‘Sleeping Giant’ path project is a step closer

A new underpass which once completed will transform access to RSPB Scotland Loch Leven near Kinross has taken another step towards reality - following a pledge of financial support from Perth and Kinross Council (PKC).

The walkway will connect the‘Sleeping Giant’path from Fife to the Loch Leven Heritage Trail and pass underneath the B9097 to put the area at the forefront for disabled access to the countryside in Scotland once it is finished.

Site manager Uwe Stoneman said this week:“It’s fantastic news that PKC has awarded £150,000 towards replacing the old tunnel and steps at Loch Leven with a more accessible underpass.

“This takes us much closer to our target, and leaves a smaller funding gap still to be filled.

“I would like to thank all four local ward councillors, and in particular Councillor Willie Robertson, for their support, which was instrumental in getting the project to this stage.

“We’re hoping for support from the local community, businesses and other organisations in raising the final sum of money needed to help this project succeed, and will be launching a crowdfunding campaign later this spring.”

Councillor Robertson added:“An all-ability link between the Loch Leven Heritage Trail and the RSPB Scotland centre at Vane Farm is the last link in the Heritage Trail chain.

“The trail was designed to be usable by everyone, both disabled and able bodied, and it is very disappointing that people with mobility issues couldn’t easily access the trail and RSPB bird hides from Vane Farm.

“When the new underpass has been completed, cyclists and wheelchairs users will be able to easily pass under the busy B9097. This is excellent news for everyone who visits the Loch Leven Heritage Trail and RSPB Scotland Loch Leven.”

The project is a partnership effort between the Rural Access Committee for Kinross-shire (TRACKS), the Kinross-shire Partnership, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), the Homelands Trust Fife and RSPB Scotland.