New members wanted for Local Access Forums

The Highland Council is looking for new members to fill vacancies on the six local outdoor access forums in Caithness, Sutherland, Ross & Cromarty, Inverness & Nairn, Skye & Lochalsh and Lochaber. There are currently at least 2 vacancies on each group.

Chair of the Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans encourages people to come forward.  He said: “The local access forums provide an important advisory role to the Council and we welcome applications from knowledgeable and pragmatic people for these roles. The role can be rewarding as members play an important part in helping to resolve local issues concerning access to the countryside.”

The Forums are set up to advise the Council on matters relating to outdoor public access and are a part of the Council’s duty under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. The Forums play a particularly key role in resolving some access disputes and in Core Path Planning. There are usually two meetings per year and occasional other site visits or correspondence over a five year term.

The Forums look to maintain a balance of interests by having 3 land managers, 3 access groups and 3 community representatives together with 2 councillors and a member of the disability access panel.

Anyone wishing to apply must have the support of a recognised body whose interest they would represent. For further information and to submit an application before Monday 18 December please email access@highland.gov.uk