Being responsible this Spring

The Stirling area is lucky to have lots of green space ranging from local parks and woods, to rivers and meandering countryside paths.

There’s something for everyone and it’s all on our doorstep. What’s more, the Land Reform Act (Scotland) 2003 gives you the right to access most of it as long as you’re not using a motorised vehicle (mobility scooters are fine) and you are being responsible.

As we approach springtime, more and more people will be looking to get out and about in the local area. With that, people need to think about their responsibilities when in the countryside. Luckily, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code (SOAC) comes to the rescue and gives detailed advice on how to behave in various situations and helps all kinds of users; walkers and cyclists, horse riders and canoeists, even paragliders, to think about their actions and how they affect others and the environment.

One of the most important things to think about is to respect other users. Paths are for everyone’s enjoyment, so we can expect to meet people on foot, bike or horse. Remember that some people can be scared of dogs or horses so always keep them under control. Reduce your speed if you are on a bike where you know you might meet someone. Walkers should listen out for bike bells and calls. Don’t do anything that could be dangerous to other users.

During bad weather, consider your route carefully. If you know it’s been raining then all users should consider changing their plans to avoid churning up an already muddy path. It’ll benefit you and others in the long run.

Councillor Jim Thomson, Portfolio holder for Environment & Sustainability comments; “As we are heading in to spring, more people will be looking to access the outdoors, and enjoy our local countryside. It is important to appreciate that our countryside has many users and we all need to look out for one another when enjoying our surroundings”

Lastly, remember to keep an eye on your dog. Avoid fields where livestock are grazing. We are approaching lambing season and dogs can frighten and distress livestock. Also, remember to ‘bag it and bin it’ and clear up after your dog.

You can find out more information on the SOAC website www.outdooraccess-scotland.com or contact the Stirling Council Access Team on countryside@stirling.gov.uk or 0845 277 7000.