Findhorn Village Conservation Company unveil new shoreline path at bay
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A NEW path will allow more people than ever access to some of the best views in the area.
Whisky businessman David Urquhart bequested £50,000 towards the project project along the shoreline of Findhorn Bay, from the Kimberley Inn to the boatyard, following his death in 2015 and Findhorn Village Conservation Company (FVCC) raised a further £185,000 towards its completion.
FVCC chairman Frank Allan confirmed Mr Urquhart provided the impetus to create the pathway when he realised that it was impossible for wheelchair users to access.
Mr Allan said: "The surface consisted mainly of large loose stones, gravel and steep gradients at the slipways. The project we managed involved laying new surfaces of concrete and self-binding gravel, ensuring that it blended in with conservation area requirements."
A small working group was formed and engaged the services of landscape architects Horner and MacLennan.
Planning permission was granted by Moray Council and FVCC started fundraising with contributions from the Beatrice Partnership Fund, The Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation, The Budge Foundation, the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund, Highland and Moray Fisheries Local Action Group, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund, Berry Burn Community Fund, Money for Moray, CED Stone Group.
Mr Allan added: "FVCC also raised funds through support from distilleries and businesses for our grand raffle, craft fair, quizzes and donations. Without this the project would never have been able to get off the ground."
Construction carried out by the Anderson Group started in January 2020 but was forced to stop when the Covid-19 lockdown was introduced.
Unfortunately blind spots still make it difficult for cyclists to safely pass wheelchairs and other people. As a result, no cycling is permitted on the path and FVCC ask cyclists to use another route or walk bikes along it.
Mr Allan said: "We want all local residents and visitors to Findhorn to benefit from the wonderful views of Findhorn Bay across to Culbin Forest and the wildlife of the bay nature reserve.
"Unfortunately it is not possible to have an official opening presently but we plan to arrange this for some time in the future."
