Glenmore Parking Project Update

Environmental remediation works at the side of Loch Morlich are scheduled to begin on Monday 15 May 2023 and will last approximately four weeks.

The works are being carried out to safeguard the health of the trees on the banks of the iconic loch and project partners have said the works will finish sooner if good progress is made.

These operations have been timed to minimise disruption and have been arranged by the Highland Council, in partnership with Forestry and Land Scotland, NatureScot, and the Cairngorms National Park Authority.

The planned works will carefully remove compacted material and an arboriculturist will be present at all times. Acting now is imperative as this will reduce tree stress and improve growing conditions, particularly if the area witnesses another long, hot summer.

Environmental protection was discussed widely at the recent Community Engagement drop-in event held on 3 May 2023 at Glenmore Lodge. This event was designed to inform local residents, businesses and the wider community about the works, and to welcome feedback from stakeholders and the public.

Chair of Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Cllr Ken Gowans said: “The tree protection works at the loch side have inevitably meant the loss of some informal parking areas. However, Forestry and Land Scotland has confirmed that they are developing plans to provide additional parking in the area.

“The drop off area at the Loch Morlich beach car park has been very popular and that continues to be prioritised as an essential feature this season.”

Longer term, FLS will look to re-engineer the Loch Morlich Beach and Hayfield carparks, but this will require planning permission and is unlikely to happen in time for this summer.

Partner agencies have agreed, however, that when demand is high in peak periods this year and when weather and ground conditions permit that additional "overflow" parking will be made available at the Hayfield carpark.

This option is being finalised and will include a trial use of the site which will act as a ‘pressure valve’ in high season when visitor demand is greatest.

Use of the Hayfield site will depend on it not adversely impacting the environment, which will be determined through a Habitat Regulations Assessment to Nature Scot via Highland Council and on having the necessary resources in place.

FLS anticipates that all issues can be resolved so that the Hayfield overflow will be made available during the peak demand days this summer.