The UKFS review process

A new (5th) edition of the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) was then published in September 2023. 

(5th) edition of the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS)

You can read a summary of the review process to produce the new edition. This includes how we consulted stakeholders.

Summary of the review process to produce the 5th edition of the UK Forestry Standard (October 2023)

The new 5th edition (2023) has been implemented since 1st October 2024.

A 12-month transition period was put in place for:

• guidance updates
• familiarisation with the new edition
• finalisation of draft woodland plans

This aimed to minimise business disruption. Especially with regard to plant supply and alternative productive species.

We provided information to support applicants and stakeholders during the transition.

This outlined our approach to handling in-progress applications through the change.

Information to support applicants and stakeholders

We also provided a reference table for managing the UKFS change, to assist with managing the transition.

Reference table for managing the UKFS change

We also provided information on the Forestry Grant Scheme pages during the transition period. This detailed any upcoming changes in the eligibility criteria.