Fundraising campaign launched as work begins at Loch Leven

Work has begun on a new underpass that will transform public access at RSPB Scotland Loch Leven.

The new passageway will create a more accessible link between Loch Leven Heritage Trail and the Fife Path Network replacing an old tunnel under the B9097 which has steep steps at each end.

The diggers are on site but a small funding gap remains, and RSPB Scotland has launched a £19,000 crowdfunding campaign.

RSPB Scotland Loch Leven reserve manager Uwe Stoneman said: “The new underpass at Loch Leven is a partnership project that has taken years to develop, so it’s very exciting to be at this final stage of the process.

“It’s going to make a huge difference to many of our visitors, and will put the whole area at the forefront of disabled access in Scotland.

“Work on the underpass is already under way but, despite very generous funding from Sustrans, Scottish Natural Heritage, Perth and Kinross Council and others, we still have a shortfall of £19,000.

“We’re very much hoping that the public will get behind this project and help us raise the final amount, and we’ve got some great rewards on offer.”

The wheelchair-accessible Loch Leven Heritage Trail, completed in 2014, provides a 13-mile, barrier-free route around the loch and has more than 200,000 visitors a year.

The RSPB Scotland reserve at Loch Leven hosts part of the trail, and its visitor centre and car park are key facilities for trail users.

The steep steps in the underpass makes it difficult for cyclists and families with pushchairs to access, and creates a barrier for wheelchair and mobility scooter users.

Picture: Kenny Smith. Brian Ward of Fairhurst, Dave Morris, George Lawrie (Tracks), Kitty Walker of Homelands Trust-Fife, Caroline Gallacher of SNH, I&H Brown site foreman David Watson, Uwe Stoneman, Perth and Kinross Council environment and infrastructure convener Angus...