Crowdfunding appeal sees riverside walk restored

After crowdfunding more than £12,000 in cash and donated materials, the community was able to restore and reconnect the path, rerouting it through some beautiful native woodland.

Permission for the walkway’s new route had to be sought from Forestry and Land Scotland, but as soon as approval was granted the local community and businesses went immediately to work, with the path fully reopening in June.

Sheron Hambly, a director on the trust’s board, told the Advertiser: “It shows what we can accomplish if we work together, even in the face of challenges like the devastating storms of October 2023.

“Lochgoil Community Trust couldn’t have made this happen without our dedicated volunteers, generous donations from locals and visitors and support from partner organisations, including Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park and Forestry and Land Scotland. We are grateful to everyone involved.”

In addition, Scottish Water loaned equipment and donated materials for the path’s reconstruction.

Sheron added: “In a location surrounded by steep mountains, our river walk is so important to locals and visitors who want a pleasant, low-level walk that helps them to connect with nature.