KILLIN NEWS KILLIN & DISTRICT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER - June/July 2019 Issue 170 Price £1
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KILLIN NEWS KILLIN & DISTRICT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER June/July 2019 Issue 170 Price £1
Killin News
Editorial
We have now reached the halfway point in the year and with it comes
another wonderful change of season. As I sit writing this, my bedroom
window frames a pastoral scene of lush green hills and clear blue skies.
Swallows swoop down from the eaves catching insects, and bumblebees
dance around colourful garden plants. Such a sight is always inspiring, and
yet bittersweet, as issues of the environment come to dominate news
headlines once more.
April saw the hottest Easter on record – the same weekend climate change
DEADLINES
movement Extinction Rebellion staged a series of protests in London. The
Issue 171
following week the Scottish and UK parliaments declared a climate change
emergency, with the latter aiming to reduce carbon emissions by 80% by
Advertising 5th July
2050. It is no surprise then that these issues have found their way into the
Copy 12th July
local discourse. You will notice this crop up frequently in Issue 170, from
forthcoming projects such as the Heart 200 and the new Glen Lochay
electricity station, to eco-friendly gardening tips, moles and Ron Allner’s Publication 24th July
butterfly photographs – a beautiful celebration of the area’s biodiversity. Flyers 24th July
Climate change is a heady topic for the Killin News, and this welcome
newsletter will certainly not afford space for analysis, but we hope the issues
addressed inside will encourage debate amongst yourselves.
June will bring the return of two of the year’s biggest events: The Bob Index
MacGregor Memorial Trials and Killin Music Festival. Although dirt bikes and
bagpipes have little in common, both are guaranteed to be thrilling Ads Index 38
spectacles. As previous years have shown, tickets for the music festival sell All Things Wild & Wonderful 20
fast, so hurry to book if you haven’t already! Beauty of Spring 21
MG Car Scheme Update 24
Community Auction 37
Celebrations 36
Eco Friendly Weedkiller 20
Editorial Policy Statement Editorial 2
The Killin News is a free community newspaper produced and distributed Frost Report 22
every two months by volunteers to households and businesses in Killin and Heart 200 4
district. The aim of those involved is to produce an informative, accurate Jumble Sale Thank You 28
and entertaining journal for those who live, work and visit in this area. KAT 6
Letters and articles published in the newspaper do not necessarily reflect Killin Community Council 13
the views of the Production Committee and they reserve the right to Killin Floral Association 29
Killin Highland Games 13
shorten, edit or not publish any item. Contributions will be attributed to the
Killin Music Festival 3
author. Vested interests will be declared where applicable. Articles should
Killin Primary School 14
be between 200 and 300 words, photos in high quality and the content
Local Limericks 13
should be original work relevant to Killin and environs. All personal emails Local Planning Applications 37
are acknowledged by a reply. If you do not receive a reply please contact McLaren High School 8
us by phone or drop the article in the office letterbox. Mobile Libraries 39
Mole 11
Production Committee Musings From The Manse 29
Judy Forster, Sylvana Ginella, Liz Howard Nature Photos 18
Susan Howard, Angus Inglis, Angus Kay, Natural Beauty 38
Anneke Mayo, Chris Rose, Marion Strang New Year Firework 32
NTS Walks 30
Photographer Ron Allner Obituary 33
Delivery Volunteers Old Mill Jumble Sale 28
Outdoor Bowling 23
Mary Anderson, Jim Beattie, Margaretanne Browne,
Ploughing Competition 26
Ellen Cattenach, Isla Craig, Theresa Elliot (and James),
Proposed Electrical Sub-Station 25
Lynne Ferguson, Tim and Ruth Fison, Tim Frost, Linda Frost, Recycling Centres 39
Shannon Gillies, Elizabeth Hancock, Jillian Laurence, Ron’s Village Snaps 18
Catherine Macmillan, Gavin Macnab, John and Jennifer Morris, Scouts 34
Billy Noble, David Pritchard, Kay Riddell, Moira Robertson, Sports and Leisure Club 7
Gordon Webster, the family at Rubble Cottage Strathfillan By The Way 12
and some committee members Strathfillan Community Council 13
Proofreaders Thank You Killin 23
Margaret MacIver, Anne Rose, Lynne Ferguson, This Is Rubbish 38
David Paterson, Michael Gardiner U3A 24
Walk in the Park 19
Web sites:www.killin.info and www.killinnews.co.uk What’s On 39
e-mail: editorial@killinnews.co.uk Which Bin 39
adverts@killinnews.co.uk
Address: Morenish PLace, Main Street, Killin FK21 8UR
Office Phone : 01567 820014 Front Cover
View from Finlarig towards
Tarmachan Ridge
pdf versions of the paper can be viewed on the Killin News website
2
Photo Ron Allner
22
Killin Music Festival has released the
last batch of tickets for their fourth
annual festival, which runs from
Friday 14th June through to Sunday
16th June. Ticket buyers have
ploughed through the previous
batches, so the final limited release
of tickets is expected to go fast.
“It’s a perfect distance away for a Elephant Sessions
day trip and we get to sleep in our
own beds when we get home!” said temperamental weather. There is also
one 2018 festival goer. Another a variety of free fringe events taking
reveller from 2017 added “It’s the place during the weekend, including
best value for money music festival the second festival stage,
we have attended so far”. competitions and a craft fair. Festival
The festival offers some of the best goers will have a chance to take in
music Scotland has to offer in one of the stunning scenery and warm
the most beautiful places in the hospitality the historic area has to
Highlands. Although the line-up is offer.
impressive, the event is scaled down, For 2019 the festival welcomes the
so that performances are intimate, most exciting traditional music bands
and the bar areas are sociable (no around, including headliners Trail
mile-long queues to get your drink!). West, Elephant Sessions and Siobhan
There is something for all tastes – Miller. This year sees different genres
from a relaxed seated concert to taking to the stage, including
bouncing night-time shows. All soul-funk phenomenon Tom McGuire
events are indoors or under cover, so and the Brassholes, and fresh indie
there is no need to fear the band The 101. There will again be
Siobhan Miller
music in the Portnellan Tent from
Headland, Dlù and Greig Taylor.
Access to the tent is free of charge
and perfect for a family day out. The
tent will also be showcasing young
talent from around Scotland. The full
festival line-up can be found on the
website.
Hurry now to make sure you get your
hands on tickets for a fantastic
weekend of music and merriment in
the heart of Scotland.
Tickets can be purchased at
www.killinmusicfestival.com
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3
The Heart 200: A Bless
A new tourist route taking in Killin’s Local opinion towards the initiative, The same report criticised the lack of
top beauty spots is set to launch this which is marketed at young families public consultation, despite Perth &
June, in an ambitious effort to boost and the over 50s, has been mixed. Kinross Council approving £50,000
visitor numbers and local business. As a route used mainly for driving, investment in the project in February
there are fears that the Heart 200 2018. Susan Dolan-Betney, Chair of
The Heart 200 will link 200 miles of will inherit the same problems as the Glen Lyon CC, said: “Our own
existing road networks around North Coast 500. Councillors didn’t even flag it up to
Stirling, Perthshire, Lomond and us. The first the people here knew
Cairngorm National Parks, and A resident in Aultbea gave an was in an article in The Courier.”
include attractions such as The Falls account of life on the NC500 to Killin
of Dochart and MacNab Burial News, describing “huge Mr Cairns said that the project was
Ground. motorhomes, massive amounts of not cast in stone and that public
litter, and human waste at the side discussion would be welcomed after
An interactive map pinpointing 29 of the roads.” the route was launched. “Changes
key stops with sub-tour itineraries can be made to cover engineering
along the route will encourage users Mr Cairns addressed these concerns works, congestion and local concern
to stay longer and spend more in saying: “The press thus far when – communities come first,” he
rural communities, claims Heart comparing the NC500 and Heart 200 responded.
director Robert Cairns. miss out one fundamental difference
– the NC500 is predominately single The social and environmental impact
“We need visitors and the longer track with almost no opportunities to of the route was another issue raised
they stay the better,” said Mr Cairns, turn right or left and additionally by locals. Tombreck residents Sue
owner of the Fortingall Hotel. with minimal built infrastructure to Manning and Wendy Graham argued
“Footfall has increased in Stirling, support visitor traffic.” that such ‘driving routes’ should be
but spend is down. We aim to spread discouraged following Holyrood and
out footfall and encourage visitors to “As for large vehicles - the Westminster’s declaration of a
stay 2 or 3 nights in each place and interactive map will identify roads ‘Climate Emergency’ last month.
then return year after year.” considered unsuitable for coaches,
caravans and large motor homes, for Ms Manning said: “If money is
He added: “We will also be example, Coshieville through to available to promote tourism and
promoting places of interest within Fearnan.” travel in this area, it should be used
15 miles or so either side of the to encourage low carbon travel such
route – the benefit spread will be However, in a recent press release, as walking, cycling, travel by horse
much greater than any other UK Glen Lyon & Loch Tay Community and public transport, and should
route.” Council revealed the extent of road benefit locals and visitors alike.”
safety issues along the route such as
crumbling road edges and potholes. Ms Graham suggested a new public
It stated: “Like the NC500, the roads transport route linking Pitlochry and
in the Glen Lyon & Loch Tay Crianlarich train stations as an eco-
Community Council area are mostly friendly alternative to the Heart 200:
C-class – single track roads with “For these people, arrival at
passing places. There is definitely no Edinburgh, followed by a train trip to
huge scope for an increase in Pitlochry and a bus across Perthshire
numbers.” before returning to the Central Belt
via Crianlarich would be attractive.”
“The Coshieville to Aberfeldy stretch
– despite being a B-road, is actually “Ticketing could encourage travellers
in a much better state than the A827 to take a few days over their trip and
which is one of the few direct East- would increase the amount they are
West links in Scotland joining the A9 likely to spend on meals,
and A85.” accommodation and activities.”
Glassware
4
sing or Curse for Killin?
In face of criticism, Mr Cairns
maintains that the Heart 200 is not a
driving route but a “touring route –
places to see and stay with 29 key
stops offering a warm welcome,
activities, entertainment and a dram
or two. It is for people who want to
dawdle and relax.”
With Killin being one of the key
stops, some residents view the route
as positive development. Jackie
Bremner, owner of Escape, said:
“The Heart 200 roads already carry
tourist buses and traffic throughout
the mainly summer and autumn
months. We would hope that the
impact of Heart 200 would not
burden these roads too much. It
may however result in the need for
Stirling and Perth councils to
increase the frequency of road
maintenance on the route.”
“The village is likely to be busier,
bringing more tourists and resulting
in welcome revenue income to
businesses and increased work
opportunities for local folk.”
5
News First support continues. and will update you in the next
In the last issue we reported that What do we need you to do? Killin News.
the shop had been closed for Simply make sure you use the
renovations. The renovations were services MacGregor’s provides and KAT AGM
completed and the shop re-opened buy products from the shop. This KAT will not be holding their AGM
for business at the end of March. will ensure that the shop will until September this year (date to
Unfortunately, due to mistakes continue to grow. be arranged). The main reason for
made by the Post Office with regard this is that KAT has changed the
to the internet line ordered, the Breadalbane Park date on which their accounts finish.
Post Office counter was not fully We are hoping in May that Stirling Our accounts used to end on the
operational from day one. Until this Council will be fitting the Viking 31st October, but now will end on
issue was resolved alternative Swing. This will be the start of the 31st March to bring them in line
arrangements were made where new play park and we hope you will with some of our funding. Once the
possible to take items for posting to all like it. end date has been reached the
Strathyre. This was a stressful time We are disappointed to have lost accounts need to be completed,
for MacGregor’s and we thank the centre piece of the play audited and a report written up.
everyone for their patience. We equipment in the sand area, but are This can take around 5 months to
hope you like the look and feel of glad that Stirling Council have complete. We also felt that holding
the shop after the renovations. managed to restore the equipment the AGM in the school holidays was
Our application to The Fore was not so that children can still play on it not a good idea.
successful which left us with a safely.
shortfall for the funds required to We will be submitting a funding Theresa Elliot
complete the purchase and time application to the Robertson Trust Project Manager
running out. Unfortunately, most in June for funds towards the new 01567 820628
funding sources will not fund the Play Park. We will keep you updated 07789 265 823
purchase of a business, so this has on progress.
meant we have had to try and find We have also submitted an
other sources to fill the shortfall. application to Stirling Council ‘Your
We are very fortunate that this gap Stirling, You Decide’. Hopefully we
has now been closed. will make it through the first stage.
We will be holding an official If we are successful in that stage,
opening of the shop on Friday 31st we will need your vote in order to
May. For final details we will put a give our proposal a better chance of
notice up in the shop and we would being taken forward and
love to see you there. progressing with getting more play
KAT knows how important the equipment into the play park.
services that MacGregor’s provide Voting will be from 27th May to
to the community, like the Post 23rd June.
Office, Newsagents and Citizens Keep an eye on our Facebook page
Advice Bureau (CAB). This is due to for further updates (Friends of
the generous support this project Breadalbane Park Killin).
has received from the community We will hear in July if we are
of Killin. In order for this project to successful with our Community
succeed we need to ensure your Green Flag award again this year
6
KDSLC at info@kdslc.uk or the CSH be on a Monday evening (from 7pm)
Officer Christopher McKenna at: and will be for age 16 (+) (unless
mckennac@stirling.gov.uk accompanied by a responsible adult,
Easter Holiday Activities either playing or watching and the
Community Sport Hub Update Over the Easter school holidays we children must be at least 14 years
The Community Sport Hub met once ran two activity days for primary 1-7 old). As previously there will be a
again on April 30th, marking one school pupils. Over the two days we small charge of £1.
year since the initial engagement had sport sessions delivered by Book Sale
session for the hub. In that time the Active Stirling, walks delivered by the We also hosted a book/CD/DVD sale
hub has connected in with 16 National Trust and much more! We at the sport pavilion on Saturday,
different groups and April 20th. Many
clubs through at least thanks for the kind
one meeting and have donations and
hosted eight meetings endeavors of those
that have seen local who supported the
priorities for sport and day, culminating in
physical activity funds of £120
culminating in a hub being raised for
action plan. general repairs to
Within that, the hub is the building.
progressing Feasibility Study
partnerships and links Last issue we
which will provide outlined our work
opportunities focused to undertake a
on people, places, feasibility study
profile, participation and with the aim of
connection. Over the seeing if there is
coming months we will demand to expand
be working closely to align initiatives thank all our volunteers and our current pavilion into a
based on the club’s feasibility study, deliverers who helped the children to modernised, flexible community
looking to host a clubs open door have a great time during their facility. The response across the
week and share more in-depth case holidays. surveys has been absolutely brilliant
studies of local opportunities. Five-a-Side Football and we look forward to sharing some
As always if you would like to learn Now that the better weather has of the findings from this with you
more or are interested in being arrived once more, we have started shortly.
involved please contact: up football sessions again on the Christopher McKenna
astro turf pitch. The sessions will now
7
McLar
Comic Relief
Our S6 Charities Committee organised a Mufti Day and fancy dress parade on Friday 15th March to raise money for
Comic Relief. S6 pupils and staff put in a huge effort with their dressing up costumes and the winners were
announced as follows:
S6 pupils 1st place—Freddie Mercury (Iona Whitehead)
S6 pupils 2nd place— 7 Snow Whites and a Dwarf (left to right - dwarf, Tyler Livingstone Angus Parson, Greg
McLachlin, Peter Hayes, Cameron McLay, Max Parsons, James Isgrove, missing Harris Fisher
who sadly had a PE prelim)
S6 pupils 3rd place— McLaren Care Home (left to right - Katie Drummond, Brodie Haldane, Isla Huckerby, Mika
Watson, Katie Murdoch and Courtney Strachan, front)
Staff winners were the Science & Technology Faculty with ‘Save our Seas’.
During the day we raised £622.04 for this good cause. Well done everyone!
Anthony Nolan
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) have been working in
partnership with ‘Anthony Nolan’ since 2009, organising events to recruit
potential donors to the stem cell register. A further 32 potential life savers
were added to the Anthony Nolan register by SFRS volunteers on Tuesday
23rd April at McLaren High School.
Bridge End Mill
Exciting new Giftware
Candles & Jewellery
Rugs, Bags
Scarves and T-shirts
Large Scottish Selection including
Pewter and Glassware
Toys, Confectionery and Ice cream
Open 10am- 5.30pm 7 days a week
Falls of Dochart , Killin
Tel : 01567 820508
www.thepresentshop.co.uk
8
ren High School
Spring Concert Head Boy & Head Girl Equali-tea Morning
Our Spring Concert took place on We are pleased to announce that the Thursday 18th May saw the rainbow
Thursday 28th March. This was following pupils have secured flag hoisted over Doune Primary as
another outstanding evening of positions as part of the Pupil P6 and P7 pupils and S6 Sports
musical performances by pupils, Leadership Team for next session: Leaders from McLaren High School
featuring works by Beethoven and Head Boy: Harris Clark welcomed parents and guests to their
Piazzolla as well as popular film Head Girl: Eva Fisher Equali-tea Party to celebrate
scores, chart hits and traditional Depute Head Boy: Michael Limonci Diversity. Since August, senior pupils
music. Our fabulous music festival Depute Head Girl: Emily Black from Doune Primary School have
prize winners also performed. been part of an innovative pilot
Scottish Youth Parliament project ‘MIND your health and be
Congratulations to Lottie Hesp who YOURSELF’, funded by the Lottery
has been elected as a Member of the Year of The Young Person, where S6
Scottish Youth Parliament for Stirling. Sports Leaders have planned and
delivered high quality stimulating
Salters Festival of Chemistry lessons every Friday about Health
Congratulations to Miss Oman’s and Wellbeing, and in particular,
Young Chemists for their 1st Place Mental Health and Equality. In March
award in this year’s Salters Festival the P6/7 pupils completed a six week
of Chemistry programme about Equality focusing
on labels, stereotypes, discrimination
S6 Last Day and the LGBT Community. The P6/7
On Wednesday 24th April we were pupils showcased what they have
delighted to provide our S6 pupils learned about each of these areas
with an opportunity to celebrate their during the Equali-tea morning
time at McLaren High School. Our supported by their S6 mentors. Their
celebrations started with a leavers’ guests were challenged to reject
breakfast, followed by a graduation prejudice and stereotypes through a
ceremony. The pupils leave with a range of activities which saw the
legacy of excellence in the classroom, Head Teachers of both schools going
on stage, both in music and theatre, head to head on the skittles
on the sports field and of impressive challenge, surprises (some
service to the School community. We unpleasant) in the beanboozled
wish all our leavers well in their challenge and some rethinking
future endeavours – they have been required from our guests in the
an outstanding group of young drawing activity. The winner of our
people to work with. rainbow laces showed she had
listened the best during all the
Annual Easter Egg Competition activities and we finished off with tea
McLaren’s annual Easter Egg and cakes served by the children.
competition attracted a high standard This event supported the work
of entries. 1st place was Queen Scottish Government are currently
Elizabeth II (Murray Frost – S2), 2nd undertaking following the review of
Reindeer Trail – congratulations to was William Wallace (Freya Sherry – personal and social education and to
Nina Harrison (S1) whose reindeer S2) and 3rd was a German trench implement LGBT inclusive education.
design was voted the most popular (Dylan Fox – S2). Well done to Miss
design on Stirling’s first Reindeer Allan (Physics) for winning the staff S1 Central Schools 7s
Trail. entry with Neill Eggstrong! Tournament
On Wednesday 24th April, McLaren
RG
travelled to Alloa RFC to take part in
the annual Central Schools 7s
ELECTRICAL
& CONTRACTING
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• ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
& MAINTENANCE
• FAULT FINDING
• INSPECTION & TESTING
• RE-WIRES
• ELECTRIC HEATING SYSTEMS
CONTRACTING
• TRACTOR & TRAILER HIRE
• SNOW CLEARING
• FIREWOOD PROCESSING
• DIGGER & PLANT HIRE
• FIREWOOD SUPPLIES
CONTACT ROBERT GRANT
M: 07766 202418
E: rgeleckillin@gmail.com
9
McLaren High School
Tournament. Due to a high level of Matilda teacher, will each aim to play 72
interest from the boys, McLaren were Over 100 staff and pupils attended a holes, or four rounds of golf, on the
in the fortunate position of being able Matilda Musical trip to the Edinburgh day. Most of the boys are Junior
to field two teams. It was great to Playhouse. Great reviews were Members of Callander Golf Club, who
see so many boys enthusiastic and received from everyone who have supported the challenge by
keen to take part. McLaren A won attended. accommodating slightly flexible tee
their fixtures against Wallace B and times throughout the course of the
Falkirk. However, in a pool decider, day. CGC Junior Convener, Jim Frail,
they lost narrowly to Dunblane. The wished the team well: “It’s brilliant to
McLaren B team lost their opening see youngsters playing lots of golf,
fixture against Balfron A. However, especially playing so much golf for
they bounced back with a win against such a great cause!”
Lornshill and then a draw with Braes. Organiser, Ken Milligan, has his
A great night of rugby with 10 fingers crossed for good weather on
schools participating. the day. “It’s not the end of the world
if it rains, but it will make the
Cabaret night challenge much more demanding.
On Friday 26th April, the School Mind you, if it’s blazing sunshine that
opened the doors for a “Cabaret will also make it more like real hard
Night”, an event organised by the work! Here’s hoping for spells of
Music Department to raise funds for sunshine with intermittent cloud and
this year’s school show “Grease”. The some great golfing fun.”
evening saw more than 21 pupils Golf Outing The team are hoping to raise lots of
take to the stage, several appearing "A group of determined young golfers money for MacMillan Cancer Support
more than once, to perform to a from McLaren High will head to the and will be seeking sponsorship
varied programme in a very relaxed 1st tee at Callander Golf Club early around town. Anyone who would like
hall with more than 90 seated in the on the morning of Friday 21st June to to offer support should contact any of
audience. It was a great success and start what promises to be a day of the lads concerned or school, either
raised more than £500 towards show sporting endurance, raising funds via main reception or direct to Mr
funds. It is hoped to hold a further through the Longest Day Challenge Milligan via email
similar event – watch this space for on behalf of MacMillan Cancer milligank04s@glow.sch.uk
further information! Support. These seven young men,
accompanied by a golf enthusiast
10An appreciation of the Mole
Talpa europea or Famh
Not always “the pest” they are though Britain only banned the poison Amazingly moles can lift 2kg of soil
assumed to be! for use on moles in 2006, despite its which is 20 times their own
use having been illegal on all other bodyweight. As a result of all this
The mole is one of our most common animals since 1963. tunnelling and digging they contribute
native animals but due to its Although earthworms are their to the health of the soil, turning it,
subterranean life it is rarely seen. favourite nosh, moles also eat insect draining it and mixing its nutrients,
However in the countryside, evidence larvae, particularly carrot fly and while their molehills can be nurseries
of their presence in the form for wild flowers. Even on
of molehills is almost farmland, moles have a
everywhere. Originally a role, aerating soil and
deciduous woodland species, eating crop-damaging
they now occur in many larvae.
different habitats as long as Uniquely among mammals,
there is soil deep enough to the females have
allow construction of ‘ovotestes’: a combination
tunnels. They have been of ovary, which produces
recorded as high as 1000 eggs and testicular tissue.
metres in the UK. The latter generates the
hormone testosterone,
For some, the mole may which is likely to be
appear rather strange with responsible for the female
its tiny eyes, broad short mole’s aggressive defence
spade-like forelimbs with 5 of her territory. Male moles
strong claws, pink fleshy may move 800 metres to
nose and short tail. However find a mate in the breeding
its soft velvet black coat was once cockchafer larvae. As they have poor season. They breed once a year,
prized by the fashion industry and eyesight, hunting is done by smell rearing on average 3 young in a
around 12 million skins were sent and “feeling” their prey through spherical nest of dry grass. The
annually to America in the 1920s. sensory hairs on their face. Upright young are fed entirely on their
Thankfully, the market for their velvet tails help them to reverse quickly in mother’s milk, gaining weight so fast
has all but died out. At one time folk their tunnels when necessary that, if they were human, they would
remedies for illnesses such as goitre weigh 8st three weeks after birth!
and epilepsy caused moles terrible Each mole lives at depths of up to After 5 weeks they are independent.
cruelty. Moles no longer suffer an 150cm (5ft) in a complex network of 64% of moles die by their first
agonising death from strychnine, tunnels of more than a kilometre birthday yet they can live to 5 or 6
long, all packed like spaghetti into a years of age. One of the major causes
territory only 30-40 metres across. of mortality is predation by birds of
The deepest tunnels are used in cold prey, stoats and foxes. Moles are an
weather and drought conditions. A important prey item for tawny owls,
few of its peripheral tunnels are possibly contributing as much as 45%
shared with adjacent moles - offering by weight of their diet in June and
vital information about the July, the time when young moles are
neighbours. Moles, being highly out to look for their own territories.
territorial, scent mark the shared Buzzards, kestrels and red kite also
tunnels in warning. Encounters with eat moles frequently.
other moles are rarely fatal as the In the words of Rob Atkinson, a
subordinate animal usually British mole expert and author,
withdraws. Radio telemetry has “surely moles - mighty, mysterious
shown that moles spend only 0.9% of and resilient - deserve our respect
their time within 6 metres of another and, as often as we can offer it, our
mole. tolerance”.
11Strathfillan by the Way
Strathfillan Community Thank You
Development Trust Isla, Bryan, Alasdair and Nicola
would like to thank all our friends
Adopt a Tub local children and young people. We and customers for all the good
Scheme plan to post the draft plan on our wishes, cards and gifts we received
All the tubs have arrived in both Facebook page, Strathfillan as we left Londis Crianlarich Store.
villages, and teams of adoptees have Community, for people to view and We are incredibly touched by the
been working hard to fill and plant comment. So please keep your eyes generosity, and are enjoying
them. As we have had a significant peeled. Having seen the initial plan, it choosing items for our new garden
increase in the number of tubs this does look fantastic. with the gift vouchers we received.
year, work to fill them all is still on We have all thoroughly enjoyed our
going. If you are interested in Cycle Path 15 1/2 years in Crianlarich and
adopting tubs or helping our in either The Trust is still working feverishly
Tyndrum or Crianlarich, please just behind the scenes with the
get in touch with Kelly or a Trustee. Countryside Trust to complete the
second phase of the Tyndrum to
Lower Station Yard Crianlarich Cycle Path. We have
Unfortunately we were unsuccessful in suffered a number of hiccups and
our application to our prospective setbacks over the past six months,
main funder for the proposed LSY but are hoping that things are finally
developments. We are very starting to move forward again. We
disappointed, however, the National are still looking into possibly
Park, Stirling Council and our Leader purchasing Ewich Wood for the cycle
funders are keen to support and path, and will be coming to the
progress the project. Therefore, we community in the next couple of
are currently working on a reduced months to get their support. So
project proposal, which will hopefully please keep an eye out.
resolve some of the problems that
Crianlarich has been experiencing Small Grants Scheme 2019
over the past few years with the The Trust would like to draw your
increase in visitors. So watch this attention to another round of our
space! Small Grants Scheme. If you are a
community group in Strathfillan and playing our part in the community.
Bike Skills Park are looking for a small amount of Alasdair and Nicola are both very
Things are progressing with the Bike money to help buy materials, run a fortunate to have attended
Skills Park plan, and we hope to project or other activities, then please Crianlarich Primary and McLaren
release the final design draft shortly. contact Kelly at the Trust. The funding High, two excellent schools which
Following the Open Evening and pot is limited so please don’t hang have given them both a great start
further professional assessment of the about! in life. We will miss our many
site ,we have decided to move the friends, although we will be back to
proposed location of the Park. We now Contact visit, but are looking forward to
plan to site it adjacent to Dalrigh car If you want to get in touch with the starting the next chapter of our
park. This relocation will help resolve Trust for any reason we want to hear lives, living in Glenfarg, near Perth.
resident concerns regarding parking from you. Office hours are Tuesdays We are delighted to have left the
provision in Tyndrum; provide a more and Wednesdays 9.30am to 2.30pm, shop in such good hands, and wish
accessible and suitable site, which will at Crianlarich Village Hall. Andrea and Billy all the very best for
reduce construction costs and will You can email Kelly at the future.
enable the designers to put in all the kelly@strathfillancdt.org.uk or phone With many thanks,
features and abilities requested by our 01838 300249 during office hours. Isla, Bryan, Alasdair & Nicola Craig
12Strathfillan Community Killin Highland Games
Council AGM
Monday 3rd June at 7pm
As you all know, the Killin We are hoping for sunshine, lots
Crianlarich Village Hall
Highland Games will be held in of visitors and, of course, well
To be followed by Community
the park on Wednesday, 7th behaved animals.
Council Meeting at 7.30pm
August. If you are able to help please
The team would appreciate some contact me.
help with setting up on the Charlie Grant
Light Relief From Tuesday and stewarding on the Chairman
Local Limericks day.
There was a young girl from Killin
Who went out on her bike for a spin
She cycled so fast
Killin Community Council
That ride was her last
Now she orbits the earth with a grin
There was a wee lass from Killin The new Community Council has had a preliminary
Who lost weight and got terribly meeting to elect officers.
thin
So she ate very well The new officers are:
And started to swell Chairman - Andy Aitken
But went pop when she sat on a pin Secretary - Ron Allner Their first meeting will be on
Treasurer - Pamela Farquharson. Monday 17th June at 7.30 in the
There was a poor soul from Loch The rest of the councillors are School.
Tay Amanda Clark
If you have anything you wish to
Who was constantly losing the way David Fettes
To Tyndrum she wandered be discussed, please contact one
Charlie Grant
Where gold mines she plundered of the councillors in good time
Colin Hay (DeputyChairman)
She’s worth twenty million today Stewart Inglis
before the meeting.
Chaz Kemp.
There was a young lad from Killin
Who went on a trip to Berlin
When viewing the wall
He had a slight fall
Now he’s stuck, one foot out, one
foot in
13Killin Prim
Think Dance
Class 2 Poetry Afternoon After much deliberation, the Think Dance children chose Scotland as their
In Class 2, we have been learning theme for this year’s performance at the MacRobert Arts Centre. They
how to write different types of poems came up with lots of fantastic ideas of landmarks, culture and past times
including some about colours, relating to Scotland. This year, more than ever, the children grew as
animals, festivals and dinnertime! We performers and developed confidence through team work and laughter. As
each put our poems into our own always, the Killin support was by far the loudest which was fully
poetry books and shared them with appreciated and spurred them on even more. We are all so proud of you
our families and Class 3. It was great and what you have achieved.
sharing our hard work with them and Mrs Hibbert
they gave us lovely comments.
Paige and Rhys
Dalguise Residential Visit
Primary 7 attended their residential at Dalguise along with the other P7s
from McLaren Cluster Schools. We enjoyed physical activities (such as
archery, giant swing and zip line) during the day and at night we had team
games and a camp fire.
We made lots of new friends and can’t wait to see them again at our
induction days.
Sean and Innes
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14ary School
Jack and the Beanstalk
All classes enjoyed performing our version of
‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ for a packed
audience at McLaren Hall. Everyone sang
and acted amazingly and the feedback from
the crowd was incredible. Thank you to
parents, family and friends of Killin Primary
School who came to support us.
Thanks also to the Killin Drama Club,
McLaren Hall, KPP and Goode Photography.
Stewart (The Giant) and Lauren (Jack)
Racing Up and Down Stuc Hill
15Killin Primary School
VE Day Picnic
We celebrated the end of our
WW2 topic with a VE day picnic
and a singalong at the Falls of
Dochart Retirement Home. We all
got dressed up, had jam
sandwiches, spam and boiled
sweets and finished off with a
game of rounders. The residents
at the Home told us about their
experiences of WW2 and showed
us some memorabilia. We sang a
few songs from the era and told
the residents what we had
learned in class. It was a great
end to our topic.
Caitlin P6
16Killin Primary School
More photos of the VE Picnic Day
Reflecting the seriousness Celebrating Victory Happy to be down from the
of the occasion? sky at last
17Ron’s Village Snaps
18Walk in the Park
Date All Routes:
Walk from 15min – 1hour
Meeting at 10.20am
05/06/19 McLaren Hall Car Park Loch Circuit
12/06/19 McLaren Hall Car Park Kenmore (car share) *
19/06/19 Capercaillie Craignavie Road *
26/06/19 McLaren Hall Car Park NCN7 at Strathyre (car share)
03/07/19 Capercaillie Kinnell Circuit
10/07/19 McLaren Hall Car park Glen Lochay Loop (car share) *
17/07/19 McLaren Hall Car park Mhor 84 (car share) *
24/07/19 McLaren Hall Car park Loch Circuit
31/07/19 McLaren Hall Car park Tyndrum River Walk (car share) *
* denotes dementia-friendly walks
No need to book, just turn up | social time after the walk in a café (optional)
For more information contact: Walk in the Park Project Coordinator
Cathy Scott: cathy.scott@lochlomond-trossachs.org tel. 01877 330055
Steps to Better Health The session is aimed at older adults walks are in the village, others are in
No matter how limited your activity although anyone will feel the benefit. the surrounding areas. Some walks
level is, Walk in the Park would like to These exercises are very gentle but involve car share - walkers who have
help you to regain mobility, strength effective and are done from a seated the use of a car offer lifts to those who
and get you walking again with position or standing behind a chair. don’t. We go for a cup of tea after the
confidence. Step by step we provide a They include knee bends and leg raises walk for a social time together
walking pathway from your armchair to and are based on the Otago Exercise (optional).
a 30 minute walk and beyond. Programme. If you have difficulty Booking is not necessary, however if
Walk in the Park can help you to feel walking due to pain in your knees, or you have any questions about joining in
more confident by going for a walk as hips or problems with your balance any of our walks or exercise sessions
part of a group, supported and then this session is for you. As please contact the Walk in the Park
encouraged by trained volunteer walk progression is made you will find that Coordinator - Cathy Scott 07852
leaders. your strength and balance has 334272 or send an email to:
Perhaps you have recently retired or improved enough to allow you to walk cathy.scott@lochlomond-trossachs.org
moved to the area and are looking for more confidently. For more information about Walk in the
new friends and a gentle way of Step 2. Health Walk – Wednesday Park and walk schedules for all groups
exercising. All our walks and sessions 10.20am including Killin, Callander, Aberfoyle,
are led by friendly walk leaders, are fun On the health walk there is an Drymen and Balloch visit
and free of charge. opportunity to start off slowly and build www.trustinthepark.org/walk-in-the-
Do you find yourself spending a lot of up. You can join this walk and be sure park
time sitting indoors and wishing you that you can go at a pace and distance You might like to check with your G.P
could get outside for some fresh air, that suits you on the day. All our group or Physiotherapist if you think you have
exercise and some social time? The walks are on good walking surfaces, a medical condition that might prevent
following 2 steps might help you. are risk assessed and are led by trained you from taking part.
Step 1. Strength and Balance Exercise, walk leaders and last between 30min
Wednesday 1.30–2.30pm, Killin Hotel and 1 hour. Some of these morning
19All Things Wild And Wonderful
There has been a lot of talk recently and stoats seen less often although a honey bees among them.
about endangered animals, plants pinemarten has occasionally visited. Wildflowers, too, have disappeared.
and insects and we think of this Not so long ago birds like Wild orchids, water avens, pink
going on in Africa and other distant treecreepers and goldcrests were not purslane, wintergreen and many
places but it is also happening here uncommon but we never see them more common varieties which were
in Killin. Just in our area fifty years now. Owls and cuckoos were heard found at the side of woodland paths,
ago the sight of the tails of foxes more frequently but it’s been years are no longer there and even
and wild cats hung on the fences by since we saw the furry owlets. primroses are in smaller clumps and
gamekeepers was normal. Where Summer visiting spotted flycatchers fewer areas. There used to be a rare
are the wild cats now? And when are fewer in number and lapwings, purple grass of parnassus at the
did you last see a hedgehog – or which used to nest in the field by the edge of the loch and I wonder if it
even a squedgehog on the road? loch, have not done so for many still exists.
The absence of rabbits and large years now. Wrens are more frequent Maybe some of these species are
slugs may be celebrated by than they were immediately after the still more common in other parts of
gardeners but the absence of frogs bad winter in 2010 but still fewer Killin. Should we be encouraging
from ponds is sad. We had only a than before then. Some varieties of them to return? If so, how?
few last year and this year no butterflies are now rare but we still Perhaps you have some
croaking and cavorting and no have orange tips and peacocks, and suggestions.
frogspawn at all. Voles, moles and although there seem to be plenty of Margaret MacIver
mice are less numerous and weasels bumble bees around, there are no Auchmore
Eco Friendly Weedkiller
Many of us want to limit the amount soil, so be careful) and salt will dry layer of top soil which then means
of chemicals we use in our home and out the weed (again be careful as it that roots of plants you want cannot
garden. I am not saying I do not use will remain in the soil for some time). flourish (unless you make planting
them, but I like to try alternatives The washing-up liquid acts as a holes), also worms etc. that help to
when I can. surfactant making the solution stick improve the quality of your soil
to the weed (a bit like the oil in a cannot pass through the weed
Weedkillers simple salad dressing helps the control fabric. Of course, you can dig
Useful for weeds in paths, drives and vinegar stick to your salad). up the weed control fabric once the
patios. This will not kill the roots of the mulch decomposes, but how many
1 Litre of White vinegar weeds and will not treat every weed, people will re-use it instead of it
1/3 cup of salt but well worth a try. Continuous ending up in landfill? Alternatively,
Tablespoon of washing-up liquid (any treatment of weeds like this you could remove the decomposed
type). eventually should get rid of the mulch and use it elsewhere in your
Spray bottle or watering can with fine weeds, as without the foliage a plant garden and then re-apply fresh
rose on it. generally will not survive. Of course, mulch.
Mix the salt in the vinegar until the most effective non-chemical
dissolved then add the washing up weed killer will always be the manual An Alternative is to lay layers of
liquid and agitate. method using the good old fork/hoe cardboard (after removing any
Apply to the weeds taking care not to etc. staples, tape, stickers etc.) over the
apply to plants/grass that you want weeds and top with mulch. As the
to keep. Weed Control Fabric cardboard decomposes it also feeds
This is great under gravelled areas the soil. (thick layers of newspaper
How does it work? The vinegar where you are not wanting to plant, can also be used).
contains acetic acid which is toxic to but on a border in time will cause its Liz Stevens
plants (but it will alter the Ph of your own problems once the mulch on top
of it decomposes. Basically, the
mulch decomposes and creates a
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20The Beauty of Spring
Spring is my favourite time of the White. As you see they are quite down there, but in recent years more
year. Everything is fresh after the similar, but my favourite is a real and more species are seen in
long winter. All the trees are in gem only found on the west coast of Scotland, probably the only good
bloom, the first flowers have popped Scotland between Oban and Fort thing about global warming. A good
their heads up and for me, the most William, the Chequered Skipper. place to visit to see some of these is
magical thing are the early This very beautiful little butterfly is Plean Country Park where Comma’s
butterflies. The first to emerge is the found in wooded areas living on Clouded Yellow and several other
Orange-Tip, a very energetic little bluebells, meadowsweet and a few species have been seen. So next
fellow that rarely stops in his quest other early wild flowers. time you see a butterfly take the
for the very scarce nectar. To get a My fascination with these beautiful time to have a closer look and
good photo is a real challenge, but little creatures started when I lived in admire its beauty. You won’t be
here is a picture of a female orange- Dorset where there are probably disappointed.
tip which at first I confused with the more species than any other county. Ron Allner
other early riser, the Green Veined Many rely on the warmer conditions
Top Left
Chequered Skipper
Top Right
Orange Tip female
showing underwing
colours
Centre Right
Orange Tip female
viewed from above
Bottom Left
Green Veined White
Bottom Right
Orange Tip male
21The Frost Report
Save us from experts is the government thing to plant on plot for a new David Walliams book
Are you, like us, totally fed up by the hill farmland. Only large blocks are to and our terrier has already filled in
jumbled stories and ideas about be planted. Maybe we will one day be his application form.
climate change? Everyone seems to eating trees since there is little Yet, thanks to a certain BBC
be preaching to their own ends. farmland left. On the recent T.V. presenter crows can only be shot in
People of my age can remember that programme ‘Scotland from the Air’ England if you have a special licence.
when we were children we were being many new forests were shown with Maybe that is why a new laser
terrified by tales of another the commentary that much open replacement for the scarecrow is
impending ice age, that we would all native woodland was making our being brought out. It won’t be as
be on a two or three day working country lovely. This was a complete entertaining for the scarecrow
week with excess free time to fill, untruth as we are all familiar with the competition at the Killin show though.
that we would not bother with food acres of non-native Sitka spruce It is interesting that the ‘experts’
but just take the pills produced for (introduced in 1831). It looks good in don’t know which way to lean over
spacemen and retire at 50. And don’t Alaska where wolves and bears roam the incident at Kilninver near Oban
forget reports that mobile phones over huge areas but it doesn’t do where a sea eagle has killed a golden
would never catch on! More recently much for Scotland. The freedom of eagle.
we were encouraged to use diesel as information act has revealed that The Some animals are not at all worried
it was said to have less environmental Forestry Commission has culled over about anything. They are on a
impact but now petrol is to be 30,000 deer out of season or at night constant high as many waterways in
preferred. It would appear that a new in order to protect trees. Mr. Fox is addition to the Thames are
generation of career ‘experts’ are on happy as he is left to eat voles which contaminated with cocaine and
the go again. Let’s face it; they can’t eat the trees. Unfortunately for the ketamine. Eels are becoming
all be right. farmers the foxes don’t always know hyperactive and their migrations are
Muirburn (controlled burning early in the difference between voles and becoming erratic.
the year of small areas of long lambs. We are all aware of visitors leaving
heather to create patches of young While this group are wanting to plant their rubbish by the roadside round
low shoots) was frowned upon by acres of non-native Sitka, another here but more remote areas are
ecologist for many years. In the light group of experts is wanting to fell all becoming contaminated by modern
of the recent spate of hill fires, they the beech trees as non-native. One litter. On Everest recently a great
are now advocating muirburn as a group of experts is happy to re- number of abandoned fluorescent
good way to manage this. It has been introduce beavers (maybe it’s an tents and gas canisters, human poo
used in many places for centuries to underground beaver movement and four bodies were cleared up.
avoid such fire risk, even in the infiltrating the government and One chap who will be dead against
Serrenghetti. advocating the planting of all these reintroduction is the one who was
It has now been argued that droughts tasty trees) while another is making a walking in the New Forest and had his
etc. have been caused by pollution ‘wall’ of traps around the Orkney finger bitten off by a wild boar.
since 1900, which given the industrial islands to kill stoats which are, Be aware if your children are using
Victorians it’s not surprising. However apparently, not native and are a the internet to research a topic on
research in Edinburgh is maintaining danger to other wildlife including the bees, as the DEFRA website has been
that pollution is slowing global Orkney vole. The R.S.P.B., Orkney known to direct users to dodgy dating
warming by increasing cloud cover. Island Council, Orkney Wildlife Project sites. The ministry say that the site
In the 60s it was fashionable and and S.N.H. are spending £7.3million has been updated! It was good to
lucrative to plant trees on the flow using 20,000 traps and 26 staff. In hear that all the bees on the roof of
country of the North. This is now seen addition a team of stoat detection Notre Dame survived the fire.
as dreadful, not so much because of dogs will patrol the coastline, sniffing Apparently they thought that their
lost habitats for the animals but boats and lorries to intercept stoats hives were being smoked.
Learn To
because of carbon capture by the smuggling between islands. (Eat your Tim Frost
peat. Bit late now. At the moment it heart out Mr. Trump.) It sounds like a
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22Thank You Killin
Dear Killin, padding for a cut and helped get clean bill of health and was able to
It has been many years since the my aunt off the very cold ground. return to Killin the following day,
Walker Family has caused a daft Hard on their heels came a gentle, bumped and bruised but ok. The
ruckus on the Main Street in Killin, professional paramedic. By this Killin Hotel team could not have
but on Friday 12th April we time my aunt was quite unwell. been kinder or more
returned to our old ways and accommodating either.
caused no end of bother. The paramedic and Mr. Stitt got her
to the warm retirement home I still can’t quite believe all that
Therefore, I would like to thank where we were made very welcome happened in such a short space of
lots of people for looking after us. by the whole team. Warm tea and time. We are very grateful. I hope I
My aunt June Walker took a nasty a sit down for my Uncle Cameron have not forgotten anyone. (I was
tumble on a deserted Main Street and the best possible care for June a little distracted).
on a Friday night. Within moments and us all, while we waited for the
John and his van had stopped to ambulance. We will try to be less dramatic the
help. I’m sorry John, I don’t know next time we see you. June is
your second name but you live just Thank you to Amanda, Hazel, home safe.
out of Killin. A young couple from Freda and I’m so sorry I’ve
Newcastle also stopped. They and forgotten the other ladies’ names. Killin folk you are just awesome.
John provided protection on the Thank you all so very much!
road with their vehicles and stayed The (by then quite large) team of Much love
with us until more help arrived. professionals looking after June, in The Walker Clan
Roger came out to help and a tiny highland village on a Friday June, Cameron, Ali and Iain
brought us a lovely warm rug and a night in April, decided that a ride to
chair, it was so cold. Perth hospital was the order of the
night for my aunt, so the Crieff Outdoor Bowling
Then William Stitt arrived with his paramedic team took her there, Killin Sports Pavilion
Mountain Rescue training and closely followed by my brother and Monday evenings 6.30pm
Amanda, from the Falls of Dochart my uncle. Everyone welcome
Retirement Home, appeared with Any enquiries:
good sense and medical training. Once there, June was treated Dougie Livingstone
They advised ringing 999, provided brilliantly and eventually given a 07786 477101
23Transport Association. Another The car scheme is already getting
group will receive the same a good name for itself outside
training in June. Killin. Trustees recently attended
a meeting with Strathcarron
The cost of journeys remains at Hospice Outreach team,
20p a mile and the scheme is still Compassionate Neighbours, who
covering the cost of the dead miles are looking at whether they can
which drivers make to get to support some of the isolated
passengers. Help to pay for travel people in their community. As
The Car Scheme continues to costs is available from the NHS, well as that, Don is to give a
work well and is being well used. Form HC1 can be used if you are presentation to the
A group of drivers and escorts on a low income and copies of this neighbourhoods reference group
have received Passenger can be found in the Doctors’ in Balfron about how the car
Awareness Training, delivered by Surgery and Library. You do not scheme was developed.
a qualified trainer from Dial a need to complete this form if you
Journey, Stirling. This provides a are receiving income based If you want to use the car
nationally recognised standard benefits as you are already entitled scheme, please call 07988280743
administered by the Community to full help with health costs. Alicja Fraser
on and our new leaflets full of of later-life learning and the wide
information about C&WP U3A are variety of interest groups offered
now in all villages north, south, in the 54 U3As all around
east and west of Callander. We Scotland. They have pledged their
hope to attract new members to support and we hope that before
join at our Enrolment Day in Killin long the phrase “U3A? Never
on Tuesday 27th August. Details of heard of it” will be a thing of the
time and place will be available past. Our website has all the
nearer the time. information about our group so
We are coming to the end of our The umbrella organisation, U3A please have a look at ‘Callander
U3A year with groups finishing for Scotland, held an excellent and West Perthshire U3A’.
the summer break in June* and promotion day in the Scottish * Killin Bridge Group continues
many will have some form of end- Parliament building recently, to throughout the summer as
of-term celebration. However, the inform our MSPs about the benefits normal
work of promoting the U3A goes
24Proposal of Erection of Electricity
Substation in Glen Lochay
On 6th March 2019, SSE submitted architecture and landscaping of the projects/lochay-13211kv-
a Proposal of Application Notice original hydro scheme by not calling transformer-replacement
(PAN) to Stirling Council for the on SSE to seek to carefully consider
above and a Pre Application measures to minimise the impact of Anyone at the consultation event
Consultation was conducted in the the construction. We will be will have seen initial visualisations
McLaren Hall on Thursday 9th May. requesting that SSE seek to of the proposal which have raised
mitigate any negative impacts significant concerns. We will be
Whilst it is not our intention to try whether visually, audibly or requesting that SSE make final
and stop the proposed substation, environmentally to an acceptable visualisations available to the
which will replace the existing one, level, and that any measures be public.
we do want to ensure its impact is appropriate to the exposed
minimised. Many of you may even location, scale and nature of the I am sure you will agree that the
be unaware that a small substation development. main impact that needs to be
function already exists at the power mitigated is on the visual amenity
station due to its careful positioning Whilst we acknowledge this and character of the glen. Please
and thoughtful landscaping. The development is required and join me in doing what you can by
replacement of the transformer and respect that SSE is a major raising your concerns and
associated substation is deemed to employer in the area, neither objections through the planning
be of national importance due to its should hinder any of us ensuring process. This article seeks to raise
requirement to support the delivery the impact of this development on awareness of the proposal and the
of an enhanced high voltage the landscape of Glen Lochay be impact of the exposed site and
electricity transmission grid minimised in a glen regularly ensure we each do what we can to
throughout Scotland. Our intention enjoyed by many of us. I would minimise that. As it stands the
is to ensure that as a community request that anybody who enjoys proposal has a visually overbearing
we have influence over the final the glen considers raising their impact to an unacceptable degree
design and that SSE are required to objections during the planning and will have a significant adverse
consider significant measures to application phase. By the time this impact on the character and
mitigate the impact of its edition of the Killin News goes to appearance of the surrounding
construction in a such a beautiful print it will be too late to raise any area.
location. issues or concerns at an early stage
through the public consultation Louise Thom
I would like to stress that whilst the route (this closed on 24th May).
impact to Murlaganmore, our much Many of you will have been
loved family cottage that has been unaware that the event was taking
enjoyed by many over the years for place in the village due to minimal
its peaceful location will be advertising and signage, so please
significant, it is for the impact on make sure you raise your
the wider glen and everyone who objections in a manner appropriate
enjoys it that I raise my concerns to planning through the normal
and where impact can be mitigated process. You can find more about
most. The choice of position on an how to raise a planning objection
open hillside slope where the two appropriately online or by
glen roads merge; the proposed contacting www.pas.org.uk
use of a gravel topped platform
rising above the lower road Some information about the
including the scale of the one acre development is available at
site on which it will sit; as well as a www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/
new proposed pylon so close to the
road all raise concerns as to the
impact of this required
development on such a significant
spot within the glen.
As many of you will know, the
existing Glen Lochay Hydro-electric
Power Station and associated
infrastructure has had a presence in
the area since the 1950s and great
lengths were taken at the time by
locals, land owners and the Hydro
Board to minimise the impact of the
development. I personally feel we
would be doing an injustice to the
energy and effort that went into
ensuring the positioning,
25You can also read
