Rothes Way Association on track with plans for new path
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A RECENTLY formed Speyside group is making headway with plans to create an all-accessible path from Rothes to Craigellachie.
Pat Flynn, of the Rothes Way Association, recently met Moray SNP MSP Richard Lochhead to outline the group's efforts in building a case for the walking/cycling route connecting the two villages.
Mr Lochhead walked part of the route with volunteers, discussing the challenges with the existing path, the community benefits of a new route and pledges of support so far.
Mr Lochhead said: "I was delighted to meet Pat and representatives from the Rothes Way Association who have put in a power of work to build the case for a path from Rothes to Craigellachie.
"I’m full of praise for what Pat and her colleagues have achieved so far through grit, determination and tenacity.
"I walked part of what is a lovely route in magnificent Speyside with the glorious Spey flowing nearby and we discussed the challenges facing the existing path and also the obstacles that need to be overcome to complete the route.
"A path would be a huge boost for Rothes and the wider region in terms of health and wellbeing but also local tourism. Given the proximity to the Speyside Way and other local paths, the Rothes Way would open up all kinds of possibilities.
"I know the community and local businesses are already rallying round and I am also investigating what further help can be made available from public and charitable funds to ensure the path can be constructed.
"This is a community-led project that deserves the support of every agency and organisation that has a role to play and I look forward to one day walking the full route alongside the local community."
Mrs Flynn added: "For the past four months, the members of the Rothes Way Association have made huge headway with the project of building a path suitable for walkers and cyclists of all abilities.
"The path has been given a huge boost as G&A Construction, on behalf of the Forsyth Group, have offered to build the first part of the walking/cycling route free of charge.
"The group are committed in getting a link to Craigellachie completed by this time next year, as it is even more important for the community to have a safe route of travel for both recreation and work in this Covid era.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank Richard Lochhead, Ian Douglas, Moray access manager with Moray Council, and the Forsyth Group for their enthusiasm and input to the Rothes Way."
