Unveiling Birks Access Improvements
The new-look Birks of Aberfeldy has recently benefited from a £150,000 programme improving access to woodland areas.
The Birks is one of 25 sites benefiting from being part of the Perthshire Big Tree Country Heritage & Access Project (HAAP) and is acknowledged to be a prime destination for locals and tourists alike.
Matching Objectives
Speaking at the launch of the improvements at the newly constructed bridge in the Upper Birks on 20 July, MSP John Swinney and Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, said: “People might ask why there should be investment in access paths. |
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This new government is pleased to share in these achievements because all ideas are now related to the five objectives that it has set for itself - to make Scotland wealthier, healthier, safer, cleaner and smarter. These access improvements fit all those criteria."
The MSP (pictured) said: " “I am proud to be able to re-launch the new-look Birks and to see for myself the hard work which has gone into the project to increase accessibility.
“Perthshire is well-known for its scenery and the ongoing Access Project will bring ever greater numbers to its tree and woodland heritage areas. Projects such as this bring with them a comprehensive outlook which involves applying a strategic conservation and management plan over a long period of time."
He continued: “I am very pleased that Perthshire’s woodlands will be looked after and preserved in this fashion for future generations to enjoy, whilst continuing in their role of bringing tourists to the area and contributing to the local economy. I welcome the project and I am sure its positive outlook will benefit the wider Highland Perthshire region.”
Particular Mention
Prior to the launch, Councillor Bob Ellis, Chairman of the Countryside Trust (PKCT), told those attending how the recent works had made access for the public and for future site maintenance both safer and more efficient, and that information and interpretation is to be shortly added to the works still in hand.
Among those associated with the whole project the contributions made by local enterprises were singled out for mention. The appointed contractors - Grieve Groundworks of Aberfeldy - were accoladed, as was particularly the skills and supervision of manager Colin Menzies. Crawford Taylor of Mansfield Estates was warmly acknowledged for the provision of the local provenance timbers for the new vehicle access bridge.
Access Upgrades
Within the Birks, improving access was the main focus, particularly in the Upper Birks where serious erosion had left steeper sections of the path difficult and potentially dangerous. Work also included replacing old and dilapidated bridges, softening gradients and renewing existing paths.
Councillor Bob Ellis said: “The site was originally known as the Den of Moness and is a key woodland site in Big Tree Country. It enjoys an international reputation thanks to a song composed by national bard, Robert Burns in 1787 entitled The Birks O’ Aberfeldie. The improvements will further establish the reputation and will ensure the site continues to be enjoyed by all for generations to come.”
Tree Trail
In anticipation of future enhancements, an all abilities path was re-laid to the Tree Trail which is due to be re-planted and extended. The original Tree Trail was a collection of exotic trees and shrubs planted as a mini arboretum by Bobby Masterton of Cluny House Gardens. Maintaining the family connection, the new trail, providing a natural link between the Upper and Lower Birks, will be designed by the current owners of Cluny House Gardens – Bobby’s daughter, Wendy Mattingley, and her husband John.
The Birks of Aberfeldy is owned and managed by Perth & Kinross Council. Funding was provided for the recent works through the HAAP whose principle funders are Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), Rural Tayside Leader+, Forestry Commission Scotland’s Scottish Forestry Grants Scheme (SFGS), Perth & Kinross Quality of Life Trust, and PKCT.
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