Annual

Report2015 – 2016 Welcome/Failte 4 About us 6 Conservation 14 Visitor Experience 20 Visitor Management 26 Rural Development 34 Being an excellent organisation 42 4 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 5 Fàilte Welcome Tha bliadhna air leth trang air a bhith againn, agus sinn ag obair còmhla ri It has been an extremely busy year, working with a wide range of partners, to deliver farsaingeachd de chom-pàirtichean gus diofar phròiseactan is iomairtean a thoirt a variety of projects and initiatives which help to achieve our Conservation, Visitor seachad, a tha a’ cuideachadh gus na h-amasan againn a choilionadh a thaobh Experience and Rural Development outcomes. The highlights of our achievements Glèidhteachais, Na Dh’fhiosraicheas Luchd-tadhail agus Leasachadh Dùthchail. are presented throughout this Annual Report.

Chithear bàrr-phuingean na bliadhna tron Aithisg Bhliadhnail seo. We continue our efforts to enhance Implementation of Wild Park 2020 Tha na h-oidhirpean againn a Lean sinn oirnn le cur an gnìomh Tha e fhathast na phrìomhachas the Visitor Experience of the National continued throughout the year leantainn gus na Dh’fhiosraicheas Fiadh-Phàirc 2020 tron bhliadhna agus dhuinn taic a chumail ris na Park by investing in visitor sites and work to conserve our precious Luchd-tadhail den phàirc a leasachadh tha an obair gus blàir-mhòna a dhìon coimhearsnachdan beòthail againn and recreation facilities as well as peatlands as important carbon sinks le bhith a’ cur airgead an seilbh ann mar àrainnean agus mar stòrasan agus chuidich sinn Calasraid gus aonta measures to protect the precious and habitats, remains a focus for us. an làraichean do luchd-turais agus carboin fhathast na prìomhachas fhaighinn aig ìre 1 ann an Maoin- environment. Working with landowners we helped deliver peatland habitat restoration goireasan airson cur-seachadan, cho dhuinn. Ag obair còmhla ri uachdarain, Dualchais a’ Chrannchuir airson Our Your Park initiative to enhance at two sites in the National Park, math ri ceuman gus an àrainneachd chuidhich sinn gus àrainnean mòna pròiseact Com-pàirteachas Cruth- the camping experience on our restoring more than 35 km of eroded phrìseil againn a dhìon. ath-stèidheachadh aig dà dhiofar tìre luach £1.5 millean gus an cruth- most heavily used lochshores took àite sa Phàirc Nàiseanta, agus sinn tìre a tha a’ cuairteachadh a’ bhaile peatland. Ghabh an iomairt againn A’ Phàirce significant steps forward, with the air còrr is 35 km de bhlàr-mòna ath- ath-shlànachadh. Agad ceum air adhart nuair a thug an approval of camping management Our busy planning service continues stèidheachadh a bha air crìonadh. Dr Aileen NicLeòid BPA, am Ministear Tha obair air tòiseachadh air an byelaws by Dr Aileen McLeod MSP, to gain significant national recognition airson Àrainneachd, Atharrachadh Tha an t-seirbheis-phlanaidh ath Phlana Com-pàirtichidh dhan Minister for Environment, Climate for its innovative work winning the Clìomaid agus Ath-leasachadh an thrang againn fhathast a’ faighinn Phàirce Nàiseanta bho 2017 gu Change & Land Reform, in January overall Scottish Award for Quality Work has commenced on our next Fhearainn aonta ri fo-laghan ùra aithneachadh nach beag aig an 2022 agus anns na beagan mìosan ri 2016. The decision has allowed us in Planning (SAQP) for community National Park Partnership Plan 2017- a thaobh campachaidh anns an ìre nàiseanta airson a h-obair thighinn, leanaidh an obair againn le to focus work on improving and engagement in preparing the 2022 and over the coming months Fhaoilleach 2016. Tha an iomairt seo thionnsgalach. Bhuannaich i an Duais farsaingeachd de chom-pàirtichean developing a range of good quality LIVE Park Local Development we will continue to engage a wide ag amas air na cladaichean a tha air airson Càileachd ann am Planadh ann am pròiseactan is iomairtean gus camping opportunities throughout Plan. The success of this work was range of partners in new projects an cleachdadh as motha a dhèanamh (SAQP) thar chàich airson com- coimhead às dèidh an àite shònraichte the area in time for the byelaws demonstrated by the low levels and initiatives to look after this very nas fheàrr airson campachadh, Tha pàirteachadh coimhearsnachd airson seo. coming into force in March 2017. of objection to the Plan following special place. co-dhùnadh a’ Mhinisteir air leigeil a h-obair air ullachadh a’ Phlana consultation. The Authority’s work Tro na pròiseactan seo uile, tha sinn The Mountains & The People project Through all of these projects we leinn cuideam a chur air obair gus Leasachaidh Ionadail LIVE Park. in promoting micro hydro was also a’ dèanamh cinnteach gu bheil sinn a’ got underway which will see £6.1 ensure that we are contributing to cothroman campachaidh fìor mhath Chithear cho soirbheachail sa bha recognised with a national SAQP cur ri prìomhachasan Riaghaltas na million being invested over five years Scottish Government priorities and a chruthachadh is a leasachadh tron an obair seo bho cho ìosal sa bha ìre award. Building on the success h-Alba agus a’ co-obrachadh leis na in our most popular mountain paths, are collaborating with our partners to sgìre mus tèid na fo-laghan a chur an nan gearanan mun Phlana às dèidh of LIVE Park, strong engagement com-pàirtichean againn gus dèanamh restoring our paths and protecting ensure best use of public resources. gnìomh sa Mhàirt 2017. na co-chomhairle. Chaidh obair an continued in early 2016 with a highly cinnteach gun tèid stòrasan poblach a our uplands. This pioneering Ùghdarrais ann a bhith a’ brosnachadh successful Balloch charrette that was Thòisich an iomairt na Beanntan is chleachdadh san dòigh as fheàrr. project involves providing training meanbh-sgeamaichean dealan- delivered in partnership with West na Daoine a a tha gu bhith a’ cosg and volunteering opportunities uisge aithneachadh cuideachd le Dunbartonshire Council and Scottish £6.1 air na slighean coiseachd as and initiatives to engage people Linda McKay duais SAQP nàiseanta. A’ togail air Enterprise. trainge sna beanntan, ag ùrachadh in enjoying and looking after the Convener soirbheas LIVE Park, lean obair chom- nam frith-rathaidean agus a’ dìon outdoors within ’s National We remain focused on supporting Loch Lomond & The Trossachs pàirteachaidh tràth ann an 2016 le Linda NicAoidh nam monaidhnean againn. Tha Parks. our vibrant communities and helped National Park Authority charrette fìor shoirbheachail ann am Neach-gairm am pròiseact tionnsgalach seo a’ secure a significant stage Bealach a chaidh a thoirt seachad cruthachadh chothroman airson 1 Heritage Lottery Fund approval for an co-bhonn ri Comhairle Siorrachd trèanadh is obair shaor-thoileach a £1.5 million Landscape Partnership Dhùn Breatann an Iar agus Iomairt na agus iomairtean gus daoine a project to restore the landscape h-Alba. bhrosnachadh gur tlachd a ghabhail às Gòrdan Watson surrounding the town. a’ bhlàr a-muigh agus a bhith ga dhìon Ceannard Gordon Watson cuideachd ann am Pàircean Nàiseanta Chief Executive Officer na h-Alba. 6 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 7

Our mission... Our vision is to be the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority is an effective organisation of passionate people who inspire our communities, visitors and partners to work with us to vital force in enhance and promote this iconic National Park. protecting and enhancing Our aims The National Parks (Scotland) Act 2000 sets our four aims: this iconic n To conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the area n To promote the sustainable use of the natural resources of the area n To promote understanding and enjoyment (including enjoyment in the form of recreation) of the special qualities of the area by the public National Park n To promote sustainable social and economic development of the communities of the area. Within the National Park Authority we encapsulate these aims into our three priority outcomes: Conservation Visitor Experience Rural Development 8 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 9

Our focus areas Our values Our values are our moral compass; they help guide how we make decisions. The ideals and ethics that we hold dear as an organisation are:

Passion we love what we do

Conservation Rural Development Commercial An internationally renowned landscape In the National Park, businesses Development Leadership Inspiring where the natural beauty, ecology and the and communities thrive and we show the way we spark ideas for action cultural heritage are positively managed people live and work sustainably Support the funding of and enhanced for future generations. in a high quality environment. our Conservation, Visitor Experience and Rural Development objectives through the identification Caring and implementation of we respect the past and shape the future sustainable commercial development opportunities.

Accessible we are approachable, open and friendly Visitor Experience Corporate Services A high quality, authentic experience Ensuring effective, efficient and for visitors, with many opportunities innovative use of our resources Green to appreciate and enjoy the natural to deliver the National Park we do the right thing for the Park and the planet and cultural heritage, within an Authority’s services to the highest internationally-renowned landscape standard. that compares to the best on offer around the world. 10 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 11

Our priorities Parliament Elder/Scottish - Adam Pic Body Corporate Parliamentary ©2005 Scottish Photograph Delivering new Scottish Government priorities Throughout this document you will find the Scottish Government outcomes we All of our plans are aligned to the priorities of the Scottish Government. directly contribute to, highlighted by these icons at the start of each section. The Government’s Programme for Scotland 2015-16 emphasises: They are: n A Stronger and Fairer Scotland n A Strong, Sustainable Economy We realise our full economic We have strong, resilient We take pride in a strong, n Protecting and Reforming Our Public Services potential with more and and supportive fair and inclusive national n Strengthening Our Communities better employment communities where identity. opportunities for our people take responsibility people. for their own actions and how they affect others. We live in well-designed, In particular we will support: Our young people are sustainable places where We live longer, we are able to access the n Our young people, educationalists and health n A strong, fair and inclusive society through awarding successful learners, healthier lives. amenities and services we specialists to use the National Park as part of the contracts to companies paying the living wage confident individuals, need. Curriculum for Excellence and the Natural Health and showcasing our equal opportunities policy to effective contributors and Service, offer Junior Ranger and Volunteer Ranger continue to deliver gender equality throughout our responsible citizens. Our public services are opportunities and encourage innovation in rural workforce. We value and enjoy our built high quality, continually We have tackled the employment and skills development. n Strong, resilient and supportive communities by and natural environment improving, efficient and significant inequalities in n Living longer, healthier lives by encouraging supporting them to take advantage of the new and protect it and enhance respond to local people’s Scottish society. increased participation in the Park through the measures proposed in the Community Empowerment it for future generations. needs. delivery of our Outdoor Recreation Plan, John Muir Bill and the Land Reform Bill when enacted. We reduce the local and Awards, Your Park, outdoor learning partnership We live our lives safe from global environmental crime, disorder and danger. working and outreach projects. impact of our consumption and production. Scotland Performs National Outcomes A STRONGER SCOTLAND THE GOVERNMENT’S PROGRAMME The Scottish Government’s Purpose is: FOR SCOTLAND 2015-16 TheScottishGovernment @ScotGov www.gov.scot “to focus Government and public services on creating a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through increasing sustainable economic growth”. We will continue to measure our performance against the 11 (out of 16) The Scottish Government has set out sixteen National Outcomes which describe what it wants to achieve over the next ten years. These outcomes help to sharpen the focus of government, Scotland Performs National Outcomes where the National Park Authority enable its priorities to be clearly understood and provide a clear structure for delivery. can and does make a significant contribution. By achieving these outcomes together, we will make Scotland a better place to live and a more prosperous and successful country. 12 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 13

The National Park is covered by four local authorities: sportscotland is the lead agency for the development Argyll & Bute, Perth & Kinross, and West of sport in Scotland, investing expertise, time and public Dunbartonshire Councils. Each provides a range money in developing a world-class sporting system at all of services to their residents including education, levels. environmental services, housing, leisure facilities.

Our partners CÒMHDHAIL ALBA Historic Environment Scotland is an executive agency of Transport Scotland is the national transport agency for the Scottish Government and is charged with safeguarding Scotland and is responsible for rail and trunk road networks Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority is dedicated to the nation’s historic environment and promoting its and major public transport projects. delivering for the people of Scotland. We strive to make a difference and understanding and enjoyment on behalf of Scottish we firmly believe we’re better able to do that by working together. Ministers. We take a partnership approach to making things happen and we’re proud of the results we deliver, together, for this very special part of Scotland. The work we do would not be possible without the cooperation and participation of a wide and varied range of key partners, from other Government agencies and our four Local Authority partners, to business and landowners, and community organisations and voluntary groups. Scottish Enterprise’s job is identifying and exploiting the VisitScotland works closely with private businesses, public opportunities for economic growth by supporting Scottish agencies and local authorities, to ensure that visitors companies to compete, helping to build globally competitive experience the very best of Scotland and that the country sectors, attracting new investment and creating a world-class makes the most of its outstanding tourism assets. business environment. Key public sector partners: Other key partners: Community Representative bodies Private Sector and third sector • National Park Destination Group Environment Link and specifically • Land managers land-owning non-government • Local destination and trade groups, organisations in the Park. and businesses Scottish Natural Heritage’s work is about caring for Scottish Environment Protection Agency is Scotland’s • RSPB Scotland the natural heritage, enabling people to enjoy it, helping environmental regulator. Its main role is to protect and • National Trust for Scotland • National Park Community Partnership • Woodland Trust Scotland people to understand and appreciate it, and supporting improve the environment. • Community Councils those who manage it. • Scottish Land & Estates • Community Development Trusts • National Farmers Union of Scotland • UNISON

To each and every partner who helped us protect and enhance Loch Lomond & The mission of Forestry Commission Scotland is to The Trossachs in 2015-16, we thank you and look forward to continuing working protect and expand Scotland’s forests and woodlands deliver an effective service to the together to deliver for the National Park in 2016-17 and beyond. and increase their value to society and the environment. communities of Scotland, ensuring that they live their lives free from crime, disorder and danger. 14 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 15

Conservation Our work in Conservation is focused on protecting and enhancing the National Park’s iconic landscapes and wildlife that form such a key part of Scotland’s strong national identity, helping ensure that opportunities are there for people to truly engage with and experience nature.

Delivering against Scottish Government Outcomes 16 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 17

Our Wild Challenges

With our partners in the Fisheries Trusts we continue to manage the control of invasive non-native species such as Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam, NO giant hogweed and skunk cabbage RE-GROWTH (pictured above) in several river sysems. AFTER TREATMENT Through our own volunteer-led initiative UP BY in the Upper Tay catchment, work was carried out across 87 sites with the 22% number of sites showing no signs of re- Scotland’s peat bogs are an incredible We continued to support the growth increasing by 22% since last year, natural resource, storing huge conservation of our threatened indicating that we are achieving success volumes of carbon and water, which native red squirrels through the local in these areas. help us by combating climate change ‘Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels’ and slowing down water flow from Project Officer our uplands. Protecting this precious who is based at resource is important and restoring our headquarters eroded peatlands remains a priority in Balloch. for us. By continuing to work with Scottish Connecting people to nature Natural Heritage Peatland Action Through our Natural Heritage Grant Scheme we have and Scottish Government’s Green supported conservation volunteering projects such Stimulus Fund we delivered peatland as Argyll Fisheries Trust, planting 1,000 native trees habitat restoration at Comer along the River Goil as part of a habitat restoration Estate in Strathard and Scotland’s project. Rural University College estate at We also supported Loch Lomond & The Trossachs . These two sites saw the Countryside Trust and a team of incredibly hard restoration of more than 35km of working National Park volunteers, in undertaking some eroded peatland. We also focused efforts on black We continued to explore impressive work to remove invasive rhododendron grouse conservation by working with opportunities to manage and create from native woodlands at Loch Lomond Golf Club land managers and partners on the woodland where it will improve and at Stronachlachar. Callander Black Grouse Project. habitat connectivity and resilience to a changing climate. 18 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 19

Case Study Ecosystem Services – Strathard Project

Working with Forest Enterprise, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, Stirling Council and the Community Partnership we supported the launch of the project and this year it delivered: n Land management and Natural Flood Management opportunity maps. n Baseline data gathered of current land management practices and identification of stakeholders and community groups who use the area. Protecting special landscapes n Improved engagement with the Strathard community. The National Park’s stunning and Rock and Crianlarich bypass were to help improve the appearance of ‘Ecosystem Services’ are environmental Next year will see the delivery of an integrated land and varied landscapes hold a special completed to the highest standards, major national grid pylon lines that processes that create natural resources water management action plan in order to deliver Natural place for those who live, work and safeguarding the landscape whilst run through the National Park. If used by us all, such as clean air, water, food Flood Management within Strathard. visit here. Our specialist advisory providing significant improvements these bids are successful they will and materials. This exciting partnership work with partners helps to ensure for road traffic. win significant funding for landscape project aims to identify land management that key landscapes are protected improvements in areas adversely solutions in Strathard that will reduce flood We also worked with Scottish Power and enhanced. Throughout the year affected by the power lines. risk downstream in and around Aberfoyle. It and Scottish & Southern Energy to we worked with Transport Scotland will also deliver other improvements to the support the preparation of exciting to ensure that the major road local environment and wildlife, helping to bids for landscape management improvements on the A82 at Pulpit manage natural resources sustainably in a changing climate.

Supporting our land managers We continued to work with land managers to facilitate integrated land management planning, helping promote and deliver both the aims of individual businesses, as well as the delivery of the wider public benefits derived from more sustainable land use. This has included supporting two local businesses with applications to Scottish Government’s new Agri-Environment Climate Scheme to deliver measures which build on the success of the existing Glen 86% INCREASE Dochart Waders project. The new applications will build on the positive outcomes of the previous works which have resulted in an 86% BREEDING FARMLAND WADERS increase in breeding farmland waders across a 350 hectare project area. It will also contribute to flood risk management in the catchment and a reduction in diffuse pollution from agricultural practices. 20 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 21

Visitor Experience Our focus in Visitor Experience is to provide a high quality, authentic experience for our visitors, ensuring there are many opportunities to appreciate and enjoy the rich natural and cultural heritage of the area.

Delivering against Scottish Government Outcomes

MhorFest photo by © Wesley Kingston 22 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 23

Visitor surveys Business engagement Every four years we undertake a significant survey of Throughout the year we continued to support visitors to the National Park to better understand who they local tourism businesses through a regular are, what they do and why. This in turn gives us important e-newsletter covering a wide range of data to help make informed decisions. informative tourism-related topics. Our 2015 survey ran a full 12 months and 1,560 surveys We also held our annual Tourism conference were completed in total. The results will allow us to track which saw more than 80 local businesses come trends between now and 2011, identify opportunities together to listen to ‘great practice’ speakers and challenges, and compare Loch Lomond & The covering contemporary culture, landscape

• WhereTrossachs do our visitors comeNational from? 59% Park Scotland, to 21% national rest of UK, 20% findings overseas from visitor attractions and wildlife tourism. the 2015 VisitScotland visitor survey.

Key findings and comparisons to 2011 were: Better information for visitors WHERE DO OUR VISITORS We continued to work hard to provide relevant and easily 59% accessible information to our visitors and business. Living inside COME FROM National Park % ? 54 www.lochlomond-trossachs.org OF OUR VISITORS VISITOR We devised 12 cycle route cards for 59% Beinn mhor 71% SCOTLAND STAYED OVERNIGHT people to download from our website. Benmore & Kilmun paths Living outside 20% 25% SELF-CATERING SATISFACTION The routes covered the breadth of the National Park OVERSEAS 16% CAMPING Park, and reflected the destination’s

Beinn mhor The highest peak in Cowal (741 metres) offers VISITOR PERCEPTION wonderful views of Loch Eck, the Clyde Estuary and north and west to the Highlands and islands. . fantastic variety of cycling, from traffic- 100031883 number Licence Survey Ordnance 2015. rights database and copyright Crown © Uneven, boggy ground. A climb of 7 1/2 miles / almost 700m. Boots 12 km RESEARCHED essential Allow SAFE free family-friendly paths to off-road 4-5 hours THE PARK This walk passes through farmland, forests and moorland with the initial walk in from the car park % area an ideal walk for all the family. Why not stop 41 off at the beautiful and spectacular Massan Falls ONLINE mountain biking. on your way to the start of this walk. % Park at the small car park at the top of the Glen 95 Massan road just beyond Stonefield Farm. Follow the unsurfaced road through the Glen Massan TYPE OF VISIT estate for about 3 kilometres. 200 metres beyond the stone cottage the track crosses the River Massan and beyond CLEAN the bridge a path is signposted for walkers up to % % BOOKED We worked with SNH to the right. This is where the real climb begins. The 21 42 path climbs quite steeply as it passes through mature conifer forest. Starting as a forest road it REST OF UK slowly changes to a path and finally leads you to ACCOMMODATION the open moorland above the forest. Continue to climb through open somewhat boggy grassland produce a brand new leaflet to the ridge in front of you. From the ridge are % wonderful views from the Clyde estuary to Ben Cruachan and the islands. The ridge continues 92 to the summit. The most straightforward return route is to retrace your steps. The upland area is used for hill grazing. Please celebrating the National keep your dog under control at all times. 19% LOCAL 90% Park’s heritage. Packed Start/end 43% DAY TRIP WELL-MANAGED with suggestions of the % 38% OVERNIGHT best natural and cultural things to see and 99 S do. The leaflet also includes four full-day RECOMMEND TO OTHERS TED itineraries, across all four corners of the AVERAGE VISITOR SPEND % Park, making exploration by visitors easier.

VEMENT 52 73% WIFI USE WEB-BASED SUPPORTED MOBILE COVERAGE 2015 £ INFORMATION 180 PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN THE PARK

27% SUGGES IMPRO OBJECTED PER PERSON PUBLIC TOILETS Living inside National Park NP status is important for visitors too (up from 46% to 54%) and awareness FAVOURITE of the NP is high (95%, up 5% on 2011); and there’s been an ACTIVITIES increase in satisfaction for visits to WALKING AND SIGHTSEEING the NP (a 10/10 score has moved up from 24% to 37%!) FOOD & DRINK UP 30 % FROM 2011 IN 24 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 25

Case Study 2015 Year of Food & Drink

In 2015 we celebrated VisitScotland’s Year of Food & Drink. Our 2011 visitor survey results expressed low levels of awareness of the Park’s culinary offer, with only 11% of visitors planning to partake in food and drink related activities.

The Year of Food & Drink provided a great opportunity for us to strengthen the message that there are excellent food and drink offerings in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.

Tourism product An Ceann Mòr at Inveruglas was officially unveiled by Richard Lochhead MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Food and the Environment in May 2015 and is our fourth Scottish Scenic Routes viewpoint. Designed by young architectural practice, BTE, An Ceann Mòr has been designed to the Throughout the year we: highest standards of sustainability and offers spectacular views of the Arrochar Alps in the west, and across Loch n Directly supported local food n Arranged for Glasgow’s popular n Continued to work with Lomond to Ben Lomond in the east. events to obtain more than Willow Tearooms to use our local Destination Marketing £18,000 of funding from Event premises at Loch Lomond Shores Organisation, Love Loch A new 3.5km section of the West Scotland. Springfest at Lomond as a pop-up restaurant during the Lomond, to build the National Highland Way opened in 2015. The route Shores was a huge success, summer months. Park’s food and drink reputation, alongside Loch Lomond from Ptarmigan Mhor Festival grew in size n Hosted a series of unique pop-up developing a portfolio of food to Rowchoish has been completed and and saw its first ever fine-dining events with the Mhor and drink content which included now gives walkers the choice of either a ‘Braw Weekend’ in the autumn. Group. images, videos and words. This lochside or hillside route to . new content also provided the Throughout the year more than n Developed a programme of foundation of Taste, a dedicated A new section of the John Muir Way has 60,000 attendees participated familiarisation trips for food food and drink magazine, with 50 been created and now leaves the West in food and drink events in the and drink journalist resulting in pages focusing on producers and Highland Way at Carbeth, joining the NCN7 National Park. national and international media products from within and around on road. coverage. the National Park.

The Year of Food & Drink has resulted in an outstanding difference on uptake of food and drink related visits Island Drift – exhibition in Glasgow to the National Park with an increase from 11% in 2011 to 44% in 2015. Island Drift was an immersive and National Park Rangers to photographic installation, created manipulate moving and static light in partnership with NVA and Street sources on land and water. Multiple Level gallery in Glasgow. During camera positions were used to an eight month programme achieve a powerful series of digital of creative interventions at images articulating the Highland Loch Lomond, designer James Boundary Fault line. The gallery- Johnson and photographer Alan based exhibition took place at McAteer worked with NVA’s Street Level gallery in Glasgow for creative director Angus Farquhar three months in Autumn 2015. 26 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 27

Visitor Management Our work in Visitor Management continues to focus on ensuring we have the necessary infrastructure and facilities that help provide a world-class welcome to our growing visitor numbers, ensuring the National Park is an enjoyable and safe place to visit.

Delivering against Scottish Government Outcomes 28 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 29

Protecting our natural assets Supporting accessible recreation Throughout this year we also: Completed the shared-use ‘Active The Outdoor Recreation Plan was approved by the National Park At the heart of our Your Park visitors would expect in a National We submitted our plans for Camping Travel Link’ surfaced path between Board in June 2013 and outlines commitments and intentions proposals is the desire to improve the Park and we want to make sure Management Byelaws to Scottish and . camping experience in Loch Lomond there are a better and wider range of Ministers in May 2015. In January held by all stakeholders to enhance outdoor recreation and access & The Trossachs National Park and to opportunities to camp here. 2016 Dr Aileen McLeod, Minister for opportunities across Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Made an important contribution encourage people to come and make Environment, Climate Change and over the next five years. towards the delivery of the coast- to- The proposals have been developed the most of the outdoors in this very Land Reform wrote to us to confirm coast Pilgrims Way by completing over the last two years and included special part of Scotland. Sadly the approval of the byelaws with an a missing link on the route between significant opportunities for public experience on some of our lochshores implementation date of 1 March 2017. St Fillans, eastward to Tynreoch. engagement and stakeholder is far from the world-class offer representation. Provided grant funding to The Three Lochs Way/ Tighness path project to deliver a new, high quality connection The Camping Management Byelaws will apply to a small between the popular Great Trail and area of the National Park (less than 4%) in four separate visitor facilities in Arrochar. Management Zones on some our busiest lochshores, ©Crown copyright and database rights 2016. Ordnance Survey 100031883 where roads run along the loch side. The four zones will be Worked with partners such as East Loch Lomond, West Loch Lomond, Trossachs North Sustrans, Forestry Commission and Trossachs West. Scotland and Lochgoilhead Community Development Trust, Within these areas, from March to September, camping In 2015, working The project will deliver against all funding was secured for two will be permitted by booking a pitch at a campsite or by with our partners four of our aims and comprises six feasibility studies looking at creating obtaining a camping permit. This will allow us to manage Cairngorms different elements: active travel links between Balloch the volume of people camping and where they camp, Outdoor Access n Upland Path restoration and Gartocharn, and also the helping to prevent overuse and damage to the fragile Trust, Cairngorms n Training Lochgoilhead to the Drumsyniebeg / environment. National Park Authority, Scottish n Conservation Volunteering Pole Farm areas. Natural Heritage and Forestry We are currently focused on developing camping East Loch Lomond n The Adopt a Path West Loch Lomond Commission Scotland, we opportunities and preparing for implementation of the n The Education Programme Trossachs North successfully secured Heritage byelaws from 1 March 2017. n Visitor Information Trossachs West Lottery Funding and launched The You can find out more about Your Park at Mountains & The People project. Since the project launched in www.thisisyourpark.org.uk June 2015 we have achieved the The Mountains and The People creation of a new path on Ben A’an is a five-year project that aims to and the recruitment of the project engage people in protecting and team and first batch of footpath maintaining cherished Scottish construction trainees. mountains, as well as create training opportunities for 48 young people. 30 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 31

Supporting outdoor learning Our people on the ground The landscapes of the National Park provide a fantastic National Park Rangers, including full time, seasonal opportunity to deliver the Curriculum for Excellence and volunteers, continued to provide a professional through outdoor learning. SUPPORTED service to visitors and all those who live and work in Our work continued to concentrate on supporting children, 73 SCHOOLS the Park. Their patrols, totalling over 9,000 hours on young people and outreach groups to have opportunities land and water across the Park, provided information to engage with and learn about nature. In 2015/16 we THROUGHOUT and assistance, ensured visitors remained safe and supported 11 sessions for schools and outreach groups , behaved responsibly. Additionally our Ranger Service from within the National Park and 74 sessions for those 9000 provided over 600 hours of support for educational SCOTLAND ranger patrol Hours travelling here from other areas. events and activities, including 24 Ranger led activities and support for 15 partner led events. We focussed our work through a range of themes, SUPPORTED 2015-16 SUPPORTEDincluding Your Park – providing children and young people 73 SCHOOLS with an opportunity to learn about the natural and cultural THROUGHOUT 73 SCHOOLheritage ofS their National Park – this will lead to an increase in the value they place on it. Working in partnership with Police Scotland we SCOTLAND PARK

AL RA continued Operation Ironworks for a ninth year, in Supporting Your Park made up nearly half of all our N N O G SUPPORTED ENGAGING I E T R

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that this long term investment in supporting outdoor P

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A H SCOTLANDlearning and wider engagement will lead to an increased 600 C policing being funded in the Park. awareness of the pressures on the National Park and will ADULTS JOHN MUIR AWARD We also continued to support a seconded THROUGHOUT 20 encourage responsible behaviour by visitors, reducing the , 15 police officer and two special constables CHILDREN2332 AND impact to the Park in the future. through the Employer Supported Policing YOUNG PEOPLE L PARK R A AN SCOTLAND N G O ENGAGING I E Scheme. Our two special police constables T R

Our continued strong partnership with the John Muir A S

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and September on Operation Ironworks A H Awards in the National Park. 600 C ADULTS JOHN MUIR AWARD and visitor management duties, as well as duties , 20 relating to wildlife crime. CHILDREN2332 AND 15 Supported YOUNG PEOPLE PARK AL RA AWARDED N N £4,000 O G ENGAGING I E T R

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A H 600 C Supported provided ADULTS JOHN MUIR AWARD AWARDED 600 20 ADULTS SCOTLAND JOHN MUIR AWARD £4,000

, 20 2332 , 15 IN TRAVEL 200hrs CHILDREN AND 2332 15 12 GRANTS YOUNG PEOPLE CHILDREN AND outreach groups of policing in 2015 YOUNG PEOPLE

PARK AL RA N N O G ENGAGING I E T R

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A H 600 C ADULTS JOHN MUIR AWARD , 20 CHILDREN2332 AND 15 Supported YOUNG PEOPLE Supported AWARDED AWARDED £4,000 £4,000 IN TRAVEL 12 IN TRAVEL GRANTS outreach groups 12 GRANTSupporSted AWARDED £4,000 outreach groups IN TRAVEL 12 GRANTS outreach groups 32 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 33

Case Study National Park Junior Ranger Programme

Twelve young people from McLaren High School in Callander spent a week (15 – 19 June) learning about the broad range of work undertaken by Rangers in the National Park in our first ever Junior Ranger Programme.

Linda Hall from McLaren High School said, “McLaren High School is delighted to be working in partnership with Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. “It is a very exciting and innovative opportunity for our pupils. They have Our dedicated volunteers engaged fully in the project and their We continue to be overwhelmed by the number of knowledge and awareness of the work enthusiastic, dedicated and passionate people who that the Rangers carry out has been volunteer with us at the National Park. Throughout this greatly enhanced.” year our volunteers gave more than 14,200 hours of their The Junior Ranger Programme The project links in with EUROPARC time. This was spent helping with practical tasks, project saw pupils participate in a scrub Federation, a pan-European support, events, education and visitor inspiration duties, clearance at ; a biodiversity association of protected landscape all with a focus on achieving our National Park Partnership day with support from the Forestry areas. Its aims for young people are to: Plan outcomes. This is an increase of almost 25% up from Commission Scotland at The Lodge in n Create a network of young last year and a whopping 100% from 2012. Aberfoyle; a Recreation & Access day people who participate in nature We have partnership agreements with more than 15 taking them out on the Glenoglehead protection by acting as advocates partners who, in 2015/16, provided over 100 opportunities to Callander cycle path; managing for their protected area. visitor pressures and dealing with for volunteers to get involved. This allows us to achieve The National Park Authority provides n Improve young people’s land use conflicts in the National so much more, with benefits not only for the National a wealth of information and materials knowledge and understanding of Park; with the week culminating in a Park and the volunteers, but also for a range of partner to schools to help connect young the Ranger profession. organisations. people to the outdoors and give them day of reflections/presentations and n Raise awareness about the natural, an appreciation and respect for wild graduations at McLaren High School. Our 65 Volunteer Rangers delivered an incredible 6,500hrs cultural, social and economic places. The Junior Ranger Programme They also completed their John Muir to supporting members of the public, local communities Award, gaining invaluable knowledge, values of protected areas. and businesses to enjoy the National Park. builds on this by providing a level of detail and hands-on experience skills and experience of connecting that will leave a lasting impression with nature. on those participating.

VOLUNTEERING INCREASE OF 9999%% 77% FOUND THEY had a wider 25 RECOMMEND range of friendships RECOTO MMENDOTHERS TO OTHERS

80% 50%% % 80VOLUNTEER% 50HAVE BEEN 8080% VOLUNTEER HAVOVEL BEENUNTEERS IMPROIMPROVEDVED 1 DAY 2 3 VOFLORUNTEER MORE THAS N HEALTH & 1 DAY 2 3 FOR MORE THAN HEALTH & A MONTH 2 YEARS WELLBEING >>A MONTH 2 YEARS WELLBEING 34 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 35

Rural Development Our work in Rural Development covers our role as a Planning Authority and has a strong focus on supporting our vibrant communities, as well as promoting and safeguarding our unique built heritage.

Delivering against Scottish Government Outcomes 36 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 37

Supporting our vibrant communities Supporting our built heritage Over the last year we continued to Our core funding towards the 2015-16 was the third successful year of running our Built Heritage Repair Grant which aims to support the sympathetic support community organisations Community Partnership helped four repair of traditional buildings and restoration of local built heritage. We are starting to see the cumulative benefit in the National Park and through communities to update their action in some of our towns and villages with a number of properties having been visibly improved. Throughout the year enabling our communities to deliver plans, alongside support to deliver a 11 projects were completed with grants awarded to help repair traditional buildings in Stronachlachar, , their own projects, helped them community engagement campaign , Milton of Buchanan, Luss, Callander, Aberfoyle and Drymen. achieve many successful projects in Strathard, involving local people on the ground. We facilitated in the exploration of land use and this through our support to flood management options and the Projects community organisations, including decision making process used to Repair and repointing of walls to the Old School Room, This work was carried out by skilled masons using a Development Trusts and Loch address these issues. located on Freuchan Lane off Main Street in Gartmore. traditional lime mix which matched the original mortar. Lomond & The Trossachs National The walls of this small, attractive listed building, dating The work also revealed that the building was originally Park Community Partnership. from the early 1700s, were crumbling and in need of longer than it is now extending out into an area now extensive re-pointing and rebuilding in places. occupied by the lane. Community Grant Scheme Protecting our Our Community Grant Scheme provided financial support to historic environment community groups across the Park. Throughout the year £14,000 The historic built heritage is an important was awarded to support 14 community development trusts in their part of the National Park’s special character important core work, which involved assessing community needs, Before After Before After and contributes significantly to its special recruiting volunteers, publicising activities, applying for funding and qualities. We work hard to protect and supporting project development. Repair of damaged metal estate Repointing of the south façade enhance it through: railings at the pier carpark, stronachlachar t of Coldrach Farmhouse, Drymen t In addition, four individual projects n Effective planning policy by drafting the were supported to further develop: new Proposed Local Development Plan. Access to a local War Memorial n The use of our Built Heritage Repair Grant. A children’s play area with sensory play equipment A heritage Walled Garden Before After Before After

A Friendship Garden Repair and redecoration of the imposing Rebuilding of boundary walls All of these will contribute to, community pair of timber lych gates at Luss Church t at Smithy House, Gartmore t engagement, economic development, cultural heritage, and the quality of life and well-being of residents and visitors.

Before After Before After 38 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 39

LIVE Park update Balloch charrette In November 2015 we were also the Overall Winners at the mechanisms for key sites identified We also held a ‘business breakfast’ Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning. This annual award, in the Local Development Plan, as for local business owners and the first for a community engagement project, recognised well as public realm improvements managers. All of these methods our innovative and people-centered campaign approach to and better connectivity between helped to ensure that the our consultation for LIVE Park – our Local Development Plan Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch comments and ideas came from a Main Issues Report - which sets out future development Castle Country Park and the village much wider spectrum of people and strategy for the National Park. centre. Building on the success of fed into the workshop discussions LIVE Park, social media was used and the overall design process. The award recognised the success of the LIVE Park campaign, in an effort to reach out to working which was designed to be interactive and engaging, using During February and March age people and families who may digital media to reach a broader audience, particularly young 2016, we worked with West not otherwise have attended the and working age people, in order to understand their views on Dunbartonshire Council and charrette events. In addition to future development needed within the Park. During 2015 we prepared and published the next phase Scottish Enterprise to run a this we undertook extensive pre- The Judges were impressed with, not only the level of of LIVE Park - our proposed Local Development Plan. successful charrette (design- charrette engagement work and ambition showed by the team, but how they applied a range Our aspiration was for this to be a visionary, design-led led workshop) for Balloch. The in the lead up to the events visited of new and innovative techniques tailored to the Park’s and outcomes focused plan accessible to a wide range purpose of the charrette process schools, youth groups and other circumstances and local development issues’. of audiences. This resulted in an innovative style which was to flesh out ideas and delivery community groups. minimises text and uses powerful imagery, illustrations, aerial mapping and annotated maps. “It is felt that the project had, without a The benefits of the investment made in engaging with a doubt, set a new pioneering benchmark broad range of stakeholders are now being realised, with Pro-active planning service which others could follow.” fewer consultation responses (hence fewer objections) In our role as a Planning Authority the development opportunities that feedback on our performance this Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning and more consensus on the majority of the proposed we continue to deliver the National are available. There has been a notable year, scoring a ‘green’ rating on 10 Judges statement November 2015 sites and policies. Park’s outcomes through our work jump in the number of planning out of 13 of the Scottish Government to maintain an up-to-date Local applications of almost 20% during this Performance Markers, which have Development Plan, determining year. We have seen an overall increase been developed to recognise a ‘high planning applications and promoting in development activity as well as performing planning authority’. r d e an at s y w wn njo e to e h ur to interest in some key development t o rs by ces ito One particular application determined g an vis in enh d be t an sites, that are set against on- e en es ienc pm iti in the latter part of 2015 attracted an lochs and exper velo un ’s de mm rk ty co going run-of-river hydro schemes Pa ali r qu ou unprecedented level of public interest he gh for t Hi s on age delivery. This is really positive for our l ill ve v with 1,500 representations received ra t to communities and businesses. M s ore tie in both support and objection. The opportuni The quality of our decisions and the application required significant staff IN time it takes in determining planning and time resource and careful project applications is continually monitored management to determine. An open throughout the year, by both our and transparent decision was made PLANNING Board and Scottish Government. through a Special Hearing of the APPLICATIONS We have received encouraging Planning and Access Committee. lace e of p g sens stron in a ta re to support s ing the need Safeguarding our historic building s of everyone 40 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 41

Case Study Callander Pass

The 2011 charrette in Callander was a reminder of just how much potential Callander has as a great place to live and visit. The vision is for it to become the ‘Outdoor Capital of the National Park’ and momentum is building on delivering on this vision.

Heritage Lottery Funded projects The next year will see community make a major contribution to work in aspirations envisioned and worked the UK on implementing the European up into fully developed project plans Landscape Convention. for submission to Stage 2 Heritage Lottery Funding. If successful this The ‘Callander Pass’ scheme will release funding for delivery of the represents a significant opportunity project. to deliver a range of community Development on the ground aspirations including the development The Callander Landscape of cultural and natural heritage, rural Partnership comprises: The rich and diverse landscapes The National Park was a category skills and voluntary engagement in the • Callander’s Countryside of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs award winner in the 2015 Scottish Callander area, taking a co-ordinated In 2015, Callander Landscape • Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park present great potential Awards for Quality in Planning, and landscape-scale approach. National Park Authority Partnership secured £1.5 million of HYDRforO run-of-river hydro schemes. Last acknowledging our work to support • Callander Community Council year’s annual report described our the delivery of run-of-river hydro Heritage Lottery Funding for the Callander is the largest town in the SCHEMES 25,000 ‘Callander Pass’ scheme which is National Park and due to its location • Callander Community dedicated work in the consideration schemes. The award recognised in Development Trust IN THE NATIONAL focused on the Leny Pass. These in the gap (or “pass”) between the of a significant number of planning particular our work to streamline • McLaren Leisure Centre PARK OUTPUTapplications for3 this3.5 type of renewableMW the planning process, from initial schemes put heritage conservation Lowlands and Highlands at the • Callander Heritage Society energy development across the Park pre-application discussion, through at the heart of rural regeneration. eastern most corner of Loch Lomond • Callander Ramblers and also reported on subsequent consenting and in influencing the Local, regional and national & The Trossachs National Park, it is • Scottish Natural Heritage developments on the ground. implementation of the development On completion of those schemes organisations work together to make uniquely placed to service the needs • Scottish Wildlife Trust (Callander) on the ground, often in sensitive rural currently under construction, the a real difference to landscapes and of visitors and promote outdoor The determination of these on- locations. total hydro electricity generation communities for the long term. They recreation in the Highlands beyond. • Forestry Commission Scotland going applications has been guided do this by conserving habitats at • Stirling Council from within the Park will be sufficient The community-led project is the by the Park’s highly commended landscape-scale, promoting joined-up • Drumardoch Estate to power the equivalent of 25,000 result of collaboration between local Supplementary Planning Guidance. management, reviving long-lost skills homes - four times the number of community organisations, Loch and much more. 2015 -16 has seen a significant homes in the National Park. Lomond & The Trossachs National number of planning permissions Two of the schemes under Park Authority, Scottish Natural implemented on site and currently construction have community links, Heritage, Forestry Commission we have 20 operational run-of-river which means the income generated Scotland and Stirling Council. hydro schemes in the National Park will go directly towards funding and a further 13 currently under community projects in those areas construction. of the Park. 20 13 44 SCHEMES SCHEMES UNDER SCHEMES APPROVED OPERATIONAL CONSTRUCTION

HYDRO SCHEMES 25,000 IN THE NATIONAL

PARK OUTPUT 33.5MW

20 13 44 SCHEMES SCHEMES UNDER SCHEMES APPROVED OPERATIONAL CONSTRUCTION 42 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 43

Being an excellent organisation We strive to provide a secure and welcoming workplace where we engage effectively with our staff and Board. Taking an innovative approach, we continue to deliver the National Park Authority’s services to the highest standard .

Delivering against Scottish Government Outcomes 44 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 45

JULY is...

Team National Park

Working at the National Park we believe that we walk-the-walk and talk-the-talk. A happy workforce is a productive and To support our aim for ‘engaged, high performing, To FIND OUT MORE SPEAK WITH THE HR TEAM engaged work force. A range of initiatives have been successfully developed through the year. empowered staff’ we have developed a series of ‘themed’ months including: n Employee satisfaction Wellbeing Awareness month which highlighted Relaxation with Catriona Values and behaviours the importance of healthy working lives through 8th July 2015 Using the Best Companies survey as our Cycle with Craig We have fully embedded our employee- 12:00 – 12:45 16th July 2015 a number of activities such as: Find out more on park Central measure, satisfaction has grown year on year developed values and behaviours 12:00 – 13:00 • Cycling Find out more on park Central and we are now a one H company (the into monthly one-to-ones between • Swimming in beautiful Loch Lomond staff engagement equivalent of a Michelin managers and team members and • Fruit baskets for staff star restaurant) and a Top 100 not-for- within the annual ‘My Performance • Health screening profit company to work for in the UK. Review’ process (how we do it). Run with Emma Engaged, 22nd July 2015 Swim with Fiona 12:00 – 13:00 29th July 2015 n Find out more on park Central high performing, Health & Safety month which set out to raise 16:00 – 17:00 (flexible) empowered our awareness of how health and safety affects all Find out more on park Central our lives through a number of activities such as: staff • On your feet week Understanding and ownership Health, wellbeing and safety All teams actively contribute to the • Winter safety Engagement throughout the development of team plans and objectives • Personal safety organisation has resulted in a new suite that are clearly aligned and articulated to our • Safe driving of risk assessments being developed and Corporate Plan, National Park Partnership Plan significantly increased understanding of and Scottish Government outcomes. This has the importance of Health & Safety. We are also delighted to be a Living Wage Employer. This year we are resulted in successful delivery of our Annual continuing to build on this success and are currently working with the Operational Plan objectives (what we do). NHS to become a Healthy Working Lives Silver award employer.

Our union representatives (UNISON) have worked alongside managers and team members to develop and implement a range of these successful initiatives. “ Having relocated from London, the difference in “ I thoroughly enjoy working for an organisation that is always aiming my quality of life is amazing. I was lucky enough to for the best outcomes for public benefit. Our aims are underpinned and supported by national objectives and this helps to really provide “UNISON representatives and our members are pleased to be key project team sample open water swimming during the wellbeing a sense of doing a job that makes a difference. This gives me a huge members, advocates and active participants in progressing the range of initiatives and month last year and have been hooked ever since. amount of satisfaction. The fact that I can balance the demands projects that have been developed over the last year. UNISON is particularly satisfied I mean, where else in the world can you go for a of my home life (farming and the busy periods) as well as having that we are now a Living Wage Employer, delighted that staff raised such a magnificent swim in the loch at lunchtime all year round! ” a career is a real plus for me.” sum for Alzheimer’s Scotland and that there was an increased focus on the health, Eilidh McKerry, Management Accountant Safety and Wellbeing of staff. UNISON fully endorses the aspirations and objectives Harriet Smith, Land Use Manager of the Park Authority and looks forward to working alongside management in pursuit of achieving an atmosphere where work is balanced alongside a culture of welfare and leisure.” 46 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 47

© Cairngroms National Park Authority

Giving Something Back Embracing & Adopting Our Staff Involvement Group (STIG) have Emerging Technologies been instrumental in not only engaging staff in social activities, but have led the We implemented various technologies organisation to generate the biggest within our ICT infrastructure which will charitable donation raised by staff to result in significant cost reduction benefits date, to the West Dunbartonshire arm of to the organisation. Alzheimer’s Scotland. n Implementation of newer telephony Over the year an incredible £7,356 was technologies has the potential to raised through an all year round tuck-shop, reduce annual telephony costs by up to raffles and cake bakes, entering teams 40% compared to current costs. into the Great Scottish Swim, the Great n Implementation of recently available Scottish Run, holding a charity football “This donation is invaluable to us. It’s the largest local corporate fibre broadband technologies has match, and two members of staff were donation we’ve ever received in the West Dunbartonshire area. The resulted in a 90% reduction in data line © SHN Lorne Gill sponsored to cut off their long hair. These monies donated are enough to fund two community activities each costs to current satellite offices. and many other activities helped staff raise week for a full year. We are currently looking at new activities to be held n We are trialling field data collection a record amount of funds for charity. in West Dunbartonshire at weekends. We are holding a discussion cafe methods, with initial testing indicating Climate Change Reporting As well as raising funds, staff throughout with our service users and volunteers who will help choose the types of significant savings in staff time. As a ‘major player’ of the Climate Change (Scotland) Act 2009, the the Park Authority, have contributed to activities that they want to see happening locally.” As part of our digital transformation we Park Authority assisted in a trial of a new approach to reporting on support events and activities for Alzheimer Bronwyn O’Riordan, Community Fundraiser for Alzheimer Scotland are working with Scottish Government Climate Change duties. We produced a ‘pilot report’ and fed back our Scotland, giving up their own time to colleagues in the Digital Transformation experiences of the reporting to help preparations for the first year of support such a worthwhile cause. service to support the development of our mandatory reporting. Digital Strategy as well as implement the Our report covered our progress on Climate Change mitigation and “Scottish Approach to Service Design”. adaptation in four key areas: governance, management and strategy; Support corporate emissions, targets and project data; adaptation; and We continued to encourage and promote a positive work life balance procurement. and for the first time we have a female member of staff who has successfully ‘passed out’ as an Army Reservist. We worked with colleagues at Cairngorms National Park Authority and found that both National Park Authorities have a significant number Social Committment of strategic objectives and projects aimed at tackling climate change We are delighted to commit to the Social Impact Pledge through: and have taken a similar approach to our reporting and governance. n Developing opportunities for young people to engage in Completion of the report was a very valuable process, especially in volunteering throughout the National Park helping us to think about how we develop our monitoring to best capture the full impact of our work. n Delivering our first ever “Invest in Youth Plan” we will recruit our first ever Modern Apprentices studying towards Level 3 in Business Administration n Delivery of the Callander Landscape Partnership highlighted on page 41. 48 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Annual Report 2015–16 49

Rob Roy’s grave

Working together A particular focus throughout the was to

Inversnaid extend our already excellent partnership/ Nature Reserve shared services relationship with Cairngorms National Park Authority. The recent adoption of equivalent Unified Communication Systems via a joint tender enhanced collaboration between both organisations. Sharing of other services The Lodge Inchmahome such as our ICT infrastructure; e-planning Priory systems, helpdesk, backup & disaster recovery solutions and joint support and licensing agreements continue to be further developed and enhanced. We also have shared staffing posts for procurement and health and safety. Engaged Board Loch Lomond Nature We are proud to be an enthusiastic and In 2015, our Board welcomed both the Cairngorms National Reserve active player in developing the Rural Affairs, Park Authority Board and the Northumberland National Food and Environment (RAFE) shared Park Authority Board to the National Park. These visits National Park Visitor Centre

Joh VisitScotland Information Centre Argyll n Muir services/partnership agenda in areas such Wa allowed members to share their experiences and gain an Mausoleum y VisitScotland Information Centre (seasonal opening) as communications, digital transformation, understanding of key projects being delivered in other Waterbus service (operate in summer) corporate planning, climate change, National Parks. Our Board also held a Board meeting in Scotland’s natural health service and Point of interest where Joyce White, Chief Executive West Munro (Mountains above 910m/3,000ft) equalities and diversity. Dunbartonshire Council and educationalists discussed Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park boundary engaging young people with the National Park and M8 Motorway We also progressed with a range of A85 Trunk road opportunities to share with our Local embedding outdoor learning as part of the Curriculum for A873 Major road Excellence, John Muir Awards and Teaching in Nature. Minor road Authorities and West Dunbartonshire Railway/station Council were appointed as our Internal Billy Ronald joined the Board in Ferry/cruises (some operate only in summer) © Crown copyright and database rights Auditors. National Cycle Route 7/ John Muir Way Cycle Path October 2015 as a locally elected 2016. Ordnance Survey 100031883 West Loch Lomond Cycle Path Looking to the future we envisage adopting member for Ward 2, Breadalbane and The Trossachs. Billy’s key Rob Roy Way creative approaches, alongside our range Three Lochs Way of partners to deliver high quality, joined up interests lie with agriculture, land John Muir Way use and tourism. The Cowal Way public services. The Great Trossachs Path

© Crown copyright and database right 2016. All rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100031883 Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority Carrochan 20 Carrochan Road Balloch G83 8EG t: 01389 722600 e: [email protected] w: lochlomond-trossachs.org

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