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Core Path Planning
M Dent presented preliminary tables of routes, augmented by maps, for four settlement zones in Sutherland i.e. Ardgay, Brora, Loch Assynt and Tongue, prepared on the basis of the information gained through question sheets, leaflets, books, and drop in events. He explained how each route had been assessed using the core path criteria, as previously reported to the Forum, and the scoring mechanism applied to each route. However he cautioned that the routes highlighted in the tables will require further investigation
M Dent emphasised that this is very much a preliminary assessment and that discussions are ongoing to determine how to assess and interpret criteria to ensure consistency across the Highlands.
I Mitchell and W Beattie questioned whether it is appropriate for the same criteria and weightings to be applied across the Highlands given the differences in geography and population that exist, and the differing requirements of communities. M Dent advised that the threshold for applying criteria can change across the area, and emphasised that the core path network will have to be sufficient for an area. Professional judgement will have to be exercised, and ongoing community consultation will also be an important factor.
The Chairman expressed concern that paths are not excluded from the Plan because they have not been raised at the consultation events. Similarly discussion focused on the fact that some well used routes may not score highly in terms of the criteria, as may also be the case with some longer routes or hill paths.
Following further discussion the Chairman sought clarification on how the next stage of the process will be taken forward.
M Dent indicated that completed tables for all the settlement zones in Sutherland will be passed to the Forum for checking, if possible in advance of the next meeting. The Chairman emphasised that it will be the responsibility of individual Forum members to vet the information for their locality, on the basis it would be impractical to consider the tables as a whole at one meeting.
It was AGREED that the Access Officer circulate the completed tables of routes and maps for all the settlement zones in Sutherland to the Forum in due course.
As a separate item, M MacPherson raised concerns regarding the current status of the lease for the car park at the Bone Caves, Assynt. It was AGREED that the Area Administrator raise the matter with the Area Roads & Community Works Manager.
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