GLENIFFER BRAES GREEN NETWORK STRATEGIC ENHANCEMENT PLAN
The options for access to the countryside to those with restricted mobility are limited to the car parks and the immediate areas around them. There is a need to improve provision for the less mobile into the Park. This will require improvements to key core paths and the possible creation of new paths and circular routes. The topography of the Country Park has led to narrow and steep paths in places and one challenge would be to identify a route for wheelchair access that runs from Robertson car park all the way to Glen Park. There are dedicated bridleways in the Country Park at Brownside and from Sergeant Law car park. A further horse riding trail is proposed from Sergeant Law car park. The trails are not well used at the moment and further publicity is needed to promote their use.
Tasks
January 2010 Report No. 09514820023.500
Prioritise repair, improvement and maintenance activities for the core path network. Some of these tasks will need to be carried out annually e.g. grass cutting and trimming of scrub. Others will be one off improvements followed by maintenance e.g. signposting and way marking. Develop and implement 5 year plan for core path improvement using the information from the 2008 Renfrewshire core paths survey report;
In addition to improvement and maintenance of core paths a paths network enhancement plan is needed that identifies the need for facilities for different user groups. Areas to target are outlined below and may be added to the management plan;
Design and install entrance features at access points. This is a project that could be linked with local business or artist e.g. ironwork or sculpture;
Develop and design circular routes for all abilities in appropriate locations following consultation with local stakeholders e.g. Disability Resource Centre. The terrain in the vicinity of Robertson and Sergeant Law car parks make these areas an obvious choice but disabled access at Glen Lodge and Brownside Farm should also be considered;
Rationalise and install pedestrian directional signs to Gleniffer Braes from Paisley town centre and neighbouring urban areas;
Develop links to the wider green network and explore options to create a long distance route linking the country parks in the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Network;
Prioritise and repair key non-core paths through the Country Park. Programme of path repair and maintenance to be included in the management plan;
Improve access to the reservoirs at Glen Park. The paths here are narrow in places with steep banks into the water;
Promote access to the Park on foot, by bicycle and on horseback; and
Explore opportunities to improve access to the Park by public transport.
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