Path funding

Historic path on the Isle of Skye gets a new lease of life

“The path is crucial for us to be able to walk safely, instead of braving the dangerous A87 main road. Walkers and wheelers who have always been excluded from using this route are now using it frequently.”

In late 2023, the Lower Breakish Grazing Committee on the Isle of Skye, celebrated the reopening of an upgraded path that was made possible by a £60,000 award from our Ian Findlay Path Fund.

The path connects three communities and provides a safe and traffic-free route to places of work, school, shops, post office and health care services in the village of Broadford. The route was overgrown and narrow, in some sections down to just 30cm wide. It was becoming more difficult for people with mobility issues to use.

“It’s a beautiful walk but can be spoiled by the state of the path and verges. My mobility is not as good as it used to be.”

The improved path is now smoother and wider. No matter the weather, people can have a dry walk or wheel along the route due to upgraded drainage. An existing bridge now has level access, and handrails added, making it safer and more accessible for everyone.

“Many more people in the community can now use the path. People with walking difficulties who have not been able to set foot on the path for many years due to its deterioration, are now able to stroll in safety.”

Donald, local resident

Residents at each end of the path say it is being used 3 or 4 times more now than before the improvements were made. Having a wider path means that people can enjoy walking together side by side, holding hands with their children, walking their dog, and making passing others easier and safer.