BEN LOMOND PATH GETS NEW LEASE OF LIFE

Visitors tackling the main route to the top of Ben Lomond will have an extra spring in their step thanks to recent refurbishment work on the path.

A mixture of work has brought a new lease of life to this popular route. Improvements to the path surface have made the going a little easier, landscaping has helped make the area more attractive and harvesting work has opened up some spectacular views across Loch Lomond.

The work has been carried out by Forestry Commission Scotland, which is responsible for the lower forest section of path, in partnership with the National Trust for Scotland.

Stuart Chalmers, Forestry Commission Scotland in Aberfoyle, said:

“I think everyone will benefit from the work we’ve done to enhance the route. It’s really added the finishing touch to the Ben Lomond experience.

“It was great to work with the guys from the Trust. They had the experience and know-how and we learned a lot from them.”

The work used materials that blend into the surrounding landscape so that walkers hardly notice the new features. New drainage ditches will help to stop the path being washed away and steep banks and drops – as well as some well placed natural obstacles – will all help to make sure that people stick to the proper path.

Alasdair Eckersall, National Trust for Scotland’s Ben Lomond ranger, said:

“About 30,000 visitors walk the path every year and in places that has resulted in paths that are usually 2m wide becoming 25m wide erosion scars.

“Our restoration work on this route - and all Ben Lomond’s paths - helps to protect the whole landscape, keep the paths in good condition and minimise the impact of so many pairs of boots.

“It’s been good to work with the Commission in such a successful partnership,”

NOTES TO EDITOR:
1) Forestry Commission Scotland serves as the Scottish Government's forestry department. For more information log on to www.forestry.gov.uk/aboutfcs

2) The National Trust for Scotland’s path management team work over Ben Lomond, Ben Lawers, Glencoe, and Goatfell. The team will continue to assist Ben Lomond Trust staff and Commission staff to manage the Ben Lomond path.

3) PHOTO CAPTION: Two members of the National Trust Team set to work making improvements to the Ben Lomond path.

MEDIA ENQUIRIES:
Paul Munro, Forestry Commission Scotland press office, 0131 314 6507.
e-mail: paul.munro@forestry.gsi.gov.uk