2002
In early February 2002 the idea of purchasing Laide Wood, for the community to own and manage for local benefit, was born.
£72,000 was required to purchase the wood and needed to be raised quickly to meet the seller’s closing date. With considerable time and effort devoted to the project over a short space of time, sufficient funds were raised.
GALE was then successful in purchasing the wood for the community, despite significant competition from private bidders.
A new organisation, Laide and Aultbea Community Woodland has since been incorporated as a charitable company limited by guarantee. This organisation has taken on the ownership and management of the wood and is responsible for its continuing development.