Upland Path Use Survey

George Allan

Scottish Natural Heritage recently published a report of users' views of paths in the hills (Survey of Upland Path Users in Scotland 2017). There were around 2400 responses to the survey, reflecting a wide range of often conflicting opinions on the three themes addressed which are:

• people's experiences of upland paths;
• people's perceptions of the importance of upland paths;
• people's views on maintenance.

While space precludes a detailed analysis of the findings, the following may be of interest:

• Considerably more people think that the condition of upland paths has improved in recent years than consider that it has declined.
• Compared to other areas, paths in the Cairngorms National Park area are deemed to be 'good' by the greatest number of people; however the Carn Liath path on Beinn a'Ghlo (now being repaired) is singled out for particular criticism.
• There is very strong support for continued investment but this is balanced by concerns that paths can reduce the 'wild feel' which people seek.
• The survey gives little consideration to the possibility of constructing new paths in upland areas.
• Unsurprisingly, opinions are divided as to the desirability of increased signposting/waymarking. Overall, the report tries to present the findings without bias; however, by highlighting the finding that 34% of respondents support increased signposting/waymarking without emphasising that 48% are opposed to this, the report's authors seem to be straying towards a preference, unacceptable in a report of this nature.

A well-made path on Millstone Hill © George Allan

In broad terms, NEMT's position is that:

• there should be no new paths created in open upland areas;
• well used existing paths should be maintained, as far as possible using the 'light touch' principle;
• while some signposting/waymarking may be justified in woodland areas, there are a number of strong arguments against this in open upland areas.

The report is available online

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