Ponds project makes progress
Easier access for buggies and wheelchairs
Another phase in the transformation of Doune Ponds nature trail has been completed.
The team of about 70 hard-working volunteers there have restored another section of path, making the onceneglected area even more attractive to villagers.
Doune Community Woodland Group took over management of the site – owned by Moray Estates – two years ago.
And on Saturday, Lord Moray, who now runs the estate, officially opened the new section of path watched by volunteers, villagers and his mother, Lady Moray who has enthusiastically supported the restoration of the site.
Woodland Group chairman Tony Farrant said the latest piece of work had not been easy.
“We have completed rebuilding another path at Doune Ponds,” he added.
“The work involved moving the existing path about one metre, taking out old tree routes, putting in edging, building up banking and levelling the ground.
“This now means people with buggies and wheelchairs can move along quite easily. All the work was done by volunteers, as usual.”
When the woodland group took over Doune Ponds, the reserve had no gate and paths were six inches deep in mud.
The group struck an agreement with Moray Estates and put together a 10-year plan to restore the area.”
They first put a gate on to the 40 acres of woodland and water then set about extending the picnic area and restoring almost 600 metres of track, putting in well over 2300 volunteer hours of work.
Woodland group volunteers have been supported in the work by Moray Estates, Kilmadock Community Council and the Windfarm Trust and this week they received a fresh boost. Building materials giant CEMEX presented the group with a £500 cheque. Tony added: “They have seen what we have achieved in only two years and wanted to contribute. Their cash will help some of the other projects which we have planned.”