Finderne Development Trust working with Moray stakeholders to upgrade path network

A group of volunteers is improving rural walks.

Finderne Development Trust (FDT) is hosting and supporting the Finderne path network group; set up last year with other local individuals, organisations and landowners to improve the path network and connections between Edinkillie and Rafford, community assets across Finderne and with the closest town, Forres.

FDT community engagement officer, Rosemary Pannell, confirmed work has started to identify and clear overgrown paths, while considering routes for development.

She said: “The group meets every two or three months. We currently have 11 members and are keen to hear ideas and involve more local people.

“So far, we have been considering existing paths in the area that have become overgrown or impassable. Volunteers have cleared and resurfaced short sections, and local landowners and estates have cleared identified paths and replaced bridges as part of their maintenance programmes.”

The Dava Way is the arterial long-distance path that runs through Finderne. The group aims to use it to help connect places and community facilities such as the village halls, churches, Logie Steading and Primary School.

Rosemary said: “We would like to work towards connecting more populated areas and locations with safe, accessible off-road routes such as Edinkillie, Logie, Rafford and Altyre.

“Routes could link to the Dava Way. One option under consideration is to establish a route connecting the Dava Way to Logie Steading for walkers and cyclists.”

The network group’s initiative is community-led. FDT facilitate the meetings and have funding available. Applications will have to be made to other funds to undertake larger projects.

For more information, email hello@findernedevelopmenttrust.com, call 01309 221026 or visit the Logie Steading office.