Gloucester-based investment firm Blackfinch Group said it has acquired a 174-hectare commercial forest at Dalmally in Argyll and Bute.

Blackfinch said the purchase was made through its subsidiary Litchfield Trading Limited “with funding provided by retail investors” through the Blackfinch Adapt IHT Service.

“This initiative supports long term investment into the UK economy, helping strengthen key local industries such as forestry, while offering favourable tax treatments to investors,” said Blackfinch.

“The forest comprises predominantly Sitka spruce, a highly productive species widely used in construction and packaging. Timber from the site will directly support the UK’s construction and packaging sectors, where demand for renewable, alternative materials is growing rapidly.”

Kerry Hughes, Investment Director for Energy and Forestry at Blackfinch, said: “This acquisition reflects our commitment to creating long term outcomes for our investors while supporting critical sectors of the UK economy.

“Timber is vital to decarbonising construction and packaging, and investments like this ensure the domestic supply chain is better equipped to meet this growing demand.”

The purchase was advised by Bidwells, a property consultancy specialising in forestry investments, and Turcan Connell, which provided legal support.

Sam Booth, an Associate in the Forestry team at Bidwells, said: “We were delighted to assist Blackfinch with the purchase of a 174-hectare property, delivering strategic long-term value.

“Conducting thorough expert market analysis was essential, and we were pleased to be involved in such an acquisition to assist the Blackfinch team, who’s commitment to the sector was evident from the outset.”