Dumfries & Galloway Outdoor Access Forum seeks new members
Written by author on September 3, 2010
Dumfries and Galloway Outdoor Access Forum is seeking four new members to champion the needs and interests of the following user groups; water sports, tourism, walking and the Federation of Community Councils.
The Outdoor Access Forum is an advisory group appointed by the Council which meets quarterly. It has 15 members, two of whom are elected Council members. It also includes advisory members from Scottish Natural Heritage, Paths for All Partnership, The Scottish Government, Landowners and Recreation user groups.
The Outdoor Access Forum’s main function is to advise the Council and the public on strategic issues relating to the implementation of the right of responsible access over most land and water provided by the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. It also advises on core paths management, rights of way and development of outdoor access.
The Council is now writing a new Outdoor Access Strategy and is seeking dynamic individuals who are willing to make a positive contribution to access development within the region. Applicants should be passionate about the outdoors, champion access rights and have specialist knowledge in one of the following areas: water sports, tourism, walking or representing communities.
Forum members receive travel expenses and appropriate training with the chance to attend national conferences and events.
Forum chairman David Rothwell said “This is a challenging time for access provision. With public sector cuts looming we need to ensure outdoor access provision remains a high priority. A high standard of access provision is vital for creating healthy communities and developing a vibrant tourism industry within Dumfries and Galloway.”
If you feel you have the contacts, skills and enthusiasm to make a positive contribution please email outdooraccessforum@dumgal.gov.uk detailing your interests, experience and connections with local or national representative bodies. Or call Karen Morley on 030 33 33 3000 for an informal chat about the roles.
