News
Alford and Aboyne Academy pupils become Junior Park Rangers
1st July 2009
Fourteen pupils from Alford and Aboyne Academies have completed a 5 day programme to become Cairngorm National Park Junior Rangers.
They took part in conservation and outdoor activities at Burn o'Vat, Mar Lodge, Balmoral and Glen Tanar during the week, finding out about the Cairngorms National Park and why it is such a special place.
The programme was organised by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) and delivered by Rangers from Aberdeenshire Council, SNH Burn o'Vat, Glen Tanar Estate, Balmoral Estate and Mar Lodge Estate. The canoeing was provided by Adventure Aberdeen.
The Junior Rangers Project is co-ordinated and funded by the CNPA and run under the guidelines of the EUROPARC Federation, of which the Cairngorms National Park is a member.
Eric Baird, the CNPA's vice convener, said: "It was really good to get the support of the schools and parents for the Project and the commitment of the young people themselves to the programme."
Sign up for adventure in the Cairngorms National Park
25th June 2009
Ever fancied a wee adventure in the Cairngorms National Park but weren't sure you could do it? Well, now's your chance.
Disabled and non-disabled people of all ages are invited to take part over the weekend of July 4 and 5 in the Equal Adventure Festival, which gives everyone an opportunity to try a range of outdoor activities regardless of their ability or agility.
So far about 60 people have signed up for the event, which will take place within the grounds of Glenmore Lodge near Aviemore. However, there are still places available.
All of the activities at the festival, which has been part financed by the Scottish Government, the European Community - Cairngorms Local Action Group LEADER 2007 - 2013 Programme, Cairngorms National Park Authority and Scottish Natural Heritage, have been designed to allow individuals to enjoy the challenge at their own level and pace.
Participants will have the opportunity to take part in orienteering, forest hikes, paddling circuits, kayak slalom, and problem-solving team tasks.
The event is being organised by an award winning Scottish charity, Equal Adventure, which creates adventurous activities and resources for people of all abilities.
The festival's activities will be modified and adapted to suit the needs of everyone taking part. Volunteers will also be available to enable full participation and enjoyment.
All those involved in the Festival will also be raising money for two international charities, Motivation and 500 Miles, whose aims are to enable people with varying disabilities in developing countries to live and contribute to society.
Suresh Paul, Director of Equal Adventure, said: "Too often disabled people are considered unable to compete in adventure sports and challenges. With the right approach and facilities this notion can be completely dispelled; that's where the Equal Adventure Festival comes in.
"As well as providing a challenge that is accessible to all, the event will empower those with impairments to support disabled people in developing countries. By fundraising for two major international disability charities, disabled people can act as ambassadors to bring about a lasting change in the quality of life experienced by those with disabilities in developing countries."
As well as all the outdoor activities at the event, there will also be a chance to use a spitfire simulator which has been developed in conjunction with real spitfire pilots.
Squadron Leader Al Pinner the officer in command of the Battle of Britain memorial flight based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, said of the simulator: "It is the nearest thing to flying a real spitfire that I have ever experienced."
In addition, the Equal Adventure Festival will provide an opportunity those taking part to meet and compete with one of the UK's top disabled adventurers, Jamie Andrew, who had his hands and feet amputated following an accident in the French Alps.
Jamie, who continues to climb and mountaineer at a high standard whilst using four prosthetics, will be one of several inspirational speakers at the event.
He said: "It seems to me that our greatest limitations are the ones we impose on ourselves. I want to encourage others to throw out these misconceptions and to be all they can be."
The Festival will not just be about exercise but fun stuff too, with Saturday evening entertainment lined up including a traditional Scottish Ceilidh, with dancing and singing.
Participants are invited to camp within the grounds of Glenmore Lodge with the choice of wheelchair-accessible accommodation if required, and full catering for the weekend is included.
Anyone wishing to take part should email events@equaladventure.org or phone 01479 861200.
The organisers of the Festival are grateful to rock climbing country Wild Country and outdoor waterproof specialists Nikwax for their support.
Seven teenagers become Cairngorms National Park Junior Rangers
22nd June 2009
Seven pupils from Kingussie High School have completed the very first Cairngorms National Park Junior Ranger Project 5 day programme to become Junior Rangers.
Despite the changeable weather last week all the teenagers made the most of their time finding out about biodiversity at RSPB Insh Marshes, experiencing outdoor access at first hand whilst canoeing on the River Spey and helping to lessen the impact of visitors on Cairngorm mountain.
At the end of the week they were presented with Junior Ranger certificates at Badaguish Outdoor Centre.
The Project has been a great success and all the pupils said they would recommend it to their friends. However, it would not have been possible without the hard work of the local ranger services from Highland Council, Cairngorm, Explore Abernethy and RSPB Insh Marshes.
The Project is co-ordinated and funded by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) and run under the guidelines of the EUROPARC Federation, of which the Cairngorms National Park is a member.
Eric Baird, the CNPA's vice convener, said: "It was really good to get the support of the school and parents for the Project and the commitment of the young people themselves to the programme."
Grantown students make a movie
18th June 2009
Grantown Primary School students have become movie makers as part of an exciting scheme to help fight climate change.
Primary five, six, and seven pupils are making a short film about the effects of climate change on tourism activities in the area.
The movie includes interviews with a number of adults involved in the tourism industry and footage of pupils skiing on the dry ski slope near Loch Morlich and mountain biking in Anagach Woods.
It also includes interviews with local world champion cyclist Craig MacLean, climber Mark Samuels and Cairngorms National Park board member and local Highland Councillor Jaci Douglas.
The enthusiastic youngsters have also written, sung and recorded a song for the film.
Grantown and also Alvie primary school are two of seven schools across the National Park whose pupils are making films about potential climate change impacts on the Park and how it is adapting to and mitigating these effects.
The film making is one of a number of initiatives from the Clim-ATIC project, a first of its kind European project that will see the Cairngorms National Park trial a number of exciting projects in the fight against climate change.
Teacher Gale Lee said: "This project has enabled each of the five classes to demonstrate their learning and understanding of climate change in an interesting and enjoyable way. They can't wait to see their finished film."
Twelve-year-old student Elena Melton said: "I hope that when people see our film it will make them think about what they can do to help slow down climate change."
A premiere of all the completed films will take place on September 26 at a venue to be arranged.
Aberdeenshire Media Unit is working with all the school youngsters to train them in film making.
The Clim-ATIC project is a Euro 2.4million three-year partnership project between the Cairngorms National Park Authority, UHI Millennium Institute, Forestry Commission Scotland and a number of European organisations, and is supported by the European Commission's Northern Periphery Programme.
Open meeting to be held in Ballater about affordable housing
15th June 2009
People in Ballater are being invited to an open meeting to find out more about affordable housing.
Following the community consultation run in the village by Ballater One Voice Our Future (BOVOF) it was agreed that a meeting would be held to raise awareness of what is already available from the Local Authority and Housing Associations for rent and low cost home ownership. There will also be an overview of the BOVOF project given at the meeting by Gordon Riddler of Ballater (RD) Ltd.
The meeting, which will be held on Thursday July 2 at 7:30pm at the Albert Hall, will feature presentations from local housing association and council officials.
They will provide information on Registered Social Landlord housing, how housing associations operate, how their waiting list and allocation policy operates and funding for housing.
There will also be an overview on council housing - statistics on stock, waiting list figures, turnover, how council houses are allocated, progress on Common Housing Register and funding available for housing from the Scottish Housing Investment Programme.
Other topics to be highlighted at the meeting will be Rural Home Ownership Grants, Rural Empty Property Grants, and Rural Homes for Rent.
Locals will then get a chance to ask questions before they decide on a plan of action.
Gravity racing is coming to Cairngorm mountain
11th June 2009
Teams from across Britain will be converging on Cairngorm Mountain next month for a two day spectacular of gravity powered racing, featuring all the thrills of motorsport but without the noise or the emissions.
Cairngorm Soapbox Extreme, organised by the newly formed Scottish Cartie Association (SCA) and with funding secured through the Cairngorms Local Action Group LEADER programme, is the latest addition to the UK soapbox racing calendar.
SCA chairman Stephen Hall explained: "We wanted to put on something really spectacular to catch people's imagination, and Cairngorm really is the ideal venue.
"The course, down the Cairngorm Ski Road, is two miles long and has a great mixture of straights and testing hairpin bends. We expect that top speeds will be well in excess of 50mph, and you really won't find anything like this anywhere else in Britain."
Gravity racing is the next step up from the humble soapbox cart, traditionally built by children from scavenged materials. But instead of pram wheels, planks and a bit of rope for steering, these are precision engineered racing machines driven with skill and passion.
"You'll find all kinds of machines taking part, from carts build by blokes in sheds from whatever parts can lay their hands on right the way up to high tech' masterpieces built by professional race teams such as Lotus and Honda" said Stephen.
And there is no shortage of courage either, for as Stephen explained: "It takes quite a lot of guts to hurtle down a hill on something you've made yourself, but to barrel down a mountain? This is definitely not a sport for jessies!"
He added: "We've had a great response from the local community and there is a real enthusiasm for the event in the area, not just in the local area but also further afield, from the North of Scotland right down to the South of England.
"We've had an amazing amount of support and help from lots of sources including the Aviemore Business Association and Cairngorm Mountain Ltd."
A vital part of the jigsaw was achieved earlier in the year when funding was secured through the Cairngorms Local Action Group LEADER programme.
Stephen explained: "It was a huge boost when we learned we'd been awarded a grant, and things have just been a blur since then. It's really catching on and is generating a lot of interest."
The event will run on 25th and 26th July, with safety inspection of all the carts on Saturday being followed by practice sessions and timed qualifying. On Sunday the carts will race head to head in a do-or-die knockout to find the "King of the Mountain".
For further information, including details on taking part, log on to www.soapboxracing.co.uk
Good news for Wildlife groups in Cairngorms National Park
9th June 2009
Giving a helping hand to wildlife in the Cairngorms National Park has become easier than ever.
Community groups and non-profit making organisations applying to the Cairngorms National Park Authority for funding for projects that benefit wildlife will now find the whole process smoother and faster.
The Biodiversity Grant scheme has been running in the Park for several years, with scores of non-profit making organisations applying for grants of between £500 and £5,000 for projects which encourage wildlife to flourish.
Biodiversity officer Justin Prigmore explained: "Community groups applying for money for projects have had to face some difficult questions on the grant application form in the past, so we have decided to simplify it to make it as easy as possible.
"In addition we have shortened the approval process so projects can get off the ground much faster. From having the idea to getting funding to enable you to put it into action will now take just a few weeks whereas before it might have taken two months!"
He added: "The Biodiversity Grant scheme has always encouraged local people to enhance wildlife in the area where they live in but we are now hoping that the reduction in red tape will tempt more people into doing their bit for local wildlife.
"The aim of the scheme is to create positive benefits for the environment in line with the aims of the Cairngorms National Park and the Cairngorms Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP)."
Anyone who wants to apply for a grant should email justinprigmore@cairngorms.co.uk or stephencorcoran@cairngorms.co.uk or telephone them on 01479 870528.
Cairngorms National Park Local Plan Inquiry ends
5th June 2009
Eleven days of debate which will provide a blueprint for how business, housing and other development proposals in the Cairngorms National Park are judged ended yesterday (Thursday June 4).
The Park's Local Plan Inquiry, which began on May 18, sat in informal hearing sessions and produced many hours of discussion between Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) officers and objectors to the proposed Plan.
The Inquiry will result in:
- The formation of the first Local Plan for a National Park in Scotland.
- One Local Plan replacing the four different plans currently applying to Aberdeenshire, Angus, Highland and Moray Council areas within the Park.
- Detailed planning policies and settlement proposals to guide development in the Park over the coming years. All planning applications within the Park will need to comply with the Cairngorms National Park Local Plan.
The Inquiry into the Plan, which has been in preparation since September 2004, was conducted by Scottish Government Reporters Hugh Begg and Jill Moody at various venues in Aviemore and Ballater.
The Reporters will now write a formal report for the CNPA to consider. This will include their conclusions and recommendation on each matter discussed at the Inquiry and a list of their proposed modifications to the Plan.
The Reporters' findings are expected in several months time. Then the CNPA will consider them and decide on any changes to the Plan.
The CNPA is responsible for the final content of the Plan, so any proposed changes will be publicised and there will be a further opportunity for people to give their views.
Then the Park Authority can take steps to formally adopt the Plan. This stage should take place early in 2010.
Duncan Bryden, Convener of the CNPA's Planning Committee, said: "The development of the Local Plan has been a very inclusive process from the very beginning with extensive consultation with all interested parties including local people, communities, developers, non-governmental organisations and public agencies.
"The Local Plan process has been new ground for most people but the CNPA has listened long and hard and our proposals frequently have to address complex and conflicting issues. The end result may not always suit everyone but we have to move forward.
"There has been robust and varied debate on a whole host of issues during the Inquiry which has given people every opportunity to hear about planning issues in the Park and make their particular views known to the Reporters and the CNPA."
He added: "The Local Plan will play a key part in achieving the long term vision for the Park so, in our fast changing world, we can keep the Cairngorms a special place for landscape and wildlife and a vibrant place for people to live, work and visit."
For more information, visit the Local Plan Inquiry section of the Cairngorms National Park website.
Teenagers in the Cairngorms National Park still have time to become Rangers
3rd June 2009
Teenagers living in the Cairngorms National Park still have a chance to become countryside rangers.
There are a few places available for Kingussie High School students aged between 13 and 18 to take part in the five-day long Cairngorms National Park Junior Ranger Project, which is co-ordinated and funded by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) with support from the local ranger service.
The programme will involve the youngsters going canoeing and doing nature conservation, as well as learning about the National Park and the countryside ranger profession.
Those taking part in the course are promised plenty of fun and the prospect of learning more about the beautiful area they live in. They will also meet new people and get the chance of travelling abroad.
The Project is a great opportunity or youngsters to become directly involved in the Cairngorms National Park and also see what opportunities there are for careers in land-based professions.
Kingussie High School's programme will take place from June 15 to 19 while pupils at Aboyne and Alford Academies will also do the course from June 22 to 26.
The Project is being run under the guidelines of the EUROPARC Federation, of which the Cairngorms National Park is a member.
Anyone interested in taking part in either event can contact Alan Smith, the Cairngorms National Park Authority's John Muir Award Manager, on 01479 870518 or email alansmith@cairngorms.co.uk .
The Cairngorms National Park Junior Ranger Project is supported by Aberdeenshire Council Ranger Service, The Highland Council Ranger Service, the Glen Tanar and Balmoral Estate Ranger Services, NTS Mar Lodge Ranger Service, Cairngorm Mountain Ranger Service and Explore Abernethy.
Dragonflies and Damselflies in the Cairngorms come under the spotlight
28th May 2009
Some of the most beautiful yet mysterious creatures in the Cairngorms National Park are coming under the spotlight.
A pictorial guide to dragonflies and damselflies found in the Park has been produced with the aim of encouraging volunteers to record them for a new national dragonfly atlas.
Dragonflies are among the largest and most spectacular insects alive today, and their bright colours, fantastic aerial skills and habit of flying in warm sunny weather makes them easy to spot.
At least 13 different types of dragonflies and damselflies are found across the Cairngorms and their identification is relatively straightforward. The new Cairngorms guide will help people to recognise them and also identifies a number of locations where it is easy to see dragonflies and damselflies.
However, the Park contains a number of species whose future is uncertain. Northern Damselflies and White Faced Darters are classified as endangered by conservationists, while the Azure Hawker is classified as threatened.
The National Dragonfly Atlas Project was launched in April 2008. The aim of this project is to update the known distribution of British dragonfly and damselfly species over the next 5 years, culminating in the publication of a new national atlas in 2013.
Cairngorms Biodiversity Officer Stephen Corcoran said: "I hope the new Cairngorms Dragonfly leaflet will encourage more people to go looking for these amazing creatures and make use of this pocket guide to identify what they see. The status of dragonflies across the Park is unknown, and it is not clear what impact climate change may have on them."
He went on: "A new national atlas is urgently required to map any change and highlight potential threats. To succeed in this ambitious project good national coverage is needed, particularly in the Cairngorms, which is the stronghold for several rare species many of whom are under recorded.
"I would urge people to record the dragonflies and damselflies in their local area or further afield. If you would like to help our Cairngorms damselflies and dragonflies you can become a Dragonfly Recorder and help fill in the gaps in our knowledge of these fascinating animals."
Dragonflies are found in many places but are associated with freshwater for breeding: ponds and pools, lochans, old curling ponds, slow running burns, bogs and ditches are the best places to see them. Adult dragonflies are on the wing from May until October but the best time is usually June and July on warm, sunny days with little wind.
They favour sites with clean, unpolluted water, open to sunlight yet sheltered from winds, with plenty of vegetation in the water and around the water's edge. Good places to see them are the pools in Abernethy, Glenmore and Inshriach Forests, Revack and Rothiemurchus, Glen Tanar Estates, Insh Marshes, and Dinnet National Nature Reserve in Deeside,
Dragonflies are harmless, although some are very inquisitive, and feed on many types of insects including midges. They usually lay eggs on plants in the water (males and females are often seen in tandem) and the eggs hatch into fearsome larvae that may spend several years in the water before emerging and transforming into dragonflies. Adult dragonflies live a few weeks.
Mr Corcoran is running a field event on Friday May 29 searching for the rare Azure Hawker in Abernethy. He is also helping to run dragonfly events on June 18 in Boat of Garten, at Glenmulliach near Tomintoul with the Glenlivet Ranger on June 25, in Revak near Grantown on June 27, at Glen Tanar on June 28, Nethy Bridge on July 4 and Cambus O'May near Ballater on July 11.
To volunteer to be a Dragonfly Recorder in the Cairngorms area or pass on any dragonfly records contact Stephen Corcoran, Cairngorms Biodiversity Officer (stephencorcoran@cairngorms.co.uk , 01479 870 528).
For information on local or national events, or more information about dragonflies in general, check out the British Dragonfly Society's website
Free day out to promote the use of climate friendly woodfuel
27th May 2009
Encouraging people and businesses to live in a greener way is the message being promoted at a free training event in the Cairngorms National Park today (Wednesday 27 May).
The Woodfuel Fair at Alvie Estate - demonstrating how woodfuel can be used as a renewable, environmentally-friendly alternative to fossil fuels - was opened by local MP Danny Alexander this morning. He said: "Woodfuel offers huge economic opportunities for the Cairngorms National Park and offers the potential to generate jobs locally as well as wield real cost savings for businesses and households. However, most importantly it will offer huge environmental benefits. This is a local renewable energy source and it is fantastic that this event is taking place to inform and train people in the National Park about it."
Today's Woodfuel Fair - which is the first step in the creation of a Woodfuel Action Plan for the National Park - is designed to show people, whether they are householders or in business, how they can use the resources on their doorstep and help to reduce climate change, as well as making themselves less vulnerable to any future changes in the global supply of fossil fuels in the process.
Speaking at the event, the CNPA Convener, David Green said: "Switching to renewable sources of energy has benefits on so many levels from the main objective - tackling climate change, which is a linchpin of the National Park Plan - to bringing about benefits for the local economy with increased forestry activity and employment in this sector. Promoting the sustainable use of the Park's natural resources is one of the aims of the National Park so using woodfuel to replace fossil fuels adds value to this resource."
Alvie Estate was chosen as the venue for today's event because Alvie House is already heated using woodfuel and the Estate runs its own onsite supply business. Giving visitors a first hand look at the operation, Estate owner, Jamie Williamson said: "Using locally sourced wood for heating has reduced our heating costs, given us greater control of our energy requirements and made the estate more self sufficient. It has also diversified our income and provided another market for our timber."
Bob Dunsmore from Forestry Commission Scotland added: "Scotland's forests are making a sustainable contribution to our economy and at the same time helping the Scottish Government reach its renewabale energy targets. The business community and public organisations are starting to look more closely at using woodfuel as a viable alternative for their energy needs and we need to keep this momentum going. This event in the Cairngorms National Park brings together a number of partners who can help answer questions and demonstrate the benefits of using woodfuel."
Today's Woodfuel Fair is one of a series of training activities to be provided by the Clim-ATIC project - which receives funding from the EU's Northern Periphery Programme - within Cairngorms National Park over the next two years. The initiative involves the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), Perth College - Centre for Mountain Studies, Forestry Commission Scotland, Highland Birchwoods, local authorities and industry representatives.
Visitors quizzed for National Park Survey
26th May 2009
A year long visitor survey in the Cairngorms National Park is getting underway this month with a view to carrying out more than 2,000 interviews over the course of the study.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) has commissioned mruk Research Ltd to carry out the visitor survey, which will gather a variety of information including why people choose the area for a holiday, activities undertaken, transport usage and National Park awareness.
It's the first visitor survey the CNPA has commissioned since 2003 when a comprehensive study was carried out to establish some baseline information on visitor profiles, behaviour and motivations. This information has helped underpin the development of the Cairngorms Sustainable Tourism Strategy and the National Park Plan.
Heather Trench, Sustainable Tourism Officer at the CNPA said: "Six years on from our first visitor survey we expect to see some significant changes in why and how people come to the National Park and what they get up to when they are here.
"For example, the 2003 survey showed that 11 per cent of visitors said they used the internet to research their holiday so we would expect to see an increase in that figure and we would certainly hope that - with signage and comprehensive visitor information now in place - that more people will be aware of the fact that they are in a National Park compared to the previous survey."
mruk Research will carry out 2,500 face-to-face interviews at identified locations throughout the Cairngorms National Park between May 2009 and April 2010 across different days of the week and times of the day. An interim summer season report will be published in November 2009 with the final report expected in July next year.
Walking to Health - The Nordic way
22nd May 2009
Health Walk leaders in the Cairngorms have looked beyond the North Sea to Scandinavia for inspiration in tackling Scotland's health problems.
The volunteers were put through their paces at a recent training course to enable them to lead health walks under the Cairngorms Walking to Health Project, a health improvement and community development initiative in the area.
The new mode of health walks is being launched at Cambus O'May forest trails on Monday (May 25) with a demonstration health walk carried out by Alan Melrose, Health Walks Co-ordinator for Cairngorms Outdoors Access Trust (COAT).
The training course was the first of its type in the UK to be delivered by the International Nordic Walking Association (INWA). This will allow newly trained Health Walk leaders to deliver a Nordic walk session as part of their host of activities to improving health.
Nordic walking is one of the most adaptable exercises around, and programmes can be developed to suit just about everyone. It originates from the summer training for cross-country skiers and works the muscles in your legs, arms, rear part of the shoulders, chest and back.
Alan Melrose, COAT's Health Walks Co-ordinator, said: "The technique of Nordic walking works more muscles in your body and uses more calories than normal walking but can actually feel easier due to the effort being spread across your whole body rather than concentrating in your legs. In addition the effect on your heart and lungs is excellent, especially with all the pure air that we get in the Cairngorms!"
The initiative is managed by COAT, whose manager Dougie Baird said: "It is great to see the benefits of outdoors access being rolled out to everyone, and we are very grateful for grant funding towards this from Paths to Health and EU New LEADER funding through the Rural Aberdeenshire and Cairngorms Local Action Groups."
New Nordic walking session leader Mary Wright said that even after the first session participants said they felt the benefits of Nordic walking and they put it down to walking with an improved posture because of the poles.
Cairngoms National Park Authority board member Richard Stroud commented: "Nordic Walking is an excellent way of having fun and getting fit, and we now have a team who can lead people in this pursuit across the Park."
Local Councillor Marcus Humphrey, Director of COAT and a CNPA board member, is launching Monday's initiative and will present certificates to recently trained Nordic Walk leaders.
He said: "We are delighted that COAT have been able to build on the success of the current Nordic walking activities to make it more available and increase participation. By utilising the community path networks in the Cairngorms for Nordic walking and its associated health improvement this is a major contribution from COAT to the Scottish Governments health and access agenda."
Anyone wanting to find out how they can take part in a local Health Walk to improve fitness including a Nordic Walk can contact Alan Melrose, Cairngorms Health Walks Coordinator on 01339 880081 or alan@cairngormsoutdooraccess.org.uk
New village path set to improve safety for school children and reduce carbon emissions
22nd May 2009
MSP Mike Rumbles has opened a new path in the Cairngorms National Park which will make walking to school safer for children and reduce car use by their parents.
The new path, which links Roughpark and Bellabeg via the school in Strathdon, means youngsters attending the village primary school do not have to walk along a main road.
The path also promotes reduced car use to school with the aim of reducing carbon emissions at a local community level.
Mr Rumbles, MSP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, said: "This is an excellent initiative. Anything we can do to encourage young people to walk to school safely is to be encouraged. I congratulate everyone who has worked so hard to make this happen."
The project, which cost £41,675 in total, was developed by Cairngorms Outdoors Access Trust (COAT) for the direct benefit of Strathdon Primary School with support from Candacraig Estate. The wider community will also benefit from improved and increased access infrastructure.
The Scottish Government and the European Community (Cairngorms Local Action Group) LEADER 2007 - 2013 Programme awarded £15,075 to the project and £25,000 came from the Climate Challenge Fund (CCF). Additional funds from Scottish Natural Heritage enabled sections of existing path to be upgraded further.
The CCF is designed to support communities to take direct action on climate change by reducing their carbon emissions. Prior to upgrading the path the only route to school was on the main road, which meant parents would rather take their children there by car than on foot.
Eric Baird, the CNPA's deputy convener, said: "This path offers the young folk of Strathdon a safe and interesting route to and from school. We all need to reduce our carbon footprint: the pupils will be setting us a good example.
"It's also a demonstration of effective partnership working between the local estate, the community, and the funding agencies: the Cairngorms National Park Authority is pleased to have helped bring this about."
As a child in the 1920s Bill Davidson, a resident of Roughpark, walked to Strathdon School from Roughpark. Mr Davidson, who cut a ribbon marking the opening with a primary school pupil, is hoping that future generations will again follow in his footsteps.
Lilian Field, the school's head teacher, said: "There are so many interesting things to look at as you walk along the path, it is a great educational resource. The school have been using the path regularly since it was completed as a safe route to walk down to the Lonach Park where we have been playing cricket this term."
The upgrading of the path and Historic Scotland's consent to put a board walk through a gap in the archaeological feature known as the Doune Motte now allows improved access for walkers, cyclists, and pushchairs.
Those less able will be additional beneficiaries of the path; a recent visit and assessment from the Deeside Access Panel confirmed that the path from Bellabeg, the boardwalk, bridge and 300m section of path leading to a picnic site can be used by people of all abilities.
Scottish Government approves Extension of the Speyside Way
22nd May 2009
Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham has approved, in principle, the extension of the Speyside Way through the Cairngorms National Park between Aviemore and Newtonmore.
The decision follows the long held desire of communities within Badenoch and Strathspey for the lengthening of the path, which currently runs from Spey Bay to Aviemore.
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), which drew up the report for the Minister on the best route to take, has welcomed the Minister's decision.
The next stage of the process will be to develop a funding package and seek planning and other permissions for the route. The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), working along with key partners will be starting to take both these tasks forward over the next few months.
David Green, the CNPA's Convener, said: "The need to improve walking and cycling links between Aviemore and the communities to the south is long overdue. The approval from the Minister gives the green light for this to go ahead and whilst a great deal of work still remains to be done, I welcome this announcement."
Local Highland Councillor and CNPA board member Gregor Rimmell welcomed the decision of the Minister.
He added: "Highland Council is looking forward to playing its part with partners in developing the route."
Mr Rimell added his thanks to fellow Highland Councillor and CNPA board member Dave Fallows for all his work and to CNPA officials
The Speyside Way is one of four official Long Distance Routes in Scotland (the others are the West Highland Way, the Southern Upland Way and the Great Glen Way). It was first opened in 1981, to run from Spey Bay to Ballindalloch, with a spur to Tomintoul being added in 1990.
A northern extension from Spey Bay to Buckie followed, with the route being extended again from Ballindalloch to Aviemore in April 2000.
The Speyside Way is managed by the Moray Council on behalf of Moray Council, the CNPA and the Highland Council.
The CNPA funds management and maintenance of the route within the Park boundaries with Moray and Highland Councils funding the route within their own area outwith the National Park.
Swift spotting in Cairngorms National Park
18th May 2009
Swift spotters are needed in the Cairngorms National Park, to record the aerial acrobats as they fly in from their winter holidays in southern Africa.
Cairngorms Biodiversity Officer Stephen Corcoran wants people to record sightings and note details of nest sites and builders to provide more habitats for the birds.
He explained: "Previous Swifts Nest Surveys have been extremely valuable, helping us to identify nest sites and specific buildings that are proving valuable to nesting birds.
"However, there is a real lack of data from some areas of the Park and, although we want as many people as possible wherever they are to continue collecting the information, we especially want to hear from people in Deeside, Strathdon, Glenlivet, Atholl and Glen Shee."
Swift numbers have been declining across Scotland over the past ten years. One of the probable causes for this decline is a reduction in nest sites - the old buildings that are preferred by swifts are being replaced or renovated, removing traditional nesting places.
The information being collected as a result of the Swifts Nest Survey will be fed into national recording schemes and also be mapped using Geographical Information Systems, highlighting important buildings with nests and helping to inform the planning system.
Mr Corcoran continued: "As well as recording nest sites and submitting the information to me at the Cairngorms National Park Authority offices in Grantown-on-Spey, we would also like to see more building companies and individuals engaging sympathetic development for swifts - such as putting up nest boxes and leaving eaves open during maintenance work."
A survey leaflet with details on swifts, what they look like, where they like to nest and complete with a tear-off slip to record your sightings is available.
Contact Stephen Corcoran on tel: 01479 870528 or email: stephencorcoran@cairngorms.co.uk for a leaflet, or look out for copies in your local area or go to the CNPA website Information on which buildings swifts are nesting in is essential to ensure such sites are protected.
Gathering Place opens in Carr-Bridge
15th May 2009
Youngsters in Carrbridge can now get closer to nature throughout the year thanks to nearly £17,000 awarded by the Cairngorms Local Action group and its partners.
The money has funded the construction of the Gathering Place - an attractive wooden shelter in which Carrbridge Primary School pupils can work whatever the weather.
It is hoped the outdoor classroom, which was opened on Friday (May 15), will give students a better appreciation of the Cairngorms National Park and enable them to engage with the Countryside Rangers, Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) outdoor learning initiatives, the RSPB and SNH.
The Gathering Place will also be available for the local community to hold outdoor events such as plays and art exhibitions.
The total cost of the Carrbridge Primary School Parent Council project is £16,884, including £7,734 from the Cairngorms Local Action Group, £7,000 from Awards for All, £1,250 from The Highland Council and £900 from Carrbridge Community Council.
CNPA board member and Highland Councillor Jaci Douglas said: "It's great to see this initiative come to fruition. Getting kids out into the environment and experiencing things first hand makes the lessons come alive - after all we all learn, and feel, better if we are out doing things for ourselves.
"I think it's really exciting that here we are within the stunning and beautiful Cairngorms National Park and our children, the future of the Park, have this great opportunity to really engage with their surroundings and feel a real connection to their landscape - this feeling will surely stay with them always."
JoJo Offord, the school's head teacher, said: "By taking children outdoors we remove the barriers the traditional classroom can put up between young people and first-hand, real-life experiences.
"Outdoor learning is hands-on and direct and the knowledge that children gain from it is real, first-hand and unforgettable."
Activities at the Gathering Place will include outdoor learning sessions on topics such as nature & science and improved Eco School activities.
It will also host community plays, art exhibitions and musical events.
'Action Plan' for Ballater imminent
15th May 2009
An 'Action Plan' for Ballater is drawing closer after a series of discussions and questionnaires involving the local community.
Following the success of the first Ballater Blethers, held on April 4, the second Blethers, which was again organised by the Ballater One Voice Our Future Working Group (BOVOF), went ahead on May 2.
The format of this meeting was for the community to highlight which items raised by the questionnaires merited deeper discussion. Its aim was to prioritise the emerging issues that would formulate the 'Action Plan for Ballater', which will ultimately emerge from the project.
Robin Blyth, Chairman of the Ballater and Crathie Community Council, said: "The questionnaires had given a good insight as to the wishes and concerns of much of the community. The return rate of completed questionnaires upon reaching 44% give a highly credible response to our request and are worthy of our thanks to all."
He added: "The success of involving the Ballater School and the response from young persons has encouraged us to hold another aimed event for the youth of the community. Yet to be announced it will likely be held in the pavilion on Church Green, a venue agreeable and familiar with all. The timings for this will be given in the near future.
"This project evolving since November is moving towards its conclusion and it is hoped to produce the final report, the 'Action Plan' in the not so distant weeks. The report will contain all the issues raised and the how and the when they can be addressed. It will prioritise some quick win items and go on to secure the required funding to put them in place."
The BOVOF project follows the setting up of a pilot scheme for the communities of Grantown, Cromdale, Dulnain and Advie by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) 18 months ago. It devised a 'toolkit' for the best way for the organisers to get local feedback and this method has been adopted in Ballater.
The Cairngorms National Park Local Plan Inquiry begins on Monday May 18
11th May 2009
Weeks of debate to establish a vision for future development in the Cairngorms National Park will begin on Monday (May 18) in Aviemore.
The Cairngorms National Park Local Plan Inquiry begins at the Cairngorm Hotel but it will be held at various locations in the Park until Thursday June 4.
Among the topics to be debated will be:
- Affordable housing, Thursday May 21
- Future development in Grantown, Tuesday May 26
- Future development in Ballater, Wednesday May 27,
- Proposed housing development at An Camas Mor near Aviemore, Thursday May 28.
Planning officers with the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) have been involved in preparing a Local Plan since September 2004.
It will replace the current Local Plans covering the four local authority areas within the Park: Aberdeenshire, Angus, Highland and Moray. It will also set out detailed planning policies to guide development in the Park over the coming years and all planning applications within the Park will need to relate to the Cairngorms National Park Local Plan.
There have been objections raised, by various parties, to the Plan and the Inquiry will give those that have opted to speak, the chance to have their say in front of the Scottish Government Reporters Jill Moody and Hugh Begg.
Local residents and environmental groups will all make submissions to the inquiry.
The Reporters will then write a formal report for the CNPA to consider. The Plan is likely to be adopted in early 2010.
Duncan Bryden, Convener of the CNPA's Planning Committee, said: "The development of the Local Plan has been a very inclusive process from the very beginning with extensive consultation with all interested parties including local people, communities, developers, non-governmental organisations and public agencies.
"Once it is in place it will replace the four Local Plans that currently cover the Park. We look forward to finalising the Plan and implementing it in partnership with others."
The preparation of the Local Plan for the Park will play a key part in achieving the long term vision for the Park. Mr Bryden added: "A huge number of people have already influenced the plan, which is all about how we can keep the Cairngorms a place to be proud of and a vibrant place to live, work and visit.
"We are now in the final stages of work that commenced in 2004, and there have been several rounds of public consultation and many local meetings. We look forward to the Local Plan being adopted."
Use the link to view the Inquiry timetable and for any other information, visit the Local Plan Inquiry section on the CNPA website.
Using the above links, anyone can access the various submissions of written evidence made to the Inquiry and other relevant information about it.
Adventure beckons for teenagers in the Cairngorm National Park
11th May 2009
Teenagers living in the Cairngorms National Park are being given the chance to take part in an amazing adventure on their own doorsteps.
Youngsters aged between 13 and 18 from Kingussie High School and Aboyne and Alford Academies have been invited to go on a course enabling them to become ambassadors for the Park.
The five-day long Cairngorms National Park Junior Ranger Project is being co-ordinated and funded by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) with support from local Ranger services.
The programme will involve the youngsters going canoeing and doing nature conservation, as well as learning about the National Park and the Countryside Ranger profession.
Youngsters taking part in the course are promised plenty of fun and the prospect of learning more about the beautiful area they live in. They will also meet new people and get the chance of travelling abroad.
The Project is a great opportunity for youngsters to become directly involved in the Cairngorms National Park and also see what opportunities there are for careers in land-based professions.
John Tracey, head teacher of Kingussie High School, said: "This project provides a wonderful opportunity for our young people to learn more about what's on their doorstep and be involved in it.
"At the same time, the links with other young people in similar schemes throughout Europe broadens their horizons. It gets them thinking about big issues such as getting the balance right between conservation and tourism."
He added: "Their experiences will hopefully encourage them to want to stay and work in the area instead of moving away."
Moira Milne, Head Teacher of Alford Academy, said: "This is a tremendous opportunity for our young people at Alford Academy to become actively involved in their local heritage and environment.
"By continuing to develop our partnership with the Cairngorms National Park Authority our young people will understand, respect and be proud of the rich resources we have on our doorstep. They will be more aware of the potential employment opportunities through the sustainable growth of tourism/leisure as well as traditional and new land based industries."
Eric Baird, Deputy Convener of the Cairngorms National Park Authority and Head Ranger of Glen Tanar, said "The European Junior Ranger camp, held at Glen Tanar last year, convinced us that this was something we had to encourage in the Cairngorms. One year on, and we are preparing to welcome local youth onto the ground.
"They will experience for themselves the type of work involved in looking after our wonderful environment, and in managing the many visitors who come to enjoy it. It's particularly heartening to see the support of the schools, for the project: we see this as an endorsement of its educational value."
The Project is being run under the guidelines of the EUROPARC Federation, of which the Cairngorms National Park is a member.
Kingussie High School's programme will take place from June 15 to 19 while the Aboyne and Alford Academies event will take place from June 22 to 26.
Anyone interested in taking part in either event can contact Alan Smith, the Cairngorms National Park Authority's John Muir Award Manager, on 01479 870518 or email alansmith@cairngorms.co.uk.
The Cairngorms National Park Junior Ranger Project is supported by Aberdeenshire Council Ranger Service, The Highland Council Ranger Service, Glen Tanar Charitable Trust Ranger Service and Balmoral Estate Ranger Service, NTS Mar Lodge Ranger Service, Cairngorm Mountain Ranger Service and Explore Abernethy.
More routes on this summer's Heather Hopper service
11th May 2009
The Cairngorms National Park Heather Hopper bus service is to run on an even bigger network this summer.
Co-funded by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) with the Aberdeenshire and Highland Councils, additional services will be offered by Stagecoach in 2009.
The Heather Hopper, which began operating on Monday (May 11), will continue until September 26, with most services operating seven days a week. The 504 will run Newtonmore-Kingussie-Aviemore-Grantown-Tomintoul-Aberlour-Dufftown, connecting to the 501 Tomintoul-Strathdon-Ballater.
In Ballater, the 501 Heather Hopper connects with Stagecoach Service 201 to/from Aberdeen and Braemar. The 502/3 Heather Hopper operates Ballater-Aboyne-Banchory-Aberdeen and Ballater-Braemar-Glenshee, then to Aberfeldy via Pitlochry or to Perth via Blairgowrie.
John Thorne, Economic Development Officer with the CNPA, said: "It's great to have the new services in place, making it easier for visitors and residents to travel around this Summer without a car. We need to build on the success of the Heather Hopper this year, getting as many people as possible to travel."
The new services mean travellers can spend up to four hours in Grantown or Ballater, or passengers from Grantown can spend time shopping in Elgin. The Park Authority is working with the Cairngorms Hostels group to market the services to visitors.
Bob Edwards, Rural & Community Transport Officer at The Highland Council, said: "The Heather Hopper has operated as a through service to Ballater in previous years. The changes to the service this year have opened up a number of new travel opportunities to different attractions for both residents and tourists and will hopefully generate increased passenger numbers on the service."
Aberdeenshire Council's Infrastructure Services Committee Chairman and CNPA board member Peter Argyle said he was delighted that an additional return journey had been provided between Ballater and Tomintoul on the 501 and that the Heather Hopper network as a whole had been expanded.
He added: "I am also pleased that Stagecoach have decided to operate the 502/503 for a fourth consecutive year. The enhanced services will help to further link up rural communities and build on the successes already achieved in delivering increased mobility and all the benefits that brings in and around the National Park.''
Bryony Chamberlain, Managing Director, Stagecoach Bluebird and the Highlands said: "The Heather Hopper services have been well received over the past few years , but we hope that with even better connections in 2009 we can attract more locals and tourists to the Cairngorms this year.
"Stagecoach operates a range of services throughout the Highlands, Aberdeenshire, Moray and Perthshire so there are plenty of opportunities to get out and about without the car this summer."
Ian Bishop, Chairman of Cairngorms Hostels, was keen to stress how important the Heather Hopper was for the organisation's customers.
He explained: "It provides our visitors with the opportunity to take day trips to nearby Glens and links the network of hostels across the Park. We are delighted to be working with the Park Authority to market the service through our website www.cairngormshostels.co.uk "
The new timetables can be found in the 5th edition of the Cairngorms Explorer, out now across the Park, and online at the CNPA's website, or by Googling 'Cairngorms Explorer 2009'.
The Explorer contains non-car travel information within and to the Park, including all bus and train timetables. For 2009 it incorporates plenty of information on cheap things to do in the Park with 'Cairngorms on a Shoestring' advice. Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has supplied details of Cairngorms National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and suggested what to see and do there.
Andy Rockall of SNH said: "We are very happy to work with CNPA to include information on the Cairngorms NNRs in the Cairngorms Explorer. We hope that this publication shows something of the magic of these special places and makes it easier for people to visit on public transport."
Mr Thorne said that there would be a review of the CNPA's transport policy over the Summer.
He explained: "Transport is a key part of the National Park Plan, but we must decide whether to continue projects such as the Heather Hopper, or discuss whether other actions would be more effective. If any members of the public would like to be involved, we'll be holding meetings across the Park to gather their views. Anyone wanting more details can contact me at johnthorne@cairngorms.co.uk "
Historic Bridge reopens in Cairngorms National Park
5th May 2009
A historic bridge reopened today (Tuesday May 5) in the Cairngorms National Park thanks to the combined efforts of local groups.
The Gynack Bridge crossing in Kingussie, which has been closed for two and a half years, was reopened by Minister for the Environment Roseanna Cunningham.
The bridge was condemned in 2006 after it failed to pass an engineering inspection for public safety. It had been built in its most recent incarnation on top of sections of old railway line, and this was no longer considered to be safe.
There are historical records of a bridge on this site going back to at least 1870 where it is recorded on the first edition Ordnance Survey map of the area.
The bridge is of enormous importance to the local community's access network, as it lies in the centre of the village spanning the Gynack Burn between Ardbroilach and Gynack Roads.
It offers access to pristine deciduous woodland with remains of the old mill systems in evidence, and has been very popular with locals and visitors alike.
Kingussie Community Development Company went 'round the houses' to build support for replacing the condemned bridge, and secured some £7,000 towards the cost from The Highland Council.
They commissioned a survey and outline design for a replacement bridge from Forestry Civil Engineering, the aerial mast 'ranger' bridge.
Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust (COAT) was asked by the community council to take the project forward in April 2008 and took this design for planning consent in the first instance.
Initial objections to the bridge from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) were dropped after more evidence mitigating concerns over flood risk from replacing the bridge was presented.
An otter and bat survey was carried out as part of the condition of consent. COAT then took forward the project for fundraising, securing £11,412 LEADER funding from the Cairngorms Local Action Group (LAG), with the balance of the £28,000 project cost made up from COAT.
The project commenced in February 2009, with the old bridge removed, a new bridge constructed, and upgraded path put in on either side of the path. This included replacing the subsiding steps on the Gynack Road side, and building a viewing platform within the woodland on the Ardbroilach Road side, which will link in with the community council's local interpretive project.
This project completes the path network, renovations and interpretation that the Kingussie Community Development Company have been working to complete during the same period, providing the community with an excellent network of low level walking routes for the local people and visitors. These projects were all supported by the Cairngorms Local Action Group LEADER, Cairngorms National Park Authority and Scottish Natural Heritage funds.
Roseanna Cunningham said: "I am delighted the Gynack Bridge is open for public use once again, its restoration will make a significant difference to the local community's access network.
"The Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust are to be congratulated for not only overseeing this important development but for also ensuring environmental concerns were taken into account throughout."
COAT Manager Dougie Baird said: "It's great to see this project come together, and gaining LEADER support from Cairngorms LAG was vital in making this happen. I think that the bridge being closed left an enormous hole in the middle of the local access network, and it is gratifying to see this project come to a conclusion with a new bridge and path in place."
Patricia Methven, Grants Programme Manager for Cairngorms Local Action Group, commented: "We were delighted to support the local paths group in progressing their project. It brings together an effective path network for the area, which will be an attractive asset for both local people and visitors.
"The formation of Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust has been very useful giving communities the support they need with these expensive and complex projects. This project is a good example of how the hard work of many dedicated volunteers can achieve such a major path improvement for the area."
Local Highland Councillor and Cairngorms National Park Authority member Dave Fallows said the project was just one example of how the National Park, in supporting the Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust, and The Highland Council had been able to work together to deliver a much needed facility.
He added: "Both local people and visitors will derive great benefit from this bridge and the path network that it re-opens and I am quite sure this will prove to be amongst the first of many such enhancements that COAT will be able to deliver in the future."
Donnie Grant, of Kingussie Community Development Company, said: "The Community are delighted to have the new Gynack Bridge opened after almost three years without this historic link between the West and East sides of the Town
"We are extremely grateful to COAT as one of the main funders, together with Leader and Highland Council, for taking over and completing this Project which is so important to Kingussie."
Action to save 'Tiger of the Highlands' from extinction - Act now
5th May 2009
THE iconic Scottish wildcat has its first ever dedicated officer under a partnership project aimed at securing the future of the endangered species.
The wildcat has been around since the end of the Ice Age but, threatened by hybridisation with the closely-related domestic cat, is now on the brink of extinction, With estimates that there may be as few as 400 pure wildcats left in the UK, the Scottish Wildcat is now rarer than the tiger! A project has been launched in one of its last strongholds, the Cairngorms National Park, in a bid to help secure its future.
The Cairngorms Wildcat Project will develop greater understanding of the problems facing wildcats and implement measures to safeguard surviving wildcat populations, as well as create favourable conditions for the elusive species to survive in the future.
Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham, while visiting the Highland Wildlife Park, Kincraig, (Today, Tuesday May 5th) to learn about the project and meet the wildcat officer said "The Scottish Wildcat is one of Scotland's most charismatic species but unfortunately, also one of our most threatened. I feel passionately about conserving them for the benefit of future generations.
"However, by utilising the expertise and skills of the range of partners involved, I am hopeful the Wildcat Project can reverse these fantastic animals fortunes.
"While smaller than the big cats found elsewhere, they have the heart of a lion and are the tigers of our Highlands, it would be tragic to lose them when their demise is preventable."
Project Manager Dr David Hetherington, the country's first Scottish wildcat officer, said: "The project aims both to raise awareness of the plight of the Scottish Wildcat, and get gamekeepers, ecologists, vets, cat welfare groups, and the public at large all pulling together to save a Scottish icon from extinction."
The launch of the project was welcomed by SNH Director of Operations North Susan Davies, who said: "The Scottish Wildcat is identified in Scotland's Species Action Framework as one of our most exciting and charismatic species but also one of our most threatened.
"SNH is committed to supporting targeted conservation work which will deliver on the ground results and improve survival prospects for the Scottish Wildcat and funding the Scottish Wildcat Project in the Cairngorms National Park is a further significant step forward. SNH will continue to work with a variety of partners to lay the ground for the wildcat's recovery and future survival as a distinct native species."
The project builds on a conference which took place last April in Aviemore that canvassed the views of a wide range of people on ways forward for wildcat conservation. It will provide land managers, such as gamekeepers, and other members of the public with information on how to tell wildcats, domestic cats and hybrids apart so that they can help monitor the wildcat population and the extent of hybridisation with domestic cats. By working with local vets and cat welfare groups, the project will also encourage responsible domestic cat ownership. Cat owners can help to conserve wildcats by neutering and vaccinating their pets, which reduce the risk of hybridisation and the spread of fatal diseases, two of the biggest threats to the wildcat's continued existence in Scotland.
Partners involved are: Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA); Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH); Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS); Royal Zoological Society Scotland (RZSS) and the Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA)
The project website, http://www.highlandtiger.com/, has also been launched. It contains a wealth of information about the wildcat, will keep the public updated on the success of the project, will advise how they can contribute to the wildcat conservation and will host a regular blog from the project officer.
Vital meeting on Saturday to create an action plan for Ballater!
27th April 2009
Residents of Ballater will be able to create an action plan for the village's future at the Victoria Hall on Saturday 2nd May.
Local residents and businesses have recently responded to local housing and community surveys as well as last month's Ballater Blether drop in consultation and the Youth Café.
This information has now been analysed and the strong response (greater than 40%) has highlighted more than 140 issues and concerns of a short, medium and long term nature which now require to be prioritised and planned with the help of local people.
Ballater residents are invited to give an order of priority for action on these issues combined with discussion on how these can be implemented at the second Ballater Blethers meeting on Saturday.
This will not be a drop in meeting and will start at 10am prompt. A two hour programme is planned to set priorities for action and complete facilitated discussions on how to implement them.
Following the meeting, an action plan will be compiled and published which will form the basis for securing funding for short, medium and long term projects for Ballater.
Some actions have already been taken about short term issues raised so far. The Ballater One Voice Our Future (BOVOF) Working Group, which has organised the Blethers, is urging residents and representatives of local businesses and organisations not to miss this chance to contribute to an action plan for Ballater.
Representatives from public agencies, local groups including young people, people with disabilities, voluntary organisations and local businesses are all being invited to participate and are asked to confirm their attendance to contribute to the discussion.
Saturday's event will take the following format:
* 10am - 10.30am
Setting priorities for issues that arose from the recent community consultations - housing, local economy, education and training, health and sport, community facilities, services and environment.
* 11am - 12.30pm
Discussion of prioritised issues and how implementation can be achieved through action by the community itself and other organisations or agencies as required.
Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be available throughout the Blether.
Robin Blyth, Chairman of the Ballater and Crathie Community Council said: "Following on from the strong response to the recent community surveys I urge those who live and work in Ballater to come along and see what people have said so far and help decide the priorities to make a difference to the future of Ballater."
Anyone wanting to get further information or to confirm a representative of an agency or organisation will be present to add to discussion, phone Gillian Sinclair on 013397 55467.
Wetlands Workshop to be held in Cairngorms National Park
27th April 2009
Humans and wildlife living in the Cairngorms National Park are set to benefit from an event taking place next week.
Twenty delegates from around the UK will attend a 'Wetlands Workshop' at the International Starters restaurant in Aviemore on Tuesday (May 5).
The event will mark the start of a project which will aim to not only maintain the Park's existing wetlands but identify areas which could become wetlands.
Cairngorms Biodiversity Officer Justin Prigmore explained: "The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has been doing research to create a map of existing wetlands in the Park as well as where wetlands should occur.
"The workshop, which will bring together experts from a wide range of organisations including SEPA, SNH and the RSPB as well as independent experts, will help decide on the way forward for wetland projects in the Park."
He added: "The value of wetlands is not just in providing more habitats for birds, invertebrates and amphibians, but helping humans too.
"Such areas alleviate flood risk and mitigate against climate change, because water will store there for longer instead of rushing downstream."
The development of new wetlands might include the restoration of areas that have been drained for a variety of reasons over past centuries.
Mr Prigmore concluded: "The workshop will give us a wetland vision for the Cairngorms National Park and help us identify how we can begin to achieve that.
"We will be seeking full consultation with landowners and other local people before any new wetlands are even considered."
Lorna Harris, Wetland Ecologist for SEPA, said: "We are pleased to be working with the Cairngorms National Park Authority on such an important project. SEPA is leading on the development of an inventory of the location, extent, and type of wetlands throughout Scotland over the next four years.
"This will assist with SEPA's regulatory requirements for wetlands and biodiversity duties and help partners to plan wetland protection, management and restoration."
She added: "The project with the Cairngorms National Park Authority is a pilot phase for the national work, and will help both SEPA and our project partners protect and enhance wetlands throughout Scotland for the future.
"The restoration and creation of wetlands can have multiple benefits and SEPA will be working closely with all partners to provide a wetland vision that meets multiple objectives."
New Woodland Walkway opens in Cairngorms National Park
24th April 2009
The opening of a new £30,000 woodland walkway in Grantown-on-Spey today (Friday April 24) is being hailed as a fine example of partnership working at its best in the Cairngorms National Park.
The all-abilities, 900-metre long trail begins in Kylintra Meadow at the west end of Grantown and meanders through the Anagach Woods before returning to the meadow again.
The project has been brought about through joint funding from the Cairngorm Leader Project, the Anagach Trust, the Scottish Forestry Grant Scheme, The Highland Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Cairngorm Leader - a joint partnership between the Cairngorms National Park Authority, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Government, and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, whose aim is to increase the capacity of local rural communities and business networks to build human capital, and to innovate and co-operate in order to tackle local development objectives - put in £4,424 to the project.
Opening the new walkway David Green, Convener of the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: "This has been a great example of how partnership working in the park can provide fantastic assets and facilities for all.
"Congratulations to Anagach Trust for developing this walkway and for the efforts of all at the Trust who have worked so hard to make it happen.
"Paths are more than just routes on the ground. They help people exercise, enjoy the scenery and nature, provide transport links, and are often safe alternatives to pavements and roads.
"Now we all must work to encourage family and friends to use this new path, and the other routes in Anagach, and enjoy this fantastic asset for the town."
Anagach Trust Chairman Basil Dunlop said in welcoming everyone to the opening: "We have been trying hard to improve the facilities for the community to access the Anagach Woods. We have no direct funding, so volunteers and hard work are what gets things done and I thank them all."
Dog owners encouraged to be responsible in Cairngorms National Park
21st April 2009
Dog owners are being encouraged to act responsibly in the Cairngorms National Park so their pets don't frighten livestock or spoil other people's enjoyment of the area.
The plea by the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) and The Highland Council, comes amid a busy start to the holiday season with fine weather prompting many people to head outdoors.
Anyone with a dog should keep their pet under close control or on a lead as the lambing season is well under way and a number of cattle are calving at this time of year.
Ground nesting birds – such as capercaillie and dotterel - who are breeding and rearing their young - are also particularly vulnerable.
The message to dog owners is:
- Keep your dog under close control which means either on a lead or close at heel.
- If your dog is off a lead make sure that it can respond to your commands at anytime.
- Do not take your dog into a field where there are young animals.
- Remove any excrement left by your dog.
The latter problem is not only unsightly and smelly but it also creates a health hazard. Dog owners are required to bag their animals' excrement and then bin it rather than bagging it and hanging it up from branches of trees as some people do.
CNPA Board Member and local Councillor Jaci Douglas, said: "If people leave their dog's excrement lying around it will really discourage visitors to come back to the Park, particularly if they have children. We are working with Highland Council on this issue."
Iain Dyce, Highland Council's local community works manager, endorsed the CNPA's plea, adding: "People walking dogs in the National park should take their pets' mess away so other people in the Park can look at the views rather than wondering where they are putting their feet!"
Four new affordable homes unveiled in Cairngorms National Park
20th April 2009
Four new affordable homes which have a reduced carbon footprint have been unveiled at Ardgeal in the Cairngorms National Park by local MSP Fergus Ewing.
The homes for sale have been built on land sold to The Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust by Forestry Commission Scotland as part of its National Forest Land Scheme.
Three of the four homes are already sold to local purchasers who otherwise would not have been able to afford to buy suitable homes in what is still an expensive local housing market.
Purchase prices have been kept low through a combination of the Trust using its Rural Housing Burden to take a 35% equity share in the properties, in return for a large discount, and substantial individual Rural Home Ownership Grants from the Scottish Government.
A combination of solar panels, wood burning stoves, exceptionally high levels of insulation and careful design ensures that the homes will have low running costs and a much reduced carbon footprint compared to most modern homes.
The Milehouse development was delivered by the Inverness-based Trust, a rural housing charity, in partnership with the Kincraig & Vicinity Community Council.
The project received financial contributions towards the cost of site acquisition and a project feasibility study from the Cairngorms National Park Authority and Highland Council.
RBS provided approximately half of the total project development finance with additional lending from the Highland Housing Alliance Charitable Trust. The remainder of the project costs were funded from the Trust's revolving landbank fund originally funded by Highland Council.
Tom Hainey, CEO of the Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust said: "It has taken a lot of hard work to reach this point and we have learned an awful lot along the way.
"We will be taking time to learn those lessons before we proceed with Ardgeal phase 2 hopefully later this year."
He added: "I look forward to working more closely with the Forestry Commission and Park Authority on a range of other innovative projects."
Mr Ewing said: "This development is a model of co-operation between The Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust, the Forestry Commission as the landowner and the Cairngorms National Park Authority.
"The developers have praised the Park Authority for the way in which the planning process was handled. The vision of the local community was obtained and I understand that the development has proceeded without a single problem."
Mr Ewing said that he hoped the next phase of the project could now proceed so more local people had a chance of affordable housing, adding that all the firms involved in the design and creation of the homes, including Grantown-based builders AW Laing, had done an excellent job.
CNPA board member Anne MacLean said: "We feel what we have done at Ardgeal could be replicated elsewhere in the National Park conjunction with the housing provider and the Forestry Commission and possibly also in other areas of Scotland too.
"This development shows how well the Park's partnerships are working and delivering on the ground."
Fiona Munro, the CNPA's Housing Officer, said: "We want to learn from the project and see whether it can be repeated elsewhere in the National Park."
Tree felling was necessary to carry out the Ardgeal project but a significant planting scheme for new trees will be implemented by the new owners within a year of occupation.
Free Day Out to promote the use of climate friendly fuel
16th April 2009
A free day out to encourage people to live in a greener way will be held on an estate in the Cairngorms National Park next month.
The Woodfuel Fair, which will be held on Wednesday May 27 at the Alvie Estate near Aviemore, will show how woodfuel can be used as a renewable, environmentally-friendly alternative to fossil fuels.
The event will mark the start of a series of activities within the Park over the next two years to promote the use of woodfuel to reduce climate change.
It will show people, whether they are householders or in business, how they can use resources on their doorstep and reduce climate change in the process.
The Fair is free and there will be refreshments and if people have to travel from far away the CNPA will help them with their travel expenses.
Eric Baird, the CNPA's vice-convener, said: "Forests, and the timber they produce, are a key natural resource in the National Park. Using woodfuel to replace fossil fuels adds value to this resource, whilst helping to combat Global climate change. So we can help the environment and support the local economy by developing our use of woodfuel."
Alvie House is heated by woodfuel, and the Estate runs its own onsite supply business.
The Woodfuel Fair, which will run from 10am to 4:30pm, will give people the chance to see the Alvie Estate boiler and the woodchipper and drying shed at first hand.
There will also be a marquee featuring trade displays from suppliers and installers of woodfuel equipment, along with talks about using woodfuel and where to look for funding to assist with capital costs.
Anyone is welcome to come to the event on the day but those wanting to attend the talks, which will take place in separate sessions between 10am and 12:30pm and 2pm and 4:30pm, are advised to book.
The Fair is part of the Clim-ATIC project, which receives funding from the EU's Northern Periphery Programme. It is being jointly organised by the CNPA, Highland Birchwoods and Forestry Commission Scotland.
Clive Bowman, Clim-ATIC Project Coordinator, said: "The EU Clim-ATIC project is supporting this wood fuel fair and future activities in the area to promote the use of wood as a sustainable and secure form of local energy.
"Climate change will lead to many challenges for the Cairngorms, and a global disruption to energy supply may well be one of the impacts we will see in the future, and so an easy adaptation we can make now is to improve the Park community's opportunities to use local renewable resources for heating their homes."
Anyone wanting more information about the event can contact Kate Christie on 01479 870535 or email katechristie@cairngorms.co.uk or fiona.strachan@highlandbirchwoods.co.uk .
Click here to download the Woodfuel Fair flyer.
Wilson embarks on fact finding Cairngorms National Park visit
9th April 2009
Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has been on a fact finding visit to the Cairngorms National Park.
The Minister hopes the visit will inform his decision on whether or not he should recommend to Executive colleagues new legislation to establish national parks in Northern Ireland.
His tour of the Park took in Huntly's Cave, Balliefurth Farm, Nethy Bridge, An Camus Mor, CairnGorm Mountain, Glenmore Visitor Centre, Rothiemurchus, Aviemore and Grantown.
Mr Wilson explained: "I went to Scotland to see for myself how a national park operates.
"I learned how the Cairngorms National Park Authority is working with local people, businesses and a range of organisations to address issues such as conserving and enhancing environmental and cultural heritage in the area, promoting local economic and social development and encouraging public enjoyment of the Park.
"During my visit, I also talked to local farmers, landowners and businesses about their experience of having a national park.
"I came to Scotland with an open mind on whether or not Northern Ireland should have national parks.
"Up until now the debate in Northern Ireland has focused on whether there should be a National Park in the Mournes, but there may be other areas which would be suitable.
"Before that, however, we need to think about what a National Park is and decide whether or not we want National Parks in Northern Ireland. And if so, what they would be like."
The Minister added: "Scotland's National Parks are the only ones in the world which have an economic as well as an environmental purpose and I am intrigued to see how that balance has been struck.
"The Cairngorms also has many protected landscapes and habitats. Ospreys, wild cats and a range of other rare and protected species, live there. Its economy very much depends on its natural assets. I will be interested in seeing how visitors to the park are managed to make sure the area's natural assets are also conserved."
Cairngorms National Park Authority board member Alastair MacLennan, whose farm the Minister visited, said: "I had a wide ranging, frank and honest chat with him and I understand he had a really good tour of the Park.
"He was particularly concerned about how land managers viewed National Parks and how the new structure impacted on their businesses.
"Hopefully the information he received first hand from people who live and work in the Park will be of use when he decides on whether Northern Ireland should have National Parks."
First meeting on Ballater's future a success
6th April 2009
The first Ballater Blether on Saturday (April 4) was well supported and gave those who dropped in a chance to share their thoughts and ideas for the village's future.
Public agencies and local organizations including the Fire Service, Police, Cairngorm National Park Authority (CNPA), Aberdeenshire Council, Waste Aware, SCARF, the YES Project, MAP, Local Community Planning, Community Development Group, The Prince's Foundation and Deeside Access Panel were on hand to allow further discussion and provide information.
The Ballater One Voice Our Future (BOVOF) Working Group, which organised the event, wishes to thank all those who participated for sparing the time and effort which has added so much value to this project.
Later on in the day young people in the village provided their ideas at the "Sound Off" Youth Café, where the events proved popular especially a game of Bingo and a video questionnaire.
Fiona Munro, the CNPA's Housing Policy Officer, said: "It was fantastic to get so many ideas on what was good about Ballater and what could be improved. These will be analysed along with household, business and community survey data to produce a list of potential actions for the area."
A second Ballater Blether will be held at the Victoria Hall on Saturday May 2 at 10am for updates on the surveys. On this occasion also, members of the Ballater community are invited to participate in the all important setting of long, medium and short term priorities for the action plan.
The BOVOF project follows the setting up of a pilot scheme for the communities of Grantown, Cromdale, Dulnain and Advie by the CNPA 18 months ago. It devised a "toolkit" for the best way for the organisers to get local feedback and this method has been adopted in Ballater.
The BOVOF Working Group was instigated to oversee the project by the Ballater and Crathie Community Council supported by the CNPA and its partners. It includes representatives from Ballater and Crathie Community Council, the CNPA, Aberdeenshire Council, the Association of Cairngorms Communities, Ballater (RD) Limited, The Prince's Foundation for the Built Environment, Save Cash Reduce Fuel (SCARF), and Ballater residents.
Volunteers wanted to record amphibian numbers in Cairngorms National Park
6th April 2009
Wildlife enthusiasts who don't mind getting their hands dirty are being invited to play a valuable role for the Cairngorms Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP). Their assistance is required to help increase knowledge about the frogs, toads and newts that live in the Park.
Cairngorms Biodiversity Officer Stephen Corcoran said: "They spend most of the year in terrestrial habitats but they go to ponds to spawn in March and April.
"This is a key time to see them and we would be grateful if people could take a close look and tell us how many there are in the National Park."
One third of amphibians worldwide are thought to be threatened with extinction because of disease and habitat loss. In the UK two diseases have recently appeared from abroad that could have serious implications for our native amphibians: the Ranavirus, also called 'red-leg', and a fungal infection (chytridiomycosis). Neither of these have been reported in the Cairngorms but any reports of likely diseased frogs, toads and newts is vital as it can help to monitor the spread and impact of these diseases.
The Common frog, Common toad and Palmate newt can generally be seen across the Park but the Smooth newt and Great crested newt are much rarer and so far are only recorded from one location in Strathspey. Other sites for these rarer species may be out there waiting to be found.
He said: "I hope as many people as possible will record what they see. There are a number of national initiatives that volunteers can get involved in and training is taking place across Scotland. However, people should avoid moving or collecting amphibians because this can help prevent the spread of diseases."
Anyone who sees one of these amphibians should fill out the form on the back of an 'Amphibians of the Cairngorms' leaflet published by the CNPA or reported to Mr Corcoran on 01479 870528 or by email at stephencorcoran@cairngorms.co.uk , or the Cairngorms Biological Records Centre.
They can also get involved by registering on the website of the National Amphibian and Reptile Recording Scheme or take part in the new Reptiles and Amphibians in your Garden initiative.
For past news articles, please see the News Archive page.