WARNING - By their nature, text files cannot include scanned images and tables. 
The process of converting documents to text only, can cause formatting changes and 
misinterpretation of the contents can sometimes result. Wherever possible you 
should refer to the pdf version of this document.



CAIRNGORMS LOCAL OUTDOOR ACCESS FORUM 
Paper 3 – Annex 1 Outdoor Access Strategy – new policies 16 January 2007 


Annex 1 

Managing outdoor access at sensitive sites 

1. The Cairngorms National Park is rich both environmentally and culturally: Two 
attributes that attract large numbers to come to and enjoy this special place and 
which provide a rich backdrop for people who live and work in the National Park. 
Some parts of the Park are, however, especially sensitive to disturbance or are 
easily damaged and therefore careful planning, management and promotion is 
required. 

2. An holistic approach is required for the management of access that takes into 
account the prevention of damage to natural and cultural heritage sites within the 
constrains of the new rights of responsible access. Such an approach will help 
reduce existing negative impacts through positive promotion of robust areas and 
paths and through encouraging responsible behaviour by providing appropriate 
interpretation and advice about minimising adverse impacts. The existing 
regulatory framework is already well established for formally protected sites (e.g. 
Sites of Special Scientific Interest) and for developments that require planning 
permission or other consents. 

3. The National Park provides an ideal setting to develop of new techniques or 
approaches to the management of access at sensitive sites and the lessons 
learned are likely to have significance beyond the boundaries of the National 
Park. It will be important therefore to promote such innovation and to share 
information with other interested parties. 


OAS Policy 5: Managing outdoor access at sensitive sites 

Management measures are required to reduce the impacts of recreation at sensitive 
natural and cultural heritage sites. As such: 

• Impacts on the natural and cultural heritage should be considered when any new 
or upgrading of infrastructure is being planned or proposed and appropriate 
mitigating measures agreed and implemented; 

• Where recreational use is currently having a negative impact, consideration 
should be given to promotion of alternative, more robust sites; 

• Best practice standards in relation to path design and management should be 
used at all sensitive sites; 

• Extra efforts should be made to clearly explain to the public the sensitive nature 
of the site and how responsible behaviour can help to conserve the site’s special 
qualities; 

• Innovative approaches should be used to manage the impacts of recreation on 
natural and cultural heritage and the results should be disseminated to a nation-
wide audience.