In surveys of Lochaber by Halcrow (2000) and Donaldson Environmental Consultants (2003) almost 90% of local respondents indicated a desire for increased access opportunities. For 10% of visitors to Lochaber the main reason for visiting the Highlands was walking with a further 19% indicating the scenery and views. In total 61% of survey respondents considered the opportunity to go for walks to be an important part of a visit. This shows a clear need for improved access provision in the Lochaber area.
The Access in Lochaber partnership met initially in 2003. A three year funding package was secured in 2005 for footpath creation, restoration and improvement works on eleven routes in Lochaber as well as on-site interpretation, improved signage and the production of an information leaflet. Seven of the paths will be completely new routes and in many cases will link existing routes to settlements or to each other in order to create path networks. Paths which link to settlements will help to reduce the need for car usage and will make the countryside more accessible to all. Where achievable all routes will be constructed to all-abilites standard.
The pathworks themselves will provide robust and sustainable access opportunities which will guard against erosion and damage to the surrounding habitats and landscapes, through the use of local materials (where possible) and the creation of appropriate drainage to reduce surface run-off. The pathworks will also reduce existing landscape scars by reinstating path lines and surrounding vegetation.
Proposed pathworks included in the project are:
Peat Track/Cow Hill
Henderson Row Link
Loch an Nostarie
Silver Walk
River Laroch Link
Angus Crescent Link
Corpach Forest Walk
Strontian East
Glenfinnan Callop
It is anticipated that significant socio-economic benefits will be gained from increased visitor numbers, business creation and an increase in the availability of socially inclusive activities and opportunities.
The project is being led and implemented by the Highland Council Planning and Development Service. Financial support is being provided by the following partners -
European Agricultural Guidance £263,800
and Guarantee Fund
Highland Council £105,000
Scottish Natural Heritage £120,000
Lochaber Enterprise £55,000
Forestry Commission £45,000
Mackintosh Foundation £1,000
Total £589,800
For further details or information on the project contact the Access in Lochaber Project Officer:
Donald Donnelly
Access in Lochaber Project Officer
Planning and Development Service
Fulton House
Gordon Square
Fort William
PH336XY
Tel: (01397) 707045
Fax: (01397) 707022
E-mail: donald.donnelly@highland.gov.uk