Over £41,000 of path upgrade works are underway north of one of Scotland’s most popular leisure resorts, Crieff Hydro, along Westerleigh to Culcrieff Wood (CRIE/16) and the Hosh Path (ESTN/16 & 107) from Wednesday, 30 October.

Upgrade works will improve 1.3 km of uneven, earthen surface that is muddy and slippery for much of the year to be more durable and useable in all weathers, enabling locals and visitors to use the path more readily to reach a variety of destinations without having to use the car.

As part of the project, a short section at the southern end will be upgraded to all-abilities, multi-user standard suitable for wheelchairs, prams and children on bicycles.

A new viewpoint will also be constructed for those who cannot manage the full distance of the route or the elevations it reaches to allow them to enjoy the magnificent vistas across the Strathearn hills and iconic oak woodlands.

During the works, alternatives suggested routes include following the path or minor roads to the east, skirting the Knock.

The path works are being delivered in partnership with Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT).

PKCT’s Communities Officer, Bid Strachan, who is managing the project said:

The path upgrade works to this much-loved route will address the poor condition of the surface and its drainage, especially after times of heavy rainfall, to make it more accessible.

In addition to these improvement works, a rest area will be created with a bench plus space beside it for a walking aid, wheelchair or pram, to enable users of the path to enjoy this stunning view.

We would ask the public to please stay off the paths while works are underway for their own safety and to prevent any delays for the contractors. We’re keen to get these upgrades done as quickly as possible so that everyone can enjoy this popular route.

The work is being funded by Avondale Environmental as part of the NPL Group through the Scottish Landfill Communities Fund and by the Supporting Big Tree Country Scheme, of which Crieff Hydro is a member.