A landowner will have to restore his controversial vehicle track in scenic Glen Clova, Cairngorms National Park after a decision by the Scottish Government.
The ruling ends a long-running battle over the mile long track, which campaigners say is visible for miles around and features spoil mounds more than 30ft wide.
The landowner had launched an appeal last December against Cairngorm National Park Authority’s enforcement notice ordering him to remove the vehicle track, as it appeared to be used to support field sports.
Allison Coard, a reporter appointed by Scottish Ministers, yesterday dismissed the appeal and ordered the land to be restored “so far as is reasonably practicable” within one year.
Scottish Environment LINK Hilltracks Group, campaigning for stronger public oversight of upland vehicle tracks, commended the reporter and the national park authority for their decisive action.
Helen Todd, Ramblers Scotland’s policy manager and co-convener of the LINK Hilltracks group, said: “This ugly track is scarring the landscape in this historic, protected glen – and we look forward to seeing the hillside restored within the coming year.
“All Scottish landowners should take note of today’s decision, and the expensive restoration job that the landowner will now need to carry out.”
Beryl Leatherland, of Scottish Wild Land Group and co-convener of the LINK Hilltracks group said: “The case highlights the urgent need for the Scottish Government to introduce stronger controls over vehicle tracks in our hills – to boost local democracy, improve construction standards and protect precious environments from further damage.”
