Volunteers from West Fife Woodlands Group (WFWG) have worked with Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) to build a new footbridge at Muirside Woods, near Saline.  

The bridge is a vital link to the wider area and offers access to the core path network and the National Cycle Network.  

Installing a bridge was first suggested about 10 years ago but was not progressed because of funding issues and tree planting programmes in the area.   

Ronnie Collins, Vice Chairman of WFWG, said: 

"Once the funding began to be put in place we prepared for 2-3 years but when we actually started to build we completed the bridge in only 4 weeks. 

“We are delighted with the end result. It is a major improvement to countryside accessibility for the residents of Saline and the wider community." 

Funding was obtained from WFWG, Fife Environment Trust (FET) and Scottish Mines Restoration Trust (SMRT). FLS provided ‘in-kind’ support that included providing the metalwork for the bridge as well as skill-sharing and project supervision.  

As well as permitting access to the site from Kinnedar Mains Steadings, the Comrie Development Company also supplied material for the path leading to the bridge.  

Completion of the new bridge was welcomed by West Fife Woodland Group, Forestry and Land Scotland, Steelend and Saline Community Development Trust, Saline Environment Group and Saline residents. 

Forestry and Land Scotland Community Ranger Jenny Ventham said; 

"I am very glad this project has come to fruition, it is a project that I know the community has wanted for a while and I’m happy FLS and WFWG have been able to deliver it. 

“We’re looking forward to see working with the community in the future.” 

The construction works were delivered to programme and budget with a final construction cost of £11,500 plus £10,000 in-kind contributions. 

Notes to editors

1. 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.

2. forestryandland.gov.scot | twitter.com/ForestryLS

3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.