The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Walk this way... town’s regeneration group seeks path to success
A regeneration group is appealing for ideas to improve walking paths and highlight Buckie’s attractions such as the Fishing Heritage Centre and the town’s Victorian architecture.
Like every town and city in Scotland, footfall has plummeted in Buckie due to the pandemic.
Efforts to revitalise the Moray coastal town and its area have started.
Now the Buckie Regeneration Group wants to make the town more attractive for walkers and, in turn, bring economic benefits.
The group is keen to work with other community groups such as the community council to transform the town into Moray’s walking centre to aid recovery.
The area already forms part of the Moray Coastal Trail and the Speyside Way.
Chairwoman Sonya Warren explained: “We are aware we are in a beautiful location.
“We are ideally positioned for many walks like Moray Coastal Trail and fishery walks.
“We want to work with other groups and improve paths for accessibility.”
There are hopes that the town becoming more walker-friendly can support the local economy.
Ms Warren added: “So many people have taken up walking during lockdown.
“We want to make Buckie a better place for walking. We have a lot of good shops, takeaway shops and other bits of interest.
“So more walkers coming to start the Speyside Way and other walks could increase footfall in the town centre.
“People could finish their walk in Buckie and enjoy the fine food in the town.”
The group previously worked with Keith and Strathisla Regeneration Partnership to open up the Fishwives Walk in 2013.
The 13-mile path was traditionally used by fishwives to make a 26-mile round trip from Buckie harbour to Keith and back again.
The women would make the journey carrying 40lb creels of fish on their backs, and often return the same day laden down with heavy churns of milk.
Since then the route has become a draw for tourists.
Sonya said: “We originally did the Fishwives Walk which was positively received and want to use it as a springboard.
“We want to showcase the beautiful buildings like the churches and the rich history.
“Getting the community involved is vital.”
The group wants to hear the public’s ideas.
You can get in touch at buckieregengroup@ gmail.com