Core Paths Plan
Details
Aberdeen City Council is working towards making access to the outdoors more than just a ‘walk in the park’. In addition to the right of responsible access and the local path networks that already exist, we are developing a basic network of ‘core paths’. The network of ‘core paths’ will be identified and agreed through the preparation of a Core Paths Plan, which all local authorities are required to produce under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. The Act states that the Core Paths Plan should “provide the basic framework of routes sufficient 
for the purpose of giving the public reasonable access throughout their area. The basic framework of routes will link into,and support, wider networks of other paths”. The ‘core paths’ network must cater for all abilities and user types (e.g. walkers, cyclists, horse-riders, canoeists) but not every core path has to be suitable for use by all. Core paths can be many types of path, ranging from natural ground to high specification constructed paths.
Local path networks exist already and are often informal but very important for linking people and places. The system of core paths will satisfy the basic needs of local people and visitors for recreation and for getting about, and provide key links to the wider path network. They could also help to manage access in environmentally sensitive areas and assist land management. The Core Paths Plan aims to deliver benefits in quality of life; healthy, active lifestyles; economic development; the environment and social inclusion.
Aberdeen City Council developed a Consultative Draft Core Paths Plan, with the involvement of local communities, user groups, land managers and other stakeholders. The Consultative Draft Core Paths Plan proposed core paths and was subject to consultation between December 2007 and February 2008.The information gathered during the consultation on the Consultative Draft Core Paths Plan has been used to build upon the Consultative Draft in order to produce a Final Draft Core Paths Plan.
The Final Draft Core Paths Plan was subject to a twelve week formal consultation ending 24 October 2008. Copies of the consultation results can be viewed via the link on this page. They are also available to view at main Council Offices, including the Point, and at all public libraries across the Aberdeen City Council area.
Contact(s)
- Core Paths Plan Consultation
Aberdeen City Council
Strategic Leadership
Planning and Infrastructure
8th Floor St. Nicholas House
Broad Street
Aberdeen
AB10 1BW
Phone: 01224 523316
Fax: 01224 636181
Email: cppconsultation@aberdeencity.gov.uk
Frequently Asked Question(s)
- How can I get funding for a community path?
- How can I get involved in Core Paths?
- What are Core Paths ?
