Improved access to be provided for Loch Leven visitors

A new underpass, which would transform access to nature at Loch Leven, is now a step closer following funding of £150,000 being provided by Perth and Kinross Council.

Residents and local councillors have been calling for a new underpass in order to connect the ‘Sleeping Giant’ path from Fife to the Loch Leven Heritage Trail, and pass underneath the B9097 at RSPB Scotland Loch Leven.

Uwe Stoneman, site manager at RSPB Scotland Loch Leven, said it was “fantastic news” that the council had granted the money to replace 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 to be filled,” he said.

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

He added: “The current corrugated iron tunnel at Loch Leven links the paths underneath the B9097 and is maintained by the council. The tunnel was constructed in 1982 and is coming to the end of its usable life.”

“However, it also presents a major access issue as the tunnel can only be reached by steep steps at each end. This is an obstacle for cyclists, families with pushchairs and less mobile people.”

Liberal Democrat Councillor Willie Robertson commented: “The link between the Loch Leven Heritage Trail and Vane Farm is the last one in the Heritage Trail chain.

“When the new underpass has been completed, cyclists and wheelchairs users will be able to use it.

“This is excellent news for everyone who visits the Loch Leven Heritage Trail and RSPB Scotland Loch Leven.”

The Rural Access Committee for Kinross-shire, the Kinross-shire Partnership, Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), the Homelands Trust Fife and RSPB Scotland are all involved in the project.