy, it offers a natural capital opportunity spanning carbon, restoration and biodiversity.”

Lambert added: “It is heartening to see so much good-quality and varied forestry and woodland property becoming available and it is an encouraging indicator of increasing market confidence this summer.

“We have seen a considerable uplift in enquiries for properties we have brought to the market in the last few weeks. It is positive to see a rising interest in forestry investment opportunities after a subdued few months.

“Demand is largely from individual investors who have perhaps delayed decisions in the past year but are beginning to act now. Forestry is a specialist and bespoke market but an attractive property asset class to informed investors.”

www.goldcrestlfg.com