Safety reminder for Glenmore Forest
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is urging visitors to Glenmore to be respectful of staff and to observe the safety signage and barriers limiting public access to some parts of Glenmore Forest.
The call comes after banksmen working with machine operators to clear bulldozed and unsafe standing trees had to ‘strongly advise’ some young people intent on making their way into the restricted area that for their own safety and for the safety of contractors and FLS staff, they had to turn back.
Although the wider area reopened last week (7 August), there continue to be considerable public safety risks, from remaining hotspots and from potentially hazardous trees and unstable ground.
Alex Macleod, FLS’ North Region Manager, said;
“Thanks to the phenomenal effort from everyone involved, Glenmore is beginning to pick up some momentum in its recovery and that is very welcome.
“However, areas of Glenmore Forest will be off limits for some weeks to come while we address the remaining public safety issues.
“We will be felling dangerous trees, clearing bulldozed trees and repairing the tracks. This will involve chainsaw work and the use of heavy machinery.”
Unfortunately, some visitors - including walkers and mountain bikers – have disregarded all signage and fencing and have attempted to access closed areas. So far, banksmen have been able to convince those people that turning back is the best option.
The closed off areas present serious health and safety risks and FLS will continue to work with contractors and partners, including Police Scotland, to ensure that members of the public remain safe.
Alex, added;
“There is warning signage at the main access points to our forest and maps are available online that show the area that is closed for access.
“We would again urge everyone, for your own safety and for the safety of FLS staff and remaining emergency services workers, please do not go into this area or fly drones into this area.”
The Allt Ban and Allt Mor car parks, and the Ryvoan Trail (including access to An Lochan Uaine / the Green Lochan) and the Lodge Trail, will remain shut for the foreseeable future until FLS has been able to properly assess damage and carry out remediation work to make the area safe for access.
Although some areas will remain closed for some time, Loch Morlich, Lochside, and the Loch Morlich beach, Hayfield and Sugarbowl car parks will be open. Many local businesses are also now open again but we would encourage visitors to the area to check ahead of travelling.
The beach trail, Loch Morlich trail and Pine Knoll trail will be open, as well as the beach toilets.
Access to the summit of Meall a’ Bhuachaille will be possible from Glenmore Visitor Centre (return the same way). Hill access will also be possible via the Sugarbowl car park and the Chalamain Gap.
Notes to editors
- Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
- Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot