Rural funding for the Cairngorms National Park will see improved pathways and walking networks for visitors and residents.
Muir of Dinnet and Active Glenmore will benefit from £276,786 from the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund to link walkways between car parks, visitor attractions and accommodation.
Murray Ferguson, the park authority’s director of planning and rural development explains: “Visitor numbers have increased across the Cairngorms in the last few years and it is essential that our infrastructure – the paths, bridges, carparks, etc.– are in good condition so that visitors have the best possible experience.
“At Glenmore, the project will provide a new and enhanced path, and associated parking arrangements, to link the visitor attractions and accommodation in Glenmore.
“This will make it easier, safer and more attractive for visitors to walk and cycle in the key visitor hotspot within the Cairngorms National Park.
“It will help to reduce any negative impact on the environment and lead to greater economic benefit to tourism businesses.
“At Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, we will be improving the visitor experience with an upgrade to the car park and toilet facilities at the Burn o Vat visitor centre.
“The capacity of the toilet block will be increased and there will be special provision for dealing with waste from motor homes, reducing the effect of campervan parking in the local area.
“The project will also support an anticipated increase in visitor numbers which will benefit local businesses and support local employment.”