Focus on paths in the Black Isle

The Highland Council is undertaking consultations with communities to help in the first stage development of its Core Paths Plan, which is a requirement of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003.

The consultations in the Black Isle will take place in Cromarty, Fortrose, Culbokie, Muir of Ord and Conon Bridge starting on 30th August and throughout September. This will be followed in other areas over the next 18 months.

The core paths identified will be the most important paths within a wider path network. They will be signposted and shown on Ordnance Survey maps and once designated will not be allowed to be blocked.

Highland Council’s Council Access Officer, Phil Waite said: “Many people currently use the Black Isle Path Network, and this is going to be very important part of the Core Paths Plan. However core paths can be everyday functional paths as well as recreational paths and so we need to update the information.

“People walk, cycle or horse ride for many reasons, to keep fit, to go to the shops, walk the dog or just to enjoy the countryside. If you do any of this core paths are important for you. We are hoping that local people will show us which paths they use and help decide which paths are the most important to them.”

There will be drop-in venues at the Cromarty Centre on 30th August; Fortrose Leisure Centre on 7th September; Culbokie Findon Hall on 14th Sept; Muir of Ord Hall on 21st September; and Munlochy Village Hall 28th September between 11am and 6 pm.

Follow up meetings will be held in Cromarty on 7th September, Fortrose 14th September, Culbokie 21st September, Muir of Ord 28th September, Munlochy 5th Oct and Conon Bridge on 12th October at 7.30pm
 
Anyone with an interest in local paths is invited come along to the ‘drop-ins’ or the meetings which will decide the priorities in their area. For further information, contact Philip Waite on 01349 868431 or email: philip.waite@highland.gov.uk