BUTE Conservation Trust’s volunteers were back in action last week, carrying out essential maintenance at the start of the West Island Way in Kilchattan Bay.
After more than two weeks of hot, sunny weather, nine volunteers took advantage of a cooler, damp morning to clear drains and cut back overgrown vegetation at the bus terminus, where the long-distance walking route begins.
It was the first time in three years that the group had tackled the area, during which time the outflow pipe from a roadside ditch had become blocked, causing water to overflow onto the path. Combined with particularly vigorous vegetation growth this summer, the result was a wet and untidy entrance to one of Scotland’s recognised Great Trails.
Over the course of three hours, the volunteers cleared the ditch, strimmed grass and cut back branches and brambles, leaving the start of the West Island Way in a much more welcoming condition for both residents and visitors.
The team also cleared the area around the stone marking the beginning of the route, as well as the nearby viewing platform overlooking Kilchattan Bay’s unique columnar sandstone formation, removing encroaching bracken and whins.
The latest work is another example of the valuable contribution made by Bute Conservation Trust in helping to maintain the island’s network of paths and outdoor spaces, ensuring they remain safe, accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
