The agencies involved in investigating and dealing with the discovery of asbestos on a popular woodland path in the village of Carr-Bridge have met to discuss progress.

David Clyne, the Cairngorms National Park Authority’s (CNPA) Recreation & Access Manager said: “We’ve had a very useful meeting with The Highland Council (THC), Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), the Cairngorms Outdoor Access Trust (COAT) and Woodland Trust Scotland to establish a plan of action.

“COAT, as the lead body, is in the process of organising a specialist company to carry out further testing on other areas of the path and they are expected to be on site next week. Once COAT has a clearer picture of how much asbestos there is, they will implement a full recovery plan in line with advice from the statutory agencies.

“We can reiterate that risk to the public continues to be low and the statutory agencies –THC, SEPA and the Health & Safety Executive – have all confirmed they are content with how the situation is being dealt with and the procedures that have been put in place.

“Meanwhile SEPA are starting their investigation into the circumstances surrounding how the contaminated material ended up on site and CNPA outdoor access officers are looking at suitable diversions for locals and visitors alike to enjoy while the affected paths are closed.”