A public consultation is to be held to discuss the future of a popular beauty spot in Killearn, Stirlingshire.
Architects, planners and the local farmer will meet members of the public to discuss plans to create a tourist hub. Bell Ingram’s plans for Finnich Glen include creation of a 150-space car park as well as a visitor centre and shop.
The proposals have been described as making surrounding roads safer by removing the need to abandon cars on country roads while a new viewing platform would allow visitors to safely sample the outlook. Other safety and environmental features include new barriers, footpaths and bridges.
Finnich Glen has been used as a filming location for TV shows such as Taggart and Outlander, with over 70,000 visitors a year flocking to the area.
Iain Cram, director of Bell Ingram Design said, “It’s a truly stunning site of natural beauty and since its use in Outlander, visitor numbers have sky-rocketed, with people travelling from across America and Europe. We believe our plans will make the area much safer while improving the site logistically.
“The road as it is can’t cope, with people parking up nearby on country lanes which brings with it a raft of safety issues. Neighbouring fields are being ruined with people using wire cutters to gain access through fences. Mountain rescue has also seen a spike in the number of call-outs as people get stuck in the Glen. It’s only a matter of time before there’s a serious accident. We are really looking forward to engaging with locals and key stakeholders to help shape our work at this exciting site.”
The public event follows the submission of a Proposal of Application Notice (PAN) in which Bell Ingram notified Stirling Council’s planning department of its proposals.
The consultation event takes place on Friday 28 September between 3-8pm at Killearn Church Hall, Balfron Road, Killearn.
Local farmer David Young said, “We are concerned about the safety of the local community and visitors to Finnich Glen along with the deterioration of this world renowned site of natural beauty. We have a responsibility to ensure the land can be kept in good condition so that people can enjoy it for many years to come while also ensuring they can do so in safety. We are confident that Bell Ingram’s plans will achieve this and are excited about the potential benefits for tourism and employment in our local area.”
