Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum - June 2026

This document contains the agenda for a Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum meeting scheduled for Wednesday 10 June 2026, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. This will be a hybrid meeting, allowing both in-person and online participation via Microsoft Teams. Before the main meeting, there will be an informal site visit from 3.45pm to 6.00pm at the Park Authority Offices, followed by refreshments. Key items on the agenda include the election of a Convener, a discussion and review of amendments to the Core Paths Plan, an update on the Local Outdoor Access Forum (LOAF) Review and Refresh, and a report from the Recreation Access and Infrastructure Manager. Details for joining the Teams meeting, including the Meeting ID and Passcode, are also provided.

This document contains a proposal for the Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum to decide on its Convener. Members need to choose one of three options: elect a new Convener, extend the current Convener John Greison's term by one year (which would require an exception to the usual six-year membership limit, proposing to extend it to seven years for members recruited before 2024), or have the Park Authority chair the next two meetings until a new Convener is appointed. The document also outlines the detailed method for electing a Convener, which involves members proposing themselves, a secret ballot with a scoring system, and specific tie-breaking procedures. The term of office for a Convener is typically three years after the initial term.

This document contains a discussion paper reviewing and refreshing the Cairngorms Local Outdoor Access Forum (LOAF). The Park Authority aims to update the LOAF's format, attract new members, and ensure its long-term sustainability. This forum, which is legally required to advise on outdoor access matters and has been active for over 21 years, helps the Park Authority with policies and sustainable management. Recruiting new members has been challenging, and the LOAF currently has 10 members out of a maximum of 15. The paper presents two main options: either maintain the existing forum while focusing on membership recruitment, or refresh and restructure its format and membership. Both approaches offer advantages, such as preserving continuity or allowing for new participation models, but also carry risks like dwindling membership or potential disruption. LOAF members are asked to consider these options and advise on the best way forward.

This document contains a report from the Cairngorms National Park Authority's Recreation Access and Infrastructure Manager, Adam Streeter-Smith, updating the Local Outdoor Access Forum on current and planned work. It covers statutory duties like establishing a new pedestrian crossing over a heritage railway line and creating guidance for public access around peatland restoration sites. The report also details ongoing infrastructure improvements, including replacing outdated gates on the Speyside Way to make it more accessible, planning a safer off-road path in Carr-bridge, and replacing Alltmore Bridge. Additionally, the Park Authority is promoting paths with new leaflets, creating accessible path toolkits, providing funding for path improvements, developing resources for responsible campervan parking, and upgrading Snow Roads installations for better accessibility.