Bla Bheinn Path Now Good to Go

© John Muir Trust

Just in time for Christmas - not to mention the onset of winter conditions - restoration work has been completed on the heavily used standard trail up Bla Bheinn.

Airlift of materials in progress  © John Muir Trust
Airlift of materials in progress
© John Muir Trust

The 3.8km route from Loch Slapin to the summit had been suffering the effects of massive popularity, and the Skye weather, with some serious erosion scars that were a pain to walk on and an eyesore visible from miles away. 

This week contractors working for landowners the John Muir Trust (JMT) finished repairs to the worst bits.

Earlier this year the Trust, which looks after Blà Bheinn, won £24,000 towards the costs in an online poll organised by the European Outdoor Conservation Association. This was followed with an appeal among JMT members and supporters to raise the balance to fund the project.

Chris Goodman, Footpath Manager for the JMT, said:

'This was a substantial piece of work that included building 100 metres of stone steps and a helicopter lift of materials.'

'It also involved major drainage construction on sections of the path that been badly scarred by gullying.'

'We strongly encourage people to explore the mountains and at the same time we take responsibility for maintaining footpaths in good condition.'

'Where possible we use light touch, sensitive, minimal intervention techniques, but in some places significant damage can only be rectified by this kind of major repair work.'

In future the Trust aims to focus on more pre-emptive action to prevent serious erosion before it occurs.

'This work has cost the best part of £60,000 and we'd like to thank all our members and supporters, as well as those who voted for us in the online poll earlier this year to help us secure a large part of the funding' said Chris.

 


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