A conservation charity is embarking on a two-year project that will improve access to some of Skye’s most spectacular landscapes.
The John Muir Trust has appointed experienced local contractor, Donald Mackenzie from Glenelg, to oversee the scheme that will focus on two key paths through the Strathaird peninsula in the south-west of the Hebridean island.
He will be running a programme of work and training, called “Skye’s Wild Ways: Path Repairs and Conservation Skills”, on the routes from Sligachan to Coruisk, and across Beinn Dearg Mheadhonach in the Red Cuillin.
The project, which started this month, will involve sensitive repairs to some of the more eroded sections of both paths to improve access to the area while minimising any impact on fragile habitats.
It will also enable the trust to offer opportunities to local volunteers and college trainees to develop specialist path skills under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Despite inclement weather so far, there have already been successful helicopter airlifts carrying 90 tonnes of stone to Beinn Dearg Mheadhonach and a further 60 tonnes to Druim Hain on the Sligachan route.
John Muir Trust footpath project officer Chris Goodman said: “This is really important work, helping to protect some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland and tackle the issue of erosion on popular access routes.”
He added that the work would provide a boost to the local community by providing a two-year full-time job, contract work and training opportunities for local people.
The project received a Heritage Lottery Fund grant of £57,800.