The Great Glen Ways Initiative
 What is the Great Glen?
The Great Glen is a geological fault line running between Fort William and Inverness. The area encompasses some of the best known landmarks in Scotland including Ben Nevis, Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle. The Glen is a significant tourist attraction and major route through the Highlands, between east and west. What is the Great Glen Ways Initiative?In 2002, the Great Glen Ways Communication Strategy proposed a common approach for public interpretation in connection with the Caledonian Canal, the Great Glen Mountain Bike Trails and the Great Glen Way Long Distance Footpath. From 2005 - 2007, project work aimed to strengthen the identity of the Glen, improve visitor satisfaction and encourage more people to come and enjoy the three Great Glen Ways. The planned outcome was to make a significant contribution to the local economy by creating better employment opportunities within tourism and other related industries. What took place on the ground?The initiative included setting up over 30 large and distinctive stone and timber structures onto which were installed over 50 information and interpretation panels. The main themes cover history, archaeology and folklore, forest management, natural history and wildlife. The project included providing new information panels at Tourist Information Centres throughout the Glen. Way-marker posts and other signs were improved, making it easier for visitors to find their way. All structures and signs have a distinctive Great Glen Ways design and colour. The project also produced a promotional DVD and a there will be celebrity launch event in March 2008. Who is involved?The Great Glen Ways project was managed by The Highland Council in partnership with Scottish Natural Heritage, Forestry Commission Scotland and British Waterways Scotland. The European Agricultural Guidance and Guarantee Fund (EAGGF) contributed 45% funding, the balance being met by the project partners.  For more information on The Great Glen Ways see:
The Great Glen Way website: http://www.greatglenways.info Highland Council's information on the Great Glen Ways: http://www.highland.gov.uk/leisureandtourism/what-to-see/longdistancepaths/greatglenways.htm
|