Forum that aids Moray Council on outdoor access issues seeking new members
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A FORUM that exists to advise the council on outdoor access matters is searching for four new volunteers.
The Moray Local Outdoor Access Forum (MLOAF) was set up by Moray Council in 2006 to give advice to the council on matters relating to outdoor access.
Four vacancies have arisen on the forum, to represent access users and community groups, and applications are invited from anyone with an interest in the outdoors who wishes to contribute to the development of access opportunities in Moray.
MLOAF convener Terry Ballard said: “The forum provides a unique platform to balance the needs and interests of local communities, groups, landowners and individuals.
"Membership of the forum is very rewarding, enjoyable and challenging. It is great to see people coming together from contrasting backgrounds, with differing perspectives and, through mutual understanding, devise creative ways to improve outdoor access in Moray.”
The forum is an independent body with representation from public agencies, landowners and land managers, community and outdoor user groups.
It takes an active interest in promoting responsible access to the countryside throughout Moray, whether by the use of footpaths, cycleways, rivers or lochs.
The Forum seeks to reach agreement between a wide range of interested parties in an effort to reduce conflicts.
It has been involved with many issues, including wind farm developments that affect access opportunities, core paths planning and review and upholding public access rights.
It is currently exploring other aspects of outdoor access that can help support the Council’s Active Travel Strategy.
Dorenell Wind Farm in the Cabrach is a good example of co-operation between developers, local communities and access users.
In this case, MLOAF worked with the developers to produce an Access Management Strategy which addressed access issues during the construction phase and, post-construction, the upgrading of footpaths together with the provision of a visitor centre staffed by two rangers.
The contact for an application form is Ian Douglas, Moray Open Space, Access and Policy Officer, ian.douglas@moray.gov.uk. The closing date for applications is Friday, March 1, 2024.
