Published on:
31
January 2003
The Council appointed its first Access Officer in January in a bid to prepare the Wee County for any issues associated with the new Land Reform (Scotland) Bill.
John Duffy has joined the Council for three years - funded jointly by the Council and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH). John's role will bring a greater focus to local access issues, develop a local access strategy in practical ways with the newly set up Access Forum and he will identify a core path network as required by the new bill.
Councillor Donald Balsillie, Convener of the Enterprise and Environment Committee said: " This is extremely good news. 'Right to Roam' legislation will most certainly have an impact on people living in the Wee County and the many visitors who come to enjoy our local walks and take part in the outdoor activities available locally.
"The appointment of an access officer is a significant step towards enhancing and linking the local footpath and leisure routes around our towns and villages. Our aim is to improve public access for all abilities to the countryside and beauty spots as well as secure safe routes to schools, homes and businesses.
"The access officer will work alongside individuals, landowners, businesses and interested groups on all issues related to the land reform legislation and improved recreational access"
The new legislation and associated Access Code will provide guidance for all those who have an interest in access in Clackmannanshire. This will include providing a context for the resolution of any difficult problems and issues which may arise in Clackmannanshire
In preparation for the new legislation the Council set up an Access Forum which brings together, local landowners, the Council, local groups like the Clackmannanshire Field Studies Society, Friends of the Ochils and local horse riders' groups. Forty people turned up at the first Forum and it's hoped that many more will attend the next meeting at the end of February.
SNH and the Paths for All Partnership is funding the drafting of a new Access Strategy for the County.
John Duffy, Access Officer added: "For the next few months my main focus will be on developing a local Access Strategy. The Strategy will identify a number of action areas relating to settlements and communities throughout the County. In the short term a simple Pilot Project will demonstrate how the Access Strategy can be rolled out throughout Clackmannanshire over the next few years.
Last but not least major work will be carried out establishing a core path network that is a specific requirement of the Land Reform (Scotland) Bill.