New Convener and Deputy Convener for the Cairngorms National Park Authority
New Convener and Deputy Convener for the Cairngorms National Park Authority
The election for Convener and Deputy Convener of the Cairngorms National Park Authority board took place on Thursday, 29 June 2023.
Sandy Bremner, who joined the Park Authority board in May 2023 and is also Chair of the River Dee Trust, was voted in as Convener, replacing Xander McDade. Eleanor Mackintosh, who has served on the Park Authority board since 2003 and previously held the role of Planning Convener, was voted in as Deputy Convener and replaces Janet Hunter.
On taking up the new position of Convener, Sandy Bremner said: “It’s a huge honour and privilege to be taking up this role at such a critical time for an area I love. I am looking forward to working with colleagues, staff and partner organisations who feel just as passionate about delivering our plans to tackle the growing challenges facing nature and people.
“I would also like to pay warm tribute to Xander and Janet for all their hard work and commitment in leading Britain’s biggest National Park and charting a clear way forward.”
On taking up the new position of Deputy Convener, Eleanor Mackintosh said: “I am delighted to have been elected as Deputy Convener and will work hard to support the new Convener to provide the leadership that will deliver on the National Park Partnership Plan.”
Xander McDade, Convener at the Cairngorms National Park Authority, said: “On behalf of the Board and staff, Janet and I would like to offer Sandy and Eleanor our congratulations on their election as the new Convener and Deputy Convener. We are looking forward to working with them to deliver our ambitious National Park Partnership Plan. I have every confidence they will do an excellent job in leading the Authority and wish them both well in their new positions.”
Sandy Bremner will take up the position of Convener from August 2023, and Eleanor Mackintosh will take up the position of Deputy Convener from September 2023 – both positions on the Park Authority Board are for a three-year term.
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Relevant alerts
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Very high fire risk - 12 to 13 August
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have issued wildfire warnings impacting the National Park from Wednesday 12 August to Thursday 13 August.
We have seen all too recently how devastating wildfires can be. While enjoying the warm weather in the Cairngorms, remember:
- Fires and barbecues are not allowed under the new fire byelaw
- Always ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished and take your litter (including glass) away with you
- If you see a wildfire, dial the emergency services on 999 and provide them with the location
For further updates on wildfire risk across Scotland, visit the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service website. To find out more about the fire byelaw, and to see your questions answered, visit our fire byelaw page here.
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There is an ongoing wildfire situation in Glenmore and Strath Nethy within the Cairngorms National Park, albeit the situation continues to improve and the majority of the National Park is unaffected (with Glenmore, Aviemore and Nethy Bridge all open to the public). Click here for all the latest. We would encourage members of the public to follow current guidance and be aware that the situation may change.
Various paths and trails remain closed. Check out our path closures page for all the latest updates.