PUBLIC access to part of the Speyside Way has been restored after three locked gates on a Highland estate were re-opened.
The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA), which is responsible for managing the system of access rights, investigated a potential contravention of section 14 (1) of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 after the gates were erected on the Kinrara Estate.
Under Scottish law, there is an obligation on landowners to ensure that public access is facilitated where access rights apply, though this is often done on the basis of goodwill and cooperation of the parties concerned.
Thousands of people use the Speyside Way each year, bringing many economic benefits to the area. However, the electronic gates hindered people accessing the Speyside Way at three different locations, forcing them on long detours to continue the trail.
The CNPA had planned to open up formal proceedings if necessary but after writing to the landowner, and following positive discussions with them, the gates have now been reopened.
It is believed the reasons for the gates being installed in the first place was due to concerns about antisocial behaviour and privacy.
“The reason for the gates being there is a question for the estate representatives to answer fully along with questions over who was responsible for installation and locking,” said a spokesperson for the CNPA.
“However we have been told the gates were installed due to instances of antisocial behaviour and privacy around residencies. We are in dialogue with the estate owners as to how we can assist – as the Outdoor Access Authority – in ensuring responsible access across the estate.”
Ramblers Scotland welcomed the fact that a lengthy dispute over the issue was avoided and that walkers, cyclists, horse-riders and the like can once again access the estate, and join the Speyside Way which runs through it.
Brendan Paddy, director of Ramblers Scotland, said: “We strongly support the work of Cairngorms National Park Authority alongside the landowner to deliver such a quick resolution, avoiding what had the potential to be a costly and lengthy dispute.
“The locked gates had sparked an immediate response from residents, tourists and outdoors enthusiasts – highlighting just how much people value our world-class access rights here in Scotland.”
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