Core Paths Plan review

Newtonmore to the summit of Creag Dubh

There is no obvious well signposted core path route up Creag Dubh from any side. There is a reasonable path up the south west flank from the Newtonmore/Laggan Road but there should be a route up the north east flank directly from Newtonmore and/or up the northern flank from Glen Banchor from the core path (UBS8) between Glenballoch and the Rail an Tullaich area. Both these suggested routes are likely to require bridges constructed across the River Calder unless the existing bridge on the main road is used near the entrance to the Glenbanchor cemetery.

LBS1f

Realign core path

This existing core path should be retained as it offers superb views over the River Spey, including its confluence with the River Feshie, and the hills beyond. I would also like to see the nearby Speyside Way designated as a core path so that both core paths together provide a good network of paths between the River Spey and the railway line. Ignore that I have checked the "realign core path" box above - I had to do this to get the computer to accept my submission.

Perth road bridge to the south of Newtonmore to Laggan

This would be a valuable off road path to connect Newtonmore with Laggan. Careful alignment of the path would be needed to avoid areas that are important for breeding waders.

REM71

No

This is a key off-road walking route linking Cairngorm mountain and Glenmore

Needs to be repaired

CC1a

Realign core path

This core path, between the All na Leuma on Glenfeshie estate and the NTS hill road network on Mar Lodge estate needs to be maintained as a non vehicular route, for walking, cycling and horse riding. Some repair work is needed to deal with damage caused by all terrain vehicular use and some restoration of the original path route alignment would be welcome. From the Allt na Leuma downstream to Achlean there are sections where the path is overgrown with encroaching trees and shrubs. These need to be cut back along with signposting to indicate the correct route alignment and avoid people thinking they have to wade the River Feshie to follow this core path. There are also some land slips in the gullies where some path safeguarding work is needed, as well as re-direction signs at the Allt Fhearnagan to prevent users trying to use a steep, near vertical bluff where the path has disappeared due to erosion.

REM111

Yes

Not used

REM110

No

This was a lovely section of the Wildcat Trail - pushing walkers onto the tarmac Strone Road is a very poor substitute

The path could be repaired/re-routed higher up along the short landslip section on the lower part of the river

A network of core paths needs to be developed across the whole of the forest and montane parts of Balmoral estate.

So that King Charles can demonstrate what is expected as a path network on a modern privately owned Scottish estate and to set a standard which other private landowners should strive to match.

REM110

No

This was a very attractive path between the moorland parts of the Wildcat trail and Curlew trail from Kingussie. Since it was "closed" in 2021 the alternative is a walk on a tarmac road that does not link to the Folk Museum or the part of the Wildcat trail beside the Spey. However it appears to be still in use judging by the well trodden grass and footsteps on the erosion scar.

This should be retained as a core path and a costed survey done to determine if it could be fully reopened. This should also take into account that significant public expenditure was incurred on a new bridge about 10 years ago and the amendment REA66 reflects that.

BAST/50

No

The Scottish Law Commission, in its report of level crossings laid before the Scottish Parliament in September 2013, concluded that “local authorities can designate a core path over any land” and that includes railway lines (para 5.57). This is the latest legal opinion on core paths and railway lines in Scotland. The ministerial directive referred to in this CNPA core paths consultation can therefore by ignored or challenged by the CNPA and all other local authorities who should continue to designate core paths over railway lines, where appropriate. If Network Rail does not accept this they will need to take legal action against the Scottish Government, if necessary as far as the Supreme Court, where they are almost certain to fail. This particular location at Dalnaspidal is signposted as a right of way and has traffic lights in position which safeguard vehicular and non vehicular access across the level crossing. If Network Rail cannot accept the reality of this situation and continue to insist that core paths cannot be designated across level crossings they need to be restructed so that all NR operations in Scotland are placed under Scottish Government responsibility with no UK Government role in the control of NR in Scotland.

Dalwhinnie level crossing ADD11

The Scottish Law Commission, in its report of level crossings laid before the Scottish Parliament in September 2013, concluded that “local authorities can designate a core path over any land” and that includes railway lines (para 5.57). This is the latest legal opinion on core paths and railway lines in Scotland. The ministerial directive referred to in the CNPA core paths consultation can therefore be ignored or challenged by the CNPA and all other local authorities who should continue to designate core paths over railway lines, where appropriate. If Network Rail does not accept this they will need to take legal action against the Scottish Government, if necessary as far as the Supreme Court, where they are almost certain to fail. The existing locks on the Dalwhinnie lefel crossing gates need to be removed and NR forced by UK ministerial direction to make appropriate signal or similar arrangements at Dalwhinnie to facilitate non motorised access across the crossing.

LBS96

Realign core path

An upgrading of core path LBS96 to a state where it actually is passable for ryclists and other NMUs (eventually with realignment of part of it to avoid conflict with grazing animals) is crucial to give NMUs a safe and functional bike/walk route all the way between Carrbridge and Dulnain Bridge instead of being pushed onto busy roads as the case is today.

LBS61

No

Objection to core path proposal, near LBS61 - [Gate close to Gurhka footbridge over Dulnain. End at field gate onto Dalrachney Road, Bogroy]

We are opposing this suggested core path proposal as, among other factors, it would run straight through our croft.

Currently the route is sometimes used as an unofficial shortcut to the River Dulnain by residents on Dalrachney Road.

We are now fearful that any official designation of this route as a Core Path would attract significantly increased bike and foot traffic though our working croft. This could well include a far less ‘farm and livestock aware’ tourist traffic element.

Over the years we have experienced an increasing number of problems with people crossing the land.
These include a number of new paths being created by people walking through the middle of our field, poultry and geese being killed by walkers’ dogs, sheep worrying incidents, fencing posts and wire being stolen. Stacked cut firewood going ‘missing’.

There has also been an ongoing problem over the years with the two field gates not being closed properly. When we had sheep on the land last year, this was a regular worry, with sheep escaping on a number of occasions.

In addition to all this, we are currently conducting a farm review with emphasis on woodland creation and a new mix of livestock to complement new planting.

In short, our concern is – given our ongoing problem with livestock killings, thefts and gates being insecurely closed – that any designation of a route through our croft as a Core Path would attract increased traffic through our fields. Obvioiusly, any official Core Path desgnation would also mean the path being clearly marked on all new trail maps.

Finally, the access to the northern bank of the river, referred to in the path proposal is already available via the village circular river walk along the banks of the Dulnain.
It should also be noted that prior to our taking over the croft, there was actually NO access through the croft to the River Dulnain, as the whole area was fenced. It was only when we renewed the fencing that we then also installed a gate to the river from our land. It was only then that the field began to be used as a shortcut by locals.

As indicated, we have always respected, and always will respect, people’s right to roam. There has never been any move on our part to make public access to a shortcut across our field, harder. However, any designation of this route as a Core Path and hence marked on maps as such, would greatly add to its traffic, and dramatically add to our problems and worry in running our small croft.

GR12 and REM71

No

Please see my earlier comment which contained an error: I omitted the word "not" from the following - "UK/Scottish Governments we do not have a network of off road paths".

See previous suggestions.

UBS2

Remove core path

This path is redundant and is replaced by REA66

GR12 and REM71

No

Glenmore Estate on the northern slopes of the Cairngorms was purchased from the Duke of Gordon in 1923 by the Forestry Commission. In 1971 the upper slopes were transferred to the Highlands and Islands Development Board (now HIE), resulting in an uncoordinated shambles which continues to the present day and explains why £millions of public money have been wasted on this mountain under the ownership of HIDB and HIE. There is no possibility that this financial deep hole will be filled while public ownership of the mountain continues to be split between two public bodies each responsible to different Scottish Government ministers. It is an absolute disgrace that, after 100 years of ownership of these mountain slopes by the UK/Scottish Governments we do have a network of off road paths for walking, cycling and skiing which connect the bottom to the top of the mountain. Is there any similar recreational area in Europe or North America which has such poor arrangements for non vehicular public access to the mountain slopes? Even worse. this situation has continued to deteriorate during the 20 plus years of the Cairngorms National Park Authority. Fine words about non vehicular access in various CNPA planning and policy documents are not worth the paper they are written on when action on the ground is non existent. The failure of these three public bodies and the government ministers to whom they have reported, for decades, to establish an adequate path network on the mountain demonstrates the highest level of public body and political incompetence in Scotland.

The repair of the Allt Mor path, with an adjusted alignment if necessary, all the way from Glenmore village to Coire Cas should be a top priority. But this should be only be a first step towards the development of a comprehensive network of core paths, for walking, cycling and skiing, across the whole of the mountain slopes from Glenmore to Cairn Gore summit. Such a task cannot be entrusted to the above three public bodies who are bound to fail again. The Scottish Government needs to establish a task force, with in independent chair, plus a range of stakeholder groups, to produce the necessary plans for the northern slopes of the Cairngorms before the formal consultation on the CNPA core paths plan starts in the spring of 2026.

UBS34

Realign core path

The whole of UBS34 should be realigned to reflect the situation on the ground . In addition to the realignments suggested by others, this part of the path should follow the line of the track shown on the map.

LBS77

Realign core path

This wet part of the path is bypassed by a new path along the old fence line.

It should start at the Slochd car park and follow the circuit around Carn Bad nan Luibhean plus the extension towards Carrbridge and down to the Sluggan bridge.

It is a well used cross-country skiing track when the conditions are right and also provides a choice of loop walks in summer

REM71

No

This is the only direct off-road path from Glenmore to access the many paths radiating from the Day Lodge. It has been in use for many decades and it is sad to see the state it is in, especially after the expenditure of public money on the boardwalk.

It should either be rebuilt to a standard that can cope with the topography, ( plus flood and avalanche risk) along the bank of the stream or else diverted higher up to follow the route that ski-tourers use, coming out near the top of the path down to Utsi's bridge

GR2

Realign core path

Cairngorm Club footbridge needs upgrading or replacement to ease use by cyclists of this important crossing point.

Between White Bridge up the E side of the River Dee to the Lairig Ghru beneath Carn a'Mhaim

An obvious completion of the circular route Linn of Dee - Derry Lodge - Glen Dee, and the Blair Atholl - Coylumbridge through-route. Pathwork already on some parts. No major burn crossings. Only a few short boggy sections.

This core path should be established and well signposted to follow the south side of Loch na Leona and be connected, as a minimum, to the adjacent public roads using existing paths which are already marked with dotted lines on the 1:25,000 OS map along the south side of Loch na Leona and connected to Loch na Leoba Road at GR 712991, Old Glen Road at GR714991 and Glen Road at GR710993.

Loch na Leona is a very attractive wetland amenity close to the centre of Newtonmore but has been encroached in recent years by housing developments and restricted access through locked gates and zero signposting. Establishment of core path facilities in this location would be of substantial benefit to local residents in nearby housing as well as visitors to Newtonmore.

From the bridge north of Pitmain Lodge along the north side of Loch Gynach to the Forest gate on the Curled Trail.

Popular cycle route between Kingussie and Newtonmore

UBS5

Realign core path

Should be realigned to go up the old sunken road. The existing alignment is wrong.

REM110

No

Although the community has not been able to find the reopening of this path after storm damage, it remains one of the most important core paths in the area, and should be repaired, not removed.

ADD10

No

We have concerns that this route from Ruthven in the north along the river, past Newtonmore and joining the road at Uvie lochans cuts through priority areas for breeding waders. A new core path there could mean increased disturbance from people and dogs. It is not clear from the map which side of the river the path is at all stages. Disturbance at the well-used Wildcat trail north of Newtonmore is already likely moving waders onto this farmland area. RSPB has survey data on a field by field basis for breeding waders from 2000 onwards including 2025 data and can share this with CNPA to inform discussions around the route and any mitigations. We would be happy to meet to discuss this.

LBS123

Remove core path

Suggest remove this path as it leads straight into a wood that is used by a Schedule 1 species susceptible to disturbance. It is not an a-b route or a loop.

LBS53

Realign core path

It would be good to include the ACNMU as a core path once built and remove the core path up to Docharn? The Docharn core path is close to an area used by a Schedule 1 species.

LBS11

Remove core path

The core path running alongside and adjacent to the Speyside Way is through an area that has been designated as a priority area for sensitive species for which this site is designated for.

REM71

No

I have been along this path in the last week on a club trip. It is perfectly serviceable with only one minor short section that is a problem (and only so for the very tentative walker) It is outrageous and extremely lazy/ incompetent by the CNPA to state this important path is irreparable, there are far more rugged paths deep in the mountains that get worked on, while this one is close to a road, and presents no major difficulties. I suggest the desk-bound pen-pushing bureaucrats of the CNPA get their noses out of their lattes and off their luxury executive armchairs and actually visit sites and speak to representatives of core user groups, and contractors who can easily repair these type of paths.

Start: c.NO 37339 96880; End NO 37610 97199

This was a route considered when Core Paths were first set up. It would effectively be an extension of the Cinder Path (UDE31) eastwards which would pass SE of the houses at Morven Way and join the Pass of Ballater road opposite the Sgor Buidhe track - thus discouraging walkers from walking on the road. However, this route does not follow any existing path or track, and a bridge might also be needed.

Start: Dallyfour track end on UDE28 at NO 36004 94950; End: Entrance to Knock Castle at NO 35189 95097

This is an extension W of UDE28 giving access to Knock Castle.

Start: Sgòr Buidhe track (NO 37610 97203) ; End: Via Creagan Riabhach to Pass of Ballater road further W, either at NO 36161 97014 or via Abergairn to NO 35813 96937.

This is a popular route with views over Ballater and Lochnagar. The route via Abergairn to NO 35813 96937 has the advantage of avoiding any walking on the Pass of Ballater road by continuing across the Pass of Ballater road by a path linking to the A93, which has a pavement leading back to the village. If the entire route were not to be designated, it would be useful at least to designate the route between Abergairn and the A93. The route is entirely on existing paths and tracks. Our e-mailed comments include a map which shows the extended route.

Start: Old curling ponds on UDE28 (ADD12) at NO 37303 95274; End: Forestry and Land Scotland boundary behind Glenmuick House NO 37419 94545 or (via Heartbreak Ridge) junction with the Cambus o’ May Circular UDE59 at NO 40632 97311

The route between the Old curling ponds and the edge of the forest behind Glenmuick House is heavily used by walkers and bikers accessing Pannanich Hill/Heartbreak Ridge. By designating the longer option, via Heartbreak Ridge, as a core path it would connect with the Cambus o’ May Circular UDE59 at NO 40632 97311, thus forming a circular route. The route follows existing tracks and paths. Our comments submitted by e-mail include a map showing the route.

Start: B972 at NO 37296 97037 or NO 37610 97200; End: NO 40342 98272 (joining UDE39 at Cambus o' May trails).

This would formalise an attractive off-road route from Ballater to (a) Tulloch, with its Pictish stones etc, (b) Cambus o’ May, with its walks, café etc, and (c) the Burn o’ Vat and Dinnet. This uses existing paths/tracks throughout and creates a useful connexion with the core path network E of Ballater and W of Dinnet. See our comments sent by e-mail which include a map with the route marked.

UDE59

Realign core path

The route shown NE of Torphantrick should follow the line of the new path which cuts the corner at NO 41275 97334. (See map included in our comments submitted by e-mail.) The route is correctly shown on the OS 'Standard' map.

UDE34

Realign core path

The junction with the B976 at Dalmochie, as currently shown, does not accurately represent the line of the actual route. Heading W to E, the route descends direct to the B976 at NO 38005 96247 before heading E along the pavement on the N side of the B976.

UDE59

Realign core path

The line of the route shown E of Glascorrie is inaccurate. The comments we have sent by e-mail contain a map showing the correct line of the route from E of Glascorrie to the Cambus o’ May bridge. Much of the route follows a new path (possibly created c.2011?). The route is clear on the OS ‘Standard’ map.

ADD12

No

The new addition between Bridgefoot and the Royal Bridge, Ballater, does not accurately represent the official (and signposted) line of its approach to the Royal Bridge. It continues NE to NO 37363 95572 before turning sharply SW down to the Bridge. The route currently shown is now a washed-out and slightly dangerous shortcut.

REA33

Yes

The suggested removal/realignment immediately east of Bridge of Muick is satisfactory and represents reality.

Realign core path

Dallyfour straight on South Deeside Road: an off-road path running alongside the road is being investigated, but this would not change the line of the route.

UDE28

Realign core path

The western of the two crossings of the A93 by UDE28 is inaccurately represented on the Core Path map. In a clockwise direction, the route reaches the A93 at NO 34316 96868, travels E along the road verge for 80m, then crosses to the track on the N side of the A93. (That is, it does not cross directly over the A93 as shown on your map.)

UDE66

Realign core path

Note: bank collapse on the Gairn means that the route is currently officially closed, but we understand that CNPA and Invercauld Estate are seeking a solution to this.

REA56

Yes

The suggested removal and realignment by the Dee is acceptable and reflects the post-flood reality.

REA47

Yes

The proposed removal/realignment by the Dee is acceptable and reflects post-flood reality.

UDE29

Realign core path

The current route shown, passing through the Caravan Park from its upstream boundary then on to the Royal Bridge is no longer signposted and is considered dangerous. The Caravan Park did not wish walkers to be encouraged to walk through it; the riverbank immediately upstream of the Royal Bridge was deemed dangerous; and residents of Cornellan Square did not appreciate walkers being encouraged to walk past their houses on their private road. The waymarked route now follows the SW boundary of the Caravan Park from NO 36978 95237 to the junction of Salisbury Road and Anderson Road at NO 36881 95364.

REA32

Yes

We disagree with the existing comment regarding signage: the signage installed c.2020 clearly signs/waymarks the two key circuits on the hill (Craigendarroch Summit and Craigendarroch Circular) from the SW entrance to the hill from Craigendarroch Walk at NO 36589 96078. They are in complete harmony with your proposed realignments, which reflect the reality on the ground.

REA40

Yes

We disagree with the existing comment regarding signage: the signage installed c.2020 clearly signs/waymarks the two key circuits on the hill (Craigendarroch Summit and Craigendarroch Circular) from the SW entrance to the hill from Craigendarroch Walk at NO 36589 96078. They are in complete harmony with your proposed realignments, which reflect the reality on the ground.

REA40

Yes

The proposed deletions and realignments are good.

REA32

Yes

The proposed deletions and realignments are good.

UDE30

Remove core path

We suggest that the second (NE) entrance to the hill from Craigendarroch Walk at NO 36779 96221 be deleted as a core path. When CNPA-funded signage was installed on the hill c.2020 it was found that the only coherent way of signing the walks was to do so from a single point of entry (the SW entrance from Craigendarroch Walk at NO 36589 96078). Thus all signs for these circular walks start from and end at that entrance. Safety notices – installed after a fatal accident on the hill – also appear at that point.

ADD24

Supporting the addition of this existing path to the Core path network. The path serves as a strategic link between the communities around Laggan to Loch Laggan, Ardverkie, Corrour, Spean Bridge and beyond. The path is used by community members and visitors on a regular basis.

Drumguish to Glen Feshie

It's a well used route through which people access trails around Inchriach, reach Glen Feshie and circuit Creag. Dhubh.

From Loch Eanaich to the existing core path section between Loch an Eileen and the Cairngorm club bridge

It's an established and well used path that allows people to exercise their access right in this area. There are precious few paths on the CPN that extend out of the valley and into the Cairngorms themselves. On what basis would this path be excluded?

Sgòr Gaoith from Achlean

Extremely popular Munro route with excellent path. Why have the main Munro paths not been adopted into the Core Path route network?

The Burma Road, from Lynwilg to the River Dulnain, and looping back around to Station Road in Carrbridge

Very popular with cyclists

Section of Wade's road from Phones to Ruthven

Well used by cyclists and of historic significance.

ADD8

Yes

Lovely accessible walk to an excellent viewpoint

Why has this hill been adopted into the core path network and not other well travelled small (e.g. Creag Dubh) or large (i.e. virtually any of the Munros) hills in the area?? This seems highly inconsistent.

ADD8

CC1a

Realign core path

Possibly realignment required due to the various land slips and erosion that have removed sections between the Pony bridge and Ruigh Aiteachain. Currently the correct route is unclear and the various obstacles are not represented on any of the available maps.

Kingussie to Kincraig

Off-road access between the two communities would offer advantages to recreation, enable a pleasant circuit when combined with the route via Ruthven, and allow non-drivers (particularly young people) to safely and independently travel between the two towns.

ADD9

Yes

Proposed missing section along the Spey linking the bridges on B970 (Kingussie) and Ruthven road (Newtonmore) would provide an excellent route for recreation and a pleasant round when combined with the existing path alongside the A86.

LBS83

Remove core path

This path was part of the Old Badenoch Way and was used to connect the old RSPB car park to the old hide, when the new Lookout and car park were built a new link path was created so this path is now defunct. It has also now been replaced by the Speyside Way.

lbs53

Yes

I agree because Docharn farmhouse and steading are being rennovated and once complete will be lived in full time with livestock.

The route to the south west makes sense but the surface could be improved to make life easier for the public.

LBS71

Realign core path

This path is in poor condition and could do with some maintenance

GR12

Realign core path

Please keep this path, it's one of my favourite sections to connect glenmore with utsi's bridge

The path between Glen Lui and Glen Quoich through the Clais Fhearnaig on Mar Lodge estate. It should then be connected to the short section of core path in Glen Quoich along the track there

Because it would help create a great circular walk from the Linn of Dee car park and not a single new core path has been proposed on the Mar Lodge estate

Starts east of the Smiddy House off the ADD7 proposed route at NN 7801 9959 and ends just over the bridge at NN 7796 9681, joining the existing CP CC8.

An existing path of heritage value and linking existing paths, Newtonmore and Ruthen Barracks to Glen Tromie off-road. Suitable for all NMUs, including horse riders.

Since the new bridge was installed (users had to use the ford before) using donations and CNPA support, this now reinstates this heritage path as the main access to Glen Tromie just north of the lodge.

There are records of this route being used in the 16th and 19th century by traffic over the Minnigaig and Comray path. In particular to suppply the Ruthen Barracks before the Stone bridge at the bottom of Tromie was upgraded for horse and cart.

This path has seen increased use by walkers, cyclists and horse riders and appears in any guide books and websites.

REM72

No

The existing path along the banks of the Spey offers a much higher quality recreational experience than the Speyside Way, giving great views over the river and in addition is a much more direct route. There is no justification for removing it

Add the Speyside Way by all means but keep this as a core path too

80m path starts at the public toilets at Ardvonie Car Park and ends on Ardvonie Road

Access to key path networks around Kingussie and also to public toilet facilities which are key to keeping our town clean and safe

Following the felling of timber, a new path has been constructed to link the caravan park and the existing path up the south side of Creag Bheag. The path is now shown on Open Street Map.

This new path joins up a circular "off-road" route around Creag Bheag and a favourite for local walkers.

LBS143

Realign core path

The current map alignment does not follow any identifiable path and does not have a recognisable finish point. It should start at Acres road, follow the path N diagonally across the field and continue through the woods to the Pitmain road where it joins the track to the golf club sheds. The alignment is clearly shown on OpenStreetMap.

REM110

No

This section of core path forms part of the Wild Cat trail around Newtonmore. It may be unrepairable but no alternative is proposed and as a result the CNPA is effectively saying the Wildcat Trail, an important community initiative, is no more. That is unacceptable. The CNPA should be improving and adding to the path network round villages

The CNPA should be working with the local community to find an alternative route

ADD18

No

I have a share in the common grazings on the Tulloch Moor. I would object to the formalistion of this as a core path for several reasons. There is already an increase in human disturbance in an area formerly inhabited by a good number of black grouse, capercaillie and many other varieties of wildlife, now much depleted. Also rare invertebrates and rare species of flora. To encourage more use of the area would endanger all of these and to think that people will stick to the path and not explore the area, is naive at best.
Also, the moor is a common grazing. In recent years it has become overgrown though lack of muirburn. An effort is being made to improve it by increasing the grazing of cattle and sheep, an increased number of cyclists and walkers will disturb these animals and cause them to wander. The presence of cows and calves would need to be taken into account in any risk assessment.
While the moor road may be safe for cyclists and walkers because of the absence of cars, the access to it is by single track road, and the Tulloch road in particular has seen an increase in cyclists of varying abilities - some perfectly fine, but many not knowing how to behave on a single track road, not using passing places and not keeping small children within sight - I have witnessed a family of four all out of sight of each other because of blind bends - the smallest chiild was about 5. The formalisation and publication of the moor road as a core path will encourage more inexperienced people to hire bikes and put themselves and other road users at risk.
Until very recent years, Tulloch, and the moor was an area used primarily for farming and crofting, it was rich in flora and fauna and used only by a few folk for recreation. We'll never get back to that, but it would be good to keep a bit of a balance. If the moor road becomes a recognised core path it will be all over social media in no time, it will be over-used, the fire risk will be increased - Tulloch is already at high risk - and another area that was once a gem will be lost.

I would suggest that the moor be left as it is at present. Too many parts of the Park are being lost to tourism - losing what attracted folk to the area in the first place.

No

I disagree with this proposed amendment because; it's there already, as a place for people to walk/cycle, but to be found & explored WITHOUT the inevitable promotion that will come if included and formalised as a Core Path, on maps & apps, websites, social media and other such means of leading people by the hand all the time. What ever happened to exploration & discovery by the more intrepid. It's a means of sanitizing & homogenising the countryside, that leads inevitably & inexorably to uncontrollable over-recreation. Once the genie is out of the bottle, there's no going back. Plus, Tulloch Moor is an area of common grazing, used for free-ranging sheep & cattle, already susceptible to worrying by walker's dogs. It is hitherto one of the last quiet backwaters of the Park, important for its nature conservation interests which are being inexorably squeezed elsewhere in the Park by formalisation & over-encouragement to recreate and all the unintended consequences that follow.

ADD18

No

Since the Tulloch Moor road became impassable for cars many years ago, access to the area has declined, resulting in a return of some of the wilderness qualities of this area. I disagree with the extension of the core path network because the moor is important for wildlife, including sensitive and threatened species, and also an area of common grazing for the crofting township. Enabling access would increase disturbance to wildlife, increase wildfire risk, and most likely increase the likelihood that people explore beyond the road itself in to even more ecologically sensitive areas.

ADD18

No

I have a crofting share in the Tulloch Moor Common Grazing and use it regularly to graze my ewes and lambs. I object to a Core Path running through Tulloch and the Common Grazings. The last thing we need is more people using Tulloch Moor for recreation while livestock and nature are disturbed. The increased risk of wildfires cannot be ignored. People should make up their own mind whether to cross the board walk, they should not be encouraged to do so by repairing it. Also, once in Tulloch will they be tempted to investigate farm and croft tracks, open gates etc.

ADD18

No

I am a crofter in Tulloch with a share in the Tulloch Moor Common Grazing. I object to the proposal that the Core Path should extend through Tulloch and Tulloch Moor. Such an extension would seriously disturb the livestock - cows, calves, sheep and lambs - grazing there. It goes without saying that wildlife would also be impacted and there would be the added risk of wildfires with any increase in people using the road. The road should not be adopted or improved and cyclists should be aware of the risks therein. The board walk at the Caolan should be negotiated at one’s own risk. The CNPA cannot be responsible for how people behave on a Core Path if it were designated as such. As ever it’s recreation versus nature and a traditional way of life.

spey bridge to ruthven steading. The public road is often dark as there is a high bank on the west side. This is the access to Ruthven Barracks and is often busy with cars buses cyclists and pedestrians. I do not consider it safe.road

LBS80

Realign core path

Numerous areas of poor drainage exist along this section of path. Areas of standing water are narrowing the path and leaving silt and stones which aren't great for cyclists. For a NCN route this needs to be better maintained.

LBS80

Realign core path

Last 50m or so of path on W side of Kingussie (before turning away from A86 and across bridge) is very narrow and unsuitable as a shared pedestrian/cycle route. It's acting as a deterrent to use and there's already a "desire line" evident some distance west so it's apparent cyclists are remaining on the highway rather than navigate this section, There's also no verge at this location and the road has a 60mph limit. Moving the 20mph marker further toward Newtonmore would benefit this.

ADD7

Yes

Important to provide route to Ruthven, RSPB Insh and beyond

It's not the safest of routes. What is being considered to improve this? Could one-way operation (traffic lights) be considered for bridges as already exists at Newtonmore, for example.

ADD21

Yes

Agree to extend Core Path from Kincraig to Wildlife Park.

This might be something that has to be delivered as part of A9 dualling, but extending the core path to Kingussie provides a safer cycle route to Kincraig, plus the opportunity for an improved circular route between the two towns, out via Ruthven, back via Lynchat.

GR17

Realign core path

I am not really suggesting realignment but, for just over a mile, this path from the south end of Loch an Eilein and past Loch Gamhna is very narrow, rough and over-grown. It is manageable for walking but extremely difficult for cycling. Widening, and improving the surface of this path would create a much safer off-road cycle route to the tracks in the Inshriach Forest and onwards to Feshiebridge than using the busy B970.

ADD18

Realign core path

The Tulloch Moor road is an important route for walkers and cyclists. We live in Tulloch and have been using the road for 45 years mainly for cycling but also walking. When the road became impassable, the boardwalk that was constructed was a valuable addition and provides a safe way by-passing the road which has deep potholes. The only realignment needed is to repair the rexisting road so that walkers and cyclists can use it again but failing that regular maintenance of the boardwalk would retain a very valuable route across the moor.

ADD18 Proposed extension to core path.

This is a much valued route for walkers and cyclists and the current boardwalk is used every day. This route is in active use by the local community and visitors.
By using this route it greatly reduces the distance for cyclists and young cyclists on the B970, in order to reach the established path past Milton farm and connecting with paths and cycle routes around Loch Morlich. It is safer than requiring young and older people to cycle a much longer distance on the B970 (can be very busy at times)

ADD18

Yes

It seems to be a good idea provided there is/could be a means to maintain it - the boardwalk was a great addition, and it would seem fair if it didn't have to rely on the goodwill of a private to maintain it.
If the core path status could help be a means for the upkeep of that section without penalising the landowner, this would seem a good idea?

Along the Tullochmoor road

I am suggesting this should NOT be a core path because it is not maintained and is dangerous for cyclists if they do not follow the boardwalk. The boardwalk was privately erected and is not maintained and at times falls into dangerous disrepair. Tullochmoor and it’s wildlife currently benefit from being relatively undisturbed by visitors

ADD18

No

Road is not maintained and is in current state if disrepair. The boardwalk bypassing the main damaged section is unofficial and would need adopting.

Leave route in current state and do not add as core path.

ADD 18

Yes

We cycle this regularly; it helps to make an excellent round route from our home in Street of Kincardine to Loch Garten and back by the B970. It's a very logical addition to the network.

How about adding a side option via the forestry track to [the former] Auchgourish Gardens?

REM108

No

This path is on soft peaty terrain, it is a soft surface to walk, run or cycle on. The alternative path is a forest fire road, a very rocky surface and unpleasant to walk on. Some humans and dogs have stiff joints and prefer to walk on the softer path, my dog has a back injury and has to be carried on the hard path but can walk on the soft path. We use this path weekly. Not everyone wants to walk in a manicured environment. This is the great outdoors which is being destroyed by man made paths, leave some natural ones.

Keep the path and ask locals to maintain the undergrowth if the park can't afford to

LBS96

Realign core path

This path would, if passable, allow access from Dulnain Br to the Balnaan Carrbridge road avoiding the 'scary' bends on the A938 .. it will also help give access to the west side od Dulnain (I live at Muckrach) when the lomg awaited cycle path is built from Dulnain to Grantown. The path is in desperate need to some signage, re-alignment and possibly something of a surface.

lbs53

Realign core path

The existing core path is shown as going through Docharn farm. The new installed gates mean that the accepted route is now via farm tracks to the SW - which bypasses Docharn farmhouse area

lbs96

Realign core path

The "path" is basically impassible & non-existant. The area is waterlogged and therefore not used. It should be a key/core route, as it avoids the dangerous A938.

At the steps on the way up Craigellachie it contours NW to the Allt Dubh waterfall.

It is proposed as a spur on the existing core path. It makes possible a route from North Aviemore up to the waterfall then onto Craigellachie and down to South Aviemore. A route already exists up to the waterfall from North Aviemore although parts need work.

LBS138

LBS 138. START AT THE old water works on the way up Craigellachie.Contours NNE round and down to finish at South High Burnside.

This is an extension of an existing core path(Craigellachie) to the North. It makes possible an ascent of Craigellachie from North Aviemore to complement the existing route. Also it could be used in the future as part of the Aviemore Orbital when the existing route is made non feasible by A9dualling.

The path and many variants already exists but is not in good repair. It needs fixing. Starts at summit of Craigellachie then heads SE to viewpoint then down through forest to core path at Loch Pulladern. Great route provides alternate access to Craigellachie up or down and makes a loop possible.

Gives access to South Craigellachie and loop from Loch Puladdern core path

Summit of Meall a Buchaille then along ridge NW to Craigellachie then down through forest to join with Sluggan Core path

It is already there de facto and a great route. However the existing descent from Craigellachie is a disgrace-- very eroded and difficult--it needs a lot of work to bring it up to the eastern Meall a Buchaille standard. If a core path( or a core path spur) resources might be available for this work Also it facilitates access to the western part of the Meall a Buchaille ridge and makes easier an up or down loop from Badaguish core path to Craigowrie and M a B.

LBS72

Remove core path

This is the old Badenoch Way that has now been replaced with the Speyside Way.

Carrbridge to Aviemore NMU

Cycling on the Carrbridge to Aviemore roads, including the A95 is dangerous

The carrbridge to aviemore non motorised path would be soo good

It would help with our community cohesion

Dundarroch Road section going towards 7 Bridges path

The narrow plot of land across from my house should have a walking/cycling path down the length of it to enhance the 7 Bridges Walk. The land is owned by Aberdeenshire Council and zoned as amenity land. I have a copy of the May 1993 deed on the plot. It runs the length of Dundarroch Road and a path under the trees would be beautiful and a better public amenity.

ACNMU - Aviemore to Carrbridge

Can I ask why the proposed ACNMU has not been included in the consultation?

LBS53

Realign core path

This core path crosses a very busy (60mph) road in and out of Carrbridge. There is no road signage to alert drivers to the crossing point from either the Carrbridge or Aviemore side. A safety review should be conducted with a view to installing a 'pedestrians crossing' sign. This is quite a long crossing as the paths are not aligned therefore the transition across the road is diagonal.

UDE51

Realign core path

Path down to the Golf Club is poorly sign posted and overgrown, with dangerous slippy steep areas.

Coo Hill path would run from the Queens Drive UDE17 to the top of Carn nan Sgliat

This is a popular route for walkers and is an important element to Braemar's appeal as a hill walking destination.

UDE16

Realign core path

Sections of this path are in very poor condition. Sections going through the wood are wet and extremely uneven. Section that decends towards the A93 has a number of desire lines and needs realignment. Steps are uneven.

UDE12

Realign core path

The lower section of this path is very wet in places. The section that rises up to the road is none existent, very wet, and has at times a burn running down it. There is also the remains of a fence that you need to step over which makes it look like an unofficial path.

UDE12

Realign core path

The whole path between the A93 and the Linn O Dee road is in very poor condition, some sections need repairing, there are some large section that require realignment

UDE12

Realign core path

This section of the path is steep and in poor condition. Realignment or maintenance is suggested to improve access to this path which is both a scenic river walk (UDE12) and also an important avenue to bring people off the Linn of Dee Road (which can be dangerous) to re-enter the village at UDE61 (Island Access Path) or joining UDE5 (Morrone Birchwood Circular ) and on to UDE6 (the Duck Pond to Viewpoint path)

UDE15

Realign core path

This section of path along the side of the road opposite the castle is non existent, there is a desire line visible. A section of path should be added.

ADD1

Yes

The Charters Chest path is a great addition to the Braemar path network and fits the criteria of a Core Path very well.

The path would link UDE5 (Morrone Birchwood Circular) with UDE24 (Linn of Dee Cycle Route) across paths which already exist, but are not well known.

The primary benefits from adding a Birchwood Mar Lodge Link Path would be to encourage walkers and cyclists off the Linn of Dee Road, which can be dangerous, and to improve connectivity between Braemar and the extensive path network on Mar Lodge Estate

UDE53

Realign core path

Realignment of this path to enable easier access from Cluniebank Road and a clearer (safer) crossing point of the A93 is requested.

The path would go from the play space in Dulnain Bridge grid 995 247 to the junction of the A938 Aviemore link and the old A95 at Easter Curr grid 998 243. An alternative access point could be from behind the old Tin Church grid 996 247. an existing path from there meets the above mentioned track after around 50 metres. (This option would also avoid a short slope for wheelchair users). Having this branch included would also provide a short loop from the centre of the village.

Yes
1. it is a well established track a vehicle could use.
2. it would link with the existing core path which is the old A95.
3. It provides a NMU pathway linking the outlying small communities of Dulnain Bridge, namely Easter and Mid Curr.
4. It is thought by the community that this would be the best option to upgrade a path to an all access path, something the village lacks compared to all the other communities around about. A core path designation could be a step towards us achieving that.
5. It was my understanding that it has been considered as a likely Sustrans addition to the cycle network from Dulnain to Nethy sometime in the future should Dulnain get linked to Grantown and Carrbridge.

REM 102

Remove core path

Yes Agree this should not be a core path. The bit from the river side path to the road has never existed as far as I can tell.

Delighted with this as it was built with the landowners permission by a small community group as a temporary path with no mechanical or financial help.

It has created a vital link to enabling a circular route around Dulnain using the minor Skye of Curr road and old bits of A95 and no longer people having to make their way along the verge of A95(T) where traffic is frighteningly fast.

REA37

No

This path is steep, twisty and narrow - inaccessible for elderly, push or wheelchair and probably a majority of cyclists. it has also had fragments of rock from blasting in the quarry land on it. It seems strange that this was thought to be a core path in the first place other than it is a less direct between Broomhill and Dulnain. There is a much more viable track and single track easier to negotiate on foot, bike and horse with less ascent that runs around the north and west side of Curr hill more or less on the index contour line and links the two bits of the old A95. Locally it is known as the M1 which indicates its viability. From the Dulnain end it runs off the grey path at around grid 995 234 and joins the old road at grid 986 225 where there is a gated entrance from the A95(T).

LBS96

Realign core path

Neither realign nor remove just make it passable. There is an un openable gate at a small bog where the path enters the fields and moves away from the river. For at least 15 years this route has been impassable as the drainage ditches have not been maintained. There is permanent deep water in places towards the Carr road end. This would make such an attractive, safe and vital link between Carrbridge and Dulnain Bridge taking NMUs off the A938 which has some hazardous bends towards Balnaan.

Path reference: UDE50

Realign core path

Path reference: UDE50 should extend all the way down GT South Drive to Tower of Ess

Path reference: UDE50 should extend all the way down GT South Drive to Tower of Ess

LBS96

Realign core path

As per another comment the path route is very boggy and reinstatement would allow it to be used as a cycle route into Dulnain thus avoiding the main road, and in the future hopefully being part of a safe cycle route to Grantown

no path reference number shown

Yes

preserve a "Healthy Walk" route

LBS80

Realign core path

Realign the core path on the map to match the existing cycle path from Newtonmore to Kingussie

ADD7

Yes

This additional core path is essential to join up other core paths and complete the Speyside Way.

The “new” core path needs to be developed as an “off road” path from Kingussie to Ruthven Barracks as a matter of urgency. The B970 is a busy road with many timber lorries using this route. It’s not safe to be shared with pedestrians, cyclists and horses.

Gate close to Gurhka footbridge over Dulnain. End at field gate onto Dalrachney Road (Bogroy)

Missing link between Northern and Southern parts of Carrbridge and access to the Northern bank of Dulnain. Should be core path to ensure continued maintenance/ signposting and reduce potential for landowner issues in the future (none at the moment).

NJ 0693 1724 Ballintuim to NJ 0182 <<>> 1439 Nethy Forest

Key network link, high recreational value.

Key link between GT22 <<>> LBS127a.

Completes core path circular route round Cairngorms (map on request). Nethy-Tomintoul-Loch Buig-Invercauld-Marr Lodge-White Bridge-Glen Tilt-Blair Atholl-Calvin-Gaick-Tromie/Glen Feshie (new core path)-Feshie Forest-Loch Morlich-Nethy. Short version via Geldie-Feshie.

Use by NMUs (walkers, cyclists, horse riders) increased over 10 years. Evidenced by path erosion and numbers observed over last 20 years.

Now used instead of historic access link Between Dorback and Nethy; NJ 0611 1803 Attinlea <<>> NJ 0180 1605 Nethy Forest (lodge) over grouse moors from 1970s/80s.
Active travel route (NMUs) between Tomintoul and Nethy Bridge.

Email sent with maps and further comments.

REA40

Yes

Spiders web of paths need to be reduced to one set of paths to help visitors walk around the hill.

Clear signage is required for circular route and route to the top. This would help reduce the use of informal paths / desire lines.
At present paths network is complicated to work out which is the formal route.

UDE16

Realign core path

Core path after the Lions Face Quarry needs to follow the actual path on the ground, your path line is inaccurate.

UDE21

Realign core path

Core path should follow the existing track, and not the old track which is now over grown and not used.

UDE21

Realign core path

Core path should follow the existing track as and not divert into an area of planted trees. No reason for small diversion.

Path links the Lions Face walk with Balmoral Estate. ADD1

Path has already been constructed and used by the public.
Can CNPA confirm that the path maintenance will continue after the current 15yr agreement with the Landowners

REA56

Yes

Makes sense after flood damage in 2016

The area needs clear signage to the diversion to be used.
The other issue on the same route is where the path returns and follows the River Gairn North towards the A93, where we have bank erosion that has impacted on the path and could potentially lead to the path collapsing into the river.

REA32

Yes

At present there is a spiders web of informal paths around Craigendarroch Hill, so confirming the correct routes would help.

I would suggest re-visiting the path signage for the core paths on Craigendarroch Hill to help visitors identify the formal core path. At present the signage is not clear Especially on the Southern end next to the village

from Acres Road

Yes

it tidies up to match the reality on the ground. Also really importand as planning for housing will need clear guidance

LBD80

Yes

The garden development has been a huge success and as such should be recognised as the official and safe route.

Starts A9 underpass near Kincraig Primary School. Past Kincraig house - up through gates to summit of An Suie and return same way.

I have walked this route around 800 times - it’s v popular with other runners and walkers.

Add7

Yes

This is a long overdue filling of a gap in the Speyside Way and one of the main tourist trails joining Kingussie to Ruthven Barracks.

Work on improving the safety of this route should be prioritised and not delayed until the construction of the A9 dualling here.

Lbs80

Realign core path

New map doesn’t show end of Newtonmore cycle path junction with Road and proposal for extension of path towards Kingussie.

Lbs80

Realign core path

Following the upgrade funded by Sustrans to Gynack Park the core path should be routed through the park rather than along Ruthven/Station Road

Lbs143

Realign core path

Core path should follow direct line of existing path not dog leg and north end of path should link with lbs78 on Ardbriolach road by any of the paths through the woodland

REM71

No

I completely agree with the 2 comments already made about the removal of the Allt Mhor trail. This provided a much loved and well used off-road access between Glenmore and the Coire Cas car park. Unfortunately parts of it were built too close to the burn and were on occasions damaged beyond repair by floods. A re-alignment of the trail above the areas of flood risk would bring it back into use and it would once again be very well used.

LBS96

Realign core path

This path between the Balnain end of Carr Road & Dulnain is currently impassable and should be reinstated in order to link into the current path system in Dulnain and the proposed new NMU from Dulnain to Grantown thus allowing a safe route through from Carrbridge to Dulnain & onwards to Grantown.

GR12

Remove core path

If there is no way of enforcing a duty on the landowner to maintain this existing core path then it should be removed from the map. However, it is completely unacceptable that the only traffic-free route from Glenmore to Coire Cas has been left in its current state.

Lbs78

Realign core path

Path actually leaves Ardbriolach Road and crosses Gynack burn by bridge at Hydro then to Gynack Road

Lbs76

Realign core path

In 2023 top section below summit ridge of path up south side of Creag Bheag was realigned as part of upgrade of whole path

Ubs34

Realign core path

Approx ten years ago path was realigned here when fenced forest plot was planted, path now follows dotted route to turning area

Lbs75

Realign core path

4 years ago the section of path dotted on the map was built to bypass wet section closer to loch, while both are in existence majority of traffic follows this line so core path should be realigned

Ubs34

Realign core path

This section of the curlew path was realigned many years ago and does not follow shore but goes inland to join junction with golf course circular

Starting at the south at the junction with LBS140 and extending north, north-eastwards past the property of Balcraggan to the B970

Well used walking and cycle route providing a popular and attractive link between the Speyside Way and Feshiebridge (and the network of existing waymarked walking paths within FLS estate)

REM106

Realign core path

This section of path is part of the existing Speyside Way and appears to be incorrectly marked for removal?

REM97

Yes

Great - this makes total sense, and shifts the core path on to the actual gravel-surfaced route, hopefully shifting visitors on to this one and limiting damage on unimproved paths.

REM71

Realign core path

This is the only off road path link from Glenmore to Cairngorm. Which makes it dangerous in winter conditions where Mountaineers and hill walkers use the access road. There is scope for FLS to find an alternative route avoiding the washout problems the path has faced and to maintain this important link as a core path.

ADD62

Yes

Will encourage people to visit and enjoy the Community garden

REM71

No

This path once formed an important link between Glenmore and Cairngorm. It was particularly useful for those completing longer walks and for road free access to the ski area. It's a shame to see it abandoned and I feel it would be good for a re-routed path to be installed to replace this link.

While I accept repair of the existing path is difficult, an alternative should be constructed to allow road-free access between the ski area and Glenmore