Loch Lomond and Cowal Way
Presentation by Jim McLuckie
:
Minutes:
The Group gave consideration to a presentation from Jim McLuckie, Loch Lomond and Cowal Way. Mr McLuckie explained that Colglen Community was a small but widely spread community which faces many geographical difficulties yet despite this they have run several successful projects such as Warmer Colglen (which was a home heating survey), Greener Colglen (which saw the installation of polly-tunnels) and they are currently considering a renewable energy project and exploring options as to how to improve broadband. On a larger scale Colintraive and Glendaruel Development Trust took out a loan to purchase Stronafian Forrest and then leased part of the forest for 99 years to pay back the loan.
The Group heard that the Loch Lomond and Cowal Way (LLCW) runs from Portavadie to Inverlus covering 5 communities and their respective community councils and development trusts. Mr McLuckie explained how the Colglen Community Council were able to secure funding of £700K from the Coastal Communities Fund which allowed them to employ a Ranger and a Marketing Manager for 4 years. Their contracts have now expired as the funding has run-out but the Ranger remain employed via contract.
Mr McLuckie showed photographs to the Group of the LLCW explaining that it is 57 miles in total and showcased the upgrade path. He explained that using people counters they discovered that the LLCW had brought £500,000 into the Cowal economy and that they hope to add to this by offering tour guides and to link up with a luggage handling business in Strachur.
Decision
The Bute and Cowal Area Community Planning Group thanked Mr McLuckie for the informative presentation and noted the information provided in the presentation.
(Reference: presentation by Jim McLuckie, Loch Lomond and Cowal Way, dated 4 February 2020)
: