210122 CNPA Bd Paper 1AA Budget Ranger Services

This document contains a proposal from the Cairngorms National Park Authority to establish a seasonal ranger service from 22 March to 31 October 2021. The plan includes employing nine seasonal rangers and a manager, costing £236,000. An additional £3,000-£30,000 is requested for five youth placements through the Kickstart scheme. The proposal is a first step towards a full, permanent ranger service, to be discussed further in March, depending on the Scottish Government's budget announcement. The service aims to meet the increased visitor demand, especially during the busy Easter period. If funding is significantly reduced, the project may be postponed.