Fund Innovation - Dorenell Panel Blazing a Trail

In the third year of grant making the panel also began to take note of projects which were not coming forward but were still considered very much to be local priorities. With support from Foundation Scotland, a steering group was set up to address one such issue and investigate options for developing a local footpath network.

The group includes Moray Council Access Officer, the EDF Dorenell Ranger team, Crown Estate, the Glenlivet Development Officer (post funded by Dorenell Community Fund) and two of the Dorenell panel members who are also representatives of local community groups (DDCA and Glenrinnes Community Centre).

The objective of the project is to create an integrated network of paths which links the communities and also provides a valuable tourism resource that will benefit the local economy. Where possible, the routes will accommodate regular active travel though this may be limited due to the remote nature of the area and the fact that distances between the communities are considerable.

The routes will be waymarked and promoted to locals and visitors alike, with the aim of improving quality of life for residents and attracting visitors to the area. Where possible, the path works will be based on the ‘light touch’ principle, i.e. mostly using and upgrading existing paths to ensure minimal impact on the environment. Examples of this work would be making improvements to surfaces, drainage and access on existing routes where necessary. Occasionally, new sections of path will be required to provide missing links in the network.

An initial desktop mapping exercise identified potential routes requiring upgrade, waymarking and, in some cases, new sections of pathway to connect the communities in the fund area. The next stage is to survey, design and cost likely routes, engage with communities, landowners and stakeholders, and create a prioritised action plan and cost estimates to deliver the path network. This work has gone out to tender and a series of consultation exercises will be held over the summer months, along with landowner discussions on access and maintenance which are key.

The study is due to be complete by end September 2023. The steering group will then plan and seek funding for the phased footpath works required to create the network as envisaged, including plans for long term maintenance of the network.

June Donald of DDCA said: 

“Our project to develop a network of safe travel routes between our communities is being developed by an enthusiastic and committed panel of local individuals from many walks of life. Each member of the team brings their own area of expertise to bear on the development and planning of the project, from feasibility to delivery, optimising the potential for excellence in the outcome.”