CORPORATE SERVICES
(Development and Promotion)
NORTH AYRSHIRE
OUTDOOR ACCESS STRATEGY
FOREWORD
North Ayrshire Council and its predecessors have been involved for a number of years in the
execution of outdoor access projects on the ground. However the development of the Outdoor
Access Strategy marks a significant step in the right direction towards a co-ordinated approach
to outdoor access development and the implementation of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003
within the area.
This document provides a strategic vision for outdoor access and demonstrates how real
benefits can be delivered for local people through agreed priorities and targets. It highlights that
well planned, managed and promoted access can contribute to a wide range of agendas such
as social inclusion, health improvement and sustainable transport as well as improving people’s
overall quality of life.
Partnership working is central to this process and the Council’s commitment to this has been
demonstrated by the Forum’s involvement throughout the development of the Strategy and the
level of community consultation undertaken. The Strategy will guide actions and projects on the
ground and future projects will be identified and developed under the guidance of the Forum.
The following statements can also demonstrate the significant level of support for the Strategy:
“Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire is delighted to support the North Ayrshire Outdoor Access
Strategy. This is an important initiative with real benefits for local people and tourism related
businesses in Ayrshire.”
“Scottish Natural Heritage fully supports the North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Strategy as a
strategic vision for taking forward the access agenda in partnership with the people of North
Ayrshire.”
“Clyde Muirshiel Park Authority welcomes the Outdoor Access Strategy and is committed to the
development of access in the Regional Park area.”
“The Paths for All Partnership would like to congratulate North Ayrshire Council on the
development of the Outdoor Access Strategy. It is appreciated that it has taken considerable
time and effort from the Access Officers, Steering Group and Forum to get it to this point. The
Partnership hopes that this strategy will now provide the framework for North Ayrshire and its
partners to secure resources to deliver the wide ranging benefits that this document has
highlighted and that it will take its place along with the Local Plan and help to form an essential
delivery method for many aspects of Community Planning.”
With the continued support of all of these organisations and the Outdoor Access Forum the
future for outdoor access will continue to take steps in the right direction.
Councillor David Munn
Chair of North Ayrshire
Outdoor Access Forum
Councillor Donald Reid
Chair of Forum Core Group
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
..............................
1
Vision Statement
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1
PART ONE – THE ACCESS AUDIT
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3
The Supply Audit
The Demand Audit
The Policy Audit
The Resource Audit
Audit Overview
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3
6
10
12
17
PART TWO – VISION FOR OUTDOOR ACCESS
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19
KEY THEMES, ISSUES AND AIMS
Links to Economic Prosperity
Promoting Quality of Life
Routes to Environmental Regeneration
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19
20
22
24
ACTION AREA PLANS
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27
North Ayrshire wide
Action Area A
The Isle of Arran
Action Area B
The Garnock Valley
Action Area C
Irvine and Kilwinning
Action Area D
North Coast and Cumbraes
Action Area E
The Three Towns
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29
31
33
35
37
39
PART THREE – DELIVERY MECHANISMS
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41
Staffing Provision
Access Steering Group
North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Forum
Resources
Core Path Planning and the Core Path Network
Good Practice Guidelines
Monitoring and Evaluation
Implementation Timescales
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41
42
43
46
47
48
48
50
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1
5
19
37
56
APPENDICES
Appendix One
Appendix Two
Appendix Three
Appendix Four
Appendix Five
Supply Audit
Demand Audit
Policy Audit
Resource Audit
Action Area Priorities Table
INTRODUCTION
It has been recognised for some time that access strategies are an invaluable tool for access
planning across local authorities as a whole. They provide a framework for reviewing the
existing situation in terms of provision, use, policy and resources and are a means for agreeing
and co-ordinating priorities for future access. They are regarded as partnership documents,
facilitating the bringing together of a wide range of organisations with an involvement in access
planning and implementation.
The impending Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 will provide responsible access for open-air
recreation and passage on land and inland water and will require each local authority to take a
more active approach to access planning and management. Local authorities will require not
only adequate staffing and funding, but also a coherent strategy that is effectively ‘owned’ not
only by the Councils, but also by all of the stakeholders with a role to play in access planning,
development and management.
The Council’s Access Officers in partnership with the Core Group of the Outdoor Access Forum
and the guidance of the Access Steering Group developed this Strategy. Extensive Public
Consultation has also been undertaken to ensure that the Strategy is representative of North
Ayrshire’s requirements in relation to outdoor access.
This document sets out North Ayrshire’s Strategy for Outdoor Access. It will be the key means
by which North Ayrshire Council will translate the aims and objectives of the new legislation into
the local authority context. There are no project specific action plans provided within this
strategy. It is envisaged that over time the Strategy will guide actions and projects on the
ground and that future projects will be identified and developed under the guidance of the Core
Group of the Forum.
The Strategy is comprised of three main sections:
PART 1: ACCESS AUDIT constitutes an audit of the current access provision in North Ayrshire.
The supply of current access provision and opportunities will be outlined as well as the existing
demand, including the latent demand for access. These will be set within the context of national
and local policy. The resources available to fulfil the requirements will also be described.
PART 2: VISION FOR OUTDOOR ACCESS provides a vision of future intentions and goals
based upon the findings from Part 1, including what paths and access generally can achieve for
the people of North Ayrshire. Specific themes will be identified and these will be incorporated
into locally based action plans.
Finally, PART 3: DELIVERY MECHANISMS indicates the resources necessary to fulfil the
action plans and bring the vision to reality. What needs to be done and the cost will be
presented.
The Strategy identifies and aims to realise the vision for North Ayrshire’s Outdoor Access
Strategy, which is:
“To ensure that an integrated and co-ordinated network of access
opportunities whether by tracks, on open land or by in-land water, is either
created or facilitated to promote economic prosperity, improve the quality of
life and regenerate the environment.”
1
PART ONE
THE ACCESS AUDIT
PART ONE - ACCESS AUDIT
The Supply Audit
This section of the audit draws together available information on existing and proposed access
routes in order to build up an accurate picture of current access provision. The supply audit
information is summarised at Figures 1 & 2 (Mainland and Arran respectively).
The provision of current and potential access routes varies considerably across North Ayrshire,
reflecting variations in topography, land-use and settlement (see detailed analysis at Appendix
1).
Key distinctions include:
• A dense network of paths in the area immediately around Irvine.
• Path networks being developed around Largs, Dalry and on the Isle of Great Cumbrae.
• Long distance cycle routes along the Ayrshire coast and through the lowland valley to Dalry
and onward to Lochwinnoch and also to Kilmarnock beyond the North Ayrshire boundary.
• A relative high concentration of paths on the Isle of Arran forming routes across the upland
and lowland parts of the interior as well as along the coastline.
• A network of paths within the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park.
• Little dedicated provision for horse riders.
There are very few Rights of Way (RoW) within the mainland part of North Ayrshire and these
are mostly claimed RoW. The situation is rather different on Arran where there is a network of
asserted and claimed RoW, many of them of considerable length.
The RoW identified in Figure 1 whilst not claimed to be comprehensive are taken from the
Catalogue of Rights of Way held by the Council and Scotways, the Scottish Countryside Access
and Rights of Way Society. This in no way infers that these routes are sign posted or
maintained to a particular standard.
In addition to RoW there is also an extensive network of paths, tracks, minor roads as well as
the wider open countryside including farm tracks, hill paths and tracks, estate tracks, forestry
roads and unenclosed land that will become available under the new access legislation. Horse
riders often use unclassified minor roads for countryside access particularly where they link
existing tracks or paths. The Scottish Paths Record (SPR) funded by Scottish Natural Heritage
(SNH) holds information on a number of these routes within the area.
The three Country Parks at Eglinton, Kelburn and Brodick Castle as well as Clyde Muirshiel
Regional Park offer established opportunities for informal recreation. Local open space and
coastal beaches as well as National Trust for Scotland (NTS) land in Arran including the
Goatfell massif and Forestry Commission land also provide numerous access opportunities.
Opportunities for non-motorised water borne activities exist on the principal rivers, inland waters
and along the coastal areas of North Ayrshire. The River Garnock and the River Irvine along
with Kilbirnie Loch offer the main opportunities for activities such as canoeing and rowing; whilst
the coastal waters of the mainland and Arran are ideal for activities such as sea canoeing and
windsurfing.
3
CLYDE
MUIRSHIEL
KELBURN
EGLINTON
KEY
National Cycle Route
Other Cycle Routes
New town Trail
Rights of Way
Other Routes
Rivers
Regional Park
Country Park
Kilbirie Loch
SWT Nature Reserves
Settlements
FIGURE 1
Existing provision on mainland
North Ayrshire and Cumbrae
4
KEY
National Cycle Route
Other Cycle Routes
Rights of Way
Other Routes
National Trust for Scotland
FIGURE 2.
Existing provision
on the Isle of Arran
Country Park
Forestry Commission
Settlements
5
The Demand Audit
This section aims to build up a picture of future potential use and demand of the access
provision (further detailed background information is provided at Appendix 2).
Existing Demand
Local Trends
Consultation from the North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Forum identified the following
requirements:
• Improved access provision adjacent to areas of population.
• More circular and linking routes.
• Safe off-road cycling routes including dedicated facilities for mountain biking.
• Increased dedicated access provision for horse riders e.g. bridleways.
• Increased provision for non-walking interests such as disabled users.
• More information and signage on routes.
• Improved maintenance of routes including repair of stiles / gates, etc.
• More organised walking programmes (for health) as well as a walking festival.
Previous public consultations have broadly identified similar demand including the need for
informal access to the countryside outside of the structured path network and a proposed
mainland coastal route.
With over 1 million visitors annually, contributing £103 million in revenue, outdoor recreational
activities form a significant element of the visitor experience for many coming to North Ayrshire.
Data from visitor counts and survey work within the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and the
Country Parks indicate the following demand for access:
• A high and steadily increasing number of visitors partaking in recreational access.
• The majority of visitors are local residents.
Monitoring of visitors numbers as well as survey work on the Isle of Arran revealed:
• That the NTS property is heavily used by walkers particularly the main Goatfell path.
• Walking opportunities were felt to be sufficient while those for cycling and horse riding were
not.
• Maintenance of routes was regarded as a major issue in upland areas.
• New routes were required in lowland areas for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and the
disabled / elderly along with greater information / signage.
Non-motorised water-based activities including canoeing, rowing and windsurfing are well
established locally with clubs, educational centres and activity companies demonstrating a
consistent demand.
National Trends
Successive national surveys (Appendix 2) have clearly demonstrated the continued demand for
access:
• Going for a walk in the countryside is the most popular type of outdoor recreation by far, with
up to 60% of the population participating in walking at least once a year.
• Many of these are also regular participants in outdoor recreation, with around 30% of the
population visiting the countryside or coast once a fortnight, mostly for the informal activities
of short walks and sightseeing, but also for active pursuits such as climbing and hillwalking.
6
•
•
•
5% of the adult population of Scotland cycle each month.
7% of households participate in horse riding.
Participation in walking, cycling, horse riding and water-based activities has been increasing
in popularity and as such, recreational pursuits and enjoying the outdoors has become
highly important to the tourism economy.
Latent Demand for Access
Measuring existing use of the access routes provides only part of the picture. Equally important
is an assessment of those who currently do not walk, cycle or ride, particularly as the strategy
aims to secure benefits in terms of social inclusion and health. To assist the prioritisation and
targeting of actions it is helpful to understand factors such as distribution of population,
deprivation, variations in social inclusion and data relating to health and wealth issues as well
as activity levels.
Population
Whilst most of these people live within the principal urban areas of the district, there are many
small settlements and communities in other areas of the countryside that amount to significant
proportion of the population and which provides more local sources of demand.
Irvine / Kilwinning is the largest centre followed by the Three Towns. Linear settlements are
distributed along the Garnock Valley (Dalry, Beith, and Kilbirnie) and the North Coast (West
Kilbride, Largs, and Skelmorlie). Brodick and Millport are the principal population centres on the
Isle of Arran and Great Cumbrae respectively. Much of the remainder of the county area is rural
open space.
The dispersed nature of the rural population creates opportunities for access, but there are also
challenges in that many different and distinct communities must be consulted and brought
together to plan and deliver coherent networks of paths connecting all communities.
Deprivation
The Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) measures and compares deprivation across
local authorities across Scotland. North Ayrshire is ranked 7th most deprived local authority in
Scotland on the average of ward scores taking into account the full range of ward measures
across a local authority.
North Ayrshire has 13% of its population living in the 10% most deprived wards in Scotland.
North Ayrshire is ranked 9th most deprived local authority in Scotland on the populationweighted average of the ranks of a local authority's most deprived wards that contain exactly
10% of the local authority's population. The local concentration is a way of identifying local
authorities' "hot spots" of deprivation.
By combining information from all five domains of the SIMD: income, employment, health,
education and access to facilities, North Ayrshire has four wards that are in the 10% most
deprived in Scotland, namely: Saltcoats East, Irvine Vineburgh And Woodlands South,
Stevenston South and Irvine West.
Social Exclusion
Social exclusion arises from systematic disadvantage in many different areas of life. The
disadvantage often lies in a combination of finance, poor health, few or missed opportunities,
poor amenities and poor physical and social environment.
7
These issues are pertinent to an access strategy for two reasons:
1. The development and use of access for and by communities is an opportunity to promote
social inclusion and healthier behaviour and lifestyles.
2. An access strategy must not become another means through which the exclusion of some
members of the community is compounded and strengthened because they are physically or
socially remote from the access opportunities.
The community consultation processes that surrounds public access forms an ideal basis for
developing community interaction and support, for socially including those most often excluded.
The access strategy is thus not only about building, using and maintaining path networks, it is
also about building, using and maintaining social networks.
Health
North Ayrshire falls within the Ayrshire and Arran Health Board, an area known to contain
numerous pockets of poor health. Those most socially and economically disadvantaged are
proven to be at highest risk of death from heart disease, lung cancer, and many forms of
respiratory disease as well as poor physical and mental health at all ages. Any opportunity to
increase the amount of exercise, recreation and stimulation amongst these groups will have a
beneficial effect on both physical and mental health.
Potential benefits from a well-devised access strategy are not only centred on exercise
opportunities and their associated health benefits. Contemporary health research shows that a
stimulating, active and caring community may also be a healthy one. There is strong evidence
to suggest that participation in community process and contact with the community members
can have a beneficial effect on physical and mental health. In other words, where a community
is actively involved in the process of defining, creating or maintaining its public access
opportunities, that process itself can be a potential source of health benefit to all those who
participate.
Wealth
North Ayrshire contains a mixed population with regard to wealth. Although the area attracts
wealthy commuters, there are also pockets of poverty. This is partly driven by high
unemployment rates. Problems associated with remote rural areas (expense of necessary
travel, delivery of services etc.) all contribute to a population that is divided in terms of its wealth
and quality of life.
Over a third of households in North Ayrshire do not have access to a car. The reliance on cars
as a method of transportation reduces the opportunities open to those in lower socio-economic
groups and can exacerbate the problems of social exclusion.
By providing and promoting opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors, particularly close to
where they live where they can do so regularly, a wide range of health, social, economic and
environmental benefits can result.
Activity Levels
Surveys of people in Ayrshire and Arran indicated that more than half did not take enough
regular physical activity, with those in the lowest socio-economic group most likely to be in this
category. Two thirds of the adult Scottish population is at risk from physical inactivity and as a
nation we are increasingly unfit, inactive and overweight and North Ayrshire is a prime example.
8
The barriers to activity within the area are wide ranging from personal to social and economic
and are dependant on age and stage of life. Lack of confidence, money and companionship are
three of the main barriers to all age groups. It is these issues that the access strategy wishes to
address within North Ayrshire by offering a cheap, easy and sociable option for increasing
activity and promoting the adoption of a healthy lifestyle.
Tourism
The development of tourism within North Ayrshire is likely to deliver the potential to generate
increased ‘unrealised demand’ for access for walkers, cyclists and horse riders and other
outdoor activities.
North Ayrshire’s coastline and extensive countryside offers a valuable opportunity to attract
more tourists to the area. The existing potential of historical highlights and breathtaking views to
attract visitors to North Ayrshire could be complemented by improving / increasing the provision
of access opportunities. The development of opportunities such as these would therefore result
in more visitors coming to the area to participate in outdoor access related activities.
9
The Policy Audit
This part of the access audit allows the identification of key policies influencing access provision
(for further explanation of polices see Appendix 3).
Access provision contributes to the policy objectives at national, regional and local level; linking
legislation, statutory and non-statutory plans and strategies. This multi-strand approach to
access sees provision delivering potential benefits in terms of recreation, tourism, transport,
land management, health and social inclusion and requires a much broader trawl of policies.
The principal legislation, plans and strategies relating to policy are indicated in the following
matrix:
Policy
Key themes relating to access covered
Econ Env Health Rec
Soc Tour Sust
Inc
Trans
A Smart Successful Scotland:
Ambitions for the Enterprise Network
A Smart Successful Scotland: The
Highlands and Islands Dimension
Arran Access Trust Paths and
Access Strategy
Ardrossan, Saltcoats and
Stevenston Local Plan
H
Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Strategy
H
Ayrshire Joint Structure Plan
H
Ayrshire: Scotland’s Western
Gateway
Ayrshire and Arran Woodland
Strategy
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
Integrated Land Use Strategy
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
Cycling into the Future
H
H
Disability Discrimination Act
H
Enjoying the Outdoors
H
Garnock Valley Local Plan
Isle of Arran Replacement Local
Plan
H
Irvine and Kilwinning Local Plan
H
Land Reform (Scotland) Act
H
H
Let's Make Scotland More Active
Local Agenda 21
H
H
H
10
H
H
H
H
Policy
Key themes relating to access covered
Soc
Sust
Econ Env Health Rec
Tour
Inc
Trans
Local Government, etc. (Scotland)
Act
National Trust for Scotland (NTS)
Open Countryside Policy
H
H
H
H
NTS Wild Land Policy
H
H
H
H
North Ayrshire Council (NAC)
Corporate Plan
H
H
H
NAC Environmental Policy
H
H
H
H
H
NAC Local Transport Strategy
NAC Sustainable Development
Strategy
North Ayrshire (Excluding Isle of
Arran) Local Plan
H
H
H
H
H
H
North Coast and Cumbraes Local
Plan
NPPG 11 Sport, Physical recreation
and Open Space
H
H
H
NPPG 14 Natural Heritage
H
H
NPPG 15 Rural Development
H
H
H
H
NPPG 17 Transport and Planning
Opening the Door to a better
Scotland
H
Rural Scotland: A New Approach
H
H
H
H
H
Scottish Forestry Strategy
H
H
H
H
H
Key to Abbreviations:
Econ
Env
Health
Rec
Soc Inc
Tour
Sust Trans
H
H
North Ayrshire Road Safety Plan
Working in Partnership for North
Ayrshire (NAC Community Plan)
Working Together Towards a
Healthier Scotland
H
Economic
Environmental (including Heritage)
Health
Recreation (including Sport)
Social Inclusion
Tourism
Sustainable Transport
11
H
H
The Resource Audit
This section involves the identification, allocation and deployment of implementation resources
that will be a critical element in the strategy. Acknowledging resource constraints at the start will
help to ensure that the strategy is realistic and achievable and provides a basis on which to
make the case for additional resources (detailed resource analysis at Appendix 4).
The key funding resources have been identified and are illustrated in the matrix provided at the
end of this section.
Other resources which do not provide direct sources of funding but offer mechanisms to
implement outdoor access projects include: Commuted Payment Schemes
Commuted Payments Schemes ensure the longer-term management of land, without significant
costs being imposed directly on to landowners. Organisations such as the Scottish Greenbelt
Company often use this type of scheme and act as a managing body.
New Deal
The New Deal Environmental Task Force offers a potential source of labour for projects but
requires additional funding. The programme aims to get 18 to 24 year old job seekers into
employment. The Environmental Task force is one of the options and provides 6 months work
experience to trainees. Within North Ayrshire this is currently implemented through the Scottish
Wildlife Trust (SWT).
Management Schemes
The Scottish Greenbelt Company (SGC) and other organisations such as East Ayrshire
Woodlands (EAW) can manage land for periods of time by entering into an agreement with the
landowner. This may require funding but once this is in place they can take on maintenance
and management of land including paths. All management plans and agreements must be set
up in advance. These organisations can also manage land at little cost to the landowner
through inexpensive leases. They are willing to take on vacant, derelict and contaminated sites
using this mechanism and will occupy it under the terms of an agreed management plan.
Intermediate Labour Market Projects
Organisations such as the Wise Group can undertake Intermediate Labour Market Projects.
The Wise Group is a charitable organisation, which is dedicated to helping unemployed people
back into work. The Group can take on local path and other types of projects where funding is
in place and will make sure that each project has a strong community regeneration focus.
They will then recruit local unemployed individuals for the task and provide them with support
and training. The temporary employees can carry out improvements to local authority land, local
parks and a variety of other infrastructures to allow local people to enjoy and once again take a
pride in their surroundings.
Voluntary Sector
The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers Scotland (BTCV) is part of the UK’s largest charity
dedicated to practical conservation and environmental work. BTCV Scotland specialises in
12
working with people within their communities to bring about positive environmental change in
both rural and urban settings. The Trust can assist Local Authorities, Enterprise Companies,
Land owners and the Communities to conceptualise; design, implement and often source
funding for projects that have a beneficial impact to the local environment. BTCV is also a
Registered Environmental Body with ENTRUST and can work with Landfill Credits on projects.
North Ayrshire Council of Voluntary Services (NACVS) and the Volunteer Centre in North
Ayrshire provide valuable services to local organisations throughout North Ayrshire. The
Volunteer Centre can help organisations find volunteers and help individuals wishing to
volunteer to find the right opportunity for them. They also provide support and training to both
organisations and volunteers.
The importance of voluntary organisations and volunteer’s input to outdoor access is
recognised. Local and community groups are currently involved with projects on the ground
such as ‘adopt a path’ initiatives in which the group adopt and maintain a path or a section of
longer path. This therefore provides a valuable opportunity for further development of voluntary
input.
Development control process
The term “planning gain” refers to the infrastructure required to service new development. The
government advice tends to avoid the use of this phrase, in preference to planning conditions
and agreements. As outlined within the Policy Audit section these can be used to provide
opportunities for outdoor access within planning applications.
In Kind Contributions
Community led and small scale projects can greatly benefit from in kind contributions such as
donations of materials or signs, the use of equipment or even the provision of unpaid labour.
This can have a profound impact on the ability of local groups to undertake outdoor access
projects.
Working with land owners/managers
As discussed within the Strategy there is a definite need to balance the requirements for
outdoor access and those of the land owner/managers. This is not only true of the large rural
and farmland areas of North Ayrshire but also of managed urban areas of which the Council is a
key land owner/manager.
Outdoor access can play a key role in supporting farm diversification and the promotion of land
for recreational purposes. Land owners/managers can work successfully in partnership with
communities and organisations to develop outdoor access projects and secure funding through
a number of the resource providers identified in the matrix. The matrix itself also identifies a
number of land management based schemes that are open for application for this purpose.
13
Resource Matrix
Source
Scheme
Eligible
applicants
Type of
funding
Themes of projects funded
Community
focused
Agric Econ
Env Health Rec
Soc
Inc
Tour
Argyll and Islands
Enterprise (AIE)
Community
Economic
Development
Crown Estates
Marine Stewardship
Various
Fund
Various
No
H
Entrust
Landfill Tax Credit
Scheme
Communities
Mainly
capital
Yes
H
Esmee Fairbairn
Foundation
Esmee Fairbairn
Foundation
Various
Revenue
Yes
H
H
European Union
Structural Funds
European Regional
Development Fund
Various
Capital /
Revenue
No
H
H
H
H
European Union
Structural Funds
European Social
Fund
Various
Capital /
Revenue
No
H
H
H
European Union
Structural Funds
European Union Life
Various
III Programme
Capital
No
Forestry Commission
Scottish Forestry
Grant Scheme
Forestry Commission
Ayrshire and Arran
Landowners Grant
Locational Premium
Yes
Forestry Commission
Woodlands In and
Landowners Grant
Around Towns
Yes
Forward Scotland
Community
Environmental
Renewal Scheme
Yes
Island
Various
Communities
Landowners Agricultural Yes
Communities
Capital /
within 5 miles
Revenue
of a quarry
H
Yes
14
H
Sust
Trans
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
Source
Scheme
Eligible
applicants
Type of
funding
Themes of projects funded
Community
focused
Agric Econ
Forward Scotland
Forward Scotland
Small Grants
Scheme
Big Lottery Fund
Communities
H
Env Health Rec
H
Capital
Yes
Transforming your
Communities
Space
Capital /
Revenue
Yes
Lloyds TSB
Lloyds TSB
Foundation for
Scotland
Communities
with links to
charities
Capital
Yes
Big Lottery Fund
Awards for All
Communities
Unspecified Yes
H
National Lottery
Charities Board
Heritage Lottery
Fund
Communities
Various
Yes
H
National Lottery
Charities Board
Arts Lottery Fund
Communities
Various
Yes
H
New Opportunities
Fund
Scottish Land Fund Communities
Capital
Yes
Scottish Co-op
Scottish Co-op
Community
Dividend
Communities
Capital
Yes
Scottish Enterprise
Ayrshire & AIE
Grants/low cost
loans
Various
Various
Yes
15
H
Soc
Inc
Tour
Sust
Trans
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
Themes of projects funded
Source
Scheme
Eligible
applicants
Type of
funding
Community
focused
Agric Econ
Env Health Rec
Scottish Executive
Arable Area
Landowners
Payments Scheme
Agricultural No
Scottish Executive
Rural Challenge
Fund
Various
Scottish Executive
Rural Stewardship
Landowners
Scheme
Agricultural No
Scottish Natural
Heritage
Scottish Natural
Heritage
Grant Scheme
Various
No
H
Shell UK
Shell Better Britain
Communities
Fund
Grants
Yes
H
Sportscotland
Sportscotland
Various
Lottery Fund - SIP
Capital /
Revenue
Yes
West Highland
European Leader Kist
(WHELK)
WHELK Leader
Plus
Various
Yes
Various
Various
Island
Communities
16
Tour
H
Yes
Key to Abbreviations:
Agric
Agricultural / Land Management
Econ
Economic
Env
Environmental (including Heritage)
Health
Health
Rec
Recreation (including Sport)
Soc Inc
Social Inclusion
Tour
Tourism
Sust Trans
Sustainable Transport
Soc
Inc
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
Sust
Trans
Audit Overview
The finding of the audit work covering the key issues of supply, demand, policy and resource
are summarised in the form of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT)
analysis.
Strengths
•
•
•
•
Existing networks of routes around towns and on the Isle of Arran, the Regional and Country
Parks, National Cycle Network, National Trust for Scotland and Forestry Commission land.
Abundance of legislation, national and local policies in support of access agenda.
Plethora of national and local partnership organisations to support access programme.
Over 50% of the land coverage of Scotland’s largest Regional Park, Clyde Muirshiel.
Weaknesses
•
•
•
•
Locally no strategic impetus to planning, development and implementation of access.
Not meeting current demand e.g. lack of circular routes close to where people live, poor
provision for disabled users, horse riders, etc.
Lack of maintenance and resources.
Lack of general information / poor signposting of routes.
Opportunities
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Foster social inclusion and participation of communities.
Enhance the health and well being of local communities.
Bring together partnership organisations and their resources.
Upgrade and link existing routes.
Improve access for specific groups e.g. disabled users and horse riders.
Promote economic benefits – increase tourism / new business and investment ventures.
Developing facilities in Regional Park area.
Threats
•
•
•
Lack of funding and resources.
Lack of commitment from Council and / or partner organisations.
Lack of community involvement.
17
PART TWO
VISION FOR
OUTDOOR ACCESS
PART TWO - VISION FOR OUTDOOR ACCESS
KEY THEMES, ISSUES AND AIMS
From the Audit Section of the strategy it is apparent that the key issues for North Ayrshire are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Economic development
Education
Environmental regeneration
Health
Social inclusion
Sustainable Transport
Recreation
Tourism development
The Local Plan outlines the Council’s policy in relation to the implementation of the Land
Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. The policy identifies the implementation mechanisms including the
formation of the Outdoor Access Forum, the development of the Access Strategy and planning
of the Core Path Network (CPN). It is anticipated that the CPN will be an integral part of the
Local Plan process.
It is therefore logical to link the strategy closely with the Local Plan and the three main
categories it identifies that encompass the key issues for the Strategy. The categories identified
are as follows:
WORKING encompassing economic development, sustainable transport and tourism
development
LIVING encompassing education, social inclusion, health and recreation
ENVIRONMENT encompassing the built and natural environmental regeneration
From this three main themes that will underpin the Strategy are as follows:
• Links to Economic Prosperity
• Promoting Quality of Life
• Routes to Environmental Regeneration
The purpose of this section of the strategy is to identify the aims by which outdoor access can
address the key issues identified. These aims may be more pertinent in some areas and
settlements than in others and this will be reflected in the actions proposed in the action areas
section. The main themes are not listed in order of importance as all three sections are of equal
significance.
19
LINKS TO ECONOMIC PROSPERITY
From the audit section it is clear that the local economy is high on the policy agenda for North
Ayrshire and clearly access has a valuable role to play in supporting this process. Access can
link into increasing the economic prosperity of North Ayrshire by supporting economic
development, promoting tourism potential and providing sustainable transport opportunities.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Outdoor access (from your front door) can boost the local economy through a number of
mechanisms such as by providing communities with access to educational facilities and
employment. Improving access provision will also provide the overall result of a more
aesthetically pleasing and well-managed environment thus improving the perception of the area.
The economic benefits of which, include more people being encouraged to live, work and visit
the area and increased investment. Additional economic benefit for the area may also be
obtained when developing local path projects by linking these where possible with local training
opportunities.
Tourism forms a very important part of the economy in North Ayrshire, especially in the case of
Arran. Therefore economic development and tourism are closely linked and this will be explored
separately within the tourism potential section.
Aims:
• To improve access to local employment opportunities
• To link access with economic regeneration and development projects
• To link path projects with training opportunities
• To ensure that access is considered as a key factor in relation to new development within
the framework of the Local Plan
SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT
The transport infrastructure is vital to the economy of the area, especially in the more rural
locations. Walking and cycling are regarded as integral components of transport policy and
have an invaluable role to play in providing a sustainable and integrated approach to transport
opportunities. The provision of suitable footpath or cycle route links will encourage individuals to
walk or cycle as a practical alternative to trips taken by car.
Areas around and close to schools have witnessed one of the biggest increases in traffic levels
over the last few years, with more parents than ever driving their children to and from school.
The geography and topography of an area combined with the road conditions can make it very
difficult for children to cycle or walk to school. Providing safe, direct routes to and from school
can help to alleviate these problems.
The Council and Ayrshire and Arran Health Board are largely responsible for the provision of
social and community facilities and services within the area. The provision of safe routes to
these facilities such as Health Centres, Council Offices, Community Centres and libraries, has a
key role to play in the promotion of social inclusion as well as offering sustainable transport
opportunities. Paths can often be a lifeline for communities by offering links to community
facilities.
To date cycling has been viewed very much from a recreational perspective within North
Ayrshire however the potential for cycling as an alternative mode of transport has been
recognised. Routes to work require to be functional rather than recreational or scenic and
20
should afford opportunities leading directly to and from places of work. Indeed emphasising the
functional benefits of these routes will have a more visible impact on travel choices and the
utilisation of sustainable methods in preference to the traditional trips by car.
Public transport also plays a vital role in an integrated approach to sustainable transport and
also reduces the dependency on cars. Most bus, rail and ferry operators will facilitate for
bicycles on trains, if given advance notice, therefore there is potential benefit to be derived from
developing links to stations and other terminals. It is recognised that there is a valuable
opportunity to work in partnership with Roads Services and other organisations to achieve the
goal of integrating outdoor access with public transport.
Aims:
• To promote initiatives that encourage the use of sustainable transport for journeys to school,
work, community facilities and between communities
• To encourage increased use of public transport by promoting safe links to bus and railway
stations
• To investigate the need for ancillary infrastructure such as cycle racks and lockers
TOURISM POTENTIAL
Outdoor access has an invaluable role to play in supporting the local tourism economy,
especially with walking being the second most popular holiday activity after city breaks. Visitors
and residents spend money on equipment for the activities they undertake, on transport to the
countryside and on other essentials such as food, drinks, accommodation, retail and leisure. All
of these assists in supporting the rural economy and a growing number of businesses depend
on this income, particularly in Ayrshire.
The picture for tourism in Ayrshire and Arran is an increasingly positive one with an increase in
visitor numbers of around 9% expected for 2003. In recent years the mainland area has seen a
slow but steady market growth in visitor numbers, however, the tourist market remains very
much seasonal. The area is currently recognised as a location for outdoor activities with Arran
in particular being a well-established outdoor destination. This is demonstrated by the fact that
Ayrshire and Arran are already featured in national marketing campaigns such as Walking Wild
and the cycling section of Visit Scotland.
The potential to develop and economically capitalise on the area’s coastline and extensive
countryside for a wide range of outdoor pursuits provides an outstanding opportunity for North
Ayrshire. Especially, as there is a growing market interest and trend towards outdoor leisure
and recreational pursuits. Proposals for these areas would however be required to take into
account any sensitivities that exist within the area and any natural heritage designations to
ensure that the development of access was not detrimental to the environment and natural
habitats. Other opportunities for North Ayrshire include combining the area’s traditional assets
such as the seaside resorts and established facilities with the further development of access,
would offer a wide range of visitor potential. These may also provide a gateway to increasing
visitor numbers to less well-recognised destinations.
The existing framework of access provision in the area provides a basis from which to develop.
Making existing networks accessible to tourists will benefit the area greatly through an increase
in associated revenue. It is however essential that tourism development does not occur at the
21
expense of the natural environment. Therefore it is important that “honey pot” locations are not
over utilised and that areas are identified that are suitable for tourism promotion in preference to
those of a more sensitive character.
Aims:
• To develop North Ayrshire as a quality destination for outdoor access activities including;
walking, cycling, horse riding and non-motorised water sports
• To ensure that existing and future networks are effectively promoted and accessible to
tourists
• To investigate the need for visitor facilities and associated infrastructure in relation to new or
existing access
• To investigate the opportunity for the development of a standard signage policy
• To maximise the potential for access to the coast and open hills
PROMOTING QUALITY OF LIFE
Outdoor access has an invaluable role to play in promoting quality of life for the people of North
Ayrshire. Improving or increasing access provision will offer opportunities for education, social
inclusion, health improvement and recreation within the local area.
EDUCATION
Education has a pivotal role to play in influencing social behaviour and getting across important
outdoor access messages including improving the knowledge of access opportunities,
increasing understanding of other access users and promoting responsible behaviour. In
particular, the promotion of ‘responsible public access’ as outlined in the Scottish Outdoor
Access Code will be achieved through an extensive educational programme.
The development of an appropriate range of outdoor activity and education leaflets and a
coherent signage policy will be necessary to encourage use of existing paths and tracks and
promote responsible behaviour in the countryside.
Countryside Rangers and other services are already providing educational information and
interpretation relating to outdoor access. Future educational provision will build upon extant
deployment mechanisms and will endeavour to develop a co-ordinated approach for the
effective delivery of responsible outdoor access.
Aims:
• To raise awareness of path networks, access areas and opportunities for countryside
access.
• To improve information, education and interpretation in relation to outdoor access.
• To establish initiatives that encourage dialogue and understanding between access users,
providers and land managers.
• To raise awareness and understanding of responsible outdoor access as outlined in the
Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
• To develop a co-ordinated approach with other services and agencies in the delivery of
outdoor access education.
22
SOCIAL INCLUSION
Access provision is about equal opportunity for all in the use and enjoyment of access routes as
well as participation in the process of their creation and maintenance. Issues central to this
process includes the provision of information, appropriately located access facilities, nonmotorised transport alternatives to the use of cars and the consideration of less able access
users.
Engaging the wider community and encouraging local participation is essential for long-term
success of the evolving access process, with the formation of the North Ayrshire Local Outdoor
Access Forum playing an instrumental part.
The creation of networks is of lesser benefit if the only method of accessing them is by driving
from the home. This would also exclude those groups and individuals without access to a car
from utilising the routes. It is therefore important that routes and path networks start within
settlements or if that is not possible, that linkage opportunities are created. Local path networks
offering circular routes around communities cater for people who only want a short walk.
Safety issues are a key consideration when developing access projects. The location and
design of access provision should result from consultation between the community concerned,
the Council, the police as well as other relevant agencies.
Aims:
• To develop the framework for the involvement of local communities, land managers and user
groups in the planning, implementation and management of public access.
• To ensure that new and existing networks are linked to local communities
• To build ownership of local access networks and to discourage vandalism, dumping, and
anti-social behaviour.
• To ensure safety issues are reflected in the location and design of access provision.
• To take into consideration the requirements of people of all ages and abilities in the design
and implementation of access projects.
HEALTH
Poor health does afflict people within the area, with those most socially and economically
disadvantaged proven to be at highest risk from many aliments. Therefore, any opportunity to
increase the amount of exercise, recreation and stimulation amongst these groups will have a
beneficial effect on both physical and mental well being.
Evidence suggests that participation in community process and contact with community
members can have a beneficial effect on physical and mental health. Thus, where a community
is actively involved in the process of defining, creating or maintaining its public access
opportunities, that process itself can be a potential source of health benefit to all those who
participate.
The benefits of adopting a more active and healthy lifestyle are well documented, with outdoor
access providing a valuable contribution to the opportunities for physical activity available to
communities. Path networks are open to everyone and provide easy participatory opportunities
close to people’s homes, without the need for specialist equipment or training.
23
Pilot projects could be useful mechanisms for the co-ordination of efforts on the part of health
professionals, Council departments and voluntary sector interests to help encourage active
participation initiatives.
Aims:
• To develop and promote public access as a means of encouraging healthier lifestyles.
• To encourage groups and initiatives that develop community participation in outdoor
access related activities.
• To promote initiatives that facilitates and encourages local people to walk or cycle to
work, school or local services.
RECREATION
People of all ages and abilities can enjoy informal outdoor recreation opportunities including
walking, cycling and riding and indeed more people participate in these than in formal sporting
activities.
A wide range of informal outdoor recreational opportunities are available within North Ayrshire
including parks and areas of public open or green space as well as access to an extensive and
varied countryside and coast; thus enabling people to enjoy the outdoors close to where they
live. Parks and similar public spaces often act as nodes on access routes, linking local access
networks with longer strategic routes.
The potential for new routes should be investigated. The development of long distance routes
such as coastal routes around Arran and Cumbrae as well as the linking of existing networks
offer opportunities for longer recreational routes for residents and visitors.
The existing resources provide informal, accessible, low cost recreational activities and the
creation of path networks and other access opportunities, close to where people live as well as
in the wider countryside, will encourage increased public involvement and enjoyment.
Aims:
• To identify and cater equitably for the recreational requirements of different user groups.
• To improve recreational opportunities around the principal settlements.
• To encourage responsible recreational access in the wider countryside.
• To promote long distance routes and the linkage of existing networks.
ROUTES TO ENVIRONMENTAL REGENERATION
ENVIRONMENTAL REGENERATION
Outdoor access has an invaluable role to play in environmental regeneration and over the last
few years, areas of North Ayrshire have been subject to significant environmental decline. The
Local Plan recognises the limited development potential of certain sites such as derelict land
and appreciates that these may be more appropriate for environmental improvement schemes
such as access related projects.
There are significant rural areas within North Ayrshire and it is crucial that the Strategy provide a
balance between the needs of the communities and the protection of the environment. It is
essential that access projects do not have a detrimental effect on the environment but it should
24
also be noted that effectively developed and planned access projects have the potential to
contribute positively to environmental and conservation objectives.
There is a need to ensure that a balance is achieved between access and land managers
requirements. Land management today has a much wider focus than the traditional farming and
land owning interests particularly in respect to farm diversification schemes. It is therefore
essential to involve landowners and managers throughout the process of access development
and to tie in wherever possible with appropriate land management schemes.
Aims:
• To encourage initiatives that incorporate access provision within existing or planned land
management proposals and schemes
• To improve maintenance regimes and develop innovative approaches to long term route
management
• To ensure that access is considered as an integral part of any programmes of wider
environmental improvements
• To safeguard and enhance the natural, built and cultural heritage in the development,
management and use of paths
• To promote initiatives that develop increased sense of pride and stewardship of the local
environment amongst communities
Due to the close links that exist between the key themes, a number of the aims identified are
very similar or indeed overlap and therefore it is advantageous to examine the aims as a whole
to identify any such occasions.
In summary the key aims for North Ayrshire’s Outdoor Access Strategy are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
To improve access to local employment opportunities
To ensure that access is considered as an integral part of any programmes of wider
environmental improvement, economic regeneration and development projects in relation to
new development within the framework of the local plan
To link path projects with training opportunities
To promote initiatives that encourage local people to walk or cycle for journeys to school,
work, community facilities and between settlements
To encourage increased use of public transport by promoting safe links to bus and railway
stations
To investigate the need for ancillary infrastructure such as cycle racks and lockers
To develop North Ayrshire as a quality destination for outdoor access activities including
walking, cycling, horse riding
To raise awareness of path networks, access areas and opportunities for outdoor access
with local residents and visitors
To investigate the need for visitor facilities and associated infrastructure in relation to new or
existing access
To investigate the opportunity for the development of a standard signage policy
To maximise the potential for access opportunities to the coast and open hills
To raise awareness and improve information, education and interpretation in relation to
outdoor access as outlined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
25
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
To establish initiatives that encourage involvement in the planning and implementation of
access whilst promoting dialogue and understanding between access users, agencies,
communities, and land managers
To develop a co-ordinated approach with other services and agencies in the delivery of
outdoor access education
To ensure that new and existing networks are linked to local communities
To promote initiatives which develop increased sense of pride and stewardship of local
access networks amongst communities
To take into consideration the requirements of people of all ages and abilities and ensure
safety issues are reflected in the location and design of access provision
To encourage groups and initiatives that develop community participation in outdoor access
related activities and that promote public access as a means of encouraging healthier
lifestyles
To identify and cater equitably for the recreational requirements of different user groups
To improve and encourage responsible recreational access around the principal settlements
as well as in the wider countryside
To promote long distance routes and the linkage of existing networks
To encourage initiatives that incorporate access provision within existing or planned land
management proposals and schemes
To improve maintenance regimes and develop innovative approaches to long term route
management
To safeguard and enhance the natural, built and cultural heritage in the development,
management and use of paths
26
ACTION AREA PLANS
Within this section of the strategy the key aims identified in the previous section are considered
in relation to their application in North Ayrshire.
The Action Areas were identified on the basis of the audit section and the workshop session of
the initial stakeholder meeting of the North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Forum. They are
categorised as follows:
NORTH AYRSHIRE
ACCESS STRATEGY
ACTION AREAS
SKELMORLIE
NORTH COAST
& CUMBRAES
LARGS
MILLPORT
FAIRLIE
KILBIRNIE
Action Area A
Isle of Arran
Action Area B
Garnock Valley
Action Area C
Irvine and
Kilwinning
Action Area D
North Coast &
Cumbraes
Action Area E
Three Towns
BEITH
GLENGARNOCK
GARNOCK
VALLEY
DALRY
WEST
KILBRIDE
ARDROSSAN
THREE
TOWNS
KILWINNING
SALTCOATS
STEVENSTON
IRVINE &
KILWINNING
IRVINE
LOCHRANZA
ISLE
OF
ARRAN
BRODICK
LAMLASH
BLACKWATERFOOT
WHITING
BAY
The geographical split is for administrative purposes and is based on the Local Plan and
Community Area structures. Each town or island within the area will be dealt with on an
individual as well as an area basis.
The aim of this section is to identify the level of the priority for each aim in relation to each
action area. These are categorised as high, medium and low level priorities to provide an
indication of the level of significance the aims hold for each area. From examination of the aims,
it is apparent that a number of the aims identified are relevant on a North Ayrshire wide scale
and therefore these will be examined at that level.
27
The following Action Areas Plans provide recommendations for action at a local level, based on
the aims identified. These are in addition to the wider principals identified that apply to access
provision and management throughout North Ayrshire. Each Action Area is comprised of a
description of the area, including an outline of previous access projects, and the future priorities
for the area. The final section of the strategy will outline the mechanisms by which these
priorities will be achieved.
28
North Ayrshire wide
North Ayrshire covers approximately 340 square miles including the Islands of Arran and the
Cumbraes. The area boasts a diversity of landscape character including urban areas, farmland,
woodland and moorland.
The main settlement area on the mainland is comprised of the towns of Irvine and Kilwinning.
Radiating out from these are the coastal towns, consisting of the three towns of Ardrossan,
Saltcoats and Stevenston plus the smaller settlements of West Kilbride, Largs and Skelmorlie.
The principal towns on the Islands are Brodick on the Isle of Arran and Millport on the Isle of
Great Cumbrae. The remaining key mainland communities, which are situated along the
Garnock Valley, are Dalry, Kilbirnie and Beith. There are also numerous rural satellite villages
scattered around the area such as Longbar and Glengarnock near Kilbirnie and Fairlie and
Seamill on the North Coast.
As outlined in the introduction to this section, a number of the aims identified are applicable
throughout North Ayrshire at an equal level of priority within each of the Action Areas. These are
identified as follows:
High level priorities:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
To promote initiatives that encourage local people to walk or cycle for journeys to school,
work, community facilities and between settlements
To investigate the opportunity for the development of a standard signage policy
To raise awareness and improve information, education and interpretation in relation to
outdoor access as outlined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
To establish initiatives that encourage involvement in the planning and implementation of
access whilst promoting dialogue and understanding between access users, agencies,
communities, and land managers
To develop a co-ordinated approach with other services and agencies in the delivery of
outdoor access education
To ensure that new and existing networks are linked to local communities
To improve maintenance regimes and develop innovative approaches to long term route
management
Medium level priorities:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
To link path projects with training opportunities
To encourage increased use of public transport by promoting safe links to bus and railway
stations
To investigate the need for ancillary infrastructure such as cycle racks and lockers
To develop North Ayrshire as a quality destination for outdoor access activities including
walking, cycling, horse riding
To investigate the need for visitor facilities and associated infrastructure in relation to new or
existing access
To take into consideration the requirements of people of all ages and abilities and ensure
safety issues are reflected in the location and design of access provision
To identify and cater equitably for the recreational requirements of different user groups
To promote long distance routes and the linkage of existing networks
To encourage initiatives that incorporate access provision within existing or planned land
management proposals and schemes
29
•
To safeguard and enhance the natural, built and cultural heritage in the development,
management and use of paths
Low level priorities:
There are no low-level priorities identified for the whole of North Ayrshire.
It is recognised that outdoor access is not a stand-alone issue and has an impact on a wide
range of issues that the Council and other organisations have responsibility for. Therefore the
overall vision for outdoor access in North Ayrshire is one of implementation in partnership. The
detail of this vision will be more fully investigated within the implementation section of the
strategy.
30
1. Seals at Lochranza
2. Beinn Bhreac towards Loch Tanna
3. Walker on Goat Fell
4. The medieval road to Lochranza
5. The Giants’ Graves
6. Stone Circle at Machrie Moor
7. Exploring old crofts
8. Walkers at North Sannox
2
ISLE OF ARRAN
1
4
5
6
7
8
ACTION AREA A
3
Action Area A: Isle of Arran
Situated some 15 miles west of the mainland in the Firth of Clyde, the Island of Arran has a rich
mixture of highland and lowland culture and geography and has a unique claim of being
‘Scotland in Miniature’.
The north of the island has breathtaking scenery akin to the highlands of the Scottish mainland,
with the mountain of Goat Fell (2866ft) dominating the skyline. To the south, the island has a
more gentle, rolling landscape that is a reminder of the Scottish Lowlands.
Many thousands of visitors are attracted to Arran each year by the opportunities for hill climbing,
cycling, pony-trekking and water-based activities. The National Trust for Scotland offers informal
recreational opportunities within Brodick Castle Country Park and on the Goatfell estate.
Forestry Commission lands, principally in the south of the island, promotes public access to
allow people to enjoy the countryside. Visitors can walk, cycle and pony-trek in the forest.
The Arran Access Trust has been a focus for access issues on the island since 1999. The Trust
has recent been successful in securing significant funding for major improvements to the path
network via two initiatives; the ‘Arran Access’ and the ‘South End’ projects.
The NTS have continued plans for footpath improvement works on their Goat Fell property,
whilst the FC are developing further multi-user forest recreational trails as part of their open
access policy.
Additionally, the Coastal Way Support Group have established and promoted the Coastal Way
footpath whilst the Arran Bike Club are actively involved in implementing off-road trails.
Key aims for the Isle of Arran
The following specific aims for the Isle of Arran are in addition to those common aims already
outlined for the whole of North Ayrshire.
High Priority:
•
•
To raise awareness of path networks, access areas and opportunities for outdoor access
with local residents and visitors
To maximise the potential for access to the coast and open hills
Medium Priority:
•
•
•
•
To ensure that access is considered as an integral part of any programmes of wider
environmental improvement, economic regeneration and development projects within the
framework of the local plan
To encourage initiatives and groups that develop community participation in outdoor access
related activities and promote public access as a means of encouraging healthier lifestyles
To improve and encourage responsible recreational access around the principal settlements
and in the wider countryside
To promote initiatives which develop increased sense of pride and stewardship of local
access networks amongst communities, based on current engagement
31
Low priority:
•
To improve access to local employment opportunities
Arran is heavily reliant on visitors for underpinning the local economy and supporting
employment on the island. Helping to develop the quality of the recreational experience that
visitors enjoy is therefore paramount.
Physical improvements to access routes by the Arran Access Trust, the National Trust for
Scotland and the Arran Bike Club as well as ongoing enhancements to the Coastal Way will
continue to be supported. Other future access initiatives, opportunities and related promotional
activities will be encouraged for the benefit of residents and visitors.
Partnership working with all interested agencies including AIE, SNH, FC, National Farmers
Union Scotland, Historic Scotland and NTS as well as community groups is central to achieving
these aims.
32
1. Blair House, Dalry
2. Blair Estate, Dalry
3. Lynn Glen Footpath, Dalry
4. Lynn Glen Footpath, Dalry
5. Mountain Biking in Clyde
Muirshiel Regional Park
6. Canoeing in Clyde Muirshiel
Regional Park
7. Dalry Town Centre
8. Walkers Welcome sign Blair Estate, Dalry
9. Walkers in Dalry
4
6
5
8
7
9
ACTION AREA B
3
2
GARNOCK VALLEY
1
Action Area B: Garnock Valley
This action area comprises the settlements of Dalry, Kilbirnie and Beith situated along the valley
of the River Garnock. There are also two rural satellite villages, situated near Kilbirnie, Longbar
and Glengarnock and a further two situated near Beith, Gateside and Barmill. This area has a
tradition steeped in the iron and steel industries since the early 1900s.
The Garnock Valley also has an expanding tourism industry and has become a favourite for
outdoor activities, especially with Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park on its doorstep. The National
Cycle Network (NCN) Route 7 enters the Valley near Dalgarven, passes through Longbar and
the outskirts of Glengarnock and Kilbirnie where it leaves North Ayrshire and enters
Renfrewshire. This offers a valuable link between the Ayrshire Coast and the Glasgow
conurbation. The North Ayrshire (Excluding Arran) Finalised Local Plan safeguards the route of
the future off-road replacement section of the NCN between Kilwinning and Kilbirnie.
A significant area of land to the northwest of Dalry and Kilbirnie is designated as Clyde Muirshiel
Regional Park. Approximately half of the Regional Park’s land area is within North Ayrshire and
it offers a wide range of recreational opportunities to visitors and inhabitants. Whilst there are no
visitor centres within North Ayrshire, there is a Ranger Team operating within the area.
For walkers, the Dalry Walks Project funded through the Council’s Landfill Tax Credit Scheme
and Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire has resulted in a well-used path network in the Dalry area.
Most recently considerable improvement works have been carried out on the path through the
Lynn Glen. This is a popular beauty spot and a Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI). In
terms of water-based activities the River Garnock and Kilbirnie Loch are the two principal inland
water areas used for canoeing and other non-motorised water based pursuits.
Key aims for the Garnock Valley
For the Garnock Valley, the priorities identified in addition to the common aims for North
Ayrshire are as follows:
High priority:
• To improve access to local employment opportunities
• To ensure that access is considered as an integral part of any programmes of wider
environmental improvement, economic regeneration and development projects in relation to
new development within the framework of the local plan
• To maximise the potential for access opportunities to the coast and open hills
• To encourage groups and initiatives that develop community participation in outdoor access
related activities and that promote public access as a means of encouraging healthier
lifestyles
• To improve and encourage responsible recreational access around the principal settlements
as well as in the wider countryside
Medium priority:
• To raise awareness of path networks, access areas and opportunities for outdoor access
with local residents and visitors
• To promote initiatives which develop increased sense of pride and stewardship of local
access networks amongst communities
33
Low priority:
Due to the lack of existing outdoor access provision within the Garnock Valley and other
contributory factors, there are no low-level priorities.
The existent level of outdoor access provision within the Garnock Valley is lower than that in the
majority of the other action areas, which has resulted in a larger number of high priorities for the
area. The area’s landscape is also a valuable asset for outdoor access in North Ayrshire and
has a significant role to play in the development of future proposals. It will be of definite benefit
to involve Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park as a strategic partner wherever possible within this
area.
From the priorities identified, it can be seen that health and regeneration are key issues for the
Valley and therefore projects based on these will be of direct benefit to the communities. The
Garnock Valley is currently under used in terms of its tourism potential and would benefit from
initiatives that draw visitors to the area, whilst taking into account the sensitive nature of some
of its landscape. Maximising community involvement in initiatives and projects should also
contribute towards ensuring the sustainability of projects in this area.
34
1. Waterside, Irvine
2. Belvedere, Eglinton Park, Kilwinning
3. Cycle Rack, New Town Trail
4. Standing Stones, Sourlie
5. Townshouse, Irvine
6. National Cycle Route
7. Irvine Harbourside
8. Walkers, Sourlie
9. Kilwinning Abbey
10. Eglinton Castle, Kilwinning
3
5
4
6
7
9
8
10
ACTION AREA C
2
IRVINE & KILWINNING
1
Action Area C: Irvine and Kilwinning
Irvine is the principal town and commercial centre of North Ayrshire. A Royal Burgh since 1372
the town has a rich maritime heritage and for 30 years, until 1997, it was entrusted with ‘New
Town’ status. Kilwinning is situated 3 miles to the north-west.
Eglinton Country Park separates Irvine from the neighbouring Kilwinning and provides a key
access resource for local people and visitors from further afield. The Park offers an extensive
path network with cycling and horse riding opportunities in addition to walking routes.
There is currently a good network of paths and cycle routes around the settlements. Irvine in
particular enjoys many routes including the recently improved circular ‘New Town Trail’ as well
as being the centre of the regional National Cycle Network with routes 7 and 73 converting
locally.
The Rivers Irvine and Garnock offer opportunities for water-based activities such as canoeing,
whilst the coast offers the prospect of sea canoeing, windsurfing and sailing.
Key aims for Irvine and Kilwinning
The following specific aims for Irvine and Kilwinning are in addition to those common aims
already outlined for the whole of North Ayrshire.
Medium Priority:
• To improve access to local employment opportunities
• To ensure that access is considered as an integral part of any programmes of wider
environmental improvement, economic regeneration and development projects within the
framework of the local plan
• To raise awareness of path networks, access areas and opportunities for outdoor access
with local residents and visitors
• To maximise the potential for access to the coast and open hills
• To promote initiatives which develop increased sense of pride and stewardship of local
access networks amongst communities
• To encourage initiatives and groups that develop community participation in outdoor access
related activities and promote public access as a means of encouraging healthier lifestyles
• To improve and encourage responsible recreational access around the principal settlements
and in the wider countryside
Due to the nature of the existing access provision the specific key aims within the Irvine and
Kilwinning action area are all prioritised as medium. This reflects in part the extant network of
access routes and infrastructure, including Eglinton Country Park, throughout the two
communities.
Future challenges within the area include encouraging residents to increase the use of their
local networks and realising the corresponding benefits for health and community well being.
The removal of real and perceived barriers to participation is vital in achieving these aims.
Working closely with the communities of Irvine and Kilwinning via the Access Forum as well as
by direct consultation further opportunities to improve links to neighbouring communities should
be explored.
35
1. Arran & Cumbraes from
Haylie Brae
2. Mid Kirkton Farm, Cumbrae
3. The Pencil & Cumbraes from
Douglas Park
4. Greeto Bridge, Largs
5. Ways to Walk Group on
Cumbrae
6. Vikingar, Largs
7. Penmachrie Farm, Cumbrae
8. Walker at Largs Promenade
9. The Pencil, Largs
2
NORTH COAST
& CUMBRAES
1
3
6
5
7
8
9
ACTION AREA D
4
Action Area D: North Coast and Cumbraes
This Action Area is comprised of the settlements of West Kilbride, Largs and Skelmorlie, the
smaller satellite villages of Seamill, Fairlie and Portencross and the Cumbrae Islands.
Largs, the largest of the coastal towns is a popular tourist destination and has long been one of
the country's best-loved holiday venues and family resorts. Its association with the Vikings and
the famous Battle of Largs, at which the invading hoards were repelled, marked the end of the
Scandinavian influence in the west of Scotland and endows the town with a history and proud
heritage. West Kilbride boasts a splendid golf course but it is using its status as a Craft Town to
encourage small businesses manufacturing by traditional means to create high quality products.
The majority of this Action Area, with the exception of the settlements, is designated as Clyde
Muirshiel Regional Park. As for the Garnock Valley there is a good level of Ranger presence
and a number of recreational opportunities exist within this area of the Park. The Country
Centre at Kelburn also offers a number of recreational opportunities to visitors and the local
inhabitants.
Great Cumbrae, the larger and inhabited of the two islands, is only 10 minutes by ferry from
Largs and a popular tourist destination. The main settlement on Great Cumbrae is the town of
Millport, which hosts the Scottish National Watersports Centre where training and expert
instruction is available. It is a pleasant 11 mile walk or cycle ride around the island's coastline
with views of the North Ayrshire mainland, the Isle of Bute and the Firth of Clyde.
Both Largs and Great Cumbrae have benefited from path networks created through the
Council’s Landfill Tax Credit Scheme and Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire funding. This has
resulted in the creation of a good network of countryside and coastal routes at both locations.
Key aims for the North Coast and Cumbraes
The priorities identified for the North Coast and Cumbraes in addition to the common aims for
North Ayrshire are as follows:
High priority:
• To raise awareness of path networks, access areas and opportunities for outdoor access
with local residents and visitors
• To maximise the potential for access opportunities to the coast and open hills
Medium priority:
• To ensure that access is considered as an integral part of any programmes of wider
environmental improvement, economic regeneration and development projects in relation to
new development within the framework of the local plan
• To encourage groups and initiatives that develop community participation in outdoor access
related activities and to promote public access as a means of encouraging healthier
lifestyles
• To improve and encourage responsible recreational access around the principal settlements
as well as in the wider countryside
Low priority:
• To improve access to local employment opportunities
• To promote initiatives which develop increased sense of pride and stewardship of local
access networks amongst communities
37
Tourism is an extremely important issue in the North Coast and on the Cumbraes, therefore the
majority of projects are likely to focus towards this and will be aimed at improving the local
tourist economy and encouraging visitors to the area. There is considerable scope for tourism
businesses to play a key role in the development of outdoor access.
There has been a keen interest in health walking around the Largs area and on the Island of
Cumbrae, especially as there is a high level of older and retired residents in both locations.
Benefit would therefore be obtained from working with the Ways to Walk group and other local
organisations on related initiatives and path projects. The area also has a number of
environmental groups who have already been active in access development, such as West
Kilbride Amenity Society and these groups should continue to be involved in future
developments.
The area’s landscape will also heavily influence the direction of access as there is a need to
take into account the impact that any proposals will have on the natural resources. Future
initiatives in this area should also be linked wherever possible with Clyde Muirshiel Regional
Park.
38
THE THREE TOWNS
1
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
3
5
4
7
6
9
8
10
ACTION AREA E
2
Saltcoats Harbour
Seating at Ardrossan South Beach
Walkers at Ardrossan South Beach
Cyclists at Ardrossan North Shore
North Ayrshire Museum, Saltcoats
Cycle Route/Footpath Signpost,
Stevenston
7. Three Towns Walking & Cycling
Improvements Launch
8. Kerelaw Castle, Stevenston
9. Landsborough & Trinity Church,
Saltcoats
10. Town Hall, Saltcoats
Action Area E: The Three Towns
Known locally as "The Three Towns" Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston are set around a
sheltered bay, making them popular coastal resorts. The area has seen significant investment
aimed at improving the infrastructure, leisure and town centre facilities with seafront
promenades substantially upgraded. Similarly, major initiatives operate within the area to boost
the economic prospects for the Three Towns involving joint programmes with private and public
sector agencies and the local communities.
Stevenston is the home to one of North Ayrshire's most popular attractions, Harvies’ Leisure
Centre, renowned for its split-level ice rink. Saltcoats is a popular shopping location, offering
sport and leisure facilities including indoor bowling, fitness centres and attractive coastal
locations that attract thousands of tourists each year. Ardrossan Harbour provides the link
between the mainland and the island of Arran. Recent development in Ardrossan has resulted
in the creation of a new Marina for the expanding leisure yachting and boating market in the
West of Scotland.
The Three Towns Walking and Cycling project has identified a network of routes within the local
area. The project included minor upgrading of sections of path as there was a good level of
routes available on the ground, improved signage and the production of a leaflet for the area.
Key aims for the Three Towns
For the Three Towns, the priorities identified in addition to the common aims for North Ayrshire
are as follows:
High level priorities:
• To improve access to local employment opportunities
• To ensure that access is considered as an integral part of any programmes of wider
environmental improvement, economic regeneration and development projects in relation to
new development within the framework of the local plan
• To encourage groups and initiatives that develop community participation in outdoor access
related activities and that promote public access as a means of encouraging healthier
lifestyles
• To improve and encourage responsible recreational access around the principal settlements
as well as in the wider countryside
Medium level priorities:
• To raise awareness of path networks, access areas and opportunities for outdoor access
with local residents and visitors
• To maximise the potential for access opportunities to the coast and open hills
• To promote initiatives which develop increased sense of pride and stewardship of local
access networks amongst communities
The key issues within the Three Towns are clearly regeneration, health and social inclusion.
Access initiatives will therefore be of most benefit to the local communities if they assist in
addressing these issues either directly or indirectly. Ensuring community involvement and
ownership will be paramount to ensuring the sustainability of future projects and any routes that
are developed.
Within the Three Towns a high level of interest has developed for walking for the purpose of
health improvement. Benefit would therefore be obtained from working with the Ways to Walk
group and other local organisations on related initiatives and path projects. Another key
39
challenge for the Three Towns will be encouraging community involvement and developing
community ownership of path networks to reduce the problems of vandalism and anti-social
behaviour that currently exist.
A matrix highlighting the summary of the Action Area Priorities is provided within the
Appendices Section (Appendix 5). To ensure that future outdoor access projects and initiatives
are in line with the principles of the strategy, these priorities will be utilised as a form of checklist
for the assessment of such schemes. This will therefore ensure that projects achieving the high
level priorities in each area given precedence in terms of the limited resources available within
North Ayrshire.
40
PART THREE
DELIVERY MECHANISMS
PART THREE – DELIVERY MECHANISMS
It is essential when developing the strategy to identify the mechanisms by which North Ayrshire
Council and its partners can ensure that they are in a suitable position to implement the
Strategy. As such it is vital to examine the following key issues, which represent the core
mechanisms for access planning and development in North Ayrshire:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Staffing provision
Access Steering Group
North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Forum
Resources
Core Path Planning and the Core Path Network
Good Practice Guidelines
Framework for monitoring and evaluating the strategy
Implementation Timescales
Staffing Provision
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has provided grant aid to enable North Ayrshire Council to
employ two Access Officers. The Officers are appointed on a fixed term three-year contract,
with SNH support at a scale of 75% in Year One, 65% in Year Two and 55% in Year Three
(finishing March 05). Longer term funding for these posts is therefore of utmost importance to
ensure that the Council has the capacity to implement its obligations under the legislation.
The Access Officers cover the entire Local Authority area and their employment has resulted in
a more effective and co-ordinated approach to outdoor access in North Ayrshire. Their remit
includes:
•
•
•
•
•
Preparation of Access Strategy
Establishment and development of the Local Access Forum
Establishment of the Core Path Network
Path establishment and implementation
Duties relating to the general right of access including promotion and administrative tasks
The Council, within Educational Services, also operates a full time Countryside Ranger Service,
funded in part by Scottish Natural Heritage. The Service currently employs a Country Parks
Manager, a Senior Ranger (currently job-shared), three main-grade rangers, one short-term
contract ranger and two seasonal rangers.
The Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park Authority operates the Regional Park Ranger Service, on
behalf of Inverclyde, Renfrewshire and North Ayrshire Councils. The Regional Park employs
around 45 members of staff, including the Regional Park Manager, Assistant Park Manager,
Chief Ranger and Development and Marketing Officer. There are six teams of staff including,
the Ranger Team, Estate Team, Support Team, Activity Staff and Countryside Team.
Most of the Regional Park’s staff has duties relating to North Ayrshire and one team of Rangers
is assigned to the area. The Ranger Team operates at the level of one of the Senior Rangers
and the equivalent of four full-time Rangers. The Ranger Team posts are all supported by
Scottish Natural Heritage in a similar manner to the Council’s own Ranger Service.
41
The National Trust operates a Ranger Service on Arran, which comprises of one Senior
Ranger, one main-grade Ranger, one part-time footpath Ranger and two seasonal Rangers.
These posts are also part-funded by SNH. The Ranger Service operates predominantly within
the Trust’s properties on the Island but some community based work such as working with
community groups, such as the Arran Access Trust, is also carried out.
Ranger Services have an invaluable role in the implementation of the Land Reform legislation
and the aims of the Outdoor Access Strategy. The legislation identifies a role for Ranger
Services in promoting the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and in providing education on this
topic. It also identifies a shift in approach as Rangers will be required to work on privately
owned land and not solely on Council owned land. Regional Park staff, including Rangers, are
already working with private land owners and approximately 68% of Ranger time is spent
outwith the Country Parks in North Ayrshire. Currently the Ranger Services are examining their
role in relation to outdoor access but it is envisaged that the traditional roles of providing
education, running events, developing interpretation and patrolling will be widened to cover the
new outdoor access duties.
Access Steering Group
A number of departments within the Council have been involved with outdoor access
development and currently the responsibility for outdoor access is divided between a several
sections within the Authority.
•
•
•
•
•
Development and Promotion and Legal Services have responsibility for Rights of Way
Development and Promotion has responsibility for the new obligations to outdoor access
under Part 1 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003
The Grounds Maintenance and Cleansing has responsibility for the day-to-day management
and maintenance of public open spaces.
Educational Services has responsibility for the Country Parks Section and a number of
historic buildings and there associated grounds
Roads have responsibility for the maintenance of adopted sections of path and the Council’s
Cycling Officer is employed within this section.
To build on previous partnership working and successes, an inter-departmental Steering Group
has been in place since January 2002. The membership of the Steering Group was extended,
after the appointment of the Access Officers to include the partner agencies of Clyde Muirshiel
Regional Park, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Paths for All Partnership.
The group meets quarterly and the Access Officers provide the secretariat as part of their work
programme. It ensures that outdoor access is examined on an inter-departmental basis and
encourages partnership working with other agencies. The group currently has representation
from the following services within the Council and other agencies:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cleansing, Grounds Maintenance and Transport
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
Development and Promotion
Educational Services, including the Country Parks Section
Finance
Legal and Regulatory Services
Paths for All Partnership
Roads Services
Scottish Natural Heritage
42
It is envisaged that this group will continue to play an important role in outdoor access
development in the future. It is therefore essential that the group continue to meet and build on
the previous successes it has achieved.
North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Forum
From the previous sections it is apparent that partnership working at both external and
interdepartmental level is highly important for the implementation of the Strategy. The Steering
group ensures that this is fulfilled at an interdepartmental level and the Outdoor Access Forum
fulfils this function at an external level.
The Outdoor Access Forum has an invaluable role to play in the delivery of the outdoor access
agenda within North Ayrshire as it provides a platform for all with an interest in access to
become part of the process. It is an advisory body working to promote dialogue and
understanding, develop consensus and promote a co-operative approach to access
management.
Development of the Forum
The first step towards the formation of an Outdoor Access Forum for North Ayrshire was made
by way of the initial stakeholder meeting on 7th February 2003 at Ardrossan Civic Centre. An
excellent turnout of around 70 people attended the meeting chaired by Councillor David Munn,
Chair of Corporate Services Committee.
Participants were divided into groups for the workshop sessions in which two topics were
covered. The first workshop topic, “Maximising the Potential for the Local Access Forum”, aimed
to examine the way in which the North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Forum might be developed.
The second topic, “Key issues for the Outdoor Access Strategy”, aimed to analyse the
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis) of the current provision of
outdoor Access in North Ayrshire and to assist with the development of the Outdoor Access
Strategy.
Structure of the Forum
The stakeholders considered the structure for a Local Outdoor Access Forum as proposed by
Diagram illustrating
Forum set-up
43
the SNH and PfAP Good Practice Guidelines. It was agreed that this provided a viable structure
for the development of the North Ayrshire Forum. It was agreed that the wider Forum as
identified should be open to all with an interest in Outdoor Access in the local area.
It was decided that the main Forum should meet annually and the Core Group should meet
more regularly, around four to six times a year. There was strong opinion that Access Forum
and Core Group would potentially have to meet more often than annually in the initial years.
This would be especially important throughout the development of the Access Strategy.
Development of the Core Group
The overall opinion was that core group should be comprised of representatives from the
community, agencies, land managers and users. There were varying opinions on how this might
work one group suggested equal representation from all four categories and the other two
groups suggested a balance of representatives from providers, enablers (including the
communities) and users. It was proposed that the core group should consist of a total of 10 – 15
representatives, with a balanced representation from each category (three – five depending on
option opted for).
The consensus of opinion was that the four interest groups should decide on the
representatives and substitutes for their group. The range of opinions expressed at the
stakeholder meeting and the Good Practice Guidelines were then considered by the Council's
Access Steering Group to develop the structure for the Core Group. This Core Group will
therefore act as the “Forum” as defined in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003
The Core Group consists of the following balance of representatives:
Access Users
Agencies
Communities
Land owners / managers
Chairperson (NAC)
4 representatives
3 representatives
3 representatives
4 representatives
1 representative
The Core Group was developed at the first meeting of the whole Forum in May 2003. Forum
members were informed of the intention to seek nominations prior to the meeting and were
invited to withdraw into their four categories and decide on nominations for representatives and
substitutes.
The significance of this group is demonstrated by the fact that the Core Group has been
involved throughout the development of the Strategy and will be instrumental in the delivery of
its aims.
Working and Topic Groups
The Good Practice Guidelines suggest that one of the most effective methods of ensuring
community ownership and involvement in the Strategy and Forum process is to establish local
action groups.
These would draw on the membership of the Forum and on the wider population in general and
enable not only those with an interest in outdoor access but also community representatives,
perhaps with local area knowledge to become involved with the process. The Forum examined
the opportunity for a series of these local action groups with the specific remit of planning and
44
managing access. These groups would develop projects at a local level and secure from the
outset the involvement of communities, land owners/managers and access users.
The Forum members were of the opinion that Working Groups should be both topic and area
based. Suggestions for topic groups included Health, Safety, Disability, Promotion, Cyclists and
Horse Riding. The potential for five geographical based standing working groups was
highlighted. It was suggested that these might be as follows Irvine and Kilwinning, Three Towns,
North Coast and Cumbraes, Garnock Valley and Arran. One group suggested that there should
be an access user and land manager representative from each of the five areas.
Topic Groups would be able to attend area-working groups and the interests of these groups
might be represented on the Core Group by working groups. The requirement of such groups to
be involved with the Core Group and the issue of imbalance of population between different
areas was discussed. The feeling being that all of this would be dependent on the emphasis
placed on certain issues such as tourism and social inclusion within the strategy.
It was felt that the rate at, and method by, which these groups developed would be dependent
on local circumstances. For example they may evolve from existing groups or be formed in
response to a local issue or opportunity.
It is proposed that the Area Action groups would be developed under the guidance of the Core
Group of the Forum and would take into account all of the interests in outdoor access within
their geographical area. These would be developed in line with the Paths for All Partnership
and Scottish Natural Heritage’s Good Practice Guidelines for Local Access Forums.
North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Forum Partnership Agreement
The Good Practice Guidelines highlight the importance of engaging the Forum in drafting its
own remit and that a number of options exist as to what form this might take. A Partnership
Agreement has been developed for the Forum in conjunction with the Core Group. This outlines
the aims and objectives of the Forum, its structure and membership and the methods by which it
will be administered.
The Partnership Agreement identifies the aim of the Forum as being:
To act as an advisory body, working to promote dialogue and understanding, develop
consensus and promote a co-operative approach to access management in North Ayrshire.
The Agreement also identifies the objectives of the Forum are identified as being:
•
•
•
•
•
To act as the Local Outdoor Access Forum for North Ayrshire and to undertake the functions
of that body.
To advise on strategic access issues and the development of the core path network in North
Ayrshire through the policies and priorities of the North Ayrshire Outdoor Access Strategy.
To promote responsible access through the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
To promote the sharing of knowledge, awareness, and good practice in access.
To offer assistance in disputes about outdoor access rights.
It is apparent that the Forum has a pivotal role to play in outdoor access development in North
Ayrshire and as such it is essential that it continue to operate effectively. To ensure this the
Partnership Agreement attempts to address the relevant issues for the Forum such as the groups
45
remit and membership. It also identifies the opportunity for providing training for members to
ensure that they can operate effectively and are aware of all current issues relating to outdoor
access and the legislation.
Resources
To implement the new statutory obligations and priorities identified by the legislation will require
additional funds to those currently secured. Whilst it is difficult to quantify the full extent of the
requirement, it is clear that as the level of obligation increases so to will the need for a
budgetary allocation for that purpose.
The Scottish Executive has allocated funds since 2001 to Council’s to enable them to meet the
statutory obligations to outdoor access under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. This
funding has been made available via the Leisure and Recreation element of the Grant Aided
Expenditure (GAE). This has been allocated as additional funding on top of the existing GAE
allocation each Local Authority receives.
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has disseminated information and advice on behalf of the
Executive to Councils on this allocation including the specific figures from the Executive’s Local
Government and Performance Division. Currently the advice only identifies allocations up to and
including the financial year 2005/06. Further information on subsequent allocations is
anticipated in the near future.
Activity
Estimated cost (£)
Development of Local Access Forum and Outdoor Access Strategy
40,000
Promotion of the Scottish Outdoor Access Code (SOAC)
10,000
Regulation and protection of access rights
10,000 (per annum)
Employment of Access Officers
60,000 (per annum)
Acquisition of external advice and support
20,000 (per annum)
Initial work towards development of Core Path Plan and Network
5,000
Total estimated cost 145,000
The figures illustrated above are purely for guidance purposes and are not prescriptive.
Obviously the commitment towards the development of the Core Path Network will be more
significant in the years in which the Core Path Plan is implemented. The commitment required
for the promotion of the Code and development of the Forum will reduce in subsequent years.
However, it is expected that this will be balanced out with an increased requirement for the
regulation and protection of access rights and maintenance of existing paths.
As previously highlighted, outdoor access is the responsibility of a number of sections within the
Council and it is therefore important to ensure that resources are equitably and appropriately
apportioned to the relevant sections. It is also imperative to ensure that current allocations are
utilised effectively and produce the optimum benefits.
46
The current estimate to effectively maintain the 45km of cycle route and 39km of paths that the
Council has a maintenance responsibility for is £90,000 per annum. This would obviously
increase each year in line with inflation and increases in materials costs.
The Community Outdoor Access Grant Scheme aims to assist the development of communitybased access works. Community councils and voluntary bodies including community groups are
entitled to apply to the scheme for assistance towards small-scale works.
The scheme is funded by North Ayrshire Council and Scottish Natural Heritage and currently
runs for the next financial year, however it is anticipated that this will be extended. It offers
assistance of a maximum of £500 towards the cost of any eligible work such as improving or
extending routes, the inclusion of furniture or signage and the production of promotional
literature.
The Resource Audit identifies a wide range of funding opportunities for outdoor access related
projects and the broad spectrum of organisations that will fund them. It is important to note that
funding opportunities for capital works are more readily available than those for revenue works.
This therefore makes it much more difficult to secure funds for longer-term maintenance and
increases the level of support required from the Local Authority.
A number of the opportunities are not directly linked with access and therefore it is necessary to
demonstrate the links to the relevant organisation’s agendas. Other unrealised opportunities
include assistance from the private sector and direct assistance from land managers such as
maintenance of paths on their land.
The available resources for outdoor access will therefore dictate the extent of the Core Path
Network and other access opportunities that are developed in North Ayrshire. It will be essential
to utilise the available resources as effectively and efficiently as possible, through making good
use of existing routes and developing innovative approaches to funding and resource
allocations. This will all therefore improve North Ayrshire’s ability to implement the Access
Strategy.
Core Path Planning and the Core Path Network
The Council has a duty to draw up a system of paths, known as Core Paths, sufficient for the
purpose of giving the public reasonable access throughout North Ayrshire. This must be carried
out within three years of Section 17 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 coming into force.
Core Paths are paths or routes, waterways or other means of crossing land to facilitate the
exercise of access rights under the Act and will be identified as such in the Council’s Core Path
Plan. Only those paths identified within the plan will form the system of Core Paths or Core
Path Network. It is recognised that access will not be restricted to Core Paths but it is
appreciated that the development of the Core Path Plan is an essential element of the Act and
will play an important part in outdoor access planning and development in North Ayrshire.
The work already undertaken in the development of the Outdoor Access Strategy will act as a
starting point for the wider consultation on Core Path Planning. Further guidance is available
from the Scottish Executive on the Act and Core Paths. The Council will work in partnership
with the Outdoor Access Forum and all other relevant parties on the development of the Core
Path Plan and Network.
47
Good Practice Guidelines
It is essential that any routes and networks created are designed and constructed to an
appropriate standard and are therefore fit for purpose. Therefore it is proposed that the
appropriate good practice guidelines are taken into consideration for the creation of any new
routes or when upgrading existing routes.
Examples of these include:
•
•
•
•
Scottish Natural Heritage, 2003: “Countryside Access Design Guide” Battleby
Scottish Natural Heritage and the Paths for All Partnership, 2001: “Lowland Path:
Construction Guide” Inverness, Dynam
Hamilton, A. and others, 1999: “Upland Path Work – Construction Standards for Scotland”
Battleby, Scottish Natural Heritage
BT and Fieldfare Trust, 1997: “Countryside for All – Standards and Guidelines: A good
practice guide to Disabled Peoples’ Access in the Countryside” Sheffield.
Monitoring and Evaluation
One of the most important parts of any Access Strategy is the ongoing monitoring and
evaluating of both the Strategy and the network itself. This is vital because it may be necessary
to modify the strategy should any problems be encountered, should the legislation change, or if
the priorities within the area shift; also ensuring that problems are identified and rectified.
By setting up an effective monitoring system, substantial amounts of money and time can be
saved. For example, by ensuring that conflicts between users does not escalate to the point
where it cannot be resolved, or by ensuring that routes are not allowed to decline to a level
where improvements will be costly.
Much of the monitoring could be done through designing a GIS database that would allow large
amounts of data to be inputted and updated over a long period of time. This would allow easy
access to any information logged and allow for comparisons between areas or over time. This
could be of particular use when undertaking projects relating to the development of new paths
or with policy regarding heavily used paths.
In support of this, a standard monitoring pro-forma could be devised. The pro-forma would need
to be simple to use, and which could be easily returned to the Council for recording.
Use will be made of existing resources such as the Scottish Paths Record as part of an
integrated path management system for North Ayrshire.
It is suggested that the extent to which the aims and objectives of the Strategy are being met
should be reviewed annually. In terms of the practicalities of achieving this, a report could be
prepared which describes the levels of success in meeting aims and objectives; detailing the
current status of projects and proposed actions. In other words, progress should be evaluated
against an agreed baseline, which is determined by the content of this strategy.
48
Information on the extent, condition, use and development of the path network in North Ayrshire
should also be used to measure the extent to which the Access Strategy has fulfilled its aims
and objectives. This may be most effectively undertaken at the levels of Action Areas.
This is likely to be particularly useful for monitoring the implementation of the Core Path
Network Plan. It is also recommended that the Strategy itself be reviewed every five years. The
Local Outdoor Access Forum will play a key role in overseeing the review process.
When monitoring and evaluation indicates a divergence between the agreed Access Strategy
and action on the ground, two courses of action may be appropriate:
• Modify the strategy to reflect changing conditions and priorities on the ground.
• Modify the emphasis of the project and management work to better meet the aims of the
strategy
49
Implementation Timescales
The following table provides an indication of the proposed timescale for implementation of the
Strategy.
2004/05
Activity
Steering Group meetings
2005/06
Jul Sept
Oct Dec
Jan Mar
b
b
b
Apr - Jul Jun
Sept
b
b
Access Forum meetings
Core Group meetings
b
Adoption of Strategy by Council
b
b
b
Strategy launch
b
Development of monitoring and
evaluation framework
b
b
Promotion of Scottish Outdoor Access
Code
Initial work towards development of
Core Path Plan and Network
b
b
b
b
b
b
Development of work programme
50
Jan Mar
b
b
b
b
b
b
Pilot area action groups
OctDec
APPENDICES
APPENDIX ONE - SUPPLY AUDIT
It is important that the development of a Strategy for the future planning, development and
management of access in North Ayrshire takes into account and builds on resources which
already exist in the area.
This section describes the pattern of existing and potential access routes in North Ayrshire.
This is by no means a definitive audit of routes that are available for access. Rather it is
intended to inform the development of strategies for access across North Ayrshire as a whole
and inform the preparation of Core Path Network proposals. The supply audit information is
summarised at Figures 1 & 2 for the mainland area of North Ayrshire and the Isle of Arran
respectively.
Overall Pattern of Existing Provision
Tracks and Paths
Analysis of the North Ayrshire Scottish Path Records map and Ordnance Survey map shows
an extensive network of paths, tracks and minor roads in addition to Rights of Way (RoW).
The public may use many of these routes. Others, however, may not be present ‘on the
ground’ and will not be used. Few of these routes are subject to formal or informal
agreements with landowners or farmers. This can lead to problems where walkers, cyclists
and horse riders disrupting farming or land management practices.
There are numerous short lengths of path that are not marked on official maps and small local
networks used by local communities. These routes may be associated with private woodland
and access schemes, or simply landowners tolerating access over sections of their land.
Other established routes comprise:
•
•
•
•
•
The network of paths and tracks around Irvine, created to provide countryside access in
the area surrounding the new town.
The network of existing and proposed routes within the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park,
identified as a result of visitor and community consultation.
The network of paths being developed around Largs, Dalry and on the Isle of Great
Cumbrae.
The cycle routes created by Sustrans as part of the national cycle network along the coast
and from Irvine to Paisley and Ayr, as well as linking east to Kilmarnock in East Ayrshire.
The forest cycle route from Lamlash to Kilmory on the southern part of Arran.
Other paths and tracks as well the wider open countryside which, although currently not
comprising a RoW or subject to permissive access, will become available under the terms of
the new access legislation. This includes farm tracks, hill paths and tracks, estate tracks,
forestry roads and unenclosed land.
Recognising that the right of access will not extend to farmyards and gardens (forming part of
the defined curtilage around buildings), the audit recorded instances where routes currently
pass through or close to farm buildings. Research indicates that there are comparatively few
routes that fall into this category. With a small number of exceptions, those that do exist tend
to be short, isolated and often solely providing access to a farmstead or other agricultural
building. These appear to have limited potential in terms of their contribution to future access
networks.
1
The principle exceptions to this sparse pattern are as follows:
•
•
•
•
Arran where there appear to be a significant number of medium distance paths and tracks,
further supplementing the patterns of RoW described above.
Great Cumbrae where there are a number of paths.
Kelburn Estate near Largs where there is a network of paths and estate tracks within the
designed landscape.
Dalry and Kilbirnie both of which have partial networks of paths and tracks radiating out
from the settlements.
Rights of Way
The legal status of rights of way are defined by the Scottish Rights of Way & Access Society
are as follows:
•
•
•
Vindicated: All routes declared to be rights of way by the courts, and which have evidence
of continued usage.
Asserted: All routes where either the landowner accepts the route as a right of way, or the
local authority has indicated that it would be willing to take court action to defend it if
necessary.
Claimed: Other routes that are alleged to meet the legal criteria for rights of way.
There are very few RoW within the mainland part of North Ayrshire. Examples are limited to
extremely short sections of claimed RoW, one to the north of Largs, a second on the fringes
of Millport on Great Cumbrae and four near West Kilbride. A longer section of claimed RoW
runs along the mainland coast from Portencross to the Hunterston Ore Terminal.
The situation is rather different on Arran where there is a network of asserted and claimed
RoW, many of them of considerable length. As noted above, a number of these provide
coastal routes but others run inland, providing access to upland and lowland areas. Some of
the RoW on the island are contested by landowners.
North Ayrshire has RoW totalling a distance of 172.8km. Some 14.8km of the RoW are
asserted and the remaining 158km are claimed. However, under the 20-year continuous
public use and linking two public places criteria, many more RoWs may exist than are
currently recorded.
It is important to recognise that RoW are often historic in origin and may not correspond to
current access needs. So while such routes have often been defended in the past, their
designation as a RoW should not be taken alone as an indication of their potential importance
in the future.
Minor Roads
Unclassified minor roads are often used for countryside access, particularly where they link
existing tracks or paths. It is recognised that many of these roads suffer from problems
associated with excessive vehicle speeds. However, subject to some form of traffic
management, the minor road network has potential to provide links in the path networks
particularly for horse riders and cyclists. The routes of most significance are in the lower lying
part of North Ayrshire, to the east of West Kilbride and north of Irvine. Individual routes such
as the minor road along Brisbane Glen to the north of Largs are also of importance.
Elsewhere however, lowland areas such as the raised beach corridor tend to be dominated by
2
main roads that are less suited to walking, cycling or horse riding. Conversely, North Ayrshire
also includes large upland areas that have no roads at all.
Long Distance Routes
North Ayrshire has two national long distance routes running through its Area. Sustrans’
National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 7 runs roughly north to south through North Ayrshire,
close to many of the area’s major settlements. Whilst NCN Route 73 links Irvine (and Route
7) to Ardrossan (and hence onto Arran) as well as to Kilmarnock in East Ayrshire. The NCN
is mostly routed ‘off-road’ or along quiet minor roads; however, some sections are currently
along main roads.
A ‘Coastal Way’ walking route has been developed around the Isle of Arran. The route is a
result of a local initiative and links all the main settlements on the island.
Access Areas
Access areas are areas of land where for a variety of reasons it can be assumed that the
public has reasonable access to them for recreation. The main examples of these tend to be
publicly owned or managed land. Including local open space and coastal beaches, National
Trust for Scotland land in Arran including the Goatfell massif as well as Forestry Commission
land.
Certain high-level upland routes in Arran endure a high demand and are consequently
suffering from erosion problems. The development and promotion of alternative routes in
lower areas, such as through Forestry for example, help to alleviate the pressure on these
fragile upland areas.
Country Parks
North Ayrshire has three country parks at Eglinton, Kelburn and Brodick on the Isle of Arran.
Eglinton is owned and run by the North Ayrshire Council, Kelburn is a private park owned by
Lord Glasgow and Brodick is a National Trust for Scotland property; all three offer slightly
different access and recreation opportunities. Eglinton Country Park, north of Irvine, is the
largest of these and has the most extensive path network with cycling and horse riding
opportunities in addition to walking routes. Kelburn Country Park, south of Largs, is centred
on the steep Kelburn Glen and principally offers walking routes. Brodick Country Park also
has walking routes around the formal gardens of the property.
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
The Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park occupies an extensive area of land in the northeast of
North Ayrshire. It is operated on behalf of Inverclyde, Renfrewshire and North Ayrshire
Councils, Scottish Natural Heritage, and in co-operation with local landowners.
The Regional Park provides an area of land managed for public enjoyment of the natural
heritage and provision of informal recreation opportunities. Within the North Ayrshire sector of
the Park access opportunities are reasonably good, with hill walking opportunities in particular
being fairly extensive.
The Parks’ Castle Semple Centre, whilst located just outside the boundary of North Ayrshire,
does offer extensive watersports facilities including sailing, rowing and canoeing.
3
Forestry Commission Land
The Forestry Commission, who promote public access within their properties, own an
extensive area of land (11,000 hectares) mainly in the south of Arran. These forests are
managed by Forest Enterprise in a ‘multi-purpose’ way to allow people to enjoy the
countryside. Visitors can walk, cycle and pony-trek in the forest. A forest cycle route suitable
for mountain bikes has been designated from Lamlash to Kilmory, a distance of some 14km.
Rivers, Inland Waters and Coast
Opportunities for non-motorised water borne activities exist on the principal rivers, inland
waters and along the coastal areas of North Ayrshire.
The River Garnock and the River Irvine along with Kilbirnie Loch offer the principal
opportunities for non-motorised water borne activities such as canoeing and rowing. The
coastal waters of both the mainland and Arran also present a resource for activities such as
sea canoeing and windsurfing. Largs in particular is a prominent centre for numerous waterbased activities including sailing and windsurfing.
4
APPENDIX TWO - DEMAND AUDIT
This audit comprises an assessment of the demand for access in North Ayrshire. The current
demand for access, as defined by existing patterns of visitor use of the path network, includes
the extent to which people already wish to walk, cycle or ride in the area for recreation or
other purposes. The latent or unrealised demand, or need for access, established primarily
through the analysis of data on population, deprivation, social exclusion, health issues and
activity levels.
The demand audit draws together and interprets local sources of information such as visitor
surveys and uses national data regarding countryside recreation patterns in order to identify
which areas are most popular with local people and visitors and what people think of paths in
North Ayrshire generally.
This overview is quantitative, i.e. some estimate of the number of users of the countryside as
well as qualitative e.g. an idea of the type of people who use the countryside for recreation,
where they come from and what they want.
Review of Current Demand
There are few sources of data to show demand for walking, cycling, and horse riding and
water based activities in North Ayrshire. However, community consultations, visitor counts
and some survey work has been carried out within the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, the
Country Parks as well as the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) Arran Goatfell Property and
these can be used to estimate demand from present use.
Local Trends
Community Consultation
Consultation from the NAC Local Outdoor Access Forum identified the following
requirements:
• Improved access provision adjacent to areas of population.
• More circular and linking routes.
• Safe off-road cycling routes including dedicated facilities for mountain biking.
• Increased dedicated access provision for horse riders e.g. bridleways.
• Increased provision for non-walking interests such as disabled users.
• More information and signage on routes.
• Improved maintenance of routes including repair of stiles / gates, etc.
• More organised walking programmes (for health) as well as a walking festival.
These findings broadly reinforce the feedback received from North Coast communities
consultation conducted as part of the Local Authority Pilot Project in 2000 on behalf of
Scottish Natural Heritage.
Previous public consultation exercises have regularly identified the idea of a route following
the mainland coast. The need for informal access to the countryside, outside of the structured
path networks, has also been consistently expressed.
5
Visitor Numbers
Visitors to North Ayrshire numbered 1,202,000 and contributed £103.7 million in revenue
(Ayrshire & Arran Tourist Board 2001). With the mainland receiving 986,000 and Arran
216,000 visitors, with £78.7 and £25 million in revenue respectively benefiting the local
economy.
For many, a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities form a significant element of their
visitor experience in North Ayrshire and Arran.
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park
Estimates of visitor numbers from three sites within the North Ayrshire sector of the Regional
Park. These indicate that on average 32,500 people per year visit these three sites. Whilst
over the whole of the regional park (including both the Inverclyde and Renfrewshire districts)
‘outreach activities’ such as to schools and other events attract 26,000 people per year. In
addition 490,000 people per year are also estimated to use the scenic drives, cycle paths, layby picnic areas and partake of road cycle tours within the park.
None of the main regional park centres are located in North Ayrshire, but the closest Castle
Semple, has on average attracted 50,000 visitors over the past four years. Whilst the exact
proportion of visitors from each council district can not be defined, many clearly will be from
North Ayrshire itself.
Country Parks
The ranger services within the Country Parks in North Ayrshire have information on visitor
numbers. In total there have been an average of 123,875 visitors per annum to the three
Country Parks within North Ayrshire over the period of 2000 – 2002. (Note: Each Country
Park has its own mechanism for calculating visitor numbers and these may not be directly
comparable).
By Country Park this amounts to:
•
•
•
Eglinton 38,575 visitors per year
Kelburn 61,800 visitors per year
Brodick 23,500 visitors per year
Given that the population of North Ayrshire is 138,000, the number of visitor to the country
parks is quite high. If approximately 40% of visitors to the parks are local people (as surveys
indicate), it suggests that a significant proportion of North Ayrshire’s population visit them
regularly.
Kelburn Country Park
A visitor survey in the summer of 2002 indicated that 75% of visitors were from Scotland.
Whilst an earlier visitor survey in 1993 showed that overall 45% of people originated from
within a 50 mile radius of the Park.
Isle of Arran
A SNH commissioned report A survey of visitors to Arran and their activities in the countryside
(1995) showed the following:
6
•
•
•
Residents of Glasgow, Ayrshire and Renfrewshire account for 42% of all visitors.
Walking was the most frequent recreational activity, ranging from short local walks to
strenuous hill walks.
A fifth of all visitors went hillwalking, with the most popular locations being Goatfell, Glen
Rosa and Glen Sannox.
A questionnaire of Arran residents as part of the Paths and Tracks Strategy (2001) carried out
by Cluttons on behalf of the Arran Access Trust found the following:
•
•
•
Walking opportunities were felt to be sufficient while those for cycling and horse riding
were not.
Regarding upland issues: 13% felt that new routes were required, 23% identified more
information / signage and 45% indicated maintenance as an issue.
Regarding lowland issues: 27% felt that new routes were required for walkers, cyclists,
horse riders and the disabled / elderly. 22% also indicated the need for greater
information / signage.
Demand for outdoor education is well established on the island as indicated by the continuing
popularity of the Arran Outdoor Education Resource and the Lochranza Field Study Centre.
NTS Goatfell Property
Visitor numbers have been estimated from ‘people counters’ at three locations within the
property. Over the last three years (2000 – 2002) the following average visitor numbers have
been recorded:
•
•
•
Goatfell Path
Corrie Path
Glen Rosa Path
9,500 visitors per year
4,500 visitors per year
7,300 visitors per year
The NTS also have data from seven visitor surveys competed on their Goatfell Property
between 1988 and 2001. A summary of the surveys indicate the following:
•
•
•
•
The principle activity in the Goatfell area was walking. Low level walking was most likely
on the Glen Rosa path with climbing on the Goatfell path.
Just under half of all visitors (44%) were from Scotland, with the majority of Scottish
visitors being from Strathclyde, Argyll and Lothian areas.
In terms of education and social class 64% of visitors came from a ‘skilled’ household and
that 56% of visitors had continued education to a tertiary level.
The main Goatfell path is the most heavily used, with the number of visitors in Glen Rosa
being about half of those on Goatfell. This makes the Glen Rosa path the second most
used path, closely followed by the path from Corrie to Goatfell.
Water Borne Activities
North Ayrshire has three canoe clubs based in Irvine, Kilbirnie and Ardrossan who regularly
use the principal rivers, Kilbirnie Loch and all areas of the coastline. The main launch points
for canoeists on the mainland include Wemyss Bay, Largs, Fairlie, Portencross and the
beaches at Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Irvine.
7
Significant numbers of windsurfers currently utilise the waters in and around the Largs area.
The coastal waters of Arran are used extensively for sailing and sea canoeing particularly by
the Arran Outdoor Educational Resource for student training and also by the Arran Adventure
Company for leisure and recreational purposes.
Other popular users of inland waters include anglers who require access to the riverside, loch
or the coast. Other occasional users like swimmers are probably mostly very seasonal in their
nature and as such are mainly confined to recreational use in the summer months.
Other activities
Paths and the outdoors are utilised for a wide range of purposes within North Ayrshire. Local
Schools utilise the paths and open spaces for out of classroom initiatives such as nature
studies and environmental education. Para Gliding is becoming an increasingly popular sport
and enthusiasts utilise the hills and associated paths to gain access to areas that enable them
to participate in this. Rock climbing is another popular activity in the area, especially on the
Isle of Arran.
National Trends
Walking
A survey of Walking in the Countryside in Scotland (System Three Scotland, 1996) conducted
in 1995, provides national information relating to demand for paths:
•
•
•
•
•
50% of the respondents had been for a walk within two weeks prior to being questioned.
Half of walks started from home.
Reasons for walking included the attractiveness of the area, ease of access, peacefulness
and dog walking. Indeed, 64% of walks starting from home were accompanied by a dog.
64% of walks starting from home were less than 2 miles long; with 60% being on a route
that had previously been used by the respondent.
Footpaths were found to be the most popular walking surface and wildlife watching the
most popular activity.
The main improvements suggested by respondents throughout Scotland were:
More / better signposting
Better footpath surfaces
A range of routes to suit all abilities
More provision for cyclists.
More circular routes.
Better links with public transport.
More / better leaflets describing walks.
36%
34%
33%
29%
24%
23%
22%
These figures show that many people in Scotland walk, and that most walks are relatively
short with many done by individuals rather than groups of people. Significantly, about half of
all walks are thought to start from home and are along paths that had been used previously.
People tend to walk for the enjoyment of the countryside and wildlife, although dog walking is
also an important reason. Improved signage and path surfaces were given, as the main
improvements desired by walkers in Scotland.
8
It is interesting to note that walkers considered that improved cycling route provision is
required in Scotland. Given that people feel that countryside access should be improved, it is
nor surprising that improving the range of routes to suit all users was also seen as an
important improvement to be made to Scottish paths.
The Survey of Walking 2000 (NFO System Three 2001) indicated that:
•
•
•
A total of 295 million walks (defined as lasting a minimum of ten minutes) were undertaken
for pleasure in the countryside in 2000. Of these, 27% (80 million) were on beaches or
along sea cliffs, 16% (47 million) were in woods or forests, 14% (41 million) involved
passing through farmland and 8% (24 million) were in mountains or moorland.
The estimated number of walks taken in the countryside for pleasure in North Ayrshire
were 1.8% equating to 5.3 million walks. This is a lower level than adjoining local authority
areas with South Ayrshire at 3.2% (9.3 million walks), East Ayrshire at 2.8% (8.2 million
walks) and Inverclyde at 2.8% (8.2 million walks).
Of the walks taken in the countryside for pleasure, 28% of these walks were of less than 2
miles in length, 55% were between 2 and 5 miles in length and 16% were over 5 miles
long.
Comparing the results of the 1995 and 2000 walking surveys, it would appear that there is an
increase in the proportion of the Scottish adult population taking walks for pleasure in both the
countryside and also in urban areas. There has also been a slight increase in the frequency
of going on walks in both the countryside and urban areas. Many of the characteristics of
people’s walks, including the bias towards weekend walking, the distance travelled to the start
of a walk, the activities undertaken during the walk and the size and composition of the party
remained similar between 1995 and 2000.
Cycling
Cycle counters have only recently been installed at locations on Sustrans’ NCN in North
Ayrshire, however, as yet no accurate data is available on the number of cyclists using the
NCN or local cycle routes.
Anecdotal evidence indicates that significant number of visitors’ cycle on Arran, particularly
along the popular Brodick to Corrie route. Numbers are likely to be significantly higher during
the summer months than during winter.
In terms of Scotland, the Bicycle Association estimates that there are around 65,000 cycle
trips per week, which amounts to around 3 and a half million trips a year. However, other
surveys have indicated it may be as many as 7 million cycling trips a year. As with other
forms of outdoor recreation, cycling is seeing a revival, with far more people taking part in it.
In particular, mountain biking has become popular, and this type of bike permits use of
rougher paths and tracks than was often possible previously.
Statistics about cycling in Scotland include:
•
•
5% of the adult population cycle each month.
45% of households have at least one bike. Cycle ownership has increased since the early
1980s, however cycle use has decreased in the same period.
9
•
•
15% of respondents in a recent survey suggested that the provision of more cycle paths
was the development most likely to increase their cycle usage.
Cycling is a popular activity with visitors to Scotland. Over 100,000 trips were made in
1994 specifically for the purpose of cycling, these generating expenditure of £15 million.
Horse Riding
Stables are widespread throughout the area and many horses are evident on the paths and
tracks of North Ayrshire. Recent surveys undertaken by the British Horse Society of its
members in North Ayrshire indicated that extensive use is made of existing networks including
the use of minor roads to connect routes.
Statistics about horse riding in Scotland include:
•
•
•
65,00 people ride each week.
7% of households participate in horse riding.
Riding is a popular holiday activity. The Scottish Tourist Board estimates that visitors
participating in horse riding generate £17 million each year.
Latent Demand for Access
Population Distribution
A key element of an effective access strategy is proper understanding of the location and
nature of the population to be served by the access opportunities and routes. Traditional
countryside access, for example, often provides the high density of routes in rural areas,
where the majority of urban dwellers cannot easily get to them.
North Ayrshire has a total population of around 138,850. These people live in the following
community areas:
Settlement
Irvine / Kilwinning
Three Towns: Saltcoats / Ardrossan / Stevenston
Garnock Valley
North Coast including Cumbraes
Arran
Total
Data Source: General Register Office (Scotland)
Population (2000)
57,911
33,165
21,201
21,855
4,718
138,850
It can be seen that the largest concentration of population is Irvine / Kilwinning, with the Three
Towns a second key centre. The rest of the population are distributed into numerous small
‘pockets’ in the rural areas, together with some linear settlements along the A737 (Dalry,
Beith, etc) and the A78 (West Kilbride, Largs, etc). Brodick and Millport are the principal
population centres on the Isle of Arran and Cumbrae respectively. Much of the remainder of
the county area is rural open space.
10
Whilst most of these people live within the principal urban areas of the district, there are many
small settlements and communities in other areas of the countryside that amount to significant
proportion of the population and which provides more local sources of demand.
The dispersed nature of the rural population creates opportunities for access, but also
challenges in that many different and distinct communities must be consulted and brought
together to plan and deliver coherent networks of paths connecting all communities.
It is recognised that the population in the more established tourist destinations, principally
Arran, the North Coast and Cumbraes can fluctuate significantly during the year and will
generally be higher during the tourist season than the population figures provided.
Deprivation
The new Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) was published in February 2003. The
Social Disadvantage Research Centre, University of Oxford carried out the work on behalf of
the Scottish Executive. The findings relating to North Ayrshire are summarised below.
Local Authority Analysis
At the local authority level various measures have been devised in order to compare deprivation
across the country. North Ayrshire is ranked 7th most deprived local authority in Scotland on the
average of ward scores taking into account the full range of ward measures across a local
authority.
The average of ward ranks is the population weighted average of the combined SIMD ranks for
the wards in a local authority. This measure is similar to the above but instead uses average rank
rather than score. On this measure North Ayrshire is ranked 7th most deprived local authority in
Scotland.
The ‘Extent Score’ is the proportion of a local authority's population living in wards that rank within
the most deprived 10% of wards in Scotland. The aim of this measure is to portray how
widespread high levels of deprivation are in a local authority and shows the proportion of the
population living in the 10% most deprived wards in Scotland. North Ayrshire is ranked 7th most
deprived local authority in Scotland on this measure and has 13% of its population living in the
10% most deprived wards in Scotland.
The ‘Local Concentration Score’ is the population-weighted average of the ranks of a local
authority's most deprived wards that contain exactly 10% of the local authority's population. The
local concentration is a way of identifying local authorities' "hot spots" of deprivation. North
Ayrshire is ranked 9th most deprived local authority in Scotland on this measure.
Ward Level Analysis
At the ward level there is six indices for each ward in Scotland, five domain indices and an overall
SIMD. There are 1222 wards in Scotland. The most deprived ward for each index is ranked 1,
and the least deprived is ranked 1222.
The ‘Overall SIMD Score’ describes the ward by combining information from all five domains:
income, employment, health, education and access. Four North Ayrshire wards are in the 10%
most deprived in Scotland namely:
11
Ward
Saltcoats East
Irvine Vineburgh And Woodlands South
Stevenston South
Irvine West
Scottish Rank (out of 1222)
60
65
89
98
Income Deprivation Score
Eight North Ayrshire wards are in the 10% most income deprived in Scotland namely:
Ward
Irvine Vineburgh And Woodlands South
Saltcoats East
Stevenston South
Kilwinning South
Ardrossan South
Saltcoats North
Irvine West
Irvine North
Scottish Rank (out of 1222)
34
52
84
96
110
113
115
121
Employment Deprivation Score
Four North Ayrshire wards are in the 10% most employment deprived in Scotland namely:
Ward
Saltcoats East
Irvine Vineburgh And Woodlands South
Irvine West
Stevenston South
Scottish Rank (out of 1222)
51
61
64
102
Education Deprivation Score
One North Ayrshire ward is in the 10% most education deprived in Scotland namely:
Ward
Saltcoats East
Scottish Rank (out of 1222)
113
Health Deprivation Score
Two North Ayrshire wards are in the 10% most health deprived in Scotland namely:
Ward
Stevenston South
Saltcoats East
Scottish Rank (out of 1222)
84
114
12
Access (to Community Facilities) Deprivation Score
One North Ayrshire ward is in the 10% most access deprived in Scotland namely:
Ward
Scottish Rank (out of 1222)
Arran
73
Social Exclusion Issues in North Ayrshire
These issues are pertinent to an access strategy for two reasons:
1. The development and use of access for and by communities is an opportunity to promote
social inclusion and healthier behaviour and lifestyles.
2. An access strategy must not become another means through which the exclusion of some
members of the community is compounded and strengthened because they are physically
or socially remote from the access opportunities.
Social exclusion arises from systematic disadvantage in many different areas of life. The
disadvantage often lies in a combination of finance, poor health, few or missed opportunities,
poor amenities and poor physical and social environment. In its own paper Social inclusion,
Opening the door to a better Scotland, the government note:
‘Social exclusion manifests itself in a number of ways, many of which are connected and
mutually reinforcing; for example, bad health can be both a cause of unemployment and an
effect of the poverty which unemployment can bring about’
The roots of social exclusion are intergenerational poverty and lack of (or restricted)
opportunities from childhood, through education and on into adult life. An access strategy can
do little to address the macro-economic issues of poverty and unemployment, but it may
make a valuable contribution to combating the inequalities in opportunity that exist in our
communities and which hold some groups of people consistently at the bottom of the pile.
Helping to break that cycle needs to be part of this access strategy. An effective access
strategy needs to be well informed. In the following sections we explore health and wealth in
the area as a whole and then some important features of the area’s social geography.
How are Social Exclusion and Health Linked?
Those most socially and economically disadvantaged are proven to be at highest risk of death
from heart disease, lung cancer, and many forms of respiratory disease as well as poor
physical and mental health at all ages. Any opportunity to increase the amount of exercise,
recreation and stimulation amongst these groups will have a beneficial effect on both physical
and mental health.
Potential benefits from a well-devised access strategy are not only centred on exercise
opportunities and their associated health benefits. Contemporary health research shows that
a stimulating, active and caring community may also be a healthy one. There is strong
evidence to suggest that participation in community process and contact with the community
members can have a beneficial effect on physical and mental health. In other words, where a
community is actively involved in the process of defining, creating or maintaining its public
access opportunities, that process itself can be a potential source of health benefit to all those
who participate.
13
The community consultation processes that ought to surround public access form an ideal
basis for developing community interaction and support, for socially including those most
often excluded. In Opening the Door To a Better Scotland the government notes that
promotion of social inclusion can be achieved through ‘promoting opportunities to participate,
whether in work, in learning or in society more generally’, and ‘strengthening communities’
(section 9.2).
Key
SIP Areas
Settlements
FIGURE 3
Distribution of Social Inclusion Partnerships (SIP)
14
The access strategy is thus not only about building, using and maintaining path networks, it is
also about building, using and maintaining social networks.
Distribution of Risk of Social Exclusion
There is a high level of social exclusion within North Ayrshire with rural communities facing
severe disadvantage due to poor public transport facilities. The Social inclusion partnership
(SIP) was set up in 1999 to address some of these issues and covers areas in the “Three
Towns” (Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston), Irvine, Kilwinning, Springside, Beith, Kilbirnie
and Largs, highlighted by the figure below.
It can be seen that the population with the highest risk of social exclusion to be concentrated
in the Three Towns, Irvine / Kilwinning and Garnock Valley and in many small pockets
dispersed throughout the council area. The Three Towns clearly contains the highest
concentration of population at risk of social exclusion. The characteristics and cures for social
exclusion in an urban and in a rural context are likely to be very different.
Effective access provision is not simply a matter of maximising access opportunities close to
the greatest weight of population. When matching provision to need the measure of ‘need’
itself should take account of variation in population character. Given the explanation of
relationships between wealth, social exclusion and health, and our recognition that the area
contains some high levels of poverty, it is appropriate to consider the distribution of social
exclusion.
A Strategy to Include Everyone
Ensuring comprehensive community participation in this process must thus form a central part
of any public access strategy. The provision of access must not only be about equal
opportunity for all in the use and enjoyment of access routes - it must be about equal
opportunity to participate in the process of their creation and maintenance. Creating equality
does not mean having an ‘open to all’ policy at public meetings and events. It requires active
recruitment, encouragement and even rewarding those parts of the community, which are
hardest to reach. Equality and inclusion requires an unequal amount of effort on different
groups within the community.
At a policy level, information is a key aspect to ensuring that the strategy benefits everyone
and especially those most in need of the benefits that access opportunities can bring. The
location and nature of need must be understood in relation to provision of access
opportunities.
Health
North Ayrshire falls within the Ayrshire and Arran health board, an area known to contain
numerous pockets of poor health.
The elderly population is higher than the Scottish average, with North Ayrshire’s figures
predicted to increase by a further 31% between 2000 and 2016. The Island of Cumbrae has
double the % of pensioners compared to the rest of North Ayrshire.
15
The biggest killers in the area are heart disease and cancer (accounting for about 25% of
deaths each) and stroke (about 12%). Lung cancer accounts for about a quarter of the
cancer deaths (GRO (S)). A lack of physical activity is an important contributory factor to
many premature deaths from heart disease and stroke. Inequalities within the area are
continuing to widen with falls in heart disease in affluent areas not being matched in poorer
areas.
Although rates of teenage pregnancy (a good indicator of health and well being amongst the
child and young adult population) are falling, they remain amongst the highest in Scotland at
56.6 births per 1000 females’ aged 13 – 19 (Ayrshire & Arran HB 1998).
There is some evidence to suggest typical blood pressures are slightly higher than the
Scottish average amongst women in the area, and that the incidence of high blood pressure
is greater amongst women.
Rates of admission to hospital for mental health problems are about 6% higher than the
Scottish average. Depression remains the second most common reason for seeing a GP in
the health board area. Feeling part of a community, having social networks to draw on (and
give to) are significant factors in combating mental health problems.
Similar sources of statistics about smoking suggest about a third of the area residents are
current smokers. Numbers of women who smoke during pregnancy in North Ayrshire are well
above the national average. This can cause lower birth weighs for their babies, a long-term
predictor of poorer health and achievement. There is also a definite increase in smoking
behaviour with deprivation for all age groups. Alcohol consumption is about average for
Scotland.
The recent formation of a local ‘Ways to Walk’ project is all about promoting walking for
health. Ways to walk is a 3-year project mainly funded by the national ‘Paths to Health’
initiative. Based in the Three Towns and with a recently appointed co-ordinator the project
has already led walks in Largs, Irvine and the Three Towns.
Wealth
North Ayrshire contains a mixed population with regard to wealth. Although the area attracts
wealthy commuters, there are also pockets of poverty. This is partly driven by high
unemployment rates (overall unemployment rate of 9.4 % compared to 4.4% for Scotland)
which are especially a problem amongst men (Residence based unemployment rates
September 2002 – Research & Intelligence Unit, North Ayrshire Council).
Male unemployment in North Ayrshire was 13.4% across the whole area compared to 6.4%
for Scotland, rising to 19% in one local council ward in Irvine. The average gross weekly
earnings of full time employees in the area are 90% that of the national average (Scottish
economic statistics 2000), with figures for income support claimants approximately 12%
higher.
Destinations of school leavers are a good indication of the state of the local economy, and
relatively high proportions go to training or unemployment rather than work.
Problems associated with remote rural areas (expense of necessary travel, delivery of
services etc.) all contribute to a population that is divided in terms of its wealth and quality of
life.
16
Activity Levels
Out of a sample of 2,435 people in Ayrshire and Arran, more than half did not take enough
regular physical activity, with those in the lowest socio-economic group most likely to be in
this category. A third of males cite illness / disability as a reason for not being physically
active (Adult Lifestyle Survey Ayrshire & Arran) and men with illness do not feel physically or
emotionally capable of taking part in physical activity (Lets Make Scotland More Active).
Much research has illustrated the importance of physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle,
with a low level of physical activity one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Lack of physical activity can also contribute to other health problems such as non-insulindependent diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis. Conversely, higher levels of physical activity
have been shown to be associated with longevity and may even help to resist cancer.
Broad indications of typical levels of physical activity in the area can be gained from the
Scottish health survey (though this distinguishes only an area that includes Arran and
Ayrshire health board and Lanarkshire). The survey found that for this region comparatively
low levels of exercise are taken by residents, with the 2nd highest proportion of residents
taking no exercise at all (25%, second only to the Greater Glasgow area). Levels of
participation in sport were particularly low.
Tourism
The development of tourism within North Ayrshire is likely to deliver the potential to generate
increased ‘unrealised demand’ for access for walkers, cyclists and horse riders and other
outdoor activities.
North Ayrshire’s coastline and extensive countryside offers a valuable opportunity to attract
more tourists to the area. The existing potential of historical highlights and breathtaking views
to attract visitors to North Ayrshire could be complemented by improving / increasing the
provision of access opportunities. The development of opportunities such as these would
therefore result in more visitors coming to the area to participate in outdoor access related
activities
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APPENDIX THREE - POLICY AUDIT
This section into account takes policy and guidance from the local and regional level through
to national level.
Access relates to and has an important part to play in the achievement of the policy objectives
of a wide range of national and local organisations. To insure that the access strategy takes
in to account all interests, it is therefore essential to review the policies of organisations that
have an influence on access provision. Whilst it would be impossible for this section to be
exhaustive, it aims to cover the most pertinent areas of policy.
The key themes that the policies relate to are as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Access policy
Economic policy
Environmental policy
Health policy
Land management
Recreation policy
Social Inclusion policy
Transport policy
Tourism policy
Other policy areas
Access Policy
The debate on outdoor access is not a new one. Interest in and commitment to outdoor
access has been demonstrated over a long period of time. Enjoying the Outdoors, a
Programme for Action (1994) set out Scottish Natural Heritage's (SNH) policies and
commitments to access and the countryside and provided the context for the Paths for All
Initiative. It states that:
•
•
SNH is committed to working for improved access for the enjoyment and understanding of
the natural heritage. SNH will promote access in ways, which show care, and respect for
others' interests which do not devalue the natural heritage and which are sustainable in
outcome.
SNH's vision for the development of better local access is simple: within the next decade,
communities throughout Scotland should have networks for local paths for the enjoyment
of local people and visitors. The "Paths for All" Initiative is about promoting this vision,
showing how it can be achieved and assisting the development of local partnerships to
make it happen
Other policy statements suggest that:
•
•
•
Access solutions should be comfortable. Arrangements for access should promote
confidence in visitors about where and when they can be on land, and confidence among
landowners and managers that they will have support when they meet significant
problems;
More separated provision is needed for cycling and horse riding and SNH encourages
local authorities to take action;
SNH will aim in "Paths for All" to promote the need for integrated provision for people with
special needs to assist them to have good opportunities to enjoy the outdoors;
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•
•
•
Enjoyment of the countryside should be without charge, although charges will be
appropriate where specific services are provided;
SNH welcomes the role of Local Enterprise Companies in investment to improve access
for tourism and local use, and encourages more of this. Investment of capital in this way
should recognise the revenue implications and the need to upgrade the quality of existing
provision in busy tourist areas;
Clubs and other voluntary organisations should consider new initiatives to put something
back in through voluntary action to help manage or care for the resources they use.
SNH's 1997 guidance Countryside Recreation and Access Strategies set out the guidance
that many Local Authorities have followed to produce their Access Strategies. It proposes the
following concepts:
Strategies are concerned with inventing and delivering a desirable future. They should be
based on co-operation and bring together all the stakeholders who will be affected by their
implementation
SNH was tasked to review the framework for access and developed a working party of
stakeholders as the Access Forum to examine these issues. Based on the findings of the
Access Forum, SNH in 1998 published Access to the Countryside for Open-air Recreation
as guidance to the Government on Access. The government accepted the recommendation of
the Forum and used it as a framework to develop the draft Land Reform Act section on
Access.
The principle conclusion of the forum was that:
There should be a right of access to land and water for informal recreation and passage,
subject to responsible exercise of that right, to the protection and privacy of individuals, to
safeguards for the operational needs of land managers, and subject to any necessary
restraints for conservation needs.
The provisions on Access in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 reflect much of the
Scottish Natural Heritage advice. The policy aim is to create greater opportunities for people
to enjoy the countryside. In doing so the policy is designed to promote social inclusion by
improving people's health and their quality of life. The Act creates a right of responsible
access for recreation and passage. It aims to:
Create greater opportunity for people to visit and enjoy our countryside without interfering
unduly with legitimate land management operations
The Act aims to strike a balance between the desire of users to enjoy the outdoors and the
need of those who earn their living from the countryside to continue to do so. It also provides
Local Authorities with new powers and duties in respect of the provision of access. The new
legislation and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code is based on the following concepts:
•
•
The right of access must be exercised responsibly. The terms of responsible access will
be identified in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
The act outlines the new obligations for land mangers such as they should not impede the
ability of people to exercise the right of responsible access. They should also welcome
and facilitate public access and should work with Local Authorities and other agencies to
do so. The issue of liability remains unchanged in relation to the act.
20
•
•
•
•
•
There are also new obligations for Local Authorities such as a duty to facilitate and plan for
access, develop a Core Path Network Plan and develop and maintain a Core Path
Network for their area.
Each local authority is required to set up at least one Local Access Forum. These Fora
based on a tripartite structure of land managers; land users and agencies will have an
important remit in relation to access. They will advise the Local Authority, review the
legislation, develop advice and assist with resolution of disputes.
There is the need for a co-ordinated; planned approach to access due to the number of
agencies that will have a role in facilitating and managing access. This should be led by
Local Authorities and should utilise the Local Plan process
Adjustments will be required to be made to public funding to support the management of
land and water for access.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code will replace the existing Countryside Code and will be
a mechanism to encourage responsible behaviour in the outdoors.
North Ayrshire Council’s commitment to outdoor access is highlighted within the Countryside
and Natural Environment section of the North Ayrshire Local Plan (Excluding Arran) and
the Isle of Arran Replacement Local Plan. Policy ENV 10 (P) Access to the Countryside
states that the Council, in implementing the access legislation, shall work closely with the
relevant agencies to,
(a) establish a local access forum;
(b) develop an Access Strategy;
(c) identify , and maintain a public record of, a core path network
Whilst rights of Way are not directly dealt with by the new legislation, they are none the less
important to outdoor access, in terms of access provision and the core Path Network. Rights
of Way (RoW) are covered by Section 46 (I) of the Countryside (Scotland) Act 1967 which
states that:
It shall be the duty of the local planning authority to assert, protect and keep free and open
from obstruction or encroachment any public right of way which is wholly or partly in their
area, and they may for these purposes institute and defend legal proceedings and generally
take such steps as they may deem expedient.
The development control process provides an important opportunity for the development of
the path network. Under the Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act 1997 planning
authorities are provided with certain abilities including:
•
Under Section 37 - the power to impose conditions on planning permission, where
generally permission would be refused. This is particularly important in cases where
development proposals would otherwise have a negative effect on transport provision.
Conditions should only be imposed where they are necessary, relevant to planning,
relevant to the development being permitted, enforceable, precise and reasonable. They
should be used to achieve a specific end and not to cover every eventuality. Wherever
appropriate development plans should specify the policies, which the authority proposes to
implement regularly by means of planning conditions. This affords applicants the
opportunity to incorporate appropriate details in their submissions and reduces the need to
impose specific conditions.
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•
Under Section 75 - the ability to enter into agreement, with a view to regulating future use,
with any person interested in land. These agreements are most regularly used in
association with planning applications and are used by planning authorities to increase
development control powers and address environmental concerns. Planning agreements
have a limited but useful role in development control and can be used to overcome
obstacles to the grant of planning permission. These apply to the property and the
landowner rather than just the permission to develop. Wherever possible, planning
conditions should be used in preference to agreements. These should in a similar manner
to conditions be reasonable, serve a planning purpose and be related in scale and kind to
the proposed development
The Arran Access Trust was established in 1996 with three primary purposes. These were: to
provide, improve and maintain access, integrating the needs of land managers, users,
community and the natural heritage; to promote the aims of the National Access Concordat
and to seek funding towards achieving these aims effectively.
The Trust commissioned a survey in conjunction with Scottish Natural Heritage and North
Ayrshire Council in 2000 entitled Arran Access Trust Paths and Tracks Strategy. From
this Strategy a vision for the Trust was developed:
To provide opportunities for all residents and visitors to Arran to enjoy the benefits of walking,
cycling and riding over a diverse network of readily identifiable well maintained routes without
prejudice to the economic, natural, historical or cultural well-being of the island.
Economic Policy
Access can produce wide-ranging benefits to the local economy. North Ayrshire is covered
by two subsidiary companies of Scottish Enterprise Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire (SEA) and
Argyll and Islands Enterprise (AIE). Both are committed to partnership working and the
promotion of socially inclusive economic development.
A Smart, Successful Scotland: Ambitions for the Enterprise Networks (2001) defines the
priorities for economic development of the Scottish Enterprise. Within the strategy key
themes of Growing Businesses, Global Connections and Learning and Skills are identified.
Potential opportunities within these themes that access can feed into include the promotion
access to employment opportunities, the strengthening of the tourism sector and provision a
high quality investment environment.
Argyll and Islands Enterprise’s strategy, A Smart, Successful Scotland: The Highlands and
Islands Dimension, is aimed at developing an economically sustainable and socially vibrant
Highlands and Islands, into which Arran and the Cumbraes fall. The aim will be met by
pursuing four strategic objectives, which are strengthening communities, developing skills,
making global connections and growing businesses. The principles identified to implement
the strategy are sustainability, inclusion, working in partnership and accountability. The
following priorities are identified for strengthening communities:
•
•
•
Investment in community assets and services
Development of community strengths, leadership and confidence
Enhancement of the quality of the environment and culture
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The Ayrshire Economic Forum’s strategy for economic development, Ayrshire: Scotland’s
Western Gateway, aims to develop Scottish Enterprise’s A Smart Successful Scotland on a
local level. The Strategy identifies a vision for Ayrshire as follows:
In the 21st century Ayrshire will again be a vibrant and sustainable economy which, both in its
own right and in partnership with other areas of Scotland, contributes to the wider economy
and in which all of Ayrshire’s people enjoy the levels of opportunity for employment and the
level of prosperity expected throughout Scotland.
It identifies five strategic drivers to meet the economic challenges facing Ayrshire and building
on its strengths, in all of which outdoor access can have a key role in meeting:
•
•
•
•
•
Creating a business infrastructure for the 21st
Growing a knowledge and enterprise based economy
Developing a positive workforce
Ayrshire – working for Scotland
Developing a pride in Ayrshire
The Scottish Executive has recently issued a strategy, Rural Scotland: A New Approach to
address the social and economic problems that rural communities in upland and lowland
Scotland face. It sets out a vision of rural Scotland in which the communities are:
•
•
•
•
Integral to Scotland's success, dynamic in harnessing its traditional strengths, and with an
appetite for change
Providing opportunity for young people - so they do not have to leave to get on
Offering a high quality of life to all its citizens, with access to services
Sustaining and making the most of its natural and cultural heritage
It has identified a number of practical overarching aims to reflect the vision statement as
follows:
•
•
•
•
Our future prosperity depends on combining traditional strengths with an appetite for
change. We will support employers and communities to stimulate local and national
economic success.
We will invest in young people by bringing childcare, education, training and employment
opportunities to where they live and work. Getting on need not mean going away.
We will improve access to services essential to our life and work, and ensure that quality
of life will depend on what you need, not where you are
Scotland's natural and cultural heritage must be allowed to flourish in all its diversity. We
will encourage local and regional influences to play their part in enriching the nation
Outdoor access provision has a role to play in assisting the achievement of all of these aims.
Environmental Policy
Local Agenda 21 (LA21) is the process by which Local Authorities are implementing
sustainable development at a local level. LA21 originated from the Earth Summit in 1992 and
is defined as the harmony between society's social, economic and environmental
requirements. Access has an invaluable role to play in the achievement of LA21’s objectives
for example by encouraging the use of sustainable transport systems.
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The Ayrshire Biodiversity Action Plan aim to integrate the conservation of habitats and
species with other plans, policies, programmes and processes. A wide range of organisations
including the three Ayrshire Local Authorities in collaboration with the Ayrshire Joint Structure
Plan developed the plan. It focuses on a coherent corporate Ayrshire-wide approach to
biodiversity conservation. The main aims of the plan are:
•
•
•
•
To identify habitats and species protected by national and international legislation
Identify specific opportunities for enhancing the natural heritage
Create new and improved “green corridors” and other linkages between individual sites of
natural heritage value
Support the development of management proposals to preserve the nature conservation
interest and enhance the biodiversity of Ayrshire
Access has a role to play in achieving the Biodiversity Action Plan by ensuring that outdoor
access opportunities are sensitively created and managed.
The North Ayrshire Sustainable Development Strategy puts the LA21 process into context
for North Ayrshire. It should be seen in the context of the Community Planning process and
highlights the importance of a sustainable community in which everyone works together to
maintain their long term social, economic and environmental well being. It states that Access
to work, goods, services and other people should not be achieved at the expense of the
environment or limited to those with cars. It also identifies the of importance of the following
areas, in which access has an important role to fulfil:
•
•
•
A healthy environment
A prosperous economy
An inclusive society
North Ayrshire Council's Environmental Policy has eight challenges set out and this can be
met in part by access. The challenges are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
To increase knowledge of the environment and encourage participation in its protection
locally
To protect and enhance the built environment
To protect and enhance the local environment
To reduce environmental damage
To control all forms of pollution
To reduce energy consumption and promote energy conservation
To promote good health
To check regularly North Ayrshire Council's environmental performance
The importance of need to form close links with all sectors of the community to encourage
and support local initiatives, to pool expertise and to maximise use of available resources is
highlighted in the policy. Other areas of significance identified are; the need to encourage
sustainable public access to and enjoyment of the countryside, the importance of encouraging
healthy lifestyle choices and reducing the fear of crime within North Ayrshire. The Local
Access Forum will provide a valuable mechanism to form these links and develop the
process.
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Health Policy
The Green Paper Working together for a Healthier Scotland (1998) identifies the
importance of transport and access to health improvement.
Transport is influential on health in a number of ways. Access to health services, shopping
centres and recreational facilities is made easier. This is particularly important for isolated
rural and deprived communities. Pollution, too, can be addressed by policies which reduce
the need to travel and dependency on cars, especially in urban centres; and greater provision
for cyclists and pedestrians contributes to both a cleaner, safer environment and to improved
health through increased physical activity.
Following the Government's white paper Towards a Healthier Scotland, the National
Physical Activity Task Force was set up. The National Strategy for Physical Activity, Let's
make Scotland more Active (2002) was developed from this with the aim to change the
trend towards physical inactivity and to set out the vision that:
People in Scotland will enjoy the benefits of having a physically active life.
One of the strategic objectives is to develop and maintain long-lasting, high quality physical
and social environments to support inactive people to become active. The benefits of starting
walking and cycling even for half and hour every few days have been greatly publicised and
outdoor access will therefor have an invaluable part to play in achieving these aims.
An example of possible activity recommended to achieve this objective is that all children and
young people including those with disabilities should take part in at least one hour a day of
physical activity. Two examples of such physical activity identified include outdoor activities
and active travel and it is suggested that these groups should be provided with support to be
active in their daily tasks at home, at school and in the community.
The Health Education Board for Scotland (HEBS) is part of the National Health Service in
Scotland. The Board aims to promote good health through the empowerment of individuals,
groups and communities. The Health Boards are all principal partners in HEBS. Ayrshire
and Arran Health Board covers the three Ayrshires. Its aim is to improve the health and
reduce inequalities in the local population
Land Management
The Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park occupies an extensive area of land in the north east of
North Ayrshire. It is operated by the Park Authority, on behalf of Inverclyde, Renfrewshire and
North Ayrshire Councils, Scottish Natural Heritage, and in co-operation with local landowners.
The Regional Park provides an area of land managed for public enjoyment of the natural
heritage and provision of informal recreation opportunities and has a strong tourism focus.
Within the North Ayrshire sector of the Park access opportunities are good, with hill walking
opportunities in particular being fairly extensive.
The Park’s Integrated Land Use Strategy provides a vision statement for the Park of:
A well managed, high quality landscape offering tourists, day visitors, locals and educational
groups access to a wide range of recreational opportunities. The development and
management of these will be undertaken on an integrated, co-ordinated basis facilitated by
25
the Park Authority in partnership with both private and public sector agencies and will be
sufficiently well resourced to achieve real benefits, both in terms of economic impact and
visitor enjoyment.
The Regional Park’s rolling principal strategic document, the Park Strategy 2004 – 07 sets out
its strategic aims based around six areas of activity chosen to be inclusive of all the work of
the Park. The five main areas in which outdoor access has a role to play in achieving are
identified as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
Recreation and Access – to manage the Park’s resources to provide for a wide range of
sustainable recreational activities for the enjoyment of all and to improve the health and
well being of our users whilst minimising the impact on farmers, land managers, other land
users and those who live and work in the area
Biodiversity and Nature Conservation – to conserve and enhance our wildlife and habitats
including semi-natural woodlands, wetlands and moors in harmony with a thriving landbased economy while allowing for public enjoyment
Education and understanding – through our environmental education, interpretation and
communication activities raise the awareness, understanding and appreciation of the
special qualities of Clyde Muirshiel and the work of the Park Authority in it’s conservation
and management
Landscape and Built Heritage – to conserve and enhance the character of this landscape
and its man-made features by integrated management and through the provision of
services that help visitors understand and enjoy it.
Tourism – to provide a wide range of quality, sustainable tourism products, facilities and
services to visitors. These will be appropriate to the qualities of the Park and will bring
economic benefit to the area
The Scottish Landowners Federation (SLF) represents the interests of Scottish landowners
and is a partner in the Paths for All Partnership. They support managed access that allows
landowners to continue with their normal activities and their aims include:
•
•
•
Promoting policies to achieve a productive and sustainable rural economy, by creating
new opportunities for new and existing businesses.
Creating greater awareness of countryside management its practices and the close interdependence of rural businesses, the environment and people in rural Scotland.
Identifying new opportunities to co-operate with other rural and national bodies in pursuit
of these goals.
The National Farmers Union (Scotland) represent the interests of Scottish Farmers and is
supportive of structured or managed access to reduce the potential conflicts between land
managers and users.
The Paths for All Partnership (PfAP) was established in 1996 to take forward the Paths for
All Initiative, which is promoted and substantially funded by SNH. It represents 19
organisations including national agencies, recreational users and land managers. It provides
advice and technical support to assist with the development of path networks all over
Scotland. Its mission is:
26
To facilitate the creation of well designed, managed and promoted networks of path for
walkers, horse riders and cyclists regardless of age and ability
The National Trust for Scotland owns. Access to the countryside is a principal purpose of the
Trust, which is highlighted in its Open Countryside policy. The policy outlines the Trust’s
guiding principles in relation to a wide range of recreational activities at Trust properties.
These principles include that the Trust:
• Will continue to make assessments of new walking opportunities, in particular the
provision of more places to stop, as well as places to go, and more routes for visitors with
reduced mobility (young families, elderly, disabled visitors etc.).
• Allows and welcomes freedom to roam over its unenclosed land and woods. This does not
necessarily apply to dogs
• Welcomes canoeists on suitable waters and should seek to identify new opportunities for
canoeing.
• Welcomes cyclists on its land and encourages cycling both as an activity and as a means
of transport, recognising the benefits to health and that responsible use causes negligible
damage to the environment.
• Welcomes equestrian access on its land and will seek to promote and extend provision in
conjunction with its farm tenants wherever appropriate. In particular, it will look for safe offroad routes and contribute to a wider network on its own and neighbouring land.
The Wild Land Policy outlines the Trust’s stance on the management of wild land areas.
The economic value of recreational opportunities offered by places with wild land quality has
been documented in a variety of research. The policy outlines that Wild land in Scotland is
relatively remote and inaccessible but noticeably affected by contemporary human activity. It
outlines the mechanisms by which the Trust aims to protect it and still enable the land to offer
the high quality opportunities to escape from the pressures of everyday living and to find
physical and spiritual refreshment that defines it.
Recreation
Despite predating the new access legislation National Planning Policy Guideline 11 (NPPG
11) Sport, Physical Recreation and Open Space reflects various provisions covered by the
Act. Outdoor access provision can assist in meeting the aims it identifies for local authorities.
The aims it proposes are:
•
•
•
•
To meet the sporting and recreational needs of residents, tourists and visitors, while
safeguarding the quality of the natural and cultural heritage;
To safeguard a system of open spaces for formal and informal recreation needs within
urban areas, ranging from easily accessible small local green spaces to country parks and
path networks
To safeguard facilities and resources for sport and recreation in urban areas and the
countryside which contribute to existing and future needs
To pay special regard to those who find it difficult to gain access to sport
Planning Advice Note 65: Planning and Open Space reiterates the importance of open
spaces to the quality of individuals lives and the range of social and economic benefits that it
provides. It suggests that Local Authorities develop open space strategies and:
27
Where possible, spaces should link together in a network, providing the landscape and
townscape structure in the urban area. Networks can encourage walking and cycling, while
green networks and corridors can promote biodiversity.
The National Planning Policy Guideline 14 (NPPG 14) Natural Heritage provides guidance
as to how the Government's policies for the conservation and enhancement of Scotland's
natural heritage should be reflected in land use planning. It highlights under the heading of
Enjoyment and Understanding of the Natural Heritage the importance of access and open-air
recreation.
The natural heritage is enjoyed both for its intrinsic value and as a setting for open-air
recreational and educational activities, which depend on its qualities. Many of the direct
benefits, which accrue to rural communities, form economic activities dependant on day trip
visitors or tourism. Good provision for open-air recreation and access to the natural heritage
also benefit the nation through less quantifiable benefits in terms of health and quality of life.
Regional and Country parks play a valuable role in providing opportunities for urban
populations to gain access to attractive areas of countryside for recreation and enjoyment of
the natural heritage.
NPPG 15 Rural Development recognises that the countryside provides a range of venues for
informal recreation such as walking, cycling and horse riding. It states that:
Footpaths, bridle ways, byways, towpaths and Cycle routes increase the opportunities to
enjoy the countryside.
It also reiterates the Governments commitment to Access and stresses the importance of
tailoring provision of facilities to meet the individual communities needs:
Residents in rural areas have similar needs for sports and recreation as those in towns and
cities, but the provision of facilities has to be tailored to the smaller and more widely scattered
population.
Sportscotland is the National agency dedicated to promote sport opportunities for all Scots of
all levels, whatever their interests or ability. It replaced the Scottish Sports Council in 1999.
One of the key objectives in relation to countryside activity is:
To facilitate access and opportunities for all to participate in countryside sport and physical
recreation safely and with due consideration for environmental concerns
The Forests for Scotland: the Scottish Forestry Strategy by the Scottish Executive, set
out a strategic direction to create opportunities for more people to enjoy trees, woods and
forests in Scotland. It recognises the importance of forestry for attracting a wide range of
tourists and that more effort is required to sustain and enhance tourist facilities. The priorities
for action were identified as follows:
•
•
•
Provide woodland recreation opportunities near towns
Improve the availability of information about opportunities
Increase forestry's contribution to tourism
The strategy explains that all Forestry Commission land (managed by Forest Enterprise) is
open for access and contains a wide range of facilities and they intend to continue to promote
recreation in forests and woodland. Additionally the Forest Authority promotes the Walkers
Welcome Initiative, which encourages access to private sector woodland.
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Two of the main objectives of the Ayrshire Joint Structure Plan 1999 - A framework for the
21st Century are relevant to outdoor access. These are to conserve and enhance the natural
and built environment and explore enhanced leisure opportunities and to maintain and secure
improvements to infrastructure in order to enhance economic prosperity and "quality of life."
•
•
Policy L7 that aims to promote and enhance town centres by amongst other methods,
improving pedestrian and cycle access.
Policy E5 which aims to make provision for leisure, sporting and recreation facilities.
The proposals for the achievement of these policies include, developing and enhancing
existing recreational infrastructure and maximising access at the coast. It also suggests
promoting a strategic network of walking and cycling routes and achieving co-ordinated
tourism, environmental and access initiatives along the valleys of the River Garnock. As well,
it highlights the potential for developing opportunities for access linked to environmental
improvements at the edge of settlements
The Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Local Plan Policy LT8 (P) notes the importance
of walking and cycling to North Ayrshire. It states that the council shall implement a
programme of works to extend and improve the existing footpath and cycle route network to
link tourist and leisure facilities from Stevenston Beach Park through to Saltcoats Seafront
and throughout the area.
The context of the Ayrshire Woodland Strategy (AWS) was provided by the publication of
the Scottish Forestry Strategy. One of the challenges identified by the AWS is to develop the
recreational potential of woodlands for the broader community. The following action points
within which outdoor access has a role to play are identified in relation to tourism and
recreation:
Action point TO2 - Investigate the feasibility of developing woodland areas of Southern Arran
to maximise potential recreation and tourist opportunity.
Action Point TO3 - Develop formal recreation strategies within appropriate large-scale
woodlands.
Action Point TO4 - Identify funding sources to allow further development and management of
facilities in Southern Arran.
Action Point TO5 - Protect and enhance the landscape setting and visual amenity of the
recreation and tourist network.
Action Point TO6 - Target funding towards the development of forest recreation and tourist
opportunities.
Social Inclusion
The Local Government, etc (Scotland) Act 1994 created a continuing obligation for Local
Authorities. This must meet the ever-changing demands of the whole population and not a
minority that utilise certain provisions. It requires LAs to ensure that there is adequate
provision of facilities for the inhabitants of their area for recreational, sporting, cultural and
sporting activities. Increasing the provision of outdoor access will therefore address some of
these responsibilities.
The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) aims to end the discrimination which many
people face. The Act gives disabled people rights in the areas of, employment, access to
goods, facilities and services and buying or renting land or property. The first rights of access
came in to force in
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December 1996 and the final rights will come into force in October 2004. The Act makes it
unlawful to discriminate against a disabled person by:
•
•
•
Refusing to provide (or deliberately not providing) any service which it provides to
members of the public
Providing a service of a lower standard or in a worse manner; or
Providing a service on worse terms, whether or not there is a charge for the service
The final rights in 2004 means those service providers may have to consider making
permanent physical adjustments to their premises. This therefore has implications for
countryside service providers such as Local Authorities who are specifically included as
service providers by the DDA. All of this will have an impact on the type and level future
access provision that Local Authorities and other agencies create.
The strategy Opening the Door for a Better Scotland sets out a vision for social inclusion in
Scotland in which:
•
•
•
•
Every child, whatever his or her social or economic background, has the best possible
start in life;
There are opportunities to work for those who are able to do so
Those who are unable to work are beyond the normal age have decent quality of life
Everyone is enabled and encouraged to participate to their maximum potential.
The strategy is being implemented through various initiatives such as New deal and New
Opportunities Fund. Access can provide high levels of benefit to these programmes. The
Social Inclusion Network works towards three objectives:
•
•
•
To develop new ideas for action and support current good practice in key areas of social
inclusion policy;
To ensure that the success of the programme is effectively monitored and evaluated;
To ensure that action is effectively co-ordinated and integrated.
Within North Ayrshire, one social inclusion partnership was been set up in 1999 to tackle
poverty and social inclusion. North Ayrshire Social Inclusion Partnership covers the towns
of Ardrossan, Saltcoats, Stevenston, Kilwinning, Irvine, Springside, Beith, Kilbirnie and Largs.
Its vision is to:
Pursue a strategy to achieve the sustainable regeneration of disadvantaged neighbourhoods
within North Ayrshire by implementing a programme of economic, social and physical renewal
and by doing so, improve the quality of life enjoyed by the people of North Ayrshire
To ensure that NASIP’s priorities represented a local interpretation of national strategies,
themes relevant to the area were identified from the Scottish Executive’s Social Justice
Milestones and two working groups were set up covering Economic Inclusion and Health and
Neighbourhood Wellbeing.
The strategic aim of the latter group is to improve the Health and Neighbourhood Wellbeing
for local people by working collaboratively to tackle health and engender civic ownership in a
30
safer environment. Access through health improvement, community involvement and other
mechanisms can potentially play a valuable role in delivering this aim.
North Ayrshire's Community Plan, Working in partnership for North Ayrshire and the
Corporate Plan's vision statement is of:
•
•
•
A prosperous, safe and environmentally friendly area
Inhabited by a caring, healthy community
Governed in partnership by the key public sector agencies with active participation of local
people
The overall vision for both of these plans, is of a socially inclusive community where
individuals have the opportunity to achieve their full potential. The two plans set out their
strategic aims to cover the following themes, all of which can be met in part through access:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Community Participation - to increase the participation of local people in decisions that
affect their daily lives and their communities
Social and Environmental Development - to strengthen the social and economic prosperity
of North Ayrshire by integrating actions at national and community levels.
The Environment - to promote sustainable development and ensure that environmental
factors are given prominence in the decision making process
Lifelong Learning - to promote and develop learning activities that support commitment to
inclusive lifelong learning.
Equal Opportunities - to uphold the principle of equality and opportunity and promote
measures to reduce inequalities.
Health and Wellbeing - to promote positive health and wellbeing in the communities and
reduce health inequalities
Community Safety - to make North Ayrshire a safer place to live, work and invest.
Tourism
The Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Strategy 2001 to 2004 highlights the importance of
outdoor access to tourism. It aims to ensure that Ayrshire and the Isle of Arran is
competitively placed in offering a quality experience for domestic and oversees visitors. It
identifies new opportunities for tourism, most notably niche markets into which both walking
and cycling fall. These markets have been identified as having excellent prospects. Its key
initiatives include promoting the diverse range of visitor activities to target markets e.g. sailing,
cycling and walking. Increasing and improving outdoor access provision will therefore assist
with the promotion of these niche markets and benefit the local tourism industry.
The importance of footpath provision is identified in Policy TOU 13 Footpaths of the Irvine
and Kilwinning Local Plan, which states that the Council will seek to protect, improve and
sign post footpaths and other leisure routes into the countryside. The Council will also seek to
encourage the creation of new access routes into the countryside, in co-operation with
landowners and other funding agencies.
The Garnock Valley Local Plan’s Policy TOU 2 Footpaths and Cycle Routes highlight the
importance of cross-agency working in relation to access. It states that the Council in
association with Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire and local interests will seek to protect and
promote the development of tourism and leisure footpaths and cycle routes. This includes the
31
upgrading and extension of leisure footpaths and cycle routes, the negotiation of access
agreements where necessary, the provision of information leaflets and the investigation of
additional routes and the provision of bridle paths.
North Coast and Cumbraes Local Plan under the Policy TOU 2, states that the Council will
promote the development of tourist facilities in the local plan area through a variety of
measures including:
The preparation of a programme for the development of the areas network of footpaths as a
visitor facility, through signage, provision of stiles, footbridges etc, negotiation of access
agreements where necessary, and the provision of information leaflets, at the following
locations shown on the proposals map:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
Fairlie to Largs - Gogo Glen,
Largs, A760 - Haylie Reservoir - Castle Hill Fort
Largs (Netherhall) - Knock Castle - Brisbane Mains - Largs
Largs (South) - Marina - Kelburn Country Park - Fechan - Largs
West Kilbride, Law Castle - Law Hill - Blackshaw Farm - B781
It also highlights the need for investigation of additional routes and provision of bridle paths.
Policy TOU 5 Cycling states that the Council will make provision for the encouragement of
cycling within the Local Plan area by:
(a) Bringing forward schemes, when funding can be made available, for the extension of the
cycle route network, including the northwards extension of the coastal route from Seamill
towards Skelmorlie, whilst ensuring that the proposed cycle route does not conflict with the
safety and enjoyment of pedestrians using the Promenade, Largs, and
(b) Investigating the feasibility of providing a safer cycle route on Cumbrae, particularly
between the ferry slip and Millport.
Isle of Arran Replacement Plan highlights that the distinctive island character,
environmental attractiveness and contrasting scenery has made Arran a popular destination.
It also identifies that there is still potential to expand on visitor numbers and that Access
opportunity has significant potential for development. To support the development of tourism
the Local Plan Strategy for Tourism aims to:
•
•
•
•
Provide positively for new and expanded tourism development in appropriate locations
Support proposals which capitalise on the potential of the island's unique image and
produce of local businesses
Encourage development of activities which relate to natural and cultural heritage, walking,
sailing, golf and cycling
Encourage the development of natural resources for green tourism initiatives
North Ayrshire Local Plan (Excluding Arran) highlights the expected growth in tourism in
Scotland as a whole and the potential to expand on visitor numbers for North Ayrshire. In a
similar manner, to support the development of tourism the Local Plan Strategy for Tourism
aims to:
•
Provide positively for new and expanded tourism development in appropriate locations
32
•
•
•
Encourage development of activities which relate to sailing, walking and cycling
Encourage the development of natural resources for green tourism initiatives
Promote the natural and historic heritage of North Ayrshire
Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park’s Integrated Land Use Strategy identifies key issues and
action points for the future of the Regional Park. The aim of the Regional Park Authority is to
conserve the area’s natural heritage, whilst promoting the enjoyment of the environment to
residents and visitors. The strategy emphasises the importance of sustainable tourism and
the importance of management approaches in achieving this. The strategy states that the
Regional Park authority will develop and waymark a series of routes throughout the park,
through the Access Steering Group. It also aims to promote the routes through the production
of leaflets aimed at responsible access usage.
Transport Policy
Outdoor access should not be considered solely on the recreational benefits but on the
potential benefits to the transport network. The importance of access is highlighted by the
aim to increase sustainable transport usage in the National Cycling Strategy and former
Scottish Office document Cycling into the Future. Its main objectives are to increase cycle
use nationally and the target was set to have doubled the number of trips by cycle (on 1996
figures) by 2002 and doubling it again by 2012.
The NPPG 17 Transport and Planning highlights the need for providing for non-motorised
travel and notes the requirement for development sites to be accessible by networks of
footpaths and cycle routes. It identifies the following actions:
•
•
•
•
•
Walking strategies should form part of an integrated approach to transport.
Each Local Authority should have clear policies for walking.
Urban areas should be made more attractive and safer for pedestrians, including in
particular people with mobility difficulties.
In providing for cyclists the aim should be to design routes no longer than main car routes
in existing development and more direct in new development.
In rural areas cycle networks should serve and link neighbouring villages.
Local Transport Strategy and Road Traffic Reduction Act Report put in to a local context
the national policy from the White Paper Travel Choices for Scotland, which set out the
Government's integrated transport policy.
"to reduce the need to travel; to fight congestion and pollution; and support a strong economy;
a sustainable environment and a healthy inclusive society"
The objectives of the Strategy relating to access are to:
•
•
•
Promote effective integration between different modes of transport.
Review and update Development plan policies and other strategic objectives of the council
in line with this Local Transport Strategy.
Ensure that where a major development proposal is subject to an environmental
assessment, proper consideration is given to transportation issues.
33
•
•
Ensure that a network of safe and secure routes for walking and cycling is provided and
maintained.
Achieve further reductions in the level of road accidents in line with national targets.
Possible outdoor access actions to meet these objectives include upgrading pedestrian links,
investigating the provision of cycle links to major facilities and continuing to promote the
national cycle network and other links for cycling. Other actions include investigating the
development and promotion of Safer Routes to School programmes
Road Safety Plan for North Ayrshire 1999 - 2004 identifies that pedestrians and cyclists are
the two most vulnerable groups of road users and highlights the importance of addressing
these safety issues. Outdoor access provision potentially will assist in meeting the Council's
principal Road Safety objectives, which are:
•
•
•
•
•
To be fully committed to playing its part in the reduction of road casualties in line with the
nationally set targets;
To create a road environment that encourages safe road user behaviour;
To recognise the needs of vulnerable road users such as children and cyclists and make
provision accordingly
To promote a climate of public opinion that encourages safe driving practices;
To ensure that the road safety message is spread so as to achieve an awareness in all
sectors of the community
The Irvine and Kilwinning Local Plan (adopted 2001) Policy TRA 6 Cycling and Policy TRA
5 Cycling of the Garnock Valley Local Plan encourage the development and use of cycling as
an alternate transport mode. They states that as part of the Local Transport Strategy for North
Ayrshire the Council shall:
1. Further develop of the existing leisure cycle route network;
2. Investigate opportunities to separate cyclists from other road traffic, including the
reallocation of road space, and provide shared pedestrian and cycle routes, on principal
access routes to the town centres and major facilities.
3. Ensure that secure cycling parking is provided at railway stations, town centres, all major
new developments, and leisure and educational establishments.
The importance of the National Cycle Network to North Ayrshire is highlighted by Policy TRA
3 National Cycle Network of the Garnock Valley Local Plan and the North Ayrshire Local
Plan (Excluding Arran). It states that the route of the future off-road replacement section of
the National Cycle Network, as indicated is safeguarded from any other development.
Policy TRA 2 Walking and cycling of the North Ayrshire Local Plan (Excluding Arran)
highlights the Council’s commitment to take into account the requirements of walkers and
cyclists. It states that all significant development proposals shall require to demonstrate that
account has been taken of their needs, by ensuring that:
(a)
Clearly signposted and well lit footpaths and cycle routes are provided to serve business
and industrial areas, town centres and retail areas, railway stations and major tourism
and leisure facilities;
34
(b)
(c)
Residential areas have derelict footpath links to local transport halts, local facilities,
shops, schools;
and
Secure cycle parking is provided at railway stations, major retail, business and industrial
developments and at schools and colleges with adequate changing and shower facilities
wherever possible.
Similarly, this is also illustrated within the Development Control Statement which identifies
criteria for assessing all development proposals and highlights access as a criteria for
consideration under the heading Access, Road Layout Parking Provision. It states:
Access on foot, by cycle, by public transport and other forms of transport should be an
integral part of any significant development proposal.
The Isle of Arran Replacement Local Plan's Development Control Statement identifies
access as a criteria for consideration in a comparable manner stating:
Access on foot, by cycle, by public transport and other forms of transport should be an
integral part of any significant development proposal, as far as is practicable considering an
island location.
The transport Strategy section of the Ayrshire Joint Structure Plan states that the
development of an efficient and integrated transport system is essential to ensure long term
social and economic prosperity. Sustainable transport has an invaluable part to play in the
development of this system. The AJSP highlights the need for all Ayrshire Councils to
implement a balanced and integrated transport strategy
Policy ADS8 aims to implement a balanced and integrated transport strategy to improve
accessibility for all. Also, Policy T1 proposes the development of Local Transport Strategies
that integrated different modes of transport. Walking and cycling should form an integral part
of these strategies. It recommends that the Ayrshire councils seek to maximise facilities for
walking and cycling as alternate forms of transport
The supporting text suggests measures that could be introduced to effect an increase in
journeys by cycle and on foot. These might include promotion of development patterns and
location of developments which ensure that short trips to work, education and local facilities
can be made safely by cycle or on foot and the provision of safe pedestrian and cycle routes
into town centres and the creation of dedicated cycle parking space. It highlights the options
to encourage employers to introduce schemes for reducing car use for journeys to work and
to targeting specific markets e.g. a school transport policy.
Other methods suggested include the establishment of a network of routes that is both
promoted and widely published and that the Council could to engineer priority for foot and
cycle traffic in road improvements, to seek integration with other means of public transport. It
highlights the importance of ensuring that development does not sever routes used by cyclists
and pedestrians or unjustly prejudice accessibility by walking or cycling.
Policy T2 states that local plans should bring forward proposals that encourage walking and
cycling as a means of transport. It suggests that this might be encouraged by ensuring that
all significant new development provides convenient and attractive facilities for pedestrian and
cycle access and by promoting new and attractive pedestrian and cycling priority routes
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Other Policy
The PfAP's Making the Case for local path network publication proposes valid reasons for
creating path networks. These are due to the fact that paths provide opportunities for:
1. A way of meeting national policy objectives;
2. Health and well-being;
3. Value for money recreational provision;
4. Equal opportunities - accessible and affordable leisure activities for all;
5. Equity of investment and recreational provision;
6. Safe transport routes;
7. Community development;
8. Contribution to local economies and services;
9. Tourism and economic development.
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APPENDIX FOUR - RESOURCE AUDIT
This section examines the potential sources of funding for future local path networks and to
support the implementation of the strategy. It covers both revenue and capital funding
opportunities however, it is not a definitive guide to potential resources as the opportunities
are constantly changing and increasing. Due to the wide ranging themes and policies that
access links into and has a role to play in the achievement of the objectives of, it is essential
to examine the wide range of resources available to support access.
The themes are identified as follows and these highlight the way in which proposals could be
targeted:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Economic Development
Environment and Heritage
Health
Land Management
Recreation and Sport
Social Inclusion
Tourism
Transport
Other Opportunities
This list is by no means exhaustive but provides an overview of the current funding situation.
Further information on grants can be sourced via Internet sites and through local resource
and volunteer centres.
Contact details are provided for the resource providers listed below at the end of this section.
Economic Development
Argyll and Islands Enterprise
Scheme:
Community Economic Development Programme (CEDP)
Support:
Grants of up to 50% of eligible costs of between £1,000 to £100,000
Projects on Arran and the Cumbraes aiming to enhance the ability of the local communities to
develop and implement their own local priorities are suitable for this scheme. To be eligible
for CED funding projects must fit into one of the eligible categories including:
•
•
•
Investment in Community Capacity and Planning
Investment in local services, businesses and infrastructure
Developing natural and cultural resource based activity
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Improving access to and the interpretation of the local environment and heritage through
information trails and pathways would fit within the developing resource based activity
category.
37
Scottish Enterprise Ayrshire and Argyll and Islands Enterprise
Scheme:
Not applicable
Support:
Potential capital grants
SEA and AIE can provide assistance to environmental projects where evidence of economic
benefit can be provided. They can also assist indirectly by linking access with wider reaching
regeneration projects.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Projects demonstrating economic benefit through regeneration or tourism are more likely to
be successful in securing grants from the Enterprise Companies
EU Structural Funds
Scheme:
European Social Fund (ESF)
European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)
Support:
Capital / revenue
ERDF can co-finance up to 50% of eligible costs depending on the type of
project.
North Ayrshire is within the Strathclyde European Partnership (SEP) area. The SEP is
composed of a network of local organisations and is a regional development organisation,
which administers European Grants. The West Central Scotland area is eligible to apply for
grants from the European Social Fund and the European Regional Development Fund. Both
of these schemes are administered through the Strathclyde European Partnership (SEP).
The programme focuses on three main objectives:
•
•
•
Developing the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the region's economy
Developing the region as a competitive location
Increasing economic and social cohesion in the area
Within these objectives a variety of measures to achieve them are identified:
•
•
•
•
Measure 1.2 Focuses on developing the region as a competitive location
Measure 2.2 Encourages addressing of the barriers to economic and social inclusion
Measure 3.1 Community-based Regeneration - Encourages community regeneration
Measure 3.2 Routes to Opportunities - aims to compliment ESF and targets activity
towards addressing the needs of severely disadvantaged and excluded groups.
All of North Ayrshire is eligible for ESF funding, with both Objective 3 and Objective 2
providing targeted support for a variety of priorities in the area. Mainland North Ayrshire is
also largely eligible for Objective 2 European Regional Development Funding (ERDF) with a
small area from Fairlie northwards being covered by the transition programme. Arran and the
Cumbraes also have eligibility for Objective 1 (Transitional) funding.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
38
Applications to these schemes would require to illustrate the benefits of outdoor access to the
economic or social structure or development of an area or North Ayrshire as a whole. In
addition to this, applications ideally should also be able to demonstrate the strategic
importance of the project.
Scottish Executive
Scheme:
Rural Challenge Fund
Support:
Grants up to 50% of eligible costs (maximum of £50,000) for a minimum of one
and a maximum of three years.
The fund’s overall aim is to further sustainable development with a balanced approach to
social, economic and environmental issues, through partnership and community involvement.
Qualifying activities include those that:
•
•
•
Stimulate rural economic development
Facilitate social inclusion
Enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the local area
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Projects that propose innovative ways of tackling particular rural problems or create a wider
range of opportunities in rural areas are likely to be suitable for this scheme.
West Highland European Leader Kist
Scheme:
WHELK LEADER+
Support:
Up to 45% funding to eligible projects on Arran and Cumbraes only
LEADER+ is a European Community Initiative that aims to assist rural communities to
improve quality of life and economic prosperity. It encourages high-quality original strategies
for sustainable development and innovative projects that make best use of natural and
cultural resources, help remote and island communities to help themselves or contribute to
sustainable rural economies.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Example of eligible projects for this scheme include developing access to and interpretation of
coastal and woodland areas and assisting niche tourism projects such as walking related
schemes which rely on the natural and cultural heritage.
Environmental and Heritage
Entrust
Scheme:
Landfill Tax Credit Scheme
Support:
Mainly Capital
39
Landfill operators on behalf of Customs and Excise collect Landfill Tax. All UK Landfill
operators previously could claim 20% of their annual landfill tax liability as tax credits, against
contributions made to environmental bodies to carry out a range of works which meet the
approved objectives of the scheme. At present around 6% of the tax can be claimed for this
scheme. The priorities of this scheme include:
•
•
Projects that provide or maintain public amenities or parks within 10mile of a landfill site.
Within this section the aim of improving rights of way is included.
Projects involving reclamation of land, the use of which was prevented by some previous
activities
The scheme requires applicants to be registered as an Environmental Body with Entrust, the
landfill tax regulatory body. To ensure the project meets the declared objects of the scheme,
enrolled bodies have to obtain approval for each project from Entrust, this then entitles them
to apply for and receive contributions from landfill operators.
Registered operators in North Ayrshire include North Ayrshire Council, W.H. Malcolm Ltd and
William Tracey Ltd.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Landfill Tax Credits have previously been used to implement access projects such as the
Largs and Dalry Paths Initiatives. The details of this scheme have recently undergone
alteration and this will considerably affect the levels of funding available, but this continues to
be a valuable opportunity.
The Esmee Fairbairn Foundation
Scheme:
Esmee Fairbairn Foundation Grants
Support:
Revenue only
The foundation is one of the largest independent grant-making bodies in the UK. It aims
through its funding to improve quality of life, particularly for people and communities that face
disadvantage. It has four main programmes under which grants are made.
Within the Environmental programme, emphasis is placed on promoting the understanding
and practice of sustainable living. The programme aims to support projects that prevent
environmental degradation whilst recognising legitimate aspirations for housing, goods,
transport and leisure activities.
The funding priorities identified include schemes, which improve quality of community life by:
•
•
•
Prioritising pedestrians, cyclists and public transport
Preserving and enhancing public open space
Supporting good management of woodlands, gardens and allotments
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
The foundation will always consider new applications for genuinely new areas of work related
to the environment, therefore adopting innovative approaches to existing problems will be of
benefit in applications.
40
European Union
Scheme:
European Union
Life III Programme
Support:
Capital
This is the EU’s only environmental programme. The aims of this are to link research and
development and implementation. The projects should aim to demonstrate innovative
approaches to environmental problems.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
One of the main priorities of the scheme is in relation to sustainable tourism. Access projects
could be addressed using this scheme as part of larger environmental projects. The scheme
encourages stakeholder participation and developing this would be of benefit to applications.
Forward Scotland
Scheme:
Community Environmental Renewal Scheme (CERS)
Support:
Grants of between £5000 and £50000
Communities affected by past or present quarrying activities can apply to this scheme for
support for projects that will improve the quality of their environment. The scheme aims to
support a wide range of community based projects that address the environmental effects of
aggregate extraction. To be eligible, the community must be within five miles of a working
quarry or two miles of a disused quarry or be able to demonstrate direct suffering due to
aggregate extraction.
Forward Scotland is managing this scheme for the Scottish Executive using funds provided by
the Executive under the Aggregates Levy.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Successful applications will have to demonstrate that there is community involvement and that
there will be local social or economic benefits arising from the work. Possible projects might
include providing of upgrading footpaths or nature trails and improving the landscape for
recreation.
Forward Scotland
Scheme:
Small Grants Scheme
Support:
Grants of up to £1,000
The scheme is available to constituted groups who wish to pursue an environmental project.
The aims of this scheme are:
•
•
•
•
•
to provide capacity for groups at the early stages of a project or plan
provide funding for training or professional assistance
to allow groups to consult stakeholders on the need for their project
to enable meetings or seminars for the discussion of the project
to enable publicity of the project in order to develop community involvement
41
The proposed project must fit into one of the following three themes, Environmental, Social or
Economic. For example within environmental theme, projects encouraging walking and
cycling would be eligible and within the social theme projects that promote access in areas of
social inclusion would also be eligible for assistance.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
This scheme could be used to fund feasibility studies or research for local path networks.
Forward Scotland
Scheme:
Transforming Your Space
Support:
Grants between £20,000 and £300,000
The scheme offers funding for projects helping communities to improve their local
environments by making them safer, healthier, greener, cleaner, better designed, more
welcoming and accessible to all. It will assist people in some of Scotland’s most
disadvantaged communities tackle issues like pedestrian safety. The programme is
structured around five themes, those relevant to outdoor access are:
•
•
•
•
Improving Local Environments
Public Green and Open Spaces
Local Access
Making community assets more sustainable
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Some communities in North Ayrshire could potentially be able to benefit from this scheme due
to significant levels of disadvantage existing within these areas. Potential projects include
creating or improving local walking or cycling routes that provide a service to the community.
National Lotteries Charities Board
Scheme:
Arts Lottery Fund
Support:
Grants of between £5,000 and £50,000
The funding priorities of this scheme include Access and Participation. This aims to support
projects that increase access to the arts. Projects that assist in overcoming economic, social,
cultural or geographic barriers to involvement in the arts will be given priority.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
The scheme is unlikely to provide a major source of funding for access projects but could be
utilised to enhance networks via community arts projects for example. This has been utilised
in the development of the Dailly Paths Network in neighbouring South Ayrshire.
National Lotteries Charities Board
Scheme:
Heritage Lottery Fund
Support:
Capital / revenue
42
This scheme provides grants for projects in relation to historic assets of local, regional or
national significance. It includes places where access provision could be included such as
historic Greenspace and parks.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
The scheme could be used for access provision to or within historic landscape but is unlikely
to provide a major source for funding.
Scottish Natural Heritage
Scheme:
SNH Grants Scheme
Support:
Various
The types of projects supported by SNH grants include:
•
•
•
•
•
Funding for Access Officers and Countryside Rangers
Preparation of Access Strategies
Feasibility studies, local surveys
Capital costs for path network creation - in cases where projects would not otherwise go
ahead
Environmental education and interpretation projects
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
The two Access Officers have been appointed for three years and both Ranger Services
within North Ayrshire are supported, using SNH funding. There may be potential in the future
to utilise these scheme for other path projects, such as a source of funding for feasibility
studies.
Shell Better Britain Campaign
Scheme:
Community Projects Fund
Support:
Grants of up to £2000
The Shell Better Britain Campaign awards grants for projects that show both community and
environmental benefit. The scheme is open to a wide range of ideas but projects should
ideally:
•
•
•
•
Be led by the local community
Make a positive difference to the local environment
Address wider environmental issues
Assist in bringing the community closer together
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Ensuring that under-represented sections of the community are included within the proposals
will strengthen applications to the scheme.
43
Health
Lloyds TSB
Scheme:
Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland
Support:
Grants of £1,000 to £5,000
Local groups registered as or working with charities are eligible for this scheme.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
This scheme will be of benefit in projects relating to community groups affiliated with larger or
national charities e.g. Age Concern. It may also be a potential resource for Safe Routes to
School projects or for the production of path promotional materials.
Big Lottery Fund
Scheme:
Awards for All
Support:
Not specified
The key aims of this scheme are to support community led projects and strengthen the
voluntary structure. Those eligible for support under this scheme are mostly voluntary,
community-led or small organisations.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
This scheme could be used to promote community involvement in path development. To
define the best mechanism to utilise assistance from this scheme for access, it would be of
great benefit for North Ayrshire Council to liase with and assist community groups and
voluntary organisations with any applications.
Scottish Co-op
Scheme:
Scottish Co-op Community Dividend
Support:
Grants range from £1,000 to £5,000
Providing that projects focus on community involvement, this scheme can fund a wide range
of projects. Projects that demonstrate tangible and permanent benefits to the community
volunteer input and innovative solutions to existing projects are viewed favourably by the
scheme.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
A potential resource for the production of leaflets or other promotional materials for
community based projects.
Land Management
Crown Estates
Scheme:
Marine Stewardship Fund
44
Support:
Grant scheme (up to 100% of project costs)
Projects supported by this fund must be related to Crown Estate land, either by demonstrating
good management of particular Crown Estate property or enhancing stewardship of the
Crown Estate’s foreshore by furthering best practice coastal and marine management.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
A large proportion of the foreshore around mainland North Ayrshire and the Islands is Crown
Estate property.
Forestry Commission
Scheme:
Scottish Forestry Grants Schemes (SFGS)
Support:
£60 to £300 per hectare per year dependent on type of land
The Scottish Forestry Grant Scheme (SFGS) replaces the Woodland Grant Scheme, which
finished on the 14th February 2003. Grants will be calculated at 60 to 90% of the standard
costs of agreed operations, dependant on which objectives the project aims to achieve.
Applications will be accepted from 16th June 2003 and under the terms of the grant
applications may be made for the following:
Grants for woodland expansion – creating new woodlands
Restocking Grants, for replanting following felling
Stewardship grants (detailed more fully below)
Farmland Premium for planting on agricultural land
Stewardship Grants will be based on 60% to 90% of Standard Costs. Eight stewardship
grants are available for existing woodlands and where applicable will be available from one
year of planting. The focus of two of these relates to outdoor access, they are woodland
recreation and developing community involvement.
For applications under woodland recreation, and must improve the social value of woods and
forests by developing facilitates for informal recreation in a way which is commensurate with
likely demand. The proposals must fit locally agreed priorities and draw on relevant
discussion with / supported by appropriate bodies (for example Local Authorities, Local
Access Forums and Community Councils. Grants will be based on 90% of standard costs,
however average expenditure must not exceed £1 per visit to the woodland over the five
years.
Whilst the majority of these do not identify access as an essential criteria, all provide eligibility
to apply for the Ayrshire and Arran Locational premium. This scheme identifies recreational
opportunities as an additional essential criterion
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
All SFGS applications are eligible to apply for the locational premium for Ayrshire and Arran.
Therefore access has a potential role to play in all SFGS grant options in Ayrshire.
45
Forestry Commission
Scheme:
SFGS: Ayrshire and Arran Woodlands Locational Premium
Support:
SFGS)
£800 to £2000 per hectare (In addition to the standard grants available from the
Payments will be made in two instalments 70% when the operation has been carried out and
30% five years later.
This locational premium is only payable in areas where the Scottish Executive consider
woodland planting, regeneration, improvement or management are priorities for social,
economic or environmental reasons. Proposed schemes must satisfy the requirements of the
SFGS and meet the criteria described.
Additional criteria:
•
•
•
•
•
Community consultation and a level of local support for the proposal must be
demonstrated
Public recreation must be considered and included within the proposals. This should be in
accordance with FC criteria and local access / recreation strategies.
Landscape enhancement must be demonstrated
The proposal must demonstrate improvement of habitat quality and contribution to the
delivery of the Local Biodiversity Action Plan
Adequate account must be taken of protecting the built heritage within the proposals area
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
£400,000 a year over the next three years is available to Ayrshire and Arran (2003 to 2006).
These have been reviewed after 2003 to ensure that objectives are being achieved. It will be
allocated on a first come first served basis so early application to the scheme would be
advisable.
Forestry Commission
Scheme:
Challenge Fund for the Management of Woodlands In and Around Towns
Support:
Grant as a “top up” to standard rates of SFGS.
Available until 2008 as “top up” to the Standard SFGIS rates throughout Scotland. The
Challenge Fund aims to enable woodland owned to contribute to the regeneration of the
urban environment and to improve the quality of life for people living and working in urban
areas. It aims to do so by enabling woodland owners to bring urban woodlands into
sustainable management, including;
• Providing new and improved opportunities for access, recreation and health benefits
• Encouraging and facilitating community participation in the improvement and management
of urban woodlands.
The Challenge Fund is available across the suite of 8 Stewardship Grants and applications
must also meet the following criteria:
•
•
•
At least half woodland must lie within 1 km of a settlement of at least 3,000 people.
The woodland must cover a minimum of 1.0 hectare
The area must comprise at least 40% woodland
46
•
•
•
The proposals must provide evidence of stakeholder involvement or details of planned
stakeholder engagement
They must include opportunities for public access and recreation
They must include a long term management plan
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Woodland projects with benefits for health improvement such as paths for health projects,
developing all ability access, providing appropriate signs and leaflets and developing access
for woodland management would all be eligible projects under the scheme. The Challenge
Fund is competitive therefore demonstration of value for money in relation to the aims is
essential.
New Opportunities Fund
Scheme:
Scottish Land Fund
Support:
Various
This scheme is only open to the island communities of North Ayrshire. There are three types
of assistance available to rural communities (populations of three thousand or less):
•
•
•
Technical assistance to help communities investigate feasibility of projects, legal issues,
valuations, etc.
Acquisition to help communities acquire land which they propose to manage or develop in
a sustainable way
Development to help communities which already own land, have acquired land or have in
place suitable management agreements to carry out development projects with those
assets.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
This fund may offer an opportunity for Island communities wishing to investigate or take
forward the development of sustainable transport routes such as cycle or walking routes.
Scottish Executive
Scheme:
Arable Area Payments Scheme (AAPS)
Support:
Agricultural
This scheme offers assistance to farmers to manage set aside land to allow free public
access. It focuses on multi-annual set aside and is done under a 5 year agreement
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
There is the potential to create opportunities in North Ayrshire by working with organisations
such as the NFU or FWAG to encourage applicants to include some provision for access.
Demonstrating the benefits of a pro-active approach to access to landowners will therefore be
of benefit within North Ayrshire.
Scottish Executive
Scheme:
Rural Stewardship Scheme
47
Support:
Agricultural
This is a voluntary agri-environment scheme designed to encourage farmers, crofters and
common grazing committees to adopt environmentally friendly practices and to maintain and
enhance particular habitats and landscape features. The main focus of the RSS is the
protection of landscapes, wildlife and habitats and contribution of this to rural development.
Access is not directly identified as an opportunity in this scheme and is likely to be a
secondary consideration, however capital costs such as for the installation of stiles and gates
can be included. Applications require an Environmental Audit and dependant on location,
potentially a Moorland Management Plan to be provided. The Scottish Executive can provide
assistance towards the cost of these.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
There is the potential to create opportunities in North Ayrshire by working with organisations
such as FWAG to encourage applicants to include some provision for access. Demonstrating
the benefits of a pro-active approach to access to landowners will therefore be of benefit
within North Ayrshire
Recreation and Sport
Sportscotland
Scheme:
Sportscotland Lottery Fund - Social Inclusion Partnerships
Support:
Capital / revenue
This programme focuses on the needs of those people covered by Scotland’s Social inclusion
Partnership areas. The scheme aims to:
•
•
Assist communities to develop themselves through sport and physical recreation
Increase the quality and quantity of participation in sport and physical recreation with
social, economic and health benefits following from this increase.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Applications based on creating links between sports facilities or activities and public access
are likely to be suitable for this scheme.
Social Inclusion
The Esmee Fairbairn Foundation
Scheme:
Esmee Fairbairn Foundation Grants
Support:
Revenue only
Within the Social Development programme, priority is given to those at greatest need,
including those living in or on the edge of poverty. The funding priorities identified include:
•
Increasing independence by enabling disadvantaged people or communities to move on
and take more control over their lives.
48
•
•
Organisations, which become more effective by adopting and enterprising approach to
their work with those facing, disadvantage.
Overcoming institutional barriers to independence or enterprise.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
The Foundation is particularly interested in targeting the most deprived communities, whether
rural or urban. These may be identified through deprivation statistics or other data, which
highlights pockets of deprivation. Some communities in North Ayrshire would therefore
potentially be able to benefit from this scheme.
Tourism
EU Structural Funds
Scheme:
European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)
Support:
Capital / revenue
ERDF can co-finance up to 50% of eligible costs depending on the type of
project.
The main opportunities for tourism projects in the 2000-2006 Programme are under Priority 2
– to develop the region as a competitive location. The key points for consideration in any
application relating to tourism are that the investment in tourism should be long-term and
sustainable and that partnership working is crucial to any project’s success.
There is limited scope for Tourism related projects and business development related activity
under Measure 1.2 and some support under 3.1 for projects that are of direct benefit to the
designated Social Inclusion Partnership areas.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
Applications to these schemes would require to illustrate the benefits of outdoor access to the
tourism structure or development of an area or North Ayrshire as a whole. In addition to this,
applications ideally should also be able to demonstrate the strategic importance of the project.
Transport
The New Opportunities Fund’s Greenspace and Sustainable Communities scheme offers
support to projects working towards improving the provision for and use of sustainable
transport. Particular emphasis is placed on projects such as providing an alternative to road
transport, such as footpaths and cycle route. The Esmee Fairbairn Foundation scheme also
offers similar support.
Scottish Executive
Scheme:
Walking, Cycling and Safer Streets
Support:
Local Authority Grant allocation
This funding is intended to enable councils to further develop and introduce a wide variety of
projects for cyclists and pedestrians in their area, including:
•
cycle lanes and pedestrian footpaths
49
•
•
installation of pedestrian and cyclists' crossings
traffic-free entrances to schools and the provision of secure cycle storage and locker
facilities at schools and elsewhere
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
The Scottish Executive has announced additional funds for 2004/05 and 2005/06 for all Local
Authority areas. Partnership working with Roads Services will ensure maximum benefit is
derived from this fund for the communities of North Ayrshire.
Other Opportunities
Commuted Payments Scheme
Support:
N/A
This scheme ensures the longer-term management of land, without significant costs being
imposed directly on to landowners. Organisations such as the Scottish Greenbelt Company
often use this type of scheme and act as a managing body.
The scheme is composed of two strands:
1. In the case of privately owned land, securing the long-term management costs of land
through the capital construction costs of the development process is an appropriate
method. An example is this is where a developer builds in the long term management
costs of associated woodland and planting into the cost of the development, such as a
housing development. The land is then given to the managing body, together with a oneoff payment, to carry out the management.
2. In the case of publicly owned land, such as areas within greenbelts and is most often
unsuitable for development a different approach is adopted. In this case it is possible for a
managing body to positively manage this land at no added expense to the landowner, if it
is leased to that organisation for a nominal rent. Land such as this may often be suitable
for a variety of purposes such as a community woodland scheme and this may attract
funding in its own right. An alternative approach is a one-off payment may be made by a
public sector organisation to cover the on-going management costs.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
The key to this scheme is that the landowner agrees on a management plan with the
managing body but does not incur any management costs.
New Deal
Scheme:
Environmental Task Force
Support:
Potential source of labour for projects but requires additional funding
The New Deal programme aims to get 18 to 24 year old job seekers into employment. The
Environmental Task force is one of the options and provides 6 months work experience to
trainees.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
50
The New Deal ETF provides a source of labour to implement and maintain projects where
materials and equipment can be provided or funded from other sources. Within North
Ayrshire this is currently implemented through the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT).
Management Schemes
Scheme:
Various
Support:
Will undertake both capital and maintenance works but does not provide grants
The Scottish Greenbelt Company (SGC) and other organisations such as East Ayrshire
Woodlands (EAW) can manage land for periods of time by entering into an agreement with
the landowner. This may require funding but once this is in place they can take on
maintenance and management of land including paths. All management plans and
agreements must be set up in advance.
These organisations can also manage land at little cost to the landowner through inexpensive
leases. They are willing to take on vacant, derelict and contaminated sites using this
mechanism and will occupy it under the terms of an agreed management plan.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
This scheme may be appropriate for paths or path networks requiring longer-term
management.
Training Schemes
Scheme:
Intermediate Labour Market Project
Support:
through organisations such as the Wise Group
The Wise Group is a charitable organisation, which is dedicated to helping unemployed
people back into work. The Group can take on local path and other types of projects where
funding is in place and will make sure that each project has a strong community regeneration
focus. They will then recruit local unemployed individuals for the task and provide them with
support and training.
Opportunities for North Ayrshire:
The temporary employees can carry out improvements to local authority land, local parks and
a variety of other infrastructure to allow local people to enjoy and once again take a pride in
their surroundings. Unemployment levels are high within the local area and the added benefit
of this scheme is that the Group offers training, personal development and paid work
experience, which prepares people for the job market.
Voluntary Sector
The British Trust for Conservation Volunteers Scotland (BTCV) is part of the UK’s largest
charity dedicated to practical conservation and environmental work. BTCV Scotland
specialises in working with people within their communities to bring about positive
environmental change in both rural and urban settings. The Trust can assist Local
Authorities, Enterprise Companies, Land owners and the Communities to conceptualise;
design, implement and often source funding for projects that have a beneficial impact to the
local environment. BTCV is also a Registered Environmental Body with ENTRUST and can
work with Landfill Credits on projects.
51
North Ayrshire Council of Voluntary Services (NACVS) and the Volunteer Centre in North
Ayrshire provide valuable services to local organisations throughout North Ayrshire. The
Volunteer Centre can help organisations find volunteers and help individuals wishing to
volunteer to find the right opportunity for them. They also provide support and training to both
organisations and volunteers.
The importance of voluntary organisations and volunteer’s input to outdoor access is
recognised. Local and community groups are currently involved with projects on the ground
such as ‘adopt a path’ initiatives in which the group adopt and maintain a path or a section of
longer path. This therefore provides a valuable opportunity for further development of
voluntary input.
Development control process
The term “planning gain” refers to the infrastructure required to service new development.
The government advice tends to avoid the use of this phrase, in preference to planning
conditions and agreements. As outlined within the Policy Audit section these can be used to
provide opportunities for outdoor access within planning applications.
In Kind Contributions
Community led and small scale projects can greatly benefit from in kind contributions such as
donations of materials or signs, the use of equipment or even the provision of unpaid labour.
This can have a profound impact on the ability of local groups to undertake outdoor access
projects.
Working with land owners/managers
As discussed within the Strategy there is a definite responsibility to balance the requirement
for outdoor access and the needs of the land owner/managers. This is not only true of the
large rural and farmland areas of North Ayrshire but also of managed urban areas of which
the Council is a key land owner/manager.
Outdoor access can play a key role in supporting farm diversification and the promotion of
land for recreational purposes. Land owners/managers can work successful in partnership
with communities and organisations to develop outdoor access projects and secure funding
through a number of the resource providers identified in the matrix. The matrix itself also
identifies a number of land management based schemes that are open for application for this
purpose.
52
CONTACTS
Source
Scheme(s)
Argyll and Islands
Enterprise (AIE)
Community Economic
Development
Grants/Low cost loans
Crown Estates
Marine Stewardship Fund
Entrust
Landfill Tax Credit Scheme
Esmee Fairbairn
Foundation
Esmee Fairbairn Foundation
European Union
Structural Funds
Forestry Commission
Central Scotland
Conservancy
Forward Scotland
European Regional
Development Fund
European Social Fund
European Union Life III
Programme
Scottish Forestry Grant
Scheme
Ayrshire & Arran Locational
Premium
Woodlands In & Around
Towns
Community Environmental
Renewal Scheme
Address
Telephone
Website
The Enterprise Centre
Kilmory Industrial Estate
Lochgilphead
PA31 8SH
The Crown Estate
6 Bell’s Brae
Edinburgh
EH4 3BJ
Head Office
6th Floor Acre House
2 Town Square
Sale
Cheshire M33 7WZ
Not available
11 Park Place
London
SW1A 1LP
020 7297 4700 www.esmeefairbairn.org.uk
01546 605 417 www.aie.co.uk
www.thecrownestate.co.uk
0161 972 0074 www.entrust.org.uk
Western Scotland European
Partnership
94 Elmbank Street
0141 572 4400 www.wsep.co.uk
Glasgow
G2 4DL
Erskine House
1 North Avenue
Clydebank Business Park
Clydebank
G81 2DR
0141 941 2611 www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland
C/o Forward Scotland
6th Floor Portcullis House
India Street
Glasgow G2 4PH
0141 222 5650 www.forwardscotland.org.uk
53
Source
Forward Scotland
Scheme
Small Grants Scheme
Big Lottery Fund
Transforming your Space
Lloyds TSB
Lloyds TSB Foundation for
Scotland
Big Lottery Fund
Awards for All
National Lottery Charities
Heritage Lottery Fund
Board
National Lottery Charities
Arts Lottery Fund
Board
New Opportunities Fund
Scottish Land Fund
Scottish Co-op
Community Dividend
Scottish Enterprise
Ayrshire
Grants/low cost loans
Address
Telephone
6th Floor Portcullis House
India Street
Glasgow
G2 4PH
1st Floor
33 Bothwell Street
Glasgow
G2 6NL
Riverside House
502 Gorgie Road
Edinburgh
EH11 3AF
Highlander House
58 Waterloo Street
Glasgow
G2 7BD
28 Thistle Street
Edinburgh
EH12 1EN
12 Manor Place
Edinburgh
EH3 7DD
Taigh Fearna
Auchtertyre
Balmacara IV40 8EG
Robert Owen House
87 Bath Street
Glasgow
G2 2EE
17 - 19 Hill Street
Kilmarnock
KA3 1HA
54
Website
0141 222 5600 www.forwardscotland.org.uk
www.nof.org.uk
0845 000 0123 or
www.biglotteryfund.org.uk
0870 902 1201
www.ltsbfoundationforscotland.org.uk
www.awardsforall.org.uk
0141 242 1200 or
www.biglotteryfund.org.uk
0131 225 9450 www.hlf.org.uk
0845 603 9833 www.scottisharts.org.uk
01520 722 988 www.hie.co.uk/scottishlandfund
0141 304 5580
www.co-op.co.uk
01563 526623 www.scottishenterprise.com
Source
Scheme
Scottish Executive
Arable Area Payments
Scheme
Scottish Executive
(Environment & Rural
Affairs Department)
Scottish Executive
Scottish Natural Heritage
Shell UK
Sportscotland
West Highland European
Leader Kist
(WHELK)
Address
Telephone
Russell House
King Street
Ayr
KA8 0BE
Room 133
Pentland House
Rural Challenge Fund
47 Robb’s Loan
Edinburgh EH14 1TY
Russell House,
King Street
Rural Stewardship Scheme
Ayr
KA8 0BE
Caspian House
2 Mariner Court
SNH Grant Scheme
8 South Avenue
Clydebank Business park
Clydebank G81 2NR
King Edward House
135a New Street
Shell Better Britain Fund
Birmingham
B2 4QJ
Caledonia House
Sportscotland Lottery Fund South Gyle
- SIP
Edinburgh
EH12 9DQ
Fulton House
Gordon Sq.
WHELK Leader Plus
Fort William
PH33 6XY
55
Website
01292 610188 www.scotland.gov.uk
Not available
www.scotland.gov.uk
01292 610188 www.scotland.gov.uk
0141 951 4488 www.snh.org.uk
Not available
www.sbbc.co.uk
0131 317 7200 www.sportscotland.org.uk
01397 707048 www.whelk.org.uk
APPENDIX FIVE
ACTION AREA PRIORITIES TABLE
Areas
Strategy Aims
Arran
To improve access to local employment opportunities.
Garnock
valley
Irvine &
Kilwinning
North
Coast &
Cumbraes
Three
Towns
L
H
M
L
H
M
H
M
M
H
M
M
M
M
M
H
H
H
H
H
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
H
M
M
H
M
M
M
M
M
M
To investigate the opportunity for the development of a standard signage policy.
H
H
H
H
H
To maximise the potential for access to the coast and open hills
H
H
M
H
M
To raise awareness and improve information, education and interpretation in
relation to outdoor access as outlined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
H
H
H
H
H
To ensure that access is considered as an integral part of any programmes of
wider environmental improvement, economic regeneration and development
projects within the framework of the local plan.
To link path projects with training opportunities.
To promote initiatives that encourage people to walk or cycle for journeys to
school, work, and community facilities and between settlements.
To encourage increased use of public transport by promoting safe links to bus
and railway stations.
To investigate the need for ancillary infrastructure such as cycle racks and
lockers.
To develop North Ayrshire as a quality destination for outdoor access activities
including walking, cycling and horse riding.
To raise awareness of path networks, access areas and opportunities for
outdoor access with local residents and visitors.
To investigate the need for visitor facilities and associated infrastructure in
relation to new or existing access.
56
Areas
Strategy Aims
Arran
To establish initiatives that encourage involvement in the planning and
implementation of access whilst promoting discussion between access users,
agencies, communities and land managers
To develop a co-ordinated approach with other services and agencies in the
delivery of outdoor access education.
To ensure that new and existing networks are linked to local communities
To promote initiatives which develop increased sense of pride and stewardship
of local access networks amongst communities.
To take into consideration the requirements of people of all ages and abilities
and ensure safety issues are reflected in the location and design of access
provision.
To encourage initiatives and groups that develop community participation in
outdoor access related activities and promote public access as a means of
encouraging healthier lifestyles
To identify and cater equitably for the recreational requirements of different user
groups.
To improve and encourage responsible recreational access around the principal
settlements and in the wider countryside.
To promote long distance routes and the linkage of existing networks
To encourage initiatives that incorporate access provision within existing or
planned land management proposals and schemes.
To improve maintenance regimes and develop innovative approaches to long
term path management
To safeguard and enhance the natural, built and cultural heritage in the
development, management and use of paths
57
Garnock
valley
Irvine &
Kilwinning
North
Coast &
Cumbraes
Three
Towns
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
M
M
M
L
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
H
M
M
H
M
M
M
M
M
M
H
M
M
H
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
H
H
H
H
H
M
M
M
M
M