A drop-in session regarding the future management of Glenmore and Upper Rothiemurchus forests is to be held later this week, it has been announced.

The event will allow the public to find out more about the long-term plans for the area, as well as give them the opportunity to voice their views on the matter. A draft masterplan, which aims to improve the quality of the visitor experience and Glenmore's special features will also be on display, the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) has said.

The emerging masterplan includes a number of proposals, including better information for visitors, reducing the amount of signage, improving the management of car parking and the possibility of enhancing or relocating the current visitor centre.


Grant Moir, CNPA's Chief Executive Officer, said: "Cairngorm and Glenmore attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year because it is a uniquely beautiful location that stands on the edge of wildness.

"The master plan we have been working on is all about protecting and enhancing the special character of the area and overall the aim is improve the quality of the experience while consolidating and reducing the overall area of built development.

"It's important that the local community is involved so we're inviting anyone with an interest to come along, look at what is being proposed and to discuss it with our staff and give us some feedback."

Graeme Prest, from the Forest Commission team, added: "The national forest estate has expanded quite a bit in the last few months, and that gives us a fantastic opportunity to look at managing these resources on a landscape scale, working with our neighbours and other stakeholders.

"This master plan is essentially about distilling the visitor facilities and interpretation into something less visible but more effective and efficient. This is already a fantastic area for walkers and cyclists but we're looking to make it an even more special, satisfying and memorable experience."

The drop-in session will be held at Glenmore Visitor Centre on Thursday (25 September), from 1pm to 7pm. Forestry Commission Scotland and the CNPA will host the event.

(JP/IT)