Thorneydyke Quarry-Denny Access Network, Denny by Falkirk.
Background
The Central Scotland Forest Trust (CSFT) is the lead organisation in creating The Central Scotland Forest. The Central Scotland Forest is a visionary undertaking to plant millions of trees across the central belt. Through tree planting projects, conservation, landscaping and other environmental improvements, the aim is to transform the landscape and bring economic benefits to the area making it a great place to work, live and visit.
The work delivered through this project was typical of what the Central Scotland Forest aims to achieve. The project is located on a former sand and gravel quarry and focused on the creation of a missing path link in the 14km long Denny Access Network.
The woodland element of this project was delivered by CSFT in partnership with the landowners in the spring of 2002 which is now transforming this former quarry into attractive woodlands.
Land Ownership
The whole of the project area is in the ownership of Callander Estates, Project delivery was secured through a standard CSFT landowner agreement and close partnership working with the landowners and funding partners.
Community Involvement
CSFT with Falkirk Council engaged with the local community by inviting them to attend meetings to give their views, thoughts and opinions in relation to the whole Denny Access Network project. The community within Denny was leafleted regarding the proposals and meetings were well attended with good levels of support and feedback achieved.
In addition, a leaflet was issued giving locals and visitors details of the Access Network and the provision for public access.
Project Delivery
Project implementation was achieved using approved contractors secured through CSFT's competitive tendering process. Work was delivered on site during March 2003.
Due to drainage problems within the site (noted prior to project inception) and largely because of compaction of infill materials during site restoration, additional expenditure and thus funding was required. Being an important link in the Denny Access Network, additional funding was secured from Falkirk Council to enable the project to be fully and successfully implemented.
Project Outputs
The successful delivery of this project resulted in the upgrading of an existing desire line into a surfaced footpath with associated access enabling structures.
The outputs were as follows:
- Formation of an existing "desire line" into a 3 metre wide and 0.8km long graded and surfaced footpath forming an integral part of the 14km long Denny Footpath Network.
- 1 x 200mm diameter culvert drain leading from an open drain to carry water efficiently and effectively under and away from the new and upgraded path into a soak away.
- Removal of an "eyesore" by uplifting fly-tipping and 25 metres of derelict boundary fence.
- Installation of 1 self closing gate and 1 field gate at the site entrance and the erection of 20 metres of heavy duty post and rail entrance fencing.
Funding
The funding package for the full project was from the following sources: Falkirk Council, Community Environmental Renewal Grant and through private sponsorship.
- Community Environmental Renewal Grant: £5,000
- Falkirk Council: £12,820
Project Maintenance
CSFT with the support of the landowners was to provide site maintenance through the appointed contractor for a period of 5 years. Maintenance would consist of treatment to the path edges and surface, repairing any defects and generally keeping the footpath suitable for public use.
Maintenance beyond November 2006 will be delivered by Callander Estates direct labour team with ongoing support from Falkirk Council.
Contact
Central Scotland Forest Trust
Hillhouseridge
Shottskirk Road
Shotts
North Lanarkshire
ML7 4JS
Telephone: 01501 822015
Email: angus.duncan@csft.org.uk
www.csft.co.uk