Forestry Commission Scotland

A history of the Forestry Commission Scotland and the Kintyre Way

Forestry Commission Scotland were first approached by Argyll and the Islands (AIE) in 2001 with the idea of developing a long distance footpath in Kintyre. As one of the major landowners in Kintyre FCS realised the advantages the facility could bring to Kintyre and agreed to become a major partner in the project. Several years of consultation followed before progress really began in 2005 when FCS decided it was time to start seeing progress. With many of the existing FC trails in the area forming a basis of the route, FCS staff used their expertise to set about negotiating a suitable route down the Kintyre peninsula. With over 24 private landowners and the local authority involved this was a difficult task, needless to say the route changed on countless occasions before deciding upon a route which suited everyone. Legal agreements were negotiated and completed before FCS started the route development work. Much of the route covers rough open hill ground, areas that had previously only ever been ventured by sheep, FCS staff and local contractors worked hard up to and beyond the launch date of the 12th August 2006 to develop a route fit for purpose. This included the design and installation of waymarkers and interpretation panels

Following the launch FCS continued to take a lead role in route management and maintenance, addressing outstanding phase 1 issues of the project. FCS have worked closely with the Long and Wind Way Co Ltd management company in the lead up to their take over of the route, including the development of a route manager post. FCS are set to provide continued support to the management company and future developments of the route.

To visit the website for the Forestry Commission Scotland please click here.