Campaign bids to put paths on OS maps to help walkers

OUTDOORS enthusiasts are being urged to help put more Scottish paths on the map for the first time.

Ramblers Scotland said the move would boost access to the outdoors, particularly for less confident walkers and tourists in Scotland.

The walking charity, alongside Scottish Natural Heritage and other members of the National Access Forum, is in talks with Ordnance Survey (OS) about the change.

Scottish councils have developed a 10,625-mile network of their most important routes, known as core paths, since Scottish access rights were founded in 2003.

But as there is no requirement to include core paths on OS maps, some are not shown at all, a fact Ramblers Scotland said makes it harder for walkers, cyclists, horseriders and other outdoor enthusiasts to plan their days out.

Campaigns and policy manager Helen Todd said: “We have excellent access rights in Scotland, but fewer paths on the ground than in the rest of Great Britain – something that we know can be a barrier to people enjoying the outdoors on foot.

“Attributing all core paths on maps would help communities promote their local walks, reassure less confi- dent walkers, and make it easier for tourists to access the outdoors when visiting Scotland.

“We believe there is a strong case that putting all core paths on maps would result in more people enjoying the health and social benefits of outdoor recreation.

“We’re talking about a huge under-publicised network of paths, covering almost half the distance around the world. These paths are open for everyone, including walkers, cyclists, anglers, horseriders and runners, as well as those using their kayaks or boats on our rivers and lochs.”