Following two informal surveys, a possible space for a footpath has been identified along the right hand side of C17 road from Ballencrieff Toll, which is 1 metre wide and more in some sections. Some ground would need to be leveled and bushes trimmed back in places before a hardcore path could be constructed. Consultation is currently ongoing with the West Lothian Council Highways department. Initial feedback from the planning department is that no formal planning application is required for a path along the road. Costs need to be clarified for a Road Safety Audit (between £200 - £300) and funding needs to be identified (possibly 'Paths for All') The path would be able to follow the C17 road until the View Car park & entrance gate to a pathway' to Cairnpapple, from which it is possible to walk to Beecraigs.Initial contact has been made with several land owners in the area:
Three landowners expressed concerns regarding the increased numbers of walkers in the area and the impact this would have on their land and livestock. Some expressed concerns regarding irresponsible dog owners causing distress to livestock and would not support any plans for a footpath. There were also concerns regarding the possibility of increase of theft of property and livestock.
Two responded more positively and asked to be kept informed of any further plans and discussions.
There has been strong support from several residents of Ballencrieff Toll, siting the current need to transport their bicycles by car to Beecraigs due to it being so dangerous on the road.
Information from Scotways regarding existing footpaths and rights of way in the area, show an 'Asserted Right of Way' on the right hand side of the C17, just past the new View Point Car Park'. This leads up and across the Cairnpapple Hill. On inspection this pathway is blocked by a pad-locked gate and the path is in poor condition in some parts with rubble and wire dumped along it's route. Access to the public for this hill is already established from the other side of the hill for the Carnpapple Historic Scotland monument.
Further discussions will be held with landowners following a discussion and advice from the WLC Pathways / Access Officer.
Three landowners expressed concerns regarding the increased numbers of walkers in the area and the impact this would have on their land and livestock. Some expressed concerns regarding irresponsible dog owners causing distress to livestock and would not support any plans for a footpath. There were also concerns regarding the possibility of increase of theft of property and livestock.
Two responded more positively and asked to be kept informed of any further plans and discussions.
There has been strong support from several residents of Ballencrieff Toll, siting the current need to transport their bicycles by car to Beecraigs due to it being so dangerous on the road.
Information from Scotways regarding existing footpaths and rights of way in the area, show an 'Asserted Right of Way' on the right hand side of the C17, just past the new View Point Car Park'. This leads up and across the Cairnpapple Hill. On inspection this pathway is blocked by a pad-locked gate and the path is in poor condition in some parts with rubble and wire dumped along it's route. Access to the public for this hill is already established from the other side of the hill for the Carnpapple Historic Scotland monument.
Further discussions will be held with landowners following a discussion and advice from the WLC Pathways / Access Officer.
