Roller machinery levelling a new pathWe are pleased to update you on the timely progress of constructing the Wildlife Trail to Loch Lomond project at RSPB Scotland Loch Lomond that started earlier this month. Our contractors from McLaren Plant Ltd have been working hard to keep to schedule, and after only a couple of weeks Phase 1 is now nearing completion. This phase of work has added a new section of path linking our existing Airey Woodland trail to the Aber Bog. We are happy that the path already looks well established, but please be aware that it is still part of an active worksite and not officially ‘open’ so we are asking visitors not to use the new sections of path yet. Although there will be far less disruption from now around the Airey Woodland and Viewpoint trails, please adhere to any safety signage and take appropriate caution around any construction work when visiting the reserve.

Phase 2 of the works will see the start of the construction of the Aber Bog boardwalk. On completion, the boardwalk will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the spectacular wildlife this fen habitat has to offer, with seating areas to stop and relax, and a viewing area to watch wildlife from. An additional and significant part of Phase 2 includes adding a new section of path to connect the boardwalk to the existing Shore Wood trail, allowing access to the loch shore. This section of the path will take visitors wandering through the beautiful Ring Wood where they can listen to birdsong or pause at the wildlife watching area to take it all in before arriving at the loch shore. The boardwalk and new section of path will be important places for the exciting programme of activities that will be delivered with local organisations including Green Routes, Tullochan and CHAS.

RSPB staff crossing the fen carrying equipment

The Phase 2 work will last approximately 6 weeks. Given the time of year, it is likely that parts of the core path will become quite mucky while work is ongoing. We advise visitors who wish to access the Shore Wood during this period to be prepared for these conditions. As always, we will endeavour to stick to the scheduled programme of works and will keep locals and visitors up to date as this phase proceeds through signage at the nature reserve, and via our blog and social media accounts.

For more detail on the project and construction programme see: Construction begins on Wildlife Trail to Loch Lomond! - Loch Lomond and Black Devon Wetlands - Our work - The RSPB Community

 

Where should I go if I have any questions?

You can contact the RSPB site team on 01389830670 or email loch.lomond@rspb.org.uk if you would like to ask any questions or find out more. You can also follow us on Twitter @RSPBLochLomond.

The Wildlife Trail to Loch Lomond project has been made possible through funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund, Brown Forbes Memorial Fund and the Horace and Helen Gillman Trusts.